Golden vibes for Raechel
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
“SOMETIMES your true north is way out west.”
These are one of Raechel Whitchurch’s favourite lyrics she’s ever written and right now they couldn’t ring more true.
Since the country music artist and mother of three moved back to Parkes from Sydney with husband Ben and her young family, she’s been nominated for two Golden Guitars again. Her first dual nomination came in 2021, the year she returned home, for Best New Talent and Traditional Country Album of the Year, for her debut album ‘Finally Clear’.
She’s released another album and she has another two Golden Guitar nominations, this time for Contemporary Country Album of the Year and Toyota Album of the Year.
It would seem Raechel belongs out west.
“Being nominated for a Golden Guitar is basically having all of your industry peers recognise you for the art you’ve created,” she said. “It’s an overwhelming feeling and while most artists don’t create their music purely for accolades and recognition, it’s a really beautiful feeling to be accepted by the industry we’re a part of.”
More than 150 people including nominated artists and industry representatives gathered at the Oxford Art Factory in Sydney on November 19 for the announcement of 103 nominees, held by 50 artists across 16 categories.
Teachers mark 40 years
By PARKES HIGH SCHOOL WORK
EXPERIENCE STUDENT LAURA BURKITT
A MAJOR milestone has been achieved, not once, but twice for two Parkes East Public School teachers.
Both Mrs Sue Gersbach and Miss Rhonda Harpley have served 40 years at the school and have given us a glimpse into their passion for teaching.
Miss Harpley originally started teaching at a small school in a place called Scho elds, near Blacktown, where she taught for three years.
“It was a little tiny country school (at the time) and I grew up in Eugowra so when I went to Scho elds I thought ‘Oh wow, this is just like Eugowra’,” she said.
“I went back to Scho elds about ve years ago and now it’s huge.”
Miss Harpley then taught in Bass Hill, near Bankstown, for another three years.
She applied for a transfer to come back to the country, and a er initially being denied, they called her and told her she had a transfer to Parkes East Public to start the next day.
“I’ve just been here ever since,” she said.
“I thought I would come for ve years, and I stayed for 40.”
When asked what she enjoyed most about teaching, Miss Harpley said; “I just love the kids, the sense of achievement that you get watching them learn, that’s the reason that you keep coming back”.
Miss Harpley detailed the changes over the past 40 years, from buildings to technology.
“Technology is the big change, the re-
ally big change,” she said.
“The kids are di erent these days, they’re more knowing than they used to be but technology is that big change that really gets an old teacher.”
She also described how the school has grown over the years with the addition of the hall, library, computer room, and demountable classrooms.
She said she had too many good memories, but did share one about Mrs Dunford, the current assistant principal at Parkes East.
Miss Harpley taught her when she was in kindergarten, and remembers watching Mrs Dunford bring her own daughter across the playground when she was starting kindergarten.
“That sticks in my mind all the time
■ Continued on page 13.
Celebrating recording excellence and showcasing the cream of Australian country music artists, the Golden Guitars at the Tamworth Country Music Festival is the pinnacle awards event for country music.
Raechel was invited to perform a song at the nominations. Though no stranger to singing at such prestigious gatherings - having performed at the Golden Guitar Awards before which she described as an incredible privilege - anything to do with ■ Continued on page 13.
Miss Rhonda Harpley and Mrs Sue Gersbach have recently celebrated 40 years of teaching at Parkes East Public School. PHOTO:
WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes
TULLAMORE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Friday, December 20
Mini Tullamore Christmas markets will be held on the green at the Tullamore Bowling Club from 6pm. Markets will be followed by live music by Sam and Anne. If anyone is interested in a stall call the club a er 3pm on 6892 5250.
HAVANNAH HOUSE CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Thursday, December 25
No one should spend Christmas alone or without a delicious Christmas Lunch! The Havannah House Group are welcoming local residents to join them at Forbes Town Hall for a beautiful Christmas Lunch at 12pm. For more information, book transport and RSVP please contact Havannah House on 6852 1366 or email havannahhouse@gmail.com
TRUNDLE TESTICLE FESTIVAL
Thursday, December 26
It’s time to look a er the blokes! It’s time for the Testicle Test as in cricket, as Trundle hosts a Testicle Festival and a Super 8s cricket competition on Boxing Day, December 26 at Berryman Oval. Grab a team for a bit of fun in the sun while they raise money for a really important cause, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Runs from 2pm until late and a barbecue and bar will be available.
NEW YEARS EVE AT THE TROTS
Tuesday, December 31
Celebrate the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 at Parkes Harness Racing Club’s New Years Eve At The Trots for their 10th year! Gates open at 5pm, $10 entry and U12 free. There will be entertainment by WildKatz Duo of Michael Green and Vanessa Sanger throughout the night and inbetween races. There will be free ice cream and rides for the kids, a bar on-course for the adults and food stalls available in the showground. Approximately one hour a er the last race will be a magni cent reworks display.
PARKES ELVIS FESTIVAL
January 8-12
Celebrating it’s 32nd year, the Parkes Elvis Festival is back again with features artists, Cote Deonath, Emilio Santoro and Riley Jenkins. The theme for the festival is Easy Come, Easy Go and there will be non-stop entertainment in Parkes for everyone. Check out the Parkes Elvis Festival website to view the program. And see our Elvis pages on 8 and 9.
ELVIS WALL OF FAME UNVEILING
Wednesday, January 8
10am at the new Gates of Graceland at the Parkes Visitor Information Centre Anne and Bob Steel will be inducted to the Parkes Elvis Festival Wall of Fame. It was the dream of Anne and Bob Steel to create a celebration of the music and life of Elvis Presley in Parkes. They followed that dream; many followed with them. 30 years later, Parkes Elvis Festival is the biggest celebration of Elvis.
ELVIS POET’S BREAKFAST
Thursday, January 9
yet? Well, why not take the poetic plunge and enter the Parkes Elvis Festival Poets’ Breakfast or just come along and listen and enjoy breakfast. Enjoy a morning of poetry in the Parkes Services Club from 7am.
HOUND DOG SHOW AND COMPETITION
Friday, January 10
Are you a poet that doesn’t quite know it
Elvis loved animals of all kinds, including his Basset Hound named Sherlock and Great Danes named Brutus and Snoopy. Ray White Parkes and Bartley’s Bakers want to see your treasured friends in the Parkes Elvis Festival Hound Dog Competition. From 10am at the from of Ray White Parkes you can watch the competition as dogs rock jumpsuits and Elvis glasses and wigs.
Senior Journalist
Renee Powell 0448 238 023 rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au
ELVIS STREET PARADE
Saturday, January 11
Shake, rattle and roll your way to Festival Boulevard early Saturday morning because you won’t want to miss the Northparkes Mines street parade starting 10am! The Northparkes Mines Street Parade is unquestionably a major annual highlight of the Parkes Elvis Festival. Elvis-themed oats, vintage and classic cars and motorcycles join Elvis and Priscilla look-a-likes and marching bands as they head from Bushman Street to Cooke Park down the length of Clarinda Street.
COLOUR RUN
Monday, January 20
Get ready for an exciting day at Creative Community Concepts summer fun colour
Classifieds 02 6342 1044 mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au
Journalists Brendan McCool 0448 238 254 bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au
Maddie Blackstock 0478 675 220 mblackstock@midwestmedia.com.au
The Parkes Champion-Post welcomes your thoughts and feedback on issues in the Parkes community. If you have a story lead or prepared article and photographs you’d like published contact the senior journalist Renee Powell on 0448 238 023. A new Parkes Champion-Post o ce is planned to open in Clarinda Street in the coming months.
Advertising Joanne Simpson 0448 241 917 jsimpson@midwestmedia.com.au
run. The event is set to be lled with fun activities, including laser tag, and a jumping castle to enjoy before the run. The Rapid Relief Team will be on hand, providing refreshments for everyone. This is a free event at Northparkes Oval from 11am to 1pm for all ages and abilities. Don’t miss out on the fun!
COUNTRY SOUNDS
Saturday, February 22
Country Sounds returns in February! Robbie Mortimer, Tyla Rodrigues, Baeden Faint and Gracey Jones will be rocking the Cooke Park Stage. Make sure to mark your calendars and gather your friends for a night of amazing music and good vibes. Stay up to date with Parkes Shire Council for more exciting updates.
Teen arrested after car smashes through cafe
A TEENAGER has been charged with negligent driving following an alleged car crash into a cafe in Parkes last Thursday night.
About 7.50pm emergency services were called to a building in Clarinda Street following reports of a crash.
Upon arrival, o cers attached to the Central West Police District found a car had allegedly crashed into the front of the Roasted Kombi cafe.
Police were told the driver of the vehicle had narrowly missed a pedestrian – a 33-year-old woman – during the incident.
The driver then ed the scene by car.
The woman was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics onsite and taken to Parkes Hospital for treatment of shock.
The building was extensively damaged.
Following inquiries, about 8.15pm the same night, o cers arrested a 17-yearold boy at a caravan park on Albert Street, Parkes.
He was taken to Parkes Hospital for treatment to minor head injuries and for mandatory testing.
The teenager was then taken to Parkes Police Station where he was charged with negligent driving, drive recklessly/ furiously or speed/manner dangerous, and not give particulars to owner of damaged property.
He was granted bail to appear at a children’s court on Thursday January 9, 2025.
Owners of the Roasted Kombi Darrin Gibson and Debbie Mitchell found their large front window missing and their shop oor covered in shattered glass and broken furniture, sharing the state their cafe was le in on social media.
“That is a wrap for the Kombi for this year and into next year,” they wrote.
“The most important point is that the young man involved is safe and sound in the hospital, we send our best wishes to him and his family, as well as the lady in the vicinity at the time.
“We will assess where we go from here. [Thanks] to all the community who helped out, we appreciate you and will see you on the ip side.”
DRIVER ALLEGEDLY MISSES PEDESTRIAN THEN FLEES SCENE
Man charged with serious domestic violence offences
A PARKES man has been charged with serious domestic violence o ences a er he allegedly hit a woman, rammed her car and then drove her for two hours without letting her leave.
O cers attached to Central West Police District were noti ed on December 13 of an alleged domestic incident at a home in Dalton Street, Parkes.
Police will allege in court a man hit a woman, who is known to him, on the head, causing her to bleed.
He allegedly entered a car a short time later and rammed the woman’s car, while she was inside, before he got into her vehicle.
Police were told the man drove for two hours and allegedly did not let the woman leave the car.
It’s also alleged he threw the woman’s phone out of the window, threatened her and elbowed her in the face.
O cers attended the Dalton Street home but were unable to locate the man and woman.
About 2pm on Saturday, December 14 police re-visited the home and arrested a 41year old man.
of the Roasted Kombi shared an image of the state of their cafe a er the alleged crash.
INSET: A passer-by shared this photo of the Roasted Kombi cafe in Clarinda Street on social media a er the alleged crash.
PHOTO: Brooke Maha
ey
Man dies after ute and truck collide on highway
A DRIVER has died a er a ute and truck collided on the Newell Highway in the early hours of Sunday morning.
About 2am on December 15 emergency services were called to the Newell Highway at Tomingley,
about 54km south west of Dubbo, following reports of a two-vehicle crash.
O cers attached to Orana-Mid Western Police District were told a truck and a white Toyota ute had collided.
The driver of a ute was a 26-yearold man who died at the scene.
The driver of truck, a 37-year-old man, was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to a hospital for a mandatory testing.
Southseas Seafood CHRISTMAS RUN
The early seagull gets the seafood Prawns, Oysters, Bugs, Lobster, Sides of Salmon
EUGOWRA - Monday 23rd December 7am
FORBES - Monday 23rd December 9am - 12:30pm
PARKES - Monday 23rd December 2pm - 4pm
lished and an investigation into the incident has commenced.
Both vehicles were seized for forensic examination.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
He was taken to Parkes Police Station where he was charged with eight o ences:
Take/detain person with intent to obtain advantage cause actual bodily harm (DV).
Use etc o ensive weapon with intent to commit indictable o ence.
Common assault (DV).
Three counts of destroy or damage property (DV).
Stalk/intimidate intend fear physical etc harm (domestic).
Local Court on December
Contravene prohibition/ restriction in AVO (domestic). The man was refused bail and appeared in Parramatta Local Court on December 15, where he was formally refused bail to appear at Parkes Local Court on February 6.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
Owners
PHOTO: Roasted Kombi Facebook page
PHOTO:
More road accident information essential
WITH the holiday period upon us, questions are being asked about Australia’s rising road toll and what can be done about it.
The national road toll rose for the last 12 months to October 2024 resulting in 1295 people losing their lives on our roads, of which 989 were males.
Just last month 129 Australians lost their lives on Australian roads, many of these deaths being avoidable.
According to some experts road safety in this country is not working.
Australian Automobile Association (AAA) director, Michael Bradely, said there are a range of factors affecting the road toll including divers’ poor judgment, speed, seatbelts not being worn, drugs, state of the roads, and where money is being spent on road maintenance.
State, national and municipal governments have access to road accident data collected by police and authorities and are guided by the Australian Road Assessment Program, a body that coordinates and assists road safely and trauma reduction.
However, governments of all persuasions retain vital data from this and other organisations on road risks, as well as vehicle condition at the time of the accident, road conditions, and drivers’ involvement.
The AAA maintains that while the national and state governments are discussing the road toll and funding, road accident information should be in the public domain and shared, so people can see where money is being spent on roads, and not be left to political party judgments.
As we approach the holiday season, which is sadly a hazardous period on our roads, it’s time that all governments committed to a full disclosure of the national accident data and roads funding.
This should result in a better focus on and response to road accidents to lower the road toll, and the stress on the families affected.
Thumbs up from Goodsell Machinery
THUMBS up from local business
A big shout out to local Fire and Rescue, Parkes police, ambulance service and community members who all attended the fire at our business premises recently.
You were all very prompt and professional.
The community is lucky to have you around.
Top marks from Goodsell Machinery.
Ronald McDonald House there for expectant mum
AS Parkes couple Christine and Matthew Little celebrated the rst birthday of their youngest daughter Evie, they re ected on what was an anxious wait this time last year.
And how Ronald McDonald House Central West in Orange, that helps so many families like them, was around the corner when time was critical.
An ultrasound revealed Christine had placenta praevia when she was 20 weeks’ pregnant, which is when the placenta has implanted at the bottom of the uterus covering part or all of the cervix.
Initially it wasn’t anything to worry about because the placenta can move as the uterus grows but as the weeks passed, it wasn’t budging and soon became a grade-four praevia.
She was deemed a high-risk pregnancy which meant Christine couldn’t give birth in Forbes and couldn’t give birth naturally.
It also meant that every time she had a bleed - caused from the placenta tearing as the baby grew, its chances increasing the further along the pregnancy - she had to try to get herself to Orange
Hospital, over an hour away.
“It actually became quite scary,” Christine said.
“I had three bleeds, always late at night, one at 31 weeks’ pregnant, then at 35 weeks and 36.
“I was booked in for a caesarean at 37 weeks.”
When Christine had her second bleed on November 13 last year, doctors at Orange Hospital encouraged her to stay close by.
“They told us o en a small bleed can trigger a bigger bleed and with us living an hour away made it risky,” she said.
“They really wanted me to get as close to 37 weeks as possible.
“So it meant we needed somewhere to stay.”
Christine had already been in Orange Hospital for three nights at that point and said doctors offered her to stay until the baby was born.
But with her husband Matt travelling over from Parkes and her two-year-old daughter Sophie at home, another option came to mind.
Ronald McDonald House.
“It meant we could all be together,” Christine said.
“I’ve been very fortunate
through my work at the Parkes Champion Post to know in detail about this place and the incredible work they do for hospital patients and their families.
“But seeing it and experiencing it myself, we were completely blown away by the set up and how much support they really do provide.
“And we saw rst-hand the generosity from all angles - from the volunteers who give their time, businesses who donate food and supplies, surrounding communities who donate what they make like toys, clothes and blankets.
“All who help keep it open and operating.”
Ronald McDonald House is a stone’s throw away from the hospital and as predicted, Christine had another bleed ve nights later.
“It was a massive relief and comfort to hop in that car and drive around the corner to the hospital, rather than trying to work out how I was going to get myself to Orange from Parkes at 8.30 at night,” she said.
“I had four days to go until the caesarean and they kept me in hospital a er this but Matt and Sophie still needed somewhere to
stay if they wanted to be close by.” They were able to remain at Ronald McDonald Housemeals were taken care of, they had somewhere to watch TV or read while they waited, Sophie had toys to play with and a playground to play on.
“They made us as comfortable as possible and gave us a gi bag of donated hand-made items for the new baby, even one for Sophie so she didn’t feel le out,” Christine said.
“We were given this big, beautiful brown bunny for Evie, knitted by a member of the Parkes College for Seniors who I know donate so much to this charity and have done so for years.
“We are so incredibly grateful for all of the support we received.
“There are families who still don’t know this place exists and it is there for people who really need it, so I’m hoping our story will help spread the word.”
Christine had Evie at 9am, at 37 weeks, on November 24 last year.
Parkes and Forbes remain at the top of the list with the most families to utilise the services of Ronald McDonald House in Orange.
Christine, Evie, Sophie and Matthew Little, and nan Maree Lawler all took up residency at Ronald McDonald House during Christine’s pregnancy.
EVIE LITTLE, NOW 12 MONTHS OLD, WITH THE KNITTED BROWN BUNNY KINDLY GIFTED BY THE PARKES COLLEGE FOR SENIORS. PHOTO: CHRISTINE LITTLE
Thirteen days of double demerits over Christmas and New Year’s
DOUBLE demerit points will be in force for 13 days over the Christmas and New Year period to improve road safety during the holiday season.
Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention O cer, Melanie Suitor, said double demerit points would run from Friday, December 20 to Wednesday, January 1, 2025 inclusive for all speeding, seatbelt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone o ences.
Ms Suitor said double demerit points have proven to be an e ective road safety initiative to make holiday travel safer for everyone on NSW’s roads.
“Since their introduction in 1997, double demerit points have proven to be an that casualty crashes (where someone is killed or injured)
lar holiday destinations, in creases by up to 50 per cent
under the in uence of drugs or alcohol before they get behind the wheel.
“While driving, focus on driving. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by your mobile phone, follow the road rules and drive at a speed suitable to conditions. Please make sure that you and your passengers are buckled up.”
Ms Suitor said drivers should also check their vehicle is ready for the journey - check the brakes and tyres, check the levels of your engine oil, coolant and windscreen washer reservoir, make sure all your lights and indicators are working and ensure you have clear view.
Parkes Highway Patrol Ser-
licence during this period.
“There will be more police on the roads which means a greater chance of drivers being caught if they are doing the wrong thing,” he said.
“Too o en we see the tragic a ermath of drivers making poor decisions. No-one wants to get a ne, lose their licence or worse still, be involved in a crash.
“So, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to travel, don’t speed, drive to the conditions, wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, make sure you’re well rested and if you’ve been drinking or have taken drugs - don’t drive.
“We want everyone to make it to and from their
Pantry working towards a merry Christmas
By LAURA BURKITT, PARKES HIGH SCHOOL WORK EXPERIENCE STUDENT
GEORGIE’S Pantry has been busy gathering Christmas hampers for the 2024 season.
The pantry has already made 40 hampers to kick-o the Christmas season which will be delivered to people in the community free of charge. Woolworths has also provided a number of hampers for Georgie’s Pantry to distribute in the community.
This Christmas the pantry is expecting to help 80 individuals and with the help of members from MBC Group Services they will be able to distribute all of the hampers in time for Christmas.
vital role in ensuring people from around the district have a happy Christmas.
With the pantry helping around 200 people every single week, the hampers play a
The Christmas hampers and Georgie’s Pantry wouldn’t be possible without the generosity from the major supporters of Woolworths and Aldi.
Georgie’s Pantry is open
Georgie’s pantry has been running for over 10 years as one of the services that Anglicare Central West provides, along with a partnership from St George Anglican Church, with the goal of supporting people in need.
2024 TRADING ENDS SOON
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and has highly discounted groceries, including free bread and vegetables, for everyone from students to pensioners. They o er these services to everyone, however particularly aimed for those in di cult situations.
Wishing everyone an absolutely ‘spec’tacular Festive season. Thank you for your support throughout this year. We look forward to ‘seeing’ you all in 2025
Georgie’s Pantry workers (from le to right) Janelle Faunt, Ann Olson, Steve Klein, Dallas Holmes and Garry Whittington, unloading their Christmas hampers. PHOTO: Laura Burkitt
Parkes Highway Patrol Sergeant Mitchell Gage is warning drivers they are at greatest risk of losing their licence during this period.
Members from MBC Group Services were at Georgie’s Pantry on Tuesday to help distribute Christmas hampers.
PHOTO: Madeline Blackstock
Sneak peak at new Kiddie Academy
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
THE new Kiddie Academy in Woodward Street, Parkes is ready to throw open its doors, all it’s waiting on now are the nishing touches.
“We are ready to go, all we’re waiting on is to nalise the occupation certi cate with Parkes Shire Council before we can move forward,” owner/operator Lloyd Williams said.
The childcare centre also needs 45 sta to get it up and running.
“We’ve got 26 sta so far, we’ve had a very good response,” Lloyd said.
“The kids are here we just need the sta to ll it.”
He’s hoping the centre will be open for business in January.
The Parkes Champion Post was given a sneak peak tour of the new premises and, with the anticipation building within the community for its opening, it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Catering for 152 children, the centre boasts seven furnished rooms in total, including two baby rooms that can have 16 babies each.
Adding a touch of Parkes and its connection to space through the Parkes Radio Telescope, each room is named a er a planet.
There’s a fully equipped kitchen run by a head chef and assistant chef that will provide the children meals.
“We provide everything here, it’s a one-stop shop for parents,” Lloyd said.
“We have a chef on site, we supply the nappies, the only thing parents need to provide is milk.”
There’s plenty of room for the children to run and explore with a very large outdoor area that includes a playground, two sand pits, two ball pits, in-ground trampolines, a little road for bikes and a veggie garden.
The big bonus, Lloyd said is the
65 square metre outdoor water play feature.
“That’s an innovation of mine that I’ve put in at Mudgee and Orange,” he said.
“It’s a major feature here and we have double the required shaded area.
“The space is in excess of what we need.”
He’s employed sta from Parkes, Forbes and Eugowra, with Eugowra woman Maxine Vincent appointed centre director.
“We’re keen to employ more, we’re happy to train people and assist with their travel if needed,” he said.
The centre has been a long-time coming for Lloyd who’d like to reassure the community he’s the owner/ operator and not here to pass it on.
He’s been designing and building childcare centres for 23 years, mainly for other operators but he currently owns four Kiddie Acade-
mies in Kellyville, Mudgee, Orange and now Parkes.
“I’m on a pathway now where I can do it for myself and I’m primarily focusing on regional areas,” he said.
How Lloyd came to choosing Parkes as his next location for a childcare centre was quite o -thecu - a man who had been painting his centre in Orange and who was from Parkes suggested he build a centre in Parkes so he didn’t have to travel.
Before he knew it, Lloyd laughed, he was looking at a couple of sites in Parkes.
Then came Woodward Street and its 9000 square metres.
“I bought it sight unseen,” he said.
“It just made sense to me.
“I like the country, Parkes is a good place.”
What we see on the axe-handle block in Woodward Street is only half of the original development.
A second building to house the same number of children, 152, is planned for the back of the property, behind the current building.
Lloyd said that was dependent on sta as to when construction would begin.
He decided to build the development in two stages a er it was approved by Parkes Shire Council in October 2022 to meet the demands of the industry.
Earthworks began in April 2023 and the construction fencing came down last month.
Lloyd has spent the last 18 months living in Parkes, watching his project come to life.
“It’s been a process of delays,” he said, adding that the oods that devastated the region a month a er his DA was approved understandably halted progress for a period.
“But now we’re here, once we get the boxes ticked we can open the doors.”
The centre boasts seven furnished rooms in total, including two baby rooms that can have 16 babies each.
The new Kiddie Academy in Parkes, stage one, will cater for 152 children.
The centre boasts seven furnished rooms in total, including two baby rooms that can have 16 babies each.
The new Kiddie Academy in Parkes, stage one, will cater for 152 children.
The centre boasts seven furnished rooms in total, including two baby rooms that can have 16 babies each.
Owner/operator Lloyd Williams takes us through the beautiful rooms of the Kiddie Academy.
two sand pits, two ball pits, in-ground trampolines, a little road for bikes and a veggie garden.
Owner/operator Lloyd Williams walks us through the new Kiddie Academy in Woodward Street, which hopefully will be up and running soon.
PHOTOS: Christine Little
Construction of new solar farm any week now
A NEW solar farm has been given the greenlight for construction on the Back Trundle Road, 10 kilometres north-west of Parkes.
Called the Quorn Park Hybrid Project it consists of photovoltaic (PV) modules, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and related civil and electrical infrastructure.
The construction of the Quorn Park Hybrid Farm has an investment value of more than $190 million and will take an estimated 18 months, while the farm’s operational life is of about 35 years.
Once up and running the 98 MW solar and 20 MW battery farm is expected to produce about 210 GWh per year in solar energy and 40 MWh per year in battery storage, powering roughly 45,000 Australian homes annually.
The 98 MW solar and 20 MW battery Quorn Park Hybrid Project has been given the go-ahead for construction in the Parkes Shire.
Pre-construction site studies and works occurred in late 2024, with the construction phase of the project expected to start in the coming weeks.
Development approvals for the project have been obtained from Parkes Shire Council and management systems will be in place to ensure compliance with all
conditions covering construction, operation, decommissioning, and administrative matters.
Enel Green Power Australia (EGPA) will manage the construction of the project, appointing Beon Energy Solutions as the Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for the work.
EGPA says it is committed to a ‘Creating Shared Value (CSV)’ approach during the lifetime of the project.
It intends to work closely with the community to enhance the economic and social conditions in the local area, and proactively share bene ts within the community.
“EGPA is also committed to local sourcing throughout the project’s operational and
construction phases, where feasible,” a spokesperson said.
It is expected the project will create signi cant local employment and supply opportunities during construction, EGPA said.
It plans to work closely with the main contractors to identify capability and capacity in the local area, the aim to maximise opportunities for local contractors and suppliers to participate in the project through the provision of goods and services to the project site and workforce.
“Beon will seek to employ a local workforce to support the construction of the project,” the spokesperson said.
“Opportunities will include labourers, truck drivers,
cleaners and plant operators.”
The speci cs of these roles will be made publicly available in early 2025 by recruitment agency Chandler MacLeod.
For more information visit www.jobsinsolar.com.au, or contact Chandler MacLeod at jobsinsolar@chandlermacleod.com.
Enel Green Power Australia, a joint venture company co-owned by Enel Green Power and INPEX currently operates four plants comprising 310 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity across South Australia and Victoria, and a 75 MW wind farm in Western Australia.
A 93 MW solar farm is also under commissioning in Victoria, alongside this hybrid project recently announced for NSW.
Art adds to the culture of Parkes Hotel
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
FOR QUITE possibly the rst time in its history, the walls of the Parkes Hotel are adorned with thriving, colourful works of art.
Cafe Aglio e Olio has become a gallery restaurant a er owners
Cathy and Vic have partnered with Forbes artist Melody Ruhrmund to add a little more atmosphere to the former pub.
It’s an ongoing art exhibition and features a range of Melody’s water colour, acrylic and oil paintings, as well as some mixed media art.
She has cards, books and rag dolls too.
“We wanted to change the feeling of the pub, add some atmosphere,”
Melody said.
“Cathy and Vic are very supportive of my art, they approached me with the idea.
“We realised there was a whole thing missing.
“We thought a few of my big pictures would do it,” she laughed.
“But no, we were soon clearing my cellar out with all my artworks, it’s got me working on a lot of pictures I wouldn’t have nished.
“New things are added all the
time, it’s always changing... It has worked very well for us.”
The public is welcome to browse her collection during the restaurant’s business hours, which is every evening a er 5pm except Tuesdays and 11am-3pm Thursday to Saturday. Or call the restaurant on 6862 2229 to see if someone is around.
If you see something you like, it is available for purchase too.
Melody’s work also features a canvas of a woman made from fabric pieces.
“I won the Waste to Art competition with that one in Forbes and
I won the regional one too a few years ago,” she said.
Melody is hoping to bring a whole new vibe to the location in the new year with plans of running workshops for children and adults, and an occasional ‘paint and sip’ class, which is all the rage right now.
“I’ve never really been one kind of artist,” she said.
“But I’ve always been creative.”
Melody said she’s been doing art for most of her life but painting seriously since she was 30.
She’s originally from South Africa and has been living in Australia for 50 years, 14 of those spent in Forbes
and before that, in Queensland.
“I got sick of the green hills of Queensland, I came down here and saw the blue skies and open paddocks and decided this is it,” Melody said.
“To understand real landscape you really need to live in it.”
She also does a lot of work in Forbes and she’s extremely looking forward to starting up a puppet theatre there in the new year too.
Melody will be doing some chalk art on the outside wall of the Parkes Hotel for the Parkes Elvis Festival so be sure to head down and check it out from January 8 to 12.
Among the pieces on display is Melody Ruhrmund’s award-winning canvas of a woman made from fabric pieces.
What’s new at the Parkes Elvis Festival
CAN Parkes possibly bring more to its Elvis Festival? Yes, is the answer as the 2025 event approaches.
Six new ticketed shows will be introduced at the Parkes Services Club, featuring top Elvis tribute artists from Australia, New Zealand and Scotland.
You can look forward to a Scottish Happy Hour with Mr. Johnny Lee Memphis, Happy Hour with Aaron Masfield and Dean Vegas, Happy Hour with Charlie Gaylard and Gabe Phoenix, Easy Come, Easy Go with Jack Gatto, Easy Come, Easy Go with Dean Vegas, Toki and Stuey V and Kiwi Made with Che Orton and Brendon Chase.
The Miss Priscilla Dinner will return for the 32nd Parkes Elvis Festival on Thursday evening at the Parkes Services Club.
Easy Come, Easy Go fashion 2025 PARKES
The Miss Priscilla Dinner will be a night full of entertainment with Brendon Chase and Amitie performing and a two course meal. Watch the night unfold in anticipation to see who will be crowned the 2025 Miss Priscilla.
There will be some new photo opportunities too with stunning outdoor installations.
A vibrant 250m canopy of umbrellas will provide the perfect photo op doubling as shade down town especially for Saturday morning’s main event, the parade.
During the night Vivid Elvis will come to life. This nightly display will illuminate the main drag projecting movie scenes and famous Elvis music videos. There will also be a portrait of Elvis on display at the library made from rubix cubes for all to be amazed.
The highly anticipated Gates of Graceland will officially be launched - these are located at the Parkes Visitors Information Centre and are a full-sized replica of the iconic Graceland gates.
The beautiful new attraction will honour key contributors to the much loved festival, with stars also commemorating the winners of the Parkes Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.
In 2025 festival founders, Bob and Anne Steel will cut the ribbon to officially open the gates at the Wall of Fame event on Wednesday morning.
Staying connected at the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival will be made easy with the introduction of the new mobile app, Elvis in Your Pocket.
This app will feature the full program of events, maps and most importantly realtime updates.
This year’s feature concerts will be see the addition of two shows per night to make sure no one misses out on the amazing entertainment on offer.
Not only that, tickets have been discounted with the announcement there’s a 7.5 per cent drop in prices across all shows this year in acknowledgement of the cost of living increases everyone is facing.
The 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival is promising to be bigger and better than ever.
you need inspiration for your 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival
Whether you stick with the 1960’s fashion or add a pair of scuba goggles, the ideas are endless but we recommend staying away from the wetsuits!
At the recent 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival launch out ts were on display to help get you thinking about dressing to the theme of Easy Come, Easy Go, thanks to Kassidy Martin for the following
During the 1960s there was a dramatic shi in fashion which re ected the cultural revolutions of the time.
This era was all about primary coloured shi dresses, oversized sunglasses, go-go boots and statement jewelry.
The eyes became the focal point with so er lipstick hues
before in the history of fashion was the knee more on show.
This was the decade of the mini skirt and the mary-jane accompanied by short helmet-like hair or youthful bangs.
For the men, fashion embraced individuality, rede nding masculine style for future generations o ering a more easy-going way of dressing.
Men had more fun and more options when it came to clothes incorporating the turtleneck, checked pants, bold colours, geometric patterns and collar-less outerwear.
Shirts were slim, with a necessary button down collar accompanied by slim tted trousers and accessories such as bold ties, scarves and statement glasses which added air.
Hair also got longer with hairstyles getting more adventurous.
this time was Mrs Jackie Kennedy where she epitomized elegance and sophistication with her aesthetic of prim and proper with a blend of youthfulness and formality.
She saw the rise of boxy but tailored silhouettes, so colours and chic accessories.
Icons such as Twiggy and The Beatles popularised mod fashion, characterized by clean lines, sharp tailoring, vibrant colours and geometric patterns.
This era was defined by a youthful, rebellious spirit, with styles that celebrated individuality and broke traditional norms.
Fashion in the 60s was all about pushing the boundaries and overall, the 1960’s were a dynamic and transformative decade, leaving a lasting impact on style and self-expression that continues to resonate today.
or done up. Provided by Arnolds Supply co.
Seamstress makes jumpsuits in town
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
LONG gone are the days of driving 400km to Sydney if you wanted to wear an Elvis jumpsuit at the Parkes Elvis Festival.
While online shopping has drastically changed this expedition, jumpsuits are now being handmade in town.
No travel or international shipping necessary except for perhaps a trip to the main street and into Sew and Go.
The handful of Parkes rugby players, who began the trend of the average festival goer dressing as Elvis for the full duration of the festival in the 90s and who made that annual trek to Sydney, would never have thought they’d see the day.
Thanks to new business owner Jo-Ann Lenord, it’s now possible.
Jo-Ann’s been a seamstress most of her life and while taking on the business six months ago has its own set of challenges, she’s admitted making jumpsuits are testing her skills.
She has ve jumpsuits on order - four adults and one child, all of whom approached the business and asked if she would be willing to make them.
Jo-Ann’s no stranger to the Elvis Festival, she’s been attending since al most the beginning.
And she’s certainly fa miliar with it takes to make a good jumpsuit and how much it means to its owner, since her brother is country music singer and Elvis tribute artist Royden Donohue.
Coincidentally in all the years her brother has been attending the festival and performing, she’s never made his suits.
“No I have never made a jumpsuit,” she said.
“I’m always up for a challenge, I’m enjoying the challenge, it’s some thing new.
“It’s nice to see the peo ple ordering them and how they’re so passionate about them.”
The work involves many hours and late nights, especially with the festival fast approaching, and thousands of studs later.
“This collar for example took three hours, to give you an idea,” Jo-Ann said.
“Most have been requesting what they’d like and telling me their ideas, I’m doing a phoenix on one which will be a challenge.”
What’s also been a challenge has been nding
enough studs for the suits, with Jo-Ann having to search internationally.
Last year Jo-Ann was mainly altering dresses for the festival.
“I think it’s the theme, the theme dictates what orders and enquiries we get,” she said.
Jo-Ann lived in Newcastle for 20-odd years before ‘retiring’ to Parkes with
hubby Tony who’s originally from Dubbo.
When the local sewing store she was helping out in was looking likely to close, she decided to buy it.
“I didn’t want to see it close, it has a lot of potential and I didn’t want to see the town go without,” she said. With just 20 days to go
until the start of the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival on January 8, Jo-Ann isn’t taking any more orders this year.
But if you’re keen to have your very own Elvis jumpsuit made locally in Parkes for 2026, you can call Jo-Ann on (02) 6863 5481 or send her a message on Facebook at Sew & Go.
Frankie J Holden our 30th Wall of Fame inductee
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
FRANKIE J Holden is our next Parkes Elvis Festival Wall of Fame inductee.
The news was conrmed this week by the festival team at Parkes Shire Council.
Frankie J Holden, a seasoned singer, actor, and TV personality, boasts an illustrious career spanning from “OI’ 55” to television shows In Melbourne Tonight and Underbelly.
He was born Peter Brian in 1952, the same year as the FJ Holden was rst manufactured and actually celebrated his 72nd birthday yesterday.
During the 1970s, Holden was the frontman for the Australian retro-rock band Ol’ 55, which also included Wilbur Wilde and
Jimmy Manzie, and which had a hit with “On the Prowl” from their debut album, Take It Greasy, peak-
ing at number three on the Australian Kent Music Report Albums Chart in 1976. His television and acting career took o from the 1980s.
In the early 2000s, Holden re-emerged on the music scene with the Ol’ Skydaddies, a band featuring members from Ol’ 55, Daddy Cool and Skyhooks.
In 2016 he was awarded an Order Of Australia Medal for his contribution to the performing arts and for services to the south coast of NSW.
Holden will be our 30th inductee, a special number for a special year with his ceremony coinciding with the offi -
cial opening of the Gates of Graceland.
The Gates of Graceland, a full-sized replica of the iconic Graceland gates built at the Parkes Visitor Information, is the new home to the Elvis Wall of Fame and its ceremonies.
All 29 plaques have been relocated from the former, much smaller wall at Bushman’s Dam, and the area now features a pathway with Hollywood-style star pavers naming the Parkes Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winners since 2016.
The 2025 Elvis Wall of Fame unveiling will take place on Wednesday, January 8 at 10am.
Parkes Bricks, Pavers and Tiles has a large display of all the popular brands. Come in and see our full range today or give us a call
Phone: 02 6862 2253
Wine Barrels
We hire for weddings and events
Wine barrels make a good garden feature or a bar table for that special event. Call us for a quote today.
Email for free Quote Email: gary@pottsgroup.com.au
Website: pottsgroup.com.au
tribute artist?
DURING the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival, 20 top Australian and international Elvis Tribute Artists will battle it out for the title of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist on the Parkes Elvis Festival stage.
The Parkes Ultimate Elvis Tribute Concert is Australia’s top accolade for aspiring Elvis performers – part of a global competition for semi-professional and professional artists who can best represent the Legacy of Elvis Presley, officially endorsed by Elvis Presley Enterprises.
The 2025 contestants are:
From NSW: Darren Armstrong (Narellan), Ricky Ford “Ricky Graceland” (Sydney), Emilio Prince (Cambridge Park), Ross Mancini (Sydney) and Terry Leonard (Wellington).
From QLD: Andrew Bithell “Andy B” (Slacks Creek), Tristan James (Toowoomba), Elvis Roberts (Coolangatta), Douglas Mizzi “Doug Charles” (Sunshine Coast), Brendon Chase (Gold Coast) and Brad Nisbet “Dean Justice” (Gold Coast).
From VIC: Anthony Fenech (Fraser Rise) and Joe Ozzimo “Ozzi Elvis” (Melbourne).
From WA: Stuart Vieyra “Stuey V” (Ellenbrook) and Gerard Mascarenhas “Gerard As Elvis” (Perth).
From SA: Matthew Birse “Matt Birse” (Munno Para).
From New Zealand: Johnny Angel “Pacific Elvis (Auckland) and Taurean K Mill (Wellington).
From Japan: Toyokazu Toki “TOKI” (Osaka).
From Malta: Josuel Grech “Josuel As Elvi”.
Over two thrilling days, the 20 skilled Elvis experts will perform at the Parkes Leagues Club, dazzling both the audience and a panel of judges.
However, it’s not just about their dance moves; contestants are evaluated on their stage presence, vocal talent, and the overall excellence of their performance.
Winners of this competition will be officially endorsed to represent Australia in the semi-final of the annual Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, in Memphis, U.S.A. in August of 2025.
Seamstress Jo-Ann Lenord is making a jumpsuit for Elvis impersonator Brad Cartwright who’s been attending the Parkes Elvis Festival for 18 years and moved to Parkes 10 years ago.
PHOTO: Christine Little
Frankie J Holden was the frontman for the Australian retro-rock band Ol’ 55. PHOTO: Facebook
Parkes man Je McClurg spreads Christmas cheer when he dresses as Santa and hops aboard his penny-farthing.
There was lots of tractors in this year’s parade.
The Reading Bug was popular during the Christmas parade. parade.
Parkes Dance Co were excited to be in the parade.
There were many students who took part in the Christmas parade.
carnival.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Parkes celebrates the festive season with lights and music
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
IF YOU haven’t taken a stroll or a cruise around town to look at Christmas lights and decorations yet, make sure you allow some time for it.
The list of Christmas light locations continues to grow with Hydrangea Avenue and Noonan Street, and other homes around the east Parkes area still among the most favourite and visited.
But it’s worth following the festive glow as there’s an enormous range of locations lighting up.
More and more businesses are also adding to the spirit, organising Santa to visit their stores and restaurants for family photos.
Terry Bros Parkes even has a mailbox for Santa and it’s open to all, taking letters with guaranteed delivery to the North Pole right up until Christmas Eve.
Members of the Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society have been sharing their wonderful vocal talents in a slightly di erent manner this festive season.
They’ve been surprising members of the community by hopping aboard a rented bus and singing carols on their doorsteps.
Here the group is on an evening tour on December 13 delivering Christmas cheer to various spots around town.
Last paper for 2024
Thursday’s issue of the Parkes Champion Post on December 19 at the Parkes Elvis Festival that begins January 8.
BLAIRE CRISP IS OUR STAR OF THE WEEK
BLAIRE Crisp is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love and Trust) and for her tireless perseverance and cheerful demeanour.
What is your favourite subject? English
In your free time, what do you like to do? Play soccer
What is your favourite food? Chicken nuggets
What do you like most about our school? The play area has monkey bars
What are your strengths?
Writing
What would you like to be when you grow up? A doctor
NOAH ROSS IS OUR STAR OF THE WEEK
NOAH Ross is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love and Trust) and for always being kind and helpful.
What is your favourite subject? Science
In your free time, what do you like to do? Play with my toys
What is your favourite food? Strawberries
What do you like most about our school? My friends
What are your strengths? Running and soccer
What would you like to be when you grow up?
A worker at Discount Daves
PHOTO: Supplied
Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society carollers surprised residents on their doorstep on December 13.
PHOTO: Bill Jayet
A time to be together this Christmas
EVERY year the Parkes Champion Post shares Christmas messages from our clergy around the Parkes Shire during the festive season.
Gi waiting for us all
Have you ever had to do a double take, thinking that your eyes were deceiving you?
One Christmas as a child, following dinner and the formal gi exchange of family and friends, as well as digging into the presents wrapped under and in the tree, I found myself gazing at our Christmas tree.
Maybe partly admiring, but partly hoping that there might be another gi , hidden amongst the lights and decorations, just for me.
As I loitered, ignoring the calls of my siblings and cousins to come and play, I caught a glimpse of something wedged in a fork of the tree.
I wondered if it could be a forgotten gi .
The so glow of the lights were reecting o something shiny, and my rst thought was wrapping paper!
Another look to check con rmed my rst thought.
There was a single gi remaining in the tree which had been missed earlier, and it was for me - a Matchbox Cooper Mini.
Friends, I want to invite you as you select or decorate your tree, as you rip into the gi s under and in your tree this Christmas, to take another look, to double check for a missed gi .
For in Christmas, there is a gi waiting to be opened, given by someone we can trust, a gi that is especially for us personally.
This gi was searched for by wise men, was found in a manger by shepherds, was announced to the world by angels, and is in reach of us all.
This gi is JESUS!
Lorenzo Berry, Church pastor Seventh-day Adventist Church
Where is that Christmas peace?
That very rst Christmas in the hills around Bethlehem, angels declared to the shepherds “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests”.
As we come into Christmas in 2024 we might well be asking, “Where is that Christmas peace the angels offered”?
The war in Ukraine is headed into its third Christmas and the war in Gaza looks set to continue through this coming Christmas and yet our Christmas cards still o er the message of Hope, Joy and Peace.
This is because the peace being spoken of is not world peace, but rather, peace with God!
The Bible describes mankind as
enemies of God, because of our ten-
dency to reject his authority and to set ourselves up as ‘god’ in his place.
We like to think that we can decide what is good for us, what we’ll call evil, what we’ll call good. However, we’re not God and one day we’ll stand before the one who is God and we’ll answer for our rebellion.
Jesus came, that rst Christmas, so that we could know forgiveness.
He came that we might turn back to God and know peace with him, a peace that enables us to dwell with him for eternity in heaven.
It’s the peace that we all need! It’s the peace that I pray you nd this Christmas!
We’ll be celebrating the birth of Jesus on Wednesday 25th at 9am (and the Sunday’s either side of Christmas at 10am) and we’d love for you to join us. Merry Christmas from Parkes Presbyterian Church.
Craig Bland, Minister Parkes Presbyterian Church
A time to come home to God
On a recent trip through one of the towns near Parkes I came across a sign on the Presbyterian Church noticeboard which read, “Christ does not need your presents this Christmas but your presence.”
This could be a timely invitation and reminder to attend church this Christmas season and thank Jesus for his presence in our life and world – a time to come home to God, family and friends.
This begs the question for we Christians, “Why did Christ come among us and grace us with his presence?”
Most would know the answers to such a question.
He came that we might nd salvation, remission of our sins and the hope of eternal life.
Yet there is still more to that question as we are reminded that it is also about the outpouring of God’s love on a somewhat fragile and broken people and world.
God will not give up on us, even if we think we can give up on God.
Each of us, whether we know it or not, is made in the image and likeness of God, who is Love, therefore,
to be like God we need to be loved and to love.
In a special way, Christmas is about giving thanks for such a great gi of love manifested in and through Christ.
We can’t be a Christian on our own, Christianity, like other religions and faiths, calls us into community.
What better way to celebrate this festive season than by gathering in church with like-minded believers, as well as with family and friends.
This Christmas at the 6pm Family Mass at Holy Family Church the children will perform a presentation of the Christmas story.
This is a restart of what was cancelled in the last few years because of Covid.
It is about bringing families together and a reminder of the role the Holy Family of Nazareth, Jesus, Mary and Joseph, continues to play in the life of the Church.
On behalf of Holy Family Parish, I wish you a very happy and holy Christmas, and a blessed and healthy New Year, and for those who are travelling, a safe journey.
Fr Barry Dwyer OAM, PP Holy Family Catholic Church
Love and hope
The Christmas story is one of love and hope.
The birth of Jesus brought about the clear manifestation of God’s rescue plan for mankind.
Humans have tried and failed to reach God via their own righteousness and actions, and so God comes down to earth, not only to establish His plan of salvation, but to be the way of salvation.
Luke 2:10-14 says, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
“And this will be a sign for you: you will nd a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!”
God’s love for mankind, brought Him to earth to live as a human for the sake of all people.
Jesus came to bring peace - peace with God and the peace of God.
In a world so unpredictable and challenging, isn’t it comforting to know that we have a God who cares for us?
He has even promised us his peace during times of trouble.
Why not take some time this Christmas, to think about how much God loves you?
Consider speaking to him about your struggles and invite Him into your life.
Let’s end this year with lives full of God’s peace and presence, so we can launch into 2025 con dent that we are safe in His hands.
Neil Walford, Lead Pastor Generocity Church Parkes
Let Christ be the perfect gi
As a child, Christmas was all about presents.
Part of my problem was that I was born extremely close to Christmas, and so, all year I would be without presents while I saw friends and other family members receiving gi s on their birthdays throughout the year.
I placed a signi cant amount of worth on these gi s.
Over the years, my drive for both Christmas and birthday gi s has decreased.
While I still love receiving gi s, I recognise that the joy and happiness they bring is only temporary.
A gi might provide an experience or an item to use, but experiences are short, and things get worn out, broken, or even lost.
As I have grown, I have realised that my satisfaction in life cannot be provided by material things.
I think God had a great sense of humour in my birth being so close to the day on which we celebrate Jesus’ birth.
In sharing my birthday with Jesus, I started to realise that the whole world does not, in fact, revolve around me, that gi s were not the be-all and endall to life.
God didn’t want us to be satis ed with material things. Instead, God wants for us something entirely more precious.
When God created our universe, he didn’t create us randomly, he created us as people to be in relationship.
Relationship with each other, but more importantly, relationship with God himself.
Adam and Eve walked with God in the garden. When mankind sinned, our ability to walk in relationship with God became much more dicult.
Since creation, that is what God has wanted.
This brings us back to the idea of receiving gi s.
At Christmas time we spend time with those we love, fostering those relationships, and we give and receive gi s.
But the reason we celebrate Christmas is this: because God wants rela-
tionships with us all, he sent Jesus, the Son of God, to deal with the problem of sin, the cause of our separation from God, in order to reestablish our relationship with Him.
Jesus walked this earth, some 2000 years ago. He taught many important lessons on how to live life.
But more importantly, Jesus was cruci ed for our sins, and three days later, he rose up, defeating sin, and allowed us to be reunited with God, the creator of the universe. Let Christ be the perfect gi this Christmas; the only gi that satis es!
Paul Brown, Elder Parkes Assemblies of God
Who De nes Christmas?
If you wanted to nd out what Christmas is all about, where would you go? It can be hard to work it out.
If you look around the world, you see so many di erent traditions associated with Christmas and various ways of celebrating the occasion.
How is it that this one event evolved into such a diversity of expression?
If you listen to the Christmas songs, you hear a similar variety of ideas.
Some talk about dashing through snow and riding in sleighs (can’t imagine that in Parkes in December!).
Others mention holly and ivy and ringing bells and three ships sailing into Bethlehem.
It’s a bit hard to put all the things you hear in the songs into one coherent narrative.
And then there’s all the people who have a vested interest in selling you their idea of Christmas – the advertisers, the retailers, the social-media in uencers.
I think the best solution is to go back to the source.
Christmas – the coming of Jesus Christ – is the reason we have this celebration.
You can read about the events of the rst Christmas for yourself in the Bible.
You’ll nd them recorded in the rst two chapters of Matthew and the rst two chapters of Luke.
You can nd them easily enough online.
Or you could visit a church at this time of year and hear the event explained.
You’ll quickly discover that what God says Christmas is about is only a part of what He has done for us.
Yes, Jesus was born as a baby in Bethlehem. And yes, angels announced that this was good news.
But that isn’t all there is to God’s plan to make the way for people to be able to relate with Him.
Rod Macready, Pastor Parkes Baptist Church
Two Golden Guitar nominations for Raechel
■ From page 1
the Golden Guitars can always be a little daunting.
“It’s always a bit scary to perform at events like this because it’s not your fans - it’s the entire music industry,” she said.
“It’s also nerve racking because there’s no guarantee you’ll get a nomination, you just have to cross your ngers and hope for the best!”
Raechel said she really loved the way she pushed herself lyrically with her sophomore album ‘what a time to be alive’ which was released in May this year.
It debuted at number 1 on the Australian Country ARIA charts and the AIR charts, and number 4 on the allgenre ARIA Australian Album charts.
“I chose to try and write more honestly with this album, and to ‘leave some of the dirt on’ so to speak,” she said.
“I’m so proud that I took that risk, because it’s resulted in an album that not only feels very authentic to me, it also seems to have connected with a whole lot of new fans.”
Her hard work has paid o because she’s had more publicity with this record than anything she’s ever done, she said.
“The response to the album has been incredible.”
She’s toured with Ian Moss and The Whitlams, appeared on national television programs like ABC News Breakfast and Sky News, and she’s appeared in Country Style and Capital News.
“But my favourite thing has been hearing people’s connection to my song ‘What A Time To Be Alive’, a
song I wrote about a misscarriage I had,” Raechel said.
“This has created so many opportunities for people to open up to me about their own experience of loss and grief, sometimes for the rst time, and that has felt like a real privilege.”
Raechel has wrapped her last shows for the year but she’s only allowing herself a brief interval before kicking o the year with a big show in Sydney and then onto the Tamworth
Country Music Festival that starts on January 17.
“I’m co-headlining a show with Colin Buchanan, and also going to the awards,” she said.
“We still have some shows and festivals to announce, but my next big thing is to write album three!”
The prestigious 2025 Golden Guitar Awards will be announced on January 25, during the Toyota 53rd Tamworth Country Music Festival and we’d like to wish Raechel the best of luck.
Instant health advice for when accidents happen
Special milestone for pair at Parkes East
- teaching the children of children I’ve already taught,” she said.
When asked what’s the importance of a good teacher, Miss Harpley said; “Wanting the kids to learn is a major thing, wanting to see them achieve, having that drive that you want the kids to perform”.
Miss Harpley said a male teacher she had in Year 3, 4, and 5 inspired her to become a teacher, just because of how much she loved him.
“I knew way back in primary school I wanted to be a teacher, and it never changed.”
Over her teaching career, she’s most proud of the programs they’ve implemented throughout the years, proud of seeing kids once they leave school and what they become, and proud she stuck it out
“I’m proud of all that I’ve watched the kids achieve when they leave here and think I had a little bit to do with the start of that,” she said.
“My friends who have all retired ask ‘why are you still working?’, because I still love it - while I still love it and while ever they need casual teachers and I can still do it, I’ll do it.”
Mrs Gersbach found her love for teaching when she was a Sunday school teacher.
A er receiving a good score on her School Certificate, she went to college and later secured a job at Wellington for one year.
She had a year with West Dubbo to eventually receive her permanent job in 1984 as a travelling relief teacher based at Parkes East.
She did this for two or three years
until she was o ered a permanent class at Parkes East and has been there ever since.
“I like children. I enjoy sharing knowledge with them and knowing that I’ll have an influence with their learning,” Mrs Gersbach said when asked what she enjoyed most about teaching.
Mrs Gersbach described some changes in teaching over the past 40 years, like going from the chalkboard to the interactive white board and class sizes going from nearly 50 kids down to 20-30 kids per class.
She also remembered when the school finally got running hot water.
A memory that stands out during Mrs Gersbach’s time at Parkes East is when a kid sang a swear word at the talent quest.
“I nearly fainted,” she recalled, since the school is very careful about approving the lyrics of songs.
When asked what’s the importance of being a good teacher, Mrs Gersbach explained how it’s important to have an in-depth knowledge of all the kids in the classroom.
“A teacher should be able to tell us what they’re like, what they can do, what they’re good at,” she said.
Mrs Gersbach said she’s proud she’s been able to share all her knowledge with children and is proud to see the children grow from little kids to adults.
“I feel proud of kids when I see them out in the community, and they tell me what they’re up to.” She wished to see more parents involved in schools and teachers more respected in the community.
husband Ben at the Golden Guitar Awards nominations night in Sydney.
PHOTO: Lisa Williams/Tamworth Country Music Festival
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 I Escaped To The Country. 2.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Royal Randwick Raceday, Pakenham Cup Day and Seven Members Mile Raceday. 6.00 Heathrow. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 9.30 I Escaped To The Country. 10.30 Australia’s Amazing Homes. 11.30 Late Programs.
Current Affair. 7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Jingle All The Way. (1996) Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sinbad, Phil Hartman. 10.15 MOVIE: Parenthood. (1989) Steve Martin. 12.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 2.00 Dales For Sale. 3.00 MOVIE: Nickelodeon. (1976) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. 8.30 MOVIE: The World Is Not Enough. (1999) 11.05 Police After Dark. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Left Off The Map. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Big Brother. 1.45 My Kitchen Rules. 3.35 The Change Labz. 4.05 A Moveable Feast. 4.35 Bondi Vet. 5.35 Britain’s Got Talent. 7.00 MOVIE: Goosebumps 2: Haunted
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 All Creatures Great And Small. 1.15 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. 1.55 Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! 3.25 Solar System With Brian Cox. 4.30 Headliners. Final. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 6.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 All Creatures Great And Small. 8.20 Vera. Final. 9.50 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. 10.30 Shetland. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.35
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Royal Randwick Raceday, Pakenham Cup Day and Seven Members Mile Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 8.00 Carols In The Domain. 10.30 NSW Schools Spectacular. 1.00 Taken. 2.00 Late Programs.
I Escaped To The Country. 6.00 Taste Of Aust. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 McDonald And Dodds. 10.30 Great Scenic Railway Journeys. 11.15 The Highland Vet. 12.15 Late Programs.
4.00 Would I Lie To You? 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 Amazing Spaces. 6.05 The Making Of David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 Would I Lie To You? 8.00 QI.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Drag Racing. NDRC Top Fuel C’ship. Spring Nationals. H’lights. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Heavy Tow Truckers Down Under. 9.30 Air Crash Investigations: Special Report. 10.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra Summer. 12.00 Drive TV. 12.30 Drive Safer. Final. 1.00 My Way. 1.30 Great Getaways. 2.30 MOVIE: Planes, Trains And Christmas Trees. (2022) 4.30 Helloworld. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Aust. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Central Intelligence. (2016) Dwayne Johnson. 9.40 MOVIE: Vacation. (2015) Ed Helms. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 Expedition Tasmania. 3.30 My Market Kitchen. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 Jamie’s
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 11.30 Bringing Sexy Back. 12.45 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 2.15 Blow Up. 3.15 Britain’s Got Talent. 4.40 Declassified: The Royal Scandals. 5.35 MOVIE: Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween. (2018) 7.30 MOVIE: Made Of Honor. (2008) 9.35 MOVIE: The Shape Of Water. (2017) 12.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Hook, Line And Sinker. 1.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 2.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 2.30 Fishing Addiction. 3.30 Heroes And Legends: Hall Of Fame. 5.00 Duck Dynasty. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: U-571. (2000) 10.55 MOVIE: Vertical Limit. (2000) 1.30 Late Programs.
In Pyjamas. 2.40 Beep And Mort. 3.15 Wiggle. 3.30 A Very Play School Christmas. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.35 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.10 Thomas. 6.25 Stick Man. 7.05 Riley Rocket.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Don’t be sheepish about asking more questions before making a major decision at your workplace. Meanwhile, your personal relationships continue to improve.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You might be rushed into renewing an old, cold relationship. But do you really want a reheated romance when there’s a chance to warm up with someone new?
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Someone tells you something that could lead you to rethink your plans for the holidays. Get the full story before you make a decision.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A financial matter that had you in a dither is finally being sorted out as more facts become available. A perplexing personal matter also clears up.
6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Cross Court. 10.30 Fishing Australia. 11.00 Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica. 12.00 Drive TV. 12.40 Bondi Vet. 1.40 Find My Beach House Australia. 2.40 MOVIE: Unforgettable Christmas. (2023) 4.30 Helloworld. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Christmas With Delta. 9.00 MOVIE: The Holiday. (2006) Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet. 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. 11.30 Behave Yourself. 12.30 Blow Up. 1.35 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 2.45 A Moveable Feast. 3.45 The Voice. 5.30 A Year On Planet Earth. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 9.30 Law & Order. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 Avengers. 11.40 MOVIE: Poison Pen. (1939) 1.15 MOVIE: The Raging Moon. (1971) 3.30 MOVIE: Attack On The Iron Coast. (1968) 5.25 MOVIE: The War Wagon. (1967) 7.30
MOVIE: Die Another Day. (2002) 10.10 MOVIE: The Nice Guys. (2016) 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Pooches At Play. 12.30 Cook With Luke. 1.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 1.30 Expedition: Australia’s West Coast. 2.00 Farm To Fork. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Illawarra Hawks v Perth Wildcats. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Dog House. 7.00 Mariah Carey: Merry
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Thunderbirds. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Great Getaways. 12.00 MOVIE: Wonderful Life. (1964) 2.30 MOVIE: The Greatest Story Ever Told. (1965) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016) 10.55 French And Saunders: Christmas Special French And Saunders Actually. 11.55 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) You face a slew of new tasks at home and work. So, as much as you love being a social Lion, be careful not to overdo it at those preholiday parties.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Unexpected news could cause some minor adjustments in your holiday planning. Defer a decision about a financial matter until you have more facts.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A project might not be bringing you the results you’d hoped it would by now. But stay with it -- things will soon begin to turn around.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A budding personal relationship continues to develop. Things also improve in your career, although some problems still need close attention.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Mercury is
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Allowing a misunderstanding to go unchallenged could jeopardize the plans you’ve made for the upcoming holidays. Clear the air now.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) While you should be open to suggestions on how to plan for the holidays, you should also be firm in saying “no” to anything you disagree with.
PISCES (February 19 to March
Festive spirit shines bright at parade
Notice of HOGGONE baiting Goobang National Park
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will be undertaking a baiting program which will include the placement of ground baits stations containing Sodium Nitrite meSN poison for the control of feral pigs.
The program will be ongoing between 16 Decmeber 2024 to 13 January 2025 within Goobang National Park
All baiting locations will be identifiable by signs.
Please be reminded that domestic pets are not permitted on NPWS Estate. and working dogs may be affected. Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity, and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.
For further information please call the NPWS Central West Area Office at Bathurst on (02) 6332 7640.
SES joined in on the festive fun.
Happy faces filled the main street.
Parkes School of Dance participated in the Christmas parade.
There were many festive outfits on display.
parade.
Cropswap back for 2025 Homegrown
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
CROP Swap will be back at our March 2025 Homegrown Parkes event!
For many people swapping or giving away their produce without reimbursement takes a bit of get ting used to, but we have found that it reinforces feelings of com munity building, sharing and learning.
Crop swapping is a great way for those who grow their own food to make sure nothing is going to waste. If you have an over-abundance of particular fruits or vegetables in the garden, preserves or homemade goods- they are all welcome!
Park Pavilion and they will be busy sharing the Crop Swap message.
Hannah Farrant-Jayet and Michael Chambers will be overseeing the Crop Swap Stall between 9am and 11apm in front of the Cooke
You are welcome to show up on the day with produce, we will just require your name and contact details etc.
Do you grow too much basil, have
too many seeds, or is your freezer not big enough for your end of season pesto?
Simply, Crop Swap it! Crop Swap builds the community, reduces food waste and helps people eat better, at a lesser cost.
Swap excess produce and fairly barter with like-minded people for fresh, local and delicious goods. It’s simple.
Our autumn event will be held on Saturday, March 29, so start planning your plantings ready for sharing.
Some suggestions for propagation are: Basil; Beans; Beetroot; Brussell Sprouts; Cabbage, Cauli ower; Chives; Celery; Chillies; Cucumber; Lettuce and Saland Greens; Parsley; Pumpkins; Radish; Corn; Spring Onions; Tomatoes and Zucchini.
Homegrown Parkes is an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill and products with the community…..and hope-
I would encourage potential stallholders to submit an Expression of Interest early.
You can nd the link to the registration via our facebook page or on our website.
We have already received over 20 EOI in the past week since applications opened.
Applications are reviewed by our Homegrown Parkes Committee to ensure that they t with the ethos of the Homegrown Parkes event.
Demonstrations are being planned for the day as well. We appreciate the feedback from the community and are hoping to cover o on most topics in October, but leaving some still for a possible follow up event in 2024.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwlland-
Cattle numbers down for final sale of the year, prices mixed
MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE
Yarding 941 (down 502)
FOR the last sale of the year, numbers were back by 502 for a yarding of 941 cattle.
Quality was mixed with good supplies of feeder weights on o er, along with fair supplies of heavy prime cattle. Not all the regular buyers were operating.
Prime yearling steers were up to 20c cheaper, selling from 283c to 335c, while prime yearling heifers were rm to dearer, 260c to 347c/ kg.
Feeder steers dropped 15c, 289c to 370c, while feeder heifers were rm to cheaper, 288c to 333c/kg.
Lightweight restocker cattle were dearer, young steers sold from 310c to 395c, and heifers, 290c to 320c/kg.
Prime grown steers held rm, 300c to 335c while
prime grown heifers li ed 8c, 290c to 333c/kg.
Cows were 3c better, 2 and 3 scores sold from 200c to 280c, and heavy prime cows, 276c to 287c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to 287c/ kg.
TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE
Yarding 22,200 (down 4200)
Numbers were back and the quality was mixed and included runs of shorn trade and heavy weights but only a limited supply of extra heavy lambs.
There were plenty of light store lambs most were woolly new season lambs and only a scattering of trade and heavy weights.
Merino lambs were back in numbers and there was a good run of heavy hoggets.
The market sold to stronger trends.
New season store lambs
to 18kg were firm to $7 dearer selling from $47 to $140/head.
New season trades up $15 to $20/head selling from $210 to $243 and heavy weights reached $247/head.
Shorn trades were $15 to $25/head dearer rang ing from $188 to $243/head and heavy weights sold from $250 to $288/head av eraging between 930c and 995c/kg with plenty of sale well in excess of the aver age.
Extra heavy lambs reached $284 averaging 880c to 900c/kg cwt.
The best for trade Me rinos reached $194/head and heavy hoggets lifted around $10/head reaching $224/head.
Mutton numbers eased and the quality was better with less 1 and 2 score
light and medium weights sheep.
Prices were $5 to $10 dearer across most of the mutton.
Medium weight ewes sold from $73 to $132 and heavy crossbreds reached $166/ head.
forbeslivestock.com.au
info@forbeslivestock.com.au
Heavy Merinos with a big skin topped the mutton reaching $202/head and most ranged 400c to 480c/
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
FRIDAY’S PIG SALE
Only a small yarding of backfatters today saw prices remain rm on last sale for both sows and boars. Bacon were also in short supply with only one pen dropping $60 to $70 per
A good run of quality pork, sow prices were also rm on last sale.
Suckers were again in good supply with a top quality yarding, prices improved $40 to $50 per head.
FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
The last sales of the year were held this week with sales back on January 6, 2025. PHOTO: File
The Cropswap stall at Homegrown Parkes in October was very popular. PHOTO: Supplied
Feline Flu: what every cat owner should know
By PARKES VET
AS a cat owner, you’re likely familiar with the term "cat u," but did you know there’s more to this common condition than you might think?
Here are four key facts about cat u that could help you better care for your feline friend.
1. Cat Flu Isn’t Caused by a Single Type of “Bug”
The term "cat u" refers to a collection of upper respiratory illness symptoms su ered by a ected cats, rather than one speci c disease.
The illness can be caused by several di erent viruses and bacteria, with most cases (80%) linked to two main culprits: feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus.
Most cats with cat u will develop symptoms of sneezing, with watery eyes and nasal discharge, and sometimes also a fever.
If a secondary bacterial infection develops (on top of the initial viral infection), the pet’s eye and nose discharge may become thicker and “snotty”.
Cats infected with feline herpesvirus may also develop eye ulcers, whilst cats with calicivirus may develop tongue ulcers.
2. Cat Flu Can Stay in Your Cat’s System Long-term Unfortunately, once a cat is infected with feline herpesvirus or calicivirus, the virus may remain in their system for life.
Some cats may experience recurring symptoms, particularly in times of stress or with ongoing mouth in ammation.
3. Vaccination Doesn’t Prevent Cat Flu, but It Helps
The good news? Whilst vaccinations won’t fully prevent cat u, they can signi cantly reduce the severity of symptoms if your cat is exposed to these viruses.
For cats a ected by the recent vaccine shortages, Tricat F3 vaccinations are now available, although other types of cat vaccines are still on back order.
Keeping your cat up to date on their vaccines remains an important step in supporting their health.
4. Treatment is Largely Supportive Unfortunately, there is no cure for cat u, but supportive care can make
a big di erence in helping your cat recover.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications such as severe eye ulcers or pneumonia.
Depending on the case, your vet may recommend antibiotics, eye ointments, hydration support, pain relievers, appetite stimulants, or even antiviral medications for more severe or recurrent cases.
For more help supporting your cat’s health, call us at Parkes Vet today and consult one of our veterinarians.
The right care and attention can help your feline friend feel better.
Come, celebrate Christmas with community
WHAT are you doing Christmas Day?
Havannah House is hosting their annual Christmas lunch and if you don't have plans, they'd love to have you join them.
This volunteer-run event is on at Forbes' beautiful Town Hall from midday on December 25 and the invitation is extended to our community.
There's no means test or restriction: organisers, including Pastor Julie Virtue, just want to ensure that everyone is included in the spirit of the Christmas season.
With the support of generous sponsors and our community they are planning a festive feast that anyone who might otherwise go without for any reason is urged to come along to.
They can even provide
transport, picking up in Forbes and Parkes!
This community Christmas lunch is well established and it's great fun, an opportunity to connect with people you haven't seen for a while or make new friends.
Volunteers rally to set up and serve a delicious meal on the day, there are gi s for adults and children and the atmosphere is one of joy.
Did you know there’s more to feline flu than you might think?
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Which natural harbour forms the port of Sydney, Port ... (7)
8 What is a part of a kitchen set apart for meals (7)
9 Name an alternative term for an umpire (7)
10 Name the outer and thinner two bones of the lower leg (7)
11 To subjugate someone, is to do what (7)
12 What is a label or a ticket (6)
14 Which term describes keen insight (6)
18 What, in the US, is 25 cents (7)
21 What are antennae known as (7)
22 Which term describes the peak (7)
23 Name the studio of an artist (7)
24 What are subterfuges (7) DOWN
1 To have benefited morally, is to have done what (7)
2 What might we call social climbers (5)
3 Who is trained for track and field events (7)
4 Name the largest of the Channel Islands (6)
6 What is a sneering or cutting remark (7)
7 Who is the daughter of one’s sister (5)
13 To be in utter disorder, is to be what (7)
15 Name the son of Queen Elizabeth II (7)
16 What is a place set apart for young children (7)
E-QUATIONS 7
5 Where are light refreshments served (5)
17 Which term describes plays (6)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
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.
18 To cite, is to do what (5)
19 Name a renowned London newspaper (5)
20 Name a herb of tropical and subtropical regions (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 APHAGIA
(a) Inability to express thought in words (b) Want of feeling
(c) Inability to swallow
2 BRUME (a) Fog
(b) A wild horse (c) A wild climbing plant
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
African snake (5)
Carved stone for necklet (5)
Dove’s call (3)
Farm birds (5)
Host (7)
Magazine (abb) (3)
Mined material (3)
Overindulges (7)
Overweight (5)
Unit of land area (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Classifieds
9,
We would like to wish all our advertisers and readers a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year! Publications and deadlines over the Christmas & New Year period!
Exploration licence application
Farm House Wanted.
BARTER, Robert Sidney ‘Bob Barter’
Notice is given in accordance with Section 13A of the Mining Act 1992 and clauses 15 and 89K of the Mining Regulation 2016 that exploration licence application number 6856 (Act 1992) for Group 1 (Metallic Minerals) has been lodged with NSW Resources by Magnet Exploration Pty Ltd (ABN 65 623 568 918), over an area of about 170 units (482 square kilometres) which is located about 17 kilometres West of the town of Young, as described on the plan below.
Information regarding this application can be obtained from EARTH AI, phone number 0450 071 194.
Information regarding landholder's rights is available at https://regional.nsw.gov.au/landholder-access. Please note that exploration including early stage investigation of outcropping rocks, is only permitted once the application is granted and will only be sought in selected parcels where an access arrangement has been agreed to by the relevant landholders.
Local carpenter is looking for a farm house to lease long term with his family, happy to complete any repairs or renovations needed.
Call 0409 860 457.
Mick’s Mowing & Gardening
I’m a hard working bloke and I love working outdoors. Mowing lawns, Gardening and Rubbish Removal.
Don’t have the energy or equipment to do your lawns and gardens.
Call Mick today 0438 850 289 Find me on FB
Late of Arana Place, Parkes who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday December 11, 2024 at the age of 86 years
Dearly loved husband of Judy Much loved father & father in law of Leanne & Gary, Kim & Derrick, Kylie & Colin and Melissa & Adam Cherished Pop of Chloe, Shalee, Dylan, Emma, Baedon, Jai, Erin, Tess and Noah Beloved Old Pop to his 8 Great grandchildren. Loving brother of Reg (dec), Betty (dec), Marj 'Resting Peacefully'
The Cortege is appointed to leave St George’s Anglican Church, Parkes a er a service commencing at 2:00pm, on Friday December 20, 2024 for interment in the lawn portion of the Parkes Cemetery
Central West FUNERALS
RANGER, Noel Leslie Holwell
Late of Barton Street, Parkes who passed away peacefully on Thursday 12th December 2024 at the age of 74 years
Dearly loved husband of Jan Much loved father & father in law of Kim and Alison & Jonathan Cherished Pa of Rowan & Raymond Henry 'Resting Peacefully'
The cortege is appointed to leave St George’s Anglican Church, Parkes a er a service commencing at 10.00am, on Wednesday December 18, 2024 for interment in the lawn portion of the Parkes Cemetery.
Central West FUNERALS
Carol Reed and Sue Smith.
Lorraine Baker.
Women’s bowls Christmas party.
Sheree Vincent.
New addition to Harrison Park
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
PARKES Shire Council were recently thrilled to announce the completion of the new storage shed at Harrison Park and o cially hand the keys over to the Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association.
This project was completed under the Parkes Shire Council’s Open Space Assets program and will provide secure storage of equipment and assets for Harrison Park’s user groups and Council teams.
President of Parkes and District Soccer, Wayne Osborne and committee member Angela BottaroPorter are excited about the new storage space and all of the possibilities the area will provide for soccer in Parkes.
“We currently have storage across the road (Parker-Stone Field) and storage in two locations at Harrison Park so this will allow us to put it all in one bigger location and have it so that we are organised and better maintained,” Mr Osborne said.
“It will stream line our normal practices on a Saturday to have everything in the one location instead of having to go and open up three di erent storage facilities
and move equipment around from place to place, everyone can just come to one location and have it all here.”
For a number of years Parkes and District Soccer have been wanting to redevelop their club rooms but were limited due to having nowhere to store equipment while renovations would be underway.
“This gives us the opportunity to not only store all of our equipment in a central location but also allows us to move forward with our plans to update and expand our facility.”
The shed features a lean-to which also provides the capability of an alternative area for spectators when raining during winter sports and an area for a BBQ.
“It’s a great asset moving forward for soccer but obviously the soccer club hosts people here for Elvis so this will also be a bene t for that and other community users throughout the year.
“Other community groups who use Harrison Park for di erent activities will be able to use the shed as storage or weather protection as well.
“It will help the community here not just soccer”, Mr Osborne added.
Golfers’ eyes set on future after event
PARKES GOLF CLUB
By Peter Bristol
Saturday’s Results
LAST Saturday was the Party Day for the club and also a fundraising opportunity to assist the club moving into 2025.
We had 130 members and guests out enjoying PGC’s version of the LIV golf and PGA’s Party Hole rolled into one.
In a 3 person Ambrose event with all manner of fancy dress, elite golfers and not had a great time with the specialist pin placements of Logan and Brenton that made a lot of the holes impossible to get the ball actually into the hole.
Our special and gracious sponsors on the day were GLE, Butter Beef, AEH Group, Matt Dillion, CWCU, Parkes Couriers, Parkes Toyota, Telescope Tyres and Batteries, PGC Board Members, Parkes Ready Mix Concrete, Max Keith, Parkes Secure Storage, REGO Plus.
Well done to all the volunteers and sta in preparation and then activities on the day especially Zac and Maddi in the ProShop, Tim Baker master sausage cook, Ladies Golf reps selling ra es, bar sta and greens sta plus Chenes.
We had an 11:30 shotgun start on a course that golfer’s thought was familiar until they reached the tees and found white and red markers had suddenly been narrowed, pushed well forward or well back.
On reaching the greens there were holes that were square, or surrounded by rakes or had tines between you and the hole or the cup had been reversed so you could only reach it from one side or there were multiple ags on the green with a hole at one of them.
At most courses they call this the greenkeepers revenge but at PGC we saw the dark side of the greenkeepers much more than
revenge was at play here.
Ultimately each team still had to play golf to be successful on the day but there was plenty of merriment in between.
Music dri ing across the course, the fragrant smell of BBQing sausages and a refresh ment cart to keep all hydrated on a warm summer day.
There was some speci cally sort a er players, as the normal rules were relaxed and only 3 drives required from each play er.
Zac, the Pro, was one and he teamed up with the amboyant pairing of Jake Thompson, who has taken all before him this year, and Blake Parker whose tal ents are endless.
In the scratch event these guys shot the lights out with a 14 under score.
What a terri c round this was and it’s a shame there were no videos to view it, although the boys apparently have an accurate recall on what happened if anyone wants to listen.
Next in were the formidable team of Finne Latu, Brendan Chambers and the big hitting Brad Scott out having a bash about a er an extended time away.
Whilst Finne tried to keep driving the boys forward their lack of competition just let them wane and now it’s season ’25 for revenge.
Rounding out the top 5 were the teams of Cody Hando, Shaun Bateson and Mick Dumesny on 62, Max Keith, Sam and Cam Standen on 63 and Rob ‘ The Baron’ Cheney, Ian Hendry and Peter Bristol on 64.
In the net event revenge was sweet for Cody, Shaun and Mick as came in with a low 56.
But the drama never ended there as Finne, Brad and Brendo also managed to lower the bar down there too and the not only that, but the dream team also ended up there.
Congrats to Cody, Shaun and
Mick as the countback was their friend and they won out on the day.
The unlucky team on the day was ‘The Baron’s’ crew as again nished a stroke away, and another 12 months is a long time in their lives.
Some of the other prizes on the day were the long drive winners with Dale Matthews picking up the ladies, Jack Elliott picking up the under 40, with a massive straight hit, conjecture surrounds the 40-60 with I believe Peter Magill winning and David
Stevenson picking up the over 60s.
But that could have gone either way as they both are over quali ed.
The Nearest the Pins went to Blake Parker, Mel Matthews, Simon Wilde and Troy Jones.
Congratulations and thanks to all the winners and participants – as the saying goes, Golf was the Winner on the day and especially PGC.
The frivolities went well into the night and Dillion made sure everyone was in the party mode.
Henry climbs world squash rankings
Parkes’ Henry Kross is ranked number eight in the world for junior squash.
The news was announced on Thursday morning just weeks out from the 14-yearold ying to England for the British Junior Open on January 2.
The tournament will be the highest level he’s ever competed in.
Henry’s number eight ranking on Squash Levels is two better than his previous ranking and the highest he’s achieved this
Trans Tasman teams announced
The Australian Masters teams to compete at the 2025 Trans Tasman Challenge in Cairns have been announced, with ve hockey veterans from Parkes selected.
Our players selected are Over 35s - Casey Miles, Over 50s - Denise Gersbach (vicecaptain), Over 50s - Ian Westcott, Over 60s - Dean Powter and Over 70s - Maureen Massey.
Our Maddy is now a Bush Breaker
Exciting news out of Country Cricket NSW, Parkes’ Maddy Spence has been named a Bush Breaker for 2025.
Players for the Bush Blues and Bush Breakers have been announced to play in the Toyota Australian Country Championships in the Barossa Valley next year.
This will be the 18-year-old’s rst cap for the side with cap number 51.
Maddy has just returned home from the Under 19 Female National Championships in Perth, where NSW Metropolitan have been crowned champions for the third year running.
Maddy represented NSW Country, who had a tough loss to Queensland in the semis, dashing their hopes of a berth in the nal, but bounced back to defeat South Australia by 8-wickets to nish third.
In a big highlight for Maddy she was named the second highest wicket-taker for NSW Country with 10 wickets.
Her average was 8.2 and best bowling gures 3 for 5.
Angela Bottaro-Porter, Tim Gillogly, Kristy Davison, Geo Finn and Wayne Osborne at the new storage shed at Harrison Park.
PHOTO: Madeline Blackstock
Seth, Brenden and Thia Bennett. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Dave Parkinson of Kurri Kurri with Bob BcKenzie of Maitland.
Parkes SSAA Sporting Clays
By BRIAN DRABSCH
AT last month’s shoot 9 shooters attended the Deep Lead Shooting Complex on the Back Trundle Road and shot in a 75 target day using 6 auto clay throwers set at various angles, speeds and heights etc and entering a number of events.
Je Hall 72, Dave Tanks 68, Brian Drabsch 62, Matt Du y 60, Jimmy Day 51, Jerramy Du y 49, Brian Donnelly 44, Je Charlton 40, Molly Du y 34 using a small 28-gauge shotgun. Molly is a rst-time shooter who was coached by Stumpy for the rst event and everyone sacked him as a coach, but when under Je Hall’s guidance, improved considerably by 3 times that.
Our next shoot is at 10am Saturday 21/12/2024
Parkes SSAA Smallbore
Last Sunday saw 6 shooters brave the a ernoon heat and shot at small dot targets at 25 metres for a score o 300 points and crows at 50 metres for a score of 250 points (total 550 Pts).
TARGET RIFLES: 25m, 50m, TOTAL Brian Drabsch 297, 250, 547.
Paul Hocking 298, 245, 543.
John Davis 297, 247, 544.
FIELD RIFLES
Ron Cunningham 298, 247, 545.
John Maddison 293, 239, 532.
Alan Briton 280, 245, 525.
Our next shoot is at 10am on Sunday 22/12/24.
Three junior athletes selected in state teams
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
STATE Indoor Hockey Championships continue with the Parkes U16 and Parkes U14 boys and girls competing in Orange over two massive weekends.
The U16 boys competed from Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 1 and the U16 girls competed from Saturday, November 30 to Monday, December 2 in Orange.
Parkes Junior Hockey reported that both the girls and boys teams showed incredible determination and resilience, managing to perform exceptionally well despite not being able to train in the lead up to the championships.
The Parkes U16 boys team, coached by Declan Daley and managed by Caitlyn Eshman nished third in their pool and nished h overall in their division.
From the team Jett Johnstone, Sam Quince and Sam Westcott were selected in the state team for their e orts over over the championship weekend and Archie Daley was selected as a shadow for the team.
The Parkes U16 girls team, coached by Richard Rice and Alexander Chambers and managed by Belinda Mills also nished third in their pool and placed sixth overall in their division.
From the Parkes side Sienna Collins was selected as a shadow for the state team.
Parkes Junior Hockey added that both teams worked hard and played with a never give up attitude which contributed to their success.
The Parkes U16 athletes who were selected in state teams will now play in Canberra from January 15 to 19 for the 2025 U16 National Championships.
The U14 boys competed from Friday, December 13 to Sunday, December 15 and the U14 girls competed from Saturday, December 14 Monday, December 6 in Orange.
Parkes Junior Hockey reported that the U14 boys should be extremely proud of their e orts.
The team only had four training sessions and only one sub for the championships coming up
against some very competitive teams that play indoor hockey every week.
Parkes Junior Hockey said the boys showed great discipline in trying conditions and demonstrated a never give up attitude.
Jacob Townsend was the team’s coach with Annette Orr managing the team.
The team thanked Parkes Bowling and Sports Club, PFD, Parkes Caravans and Sportspower for their sponsorship.
Congratulations to Patrick McPherson who was named as a shadow for the NSW U14 state indoor team.
Parkes U14 girls had a fantastic championship campaign narrowly missing out on a grand nal spot with a 1-0 loss in the seminals against New England.
Parkes Junior Hockey said the girls had a fantastic championship and it was fantastic to see the girls support and work hard for each other in what was a great team e ort.
The team was coached by Richard Rice and Sienna Collins and
managed by Renee Summerhayes.
Field Hockey:
The 2025 U16 boys eld state hockey teams have recently been announced with two Junior Parkes Hockey athletes in the mix.
Sam Westcott has been selected in the NSW State Team and Finlay Quince has been selected in the NSW Blues Team.
Patrick McPherson was also selected as a shadow for the state.
Sam and Finlay will now compete in the 2025 U16 National Championships in Adelaide from March 31 to April 7.
Mariah Williams:
Mariah Williams has nished her 2025 Hockey One campaign with NSW Pride nishing third in the competition.
Following this she has again been selected to represent Australia being named in the 2025 Hockeyroos squad.
The Hockeyroos will kick o their FIH Pro League campaign in Sydney against Spain and China on February 5 and 9, 2025.
Tug of war in men’s major singles
PARKES BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB
ON Tuesday we had two games of the Men’s Major Singles played.
The rst game Dave Reilly played Andrew Reynolds with both bowlers starting o in good form and by the 5th end the game was 5-all.
Dave won the next 5 ends to take the lead then Andrew won the next ve ends to have the score 11-all.
Dave managed to get a 3 and 2 to regain the lead and keep Andrew down to 1 shot to win the game, Dave 25 Andrew 19.
The second game Mark Fitzalan took on Warwick Parker.
Mark started o very slow and Warwick was leading the game 12 to 5 in the 11th end.
Mark started to put some wins together to have the game 13 all in the 17th end.
Both bowlers were playing excellent bowls with Mark coming out on top 25 to 21.
A third game of Major Singles was played between Steve Turner the Mick Went.
Mick was on re wright from the start and was pushing Steves bowls out of the way to dominate the game to win 25 to 12.
Social bowls on Thursday on Rink 16 Ray Jones, Bob Freeman and Geo Freeman had a win over Ron Hornery, George Bradley and Col Hayward 19 to 13.
Rink 17 Phil Moran and John Corcoran had a big win over John Carr and Ian Simpson 29 to 16.
Rink 18 Mal Porter and Gary McPhee blitzed Jacqui Simpson and Mick Simpson 26 to 13.
Rink 19 another big win Al A eck, Graham Davis and Col Mudie over Col Woods, John Ward and Warren Bevan 27 to 12.
On Saturday in the heat we had 10 bowlers on Rink 16 Col Hayward, John Carr and Jo Simpson had a big win over Ron Hornery, Bob Freeman and Martin Tighe 21 to 7.
On Rink 19 Rod Ford and Matt Parker had a narrow win over Noel Johnstone and Mick Simpson 23 to 18.
I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Parkes U14 indoor boys.
Parkes U16 indoor girls.
A lifetime of service to soccer
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
PARKES
teur Soccer Association have recently announced their two newest life members at their recent AGM.
Wayne Osborne and Angela Bottaro-Porter have been valuable members of the Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association for a number of years and were recently recognised for their dedication.
“Angela and myself were lucky enough to be nominated for life membership for our work over a number of years for Parkes soccer so we were super excited about it and very honoured to be put in as life members,” Wayne said.
Wayne has been president of the association for eight years and has been part of the Parkes soccer community much longer.
“I started coaching soccer when my kids were little and I just found it a really welcoming atmosphere to be involved with,” he said.
Angela has been involved with Parkes Soccer for over 20 years starting as a player and being a valuable referee, ber over the years.
“Ever since I moved to Parkes I have been part of Parkes soccer,” Angela said. Angela has held various roles on the Parkes and District Soccer committee including, treasurer twice, tary.
“We’ve been fortunate to work with some very excellent people over that time and we’ve seen some of our plans come to fruition as far as facility upgrades,” Wayne said.
One of Wayne’s highlights over the years has been what they have achieved at Harrison Park working closely with Parkes Shire Council.
“We’ve got this beautiful upgrade to the car park on Nash Street, in 2018 we got the new showers and toilet facilities, the new storage shed and there’s constant upgrades to the playing sur-
“There’s a number of different highlights for me as far as a coach to an administrator but probably that is what stands out over the last
Both Wayne and Angela have put a lot of e ort into developing their soccer players through rep programs with Angela recently receiving Female Regional Coach of the Year at the recent Football NSW Coaching Confer-
Angela was nominated by the Lachlan Soccer Association for the award.
“It was a bit of a surreal moment but a great honour. Wayne and myself don’t do what we do for the accolades, we do it as we love seeing kids improve, learn and enjoy the game,” Angela said.
The pair has spent time trying to develop coaches within the association to raise the level of accreditation of coaches for junior teams, holding a variety of workshops to develop their coaches throughout the years.
“We see that as a big plus of trying to develop players to a high level by having a better coach, so what we have been trying to do there has really started to pay o for us too,” Wayne said.
Looking to the future Angela would love to see soccer in Parkes as big as it use to be and Wayne hopes to see many more improvements to the facilities at Harrison Park.
“The masterplan for this facility has been upgraded so over the next four to ve years we will have the opportunity to continue developing the facility to make it more user friendly for our members and the community.
“Hopefully with some upgrades to the facilities here we can also bring our premier league team back to the home of soccer in Parkes which is Harrison Park.”
The two passionate Parkes soccer members aren’t leaving Parkes soccer anytime soon a er their recognition.
“I think sometimes a life membership can be seen as the golden handshake ‘thanks for your service, and you can now retire’, kind of scenario but I think Angela and myself still have a lot to do for Parkes soccer.
“It’s more like the half time break for us to say you’ve done well in the rst half and here’s a bit more of an encouragement to keep going towards the future so that’s the way we kind of look at it to be elected as life members.
“It’s certainly not the end of our career, it’s something that will spur us on hopefully to bigger and better things over the next few years and try to get more people involved in our sport,” Wayne added.
You can keep up to date on what is happening with Parkes and District Soccer on facebook at Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association Inc and via their website: websites. mygameday.app/assoc_page. cgi?client=0-7290-0-0-0
PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB
Carnival of cups harness racing on New Years Eve featuring
HANLON PARKES CUP
8 Races with the first race to start 6.40pm gates open to the public from 5.40pm
Entry fee $10 per person children under 12yo free
Full bar, tab and food facilities available on course
Give-aways and a free ice cream for all children under 12 years old
Free face painting, dogem cars, bungy trampoline, jumping castle, Teacup & Cha Cha Rides
A spectacular fireworks display at approximately 10.30pm to see in the new year
FOR THE
Angela Bottaro-Porter and Wayne Osborne are Parkes and District Soccer’s newest life members.