PCP20250116

Our Gracey is Miss Priscilla

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

SHE HAS the hair, she’s got the moves and she has the voice.

Gracey Denham-Jones isn’t impersonating Elvis Presley though, instead she is the Parkes Elvis Festival’s 2025 Miss Priscilla.

In front of a sold-out Miss Priscilla Dinner last Thursday night at the Parkes Services Club, the 22-yearold from Parkes was announced this year’s winner ahead of four others, much to her absolute surprise and delight.

All ve Miss Priscilla entrants chose to wear Priscilla Presley’s iconic white shi dress, all but one with the black bow, her going away out t a er her wedding.

The remaining entrants were Vivian Tosetti also of Parkes, Jessica

Borg from Jervis Bay, Lulu Wagner of Sydney and Samantha Corrone from the Gold Coast.

“I’m so excited!” Gracey said.

“I have always wanted to enter Miss Priscilla since I was a little girl.

“I have the long, dark hair to do it.”

Entering this year’s competition was never really the plan for Gracey, who is usually tied up each year with dancing and duties with Parkes Dance Co at the festival, since she’s a dance teacher as well.

But this year she’s been able to step back and the Sunday prior she made the impulsive decision to enter the competition she’s always dreamed of.

“I’ve just always been a dance girl,” she added.

Gracey is a marketing specialist

And yep, all that hair of hers is

“It only took an hour to do my hair, which is pretty good compared to the other girls who I spoke to,” Gracey said.

“I have a lot of it, it holds well.”

Her dress was made by local seamstress from Sew and Go Jenny Kingham who impressively whipped up her out t from scratch in four days.

“It’s a simple dress and I had the pattern already, it’s just what we do,” Jenny said.

“The hardest part was the bow because it’s quite unique and getting it right.

“I tted her on Monday and handed her the dress on Thursday morn-

“It’s so iconic,” Gracey said, de-

scribing the dress.

With some very big days ahead of her, Gracey was up early Friday morning for her rst photo shoot out at the Dish and she appeared in the famous Parkes Elvis Festival Street Parade on Saturday morning.

She was excited for it all.

“I’m super stoked,” she said.

“It’s a great way to represent the community, it’s always good to have a local girl.

“I’m looking forward to making people happy and chatting with people,” she said ahead of the events.

As for her stamina to get her through the festival, she said “no problem”.

And her feet?

“I wear heels everyday to work,” she said.

2025 Miss Priscilla Gracey Denham-Jones was embraced by her dance students and rock ‘n’ rollers from Parkes Dance Co. the day a er she won the Miss Priscilla competition at the Parkes Elvis Festival.

PHOTO: Nic Pic NSW

Four lucky winners in annual Rotary raffle

PARKES Rotary Club conducted its annual Christmas rafe this year and the ra e was drawn on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Parkes Services Club.

First prize was 10 $100 vouchers from Parkes Cunninghams IGA which was won by Maree Hando of Parkes.

Second prize was a $100 voucher from Parkes Cunninghams IGA which was won by Roxanne Manley of Parkes.

Third prize was a $100 voucher from Parkes Services Club which was won by Garry Crowley of Parkes.

Fourth prize was a $50 voucher from Parkes Co ee Pot which was won by Alan Curteis of Parkes.

Parkes Rotary Club would like to thank its sponsors, Parkes Cunningham IGA, Parkes Services Club and Parkes Co ee Pot.

The club would like to thank all the community for supporting our ra e so Parkes Rotary can continue to use the funds raised to support our activities in the Parkes Shire.

Tasman is shire’s 2025 Australia Day ambassador

WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes

COLOUR RUN

Monday, January 20

Get ready for an exciting day at Creative Community Concepts summer fun colour run. The event is set to be filled 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!

SULLIVANS

AUSTRALIA DAY

RACES

Saturday, January 25

Sullivans Mining and Industrial will be presenting the Australia Day races with the Parkes Jockey Club. From 1pm the afternoon will feature a seven race TAB program. General admission is $10 with kids under 16 free. There will be fun for the kids with an inflatable water slide, yabby races (TBC) and live music at the Parkes Race Course.

AUSTRALIA DAY KITE FESTIVAL

Sunday, January 26

From 8am to 11am at Northparkes Oval bring your own kite down for some fun. This event is for everyone for all ages from toddlers to those a little bit older who want to return to their childhood.

Decorate your kite with an Australian theme. A range of kites will be available for sale at Northparkes Oval on the day.

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.

TRUNDLE BACK IN TIME

March 15 and 16

This celebration of heritage returns with the tractor pull, sheaf toss, swap meet,

HEAD of Partnerships at the Black Dog Institute and founder of the Superhero Walk, Tasman Cassim (pictured) has been announced as the Parkes Shire’s Australia Day ambassador. He’s among the 80 inspirational Australianswho include innovators, educators, musicians, healthcare professionals, elite athletes and environmental advocates - who will take part in events across NSW as Australia Day ambassadors.

These outstanding citizens and local heroes are handpicked each year by the Australia Day Council of NSW for their exceptional contributions to the community to inspire national spirit.

Mr Cassim will join the Parkes community on January 26 for a day of meaningful celebrations, his tasks include helping to o ciate ceremonies, present certi cates at citizenship ceremonies, judge competitions such as the Golden Yabby Race at the Parkes Showground at the end of the day and visit the shire’s villages.

Mr Cassim’s achievements make him an inspiring choice to help Re ect, Respect and Celebrate what it means to be Australian.

He is passionate about creating positive change.

With 20 years in sales and marketing in the travel industry, he now focuses on uniting the For Purpose and For Pro t sectors to address key social challenges.

Through his Superhero Walk, Mr Cassim has walked more than 1000km since 2015, raising more than $100,000 for Australians in need, embodying his commitment to community and resilience.

Now in its 34th year, the NSW Australia Day Ambassador Program is the largest in the country.

too.

EUGOWRA BOOTS AND BOWTIES BALL

Saturday, April 5

SAVE THE DATE: this is a fundraiser ball not to be missed presented by the Eugowra Public School P and C at the Eugowra Showground Pavilion.

ADVERTISING

Joanne Simpson 0448 241 917 jsimpson@midwestmedia.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS 02 6342 1044 mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au

JOURNALISTS

Renee Powell 0448 238 023 rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au

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market stalls and kids zone with live music

Fans’ special connection to Parkes Elvis Festival

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

THE 32ND Parkes Elvis Festival was one lled with emotion - lots of love, laughter and some tears.

Looking back on the ve days of the festival that ran from Wednesday to Sunday last week organisers said they’re absolutely thrilled with how the event ran and the feedback to match.

While the Easy Come Easy Go theme made it tricky for costume ideas - though there was much respect to those wearing wet suits and the like in 30-degree heat - thousands of fans continue to embrace the ‘dressing-up’ cul ture of the festival.

Parkes Shire Council is still yet to announce their estimated nal numbers for this year’s festival.

The rst event to kick-o this world class festival was the Wall of Fame and though it’s been around since 1995, not in the form that was presented this year.

And festival goers knew it.

For the rst time in 30 years the ‘wall’ was moved to a new lo cation at the Parkes Visitor Infor mation Centre where an exciting new attraction now stands - lifesize replica Graceland Gates.

Wanting to witness the begin ning of a new era in this unique event, organisers counted the biggest crowd they’ve ever seen at the wall.

It all incorporated inducting Australian singer and entertainer Frankie J Holden on the wall, cutting a ribbon to o cially open the Gate, unveiling the Hollywoodstyle stars for past Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winners and a 90th birthday cake.

Another major highlight and rst for the festival was having three international headline acts - Cote Deonath, Emilio Santoro and Riley Jenkins - for the Feature Concert Series.

And there was just something special about this trio.

Fans and spectators could see it on stage and when they were out and about.

“A er their stint at the Parkes Elvis Festival it is clear to see why we a ectionately refer to them as the dynamic trio,” said Parkes Shire Council artist liaison Charlene Kaden.

“All three know each other from touring other world Elvis

...there was a genuine feeling of camaraderie and admiration among them that really shone through during their performances on stage.

- PARKES SHIRE COUNCIL ARTIST LIAISON CHARLENE KADEN

competitions so there was a genuine feeling of camaraderie and admiration among them that really shone through during their performances on stage.

“They had each other’s backs at all times to the degree that watching them together made you feel like they were brothers.

“When Riley was unable to perform his rst night show, Cote and Emilio were able to cover his set, ensuring the show went on and their fans were not disappointed.”

Ms Kaden said all three artists were generous with their time, getting involved with locals and fans alike.

They were accommodating with media requests, and took the time to engage with local personalities on social media to further promote Parkes and the festival.

“A er each performance all three artists made sure to spend time with their fans, chatting, taking photos, and signing autographs, ensuring energy levels remained high a er the show so the party could continue into the night,” Ms Kaden said.

“Having such young artists headline the festival really injected a sense of energy into their performances, which appealed to a wide range of audience members across the festival.

“In addition to being talented

artists they were lovely human beings who appreciated everything that was done for them during the festival.

“We would love to have all three artists back for the 2026 festival, and from all conversations we’ve had with fans, they all feel the same way.”

Ms Kaden said the men all agreed the Parkes Elvis Festival is unlike any other festival.

Festival favourites such as the street parade, free Cooke Park entertainment, the arrival of the Elvis Express, Miss Priscilla Dinner, Gospel Service and Renewal of Vows are always big drawcards for fans too.

But the festival ended on a sombre note this year, paying tribute to one festival fan and local Elvis impersonator who was missing.

The late Bernie Peri who died last year was honoured during the busking nals on Sunday afternoon, a competition he regularly took part in.

The theme for the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival is Love Me Tender.

Turf improvements are underway at the Parkes Lawn Cemetery.

Parkes Shire Council

In brief: Turf work in progress

CEMETERY TURF WORK

Parkes Shire Council staff are undertaking turf improvements at the Parkes Lawn Cemetery.

These works include levelling graves and top dressing turf.

Council would like to thank residents for their understanding as they carry out these improvements.

RAECHEL TO PERFORM AT GOLDEN GUITAR AWARDS

Raechel Whitchurch is thrilled to be performing once again at the Tamworth Country Music Festival Golden Guitar Awards on January 25.

The girl from Parkes is also a dual nominee in the awards, securing a place in the Contemporary Country Album of the Year and Toyota Album of the Year categories following the release of her sophomore album ‘What a time to be alive’ in May 2024.

“The last time I performed at the awards was back when my debut album ‘Finally Clear’ was nominated (2021) and it feels so good to be doing it again,” Raechel said.

Raechel is also performing in a show with Australian singer, entertainer and multi-instrumentalist

Colin Buchanan at the Country Music Festival on January 23 at the Capitol Theatre.

FREE WI-FI AT LAKE ENDEAVOUR

Did you know it is now possible to make calls and send texts from Lake Endeavour?

‘No reception’ will be a thing of the past with Parkes Shire Council installing a free Wi-Fi network at the tourist water spot for residents and visitors.

All you need to do is switch on your phone’s Wi-Fi and connect to the “Lake Endeavour Free Wi-Fi” network.

It follows a significant transformation of the area to make it the Parkes Shire’s first developed natural water location for recreational use.

From Parkes to Paris

Lucy Noakes has always had a love for France and when she heard about the Rotary Youth Exchange program she saw it as the perfect opportunity to experience life in the country.

“I’ve always wanted to go to France, I’ve had an interest in the culture and I’m quite intrigued by their food and their way of life,” Lucy said.

The city of Arras, two hours away from Paris, will be Lucy’s home for a year while she lives abroad staying with a number of di erent French families.

Lucy will attend a school in the city completing year two at a high school, equivalent to our Year 11.

Lucy rst heard about the Rotary Youth Exchange when her parents were discussing that the Parkes Rotary Club needed someone to go on an exchange.

heard their conversation and we both wanted to go but I wasn’t old enough at the time.”

sponsored by the Rotary E-Club of Brindabella.

hopes to become more con dent. and become more con dent as I can be quite a quiet person, I don’t especially like talking infront of people so I hope to improve my public speaking and gain more con dence.”

real French macaroons and is ex-

“She’s told me a little bit about France and it all sounds quite cool.”

Lucy has also been talking to an exchange student who is currently in France and she shared with Lucy that in every house there is a draw dedicated to cheese which has made Lucy even more excited for her once in a lifetime trip.

She has recognised that the language will be bit of a challenge while she is in France but took a French class in school last year with the hopes for applying for an exchange in France.

“My biggest culture shock to start with will be the fact that they drive on the opposite side of the road and it is currently snowing in Paris so as soon as I get there it will go from hot to cold.

“It’ll be a big shock, but a good shock because I won’t have to

Due to the expense of going on an exchange Lucy has been doing everything she can in the lead up to her taking o to France to raise

“I have been selling socks and painting little Christmas trees and nutcrackers because it can be

Lucy can’t wait to meet new people and said she is very excited about the friendships she will

“You get to experience a whole di erent culture, there’s another whole world out there and I’ve

Police praise behaviour of Festival patrons

Though police are investigating two assaults that occurred during this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival, O cer in Charge at Parkes Police Chief Inspector Scott Rayner said the behaviour of festival goers has been good.

“The festival and behaviour of patrons was generally very good,” he said.

“Two assaults occurred within the festival footprint which remain under investigation and several people received Criminal Infringe-

ment Notices for possessing a knife and o ensive conduct.”

Police are also investigating several stolen motor vehicles that occurred in Parkes, Forbes and Eugowra last week but Chief Inspector Rayner said these were not

linked to the festival.

“A couple of pursuits of the stolen vehicles occurred,” he said.

A scooter was also reported stolen from an unlocked vehicle in a supermarket carpark on the a ernoon of January 6.

PHOTO:

Every year crowds pack Cooke Park to enjoy all the entertainment on the main stage during the Parkes Elvis Festival.

The day Hilda met Elvis in her home in Germany

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

EVERY Elvis fan at some point in their life has dreamed about what it would have been like meeting the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and hosting him in their home.

Well for Hilda Brophy of Temora this really happened.

And it happened in the most unlikely and unexpected way.

It was 1958, she was 23, married with a three-year-old daughter named Sylvia and living in Germany.

At the same time Elvis Presley was serving in the United States Army, stationed in Friedberg, West Germany for 18 months as an armor intelligence specialist.

Germany was in the midst of the Berlin Crisis, a Cold War confrontation that involved the United States, Great Britain, France and the Soviet Union.

Elvis’ father and grandmother lived with him o -base in Bad Nauheim, which is where he met Priscilla Beaulieu, the stepdaughter of a US Air Force o cer, who as we know became his future wife.

Hilda lived in nearby Butzbach, 13 kilometres away.

“My girlfriend asked me ‘do you mind if I bring a friend?’” Hilda said.

Hilda was hosting some guests in her home and in walked that friend, Elvis Presley.

“He brought all this food and he brought along his friends,” she fondly remembered.

“He was...” She paused.

“He was what we call here ‘the ants pants’!”

“He was very quietly spoken.

“And Sylvia sat on his shoulders!”

Hilda unfortunately didn’t get the opportunity to hear his golden voice but she had something much more special, a unique personal interaction.

But she didn’t know who he was at rst and didn’t nd out until two years later when she immigrated to Australia in 1960.

Hilda turns 90 in October - born the same year as Elvis who would

have been 90 on January 8 - and this year she hopped in her car and drove herself to Parkes to experience her very rst Parkes Elvis Festival.

Her visit was made possible thanks to the friendship between the Mayor of Temora Rick Firman and the Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott who were trying to nd her somewhere to stay.

‘Best five days of the year’ says

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

“THESE are the best ve days of the year,” said Gail Goulding of Albion Park, as she waited in the marshalling area ready to take part in her 14th Parkes Elvis Festival Street Parade.

There are a handful of people like Gail, who year a er year keep returning to the festival, not only to enjoy it but to get involved.

She’s been attending for 14 years, her friend Deborah Petreski has just enjoyed her sixth festival and parade.

The highlight for them this year is they won the Best Walking Entry in the parade, accompanied by two men dressed as scuba divers - in line with the theme of Easy Come Easy Go.

The ladies said it’s the atmosphere and the same-minded people who help keep Elvis’ music and legacy alive that keeps bringing them back.

And every year they have di erent out ts, and a new out t for everyday of the festival.

They aren’t alone - most who fully devote themselves

to costumes and the ‘dressing up’ culture of the Elvis Festival make that commitment long before they set foot in Parkes. Because they need that time to prepare.

The women are already discussing their out ts for next year on the train home.

“When we get reception we Google,” Deborah laughed.

Gail has a wardrobe at home just for her Parkes out ts.

“I have many dresses and we revamp them,” she said.

The pair have watched the festival and parade grow over the years but Gail believes the theme dictates numbers from year to year.

Lida Hickey from Muswellbrook too has watched it evolve in her 11 years and says everything from the costumes and the people to the cars and events are “displayed better”.

“It’s getting bigger and more and more people are dressing up,” she said.

“There’s a lot more knowledge around the festival now and what it’s all about, the women usually dress up but now even the men are wearing matching shirts more and more.”

Lida and her husband Ian and their friends have been involved with the cars at the festival during this time and this year they had their 1950 Dodge on display and entered into their 11th parade.

Other cars Lida and Ian have shown at the festival in previous years are a 1935 Ford and a 1937 yellow pick-up.

Lida said her favourite part of being in the parade and involved in the festival is the locals.

“I love how they interact with us and with everyone else,” she said.

“And we love their appreciation of the cars,” friend Chris Corliss added.

For Alfred Vaz of Sydney, also known as ‘Bollywood Elvis’, the Elvis Festival has become a ritual over his 15 years.

So much so he was just in England visiting family and ew back to Australia for the festival, swapping an English winter for 30-plus degree temperatures of Parkes.

Every year he enters the parade and every year he rocks his Elvis jumpsuits, along with an impressive cape.

Neil’s uncle and aunty Mal and Helen Westcott kindly opened their home at Southern Cross Village to Hilda so she could enjoy the festival for a couple of days. Hilda’s been living in Temora for 25 years.

long-time fan

BELOW: Alfred Vaz of

wasn’t about to

Hilda Brophy of Temora to attend her first Parkes Elvis Festival. Hilda has a unique story to share about Elvis. PHOTO: Christine Little

LEFT: Ian and Lida Hickey from Muswellbrook in their 11th parade, John Armstrong from Maitland and Chris and Andrew Corliss from Muswellbrook.

Sydney

miss his 15th Parkes Elvis Festival, even if he was in England.

Maltese ETA wins Ultimate Contest

ELVIS Presley’s legacy transcends borders, and this year’s Parkes Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest proved it once again as Malta’s Josuel Grech was crowned the 2025 champion.

His electrifying performance at the Parkes Leagues Club in the heats and nals over Friday and Saturday captivated both the audience and judges, securing his place as the latest international winner of Australia’s premier Elvis tribute competition.

The contest featured 20 of the best Elvis tribute artists from Australia and the world, who were judged on their vocals, appearance, stage presence, and overall performance quality.

Judges say Josuel’s dynamic

and authentic tribute to the King stood out in a eld of exceptional talent.

for his powerful vocals and captivating stage presence.

“The calibre of performances this year was extraordinary,” Parkes Elvis Festival producer Kassidy Martin said.

“Josuel’s ability to channel Elvis with such energy and authenticity was remarkable.

of tribute art-

the global appeal of Elvis’ music and the continued dedication of tribute artists around the world.

“His performance demonstrated a deep respect for Elvis’ legacy while adding his own unique air.

“We’re thrilled to have him represent Parkes in Memphis later this year.”

Despite this being his rst Parkes Elvis Festival, Josuel - known as ‘Josuel as Elvis’has been a stand-out on the international Elvis tribute scene, earning recognition

land, while

place went to Brendon Chase from the Gold Coast, Queensland, while third place was awarded to South Australia’s Matt Birse from Munno Para.

Tribute, new festival award made in Bernie’s honour

By MADELINE BLACKSTONE and CHRISTINE LITTLE

THE late Bernie Peri was always seen on the street busking during the Parkes Elvis Festival.

This year a special tribute was made to the Elvis impersonator from Parkes during the nals of the McDonald’s Busking Competition on the Cooke Park Main Stage on Sunday, the last day of the festival.

Councillor and dedicated volunteer Kenny McGrath, who organises the competition every year and who was close friends with Bernie, made sure no one forgets that Bernie was a big supporter of the busking competition.

The 75-year-old, originally from New Zealand, was allegedly murdered in his home on November 9 last year.

“I met Bernie about 16 years ago and we got talking about Elvis, and I told him I’d been on the Elvis Festival committee since it started,” Cr McGrath said.

Bernie used to help out with seeking sponsorship for the festival’s busking competition before he began taking part himself, which he did for about eight years.

“He loved Elvis and he loved the Elvis Festival,” Cr McGrath said.

“He didn’t perform much, he just wanted to have a bit of fun.

“He was just someone who was very special.”

A video played on the screens of Cooke Park of Bernie singing in his home - one of many videos he posted to Facebook of him singing.

The crowed was wowed by the sound of Bernie’s voice and everyone sat in silence watching the talented singer.

A special award has also been added to the Parkes Elvis Festival busking competition in Bernie Peri’s honour.

The Bernie Peri encouragement award has been supported by Bernie’s family in New Zealand.

“We’ve created this award because Bernie was an encourager,” Cr McGrath said.

This year’s awardee was Elizabeth Toomey from Parkes who also placed second in the junior category of the busking competition.

POSITION VACANT

COWRA BUS SERVICE is seeking a Heavy Vehicle Mechanic to join our team. This position is based in Cowra and involves hands on mechanical duties including all aspect of bus repairs, maintenance & other duties involved with the daily operation of the business.

THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT MUST:

• Qualified Heavy Diesel Mechanic;

• Experience in Heavy vehicle maintenance;

• Be hands on;

• Work well under pressure;

• Preferably be proficient in bus electronics;

• Preferable hold a airconditon ticket or experience;

• Preferably hold a MR drivers licence

• Preferably hold a NSW Bus Driver Authority;

Brendon Chase from the Gold Coast was awarded second, winner Josuel Grech

PHOTOS: Steve Ostini

Brendon Chase from the Gold Coast was awarded second, winner Josuel Grech

Bernie Peri of Parkes, who died in his home in Parkes on November 9, was a big supporter of the Parkes Elvis Festival. A tribute was made to him during the finals of the Parkes Elvis Festival Busking Competition on Sunday.

PHOTO RIGHT: Facebook

Best of ‘24: Landcare’s year in review

By MARG APPLEBEE, CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

2024 was a massive year for Central West Lachlan Landcare over the Parkes and Forbes Shires. Over the next couple of weeks, I look forward to sharing a bit of a re-cap of 2024, highlighting our events and undertakings that have been a highlight for us.

At the start of 2024 we were pleased to hand over a nancial contribution to Bogan Gate Memorial Hall towards the purchase of an Automated External Debrillator (AED) with proceeds from our Landcare dinner held at Bogan Gate with Costa Georgiadis being contributed.

A big thanks to Costa for donating all proceeds from the sale of his books on the evening to the

In February the Landcare Enabling Program (LEP) o cially kicked o across NSW, with seven groups involved in our Central West Region.

Central West Lachlan Landcare

are the reporting body for the Central West.

When it commenced, this funding engaged nine coordinators.

We also kicked o the delivery of four workshops under the People Led Prevention Project, empowering communities across regional NSW in developing disaster resilience and preparedness skills with presenters including celebrity gardener, Graham Ross, landscape designer, Sally Bourne and ecologist Alison Elvin and a special workshop with the Parkes SES and RFS.

A er the Central West Lachlan Landcare Committee committed to supporting the Homegrown Parkes event until June 2027 as a rst step to support the event over a longer term, we kicked o our March Autumn Homegrown Parkes event.

In May we welcomed Mycologist Alison Pouliot to Forbes for an amazing workshops on…..mycology, investigating the amazing world of fungi!

It is surprising how many lovely samples we found on our walk in Forbes.

In June Stephanie Cameron was named as the recipient of the Gerald Carnie Award which is awarded to a person who has worked tirelessly for Landcare and keeping the Landcare dream alive.

We are always pleased to work with Forbes and Parkes Shire Council sta to deliver National Tree Day events which were held at the end of July with wonderful support from our communities.

It is fabulous to look back at our advanced National Tree Day sites.

Of course, we still have the Landcare Learning and Literacy kits available to schools throughout the year.

Follow the links on our website to nd out more information on how these can be borrowed.

For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare

Cattle prices lift with quality yarding of heifers at Forbes

Market reports from Meat and Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Reporting Agency

Cattle sale

Monday, January 13

Numbers jumped at Monday’s cattle sale at Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange with agents yarding 1611 head.

Quality was fair with good numbers of well bred cattle available along with a larger percentage of heavier cattle penned.

The usual contingent of buyers were present and competing in a fairly steady market.

Yearling steers were 5 to 8c easier with those to feed selling from 350c to 408c/kg for middleweights.

Heavyweights ranged in price from 318c to 406c/kg.

The nished lines to processors

received from 355c to 382c/kg.

A quality o ering of heifers saw prices li 5 to 8c/kg. Processors paid from 310 to 380c while those to feed received from 320c to 368c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks li ed 8c selling from 300 to 370c/kg.

Grown heifers received from 295c to 335c/kg.

Cows held steady with prices ranging from 280 to 316c/kg.

The best heavy bull reached 308c/ kg.

Sheep sale Tuesday, January 14 Yarding 29,900 (down 7400 on last week)

Numbers fell this sale with lambs showing the decrease.

There was 18400 lambs penned and quality was mixed with a good o ering of trade and heavy lambs

available along with the secondary types.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a fairly steady market that uctuated with quality.

Trade weight lambs 20-24kg sold from $164 to $213/head. Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $203 to $224 with extra heavies selling from $221 to $267/head.

Carcase prices averaged from 794 to 840c/kg. Heavy Merino hoggets reached $168/head.

Mutton numbers li ed and quality was very mixed.

Merinos made up the majority and prices slipped.

Merino ewes sold from $68 to $157/head. Crossbreds received from $74 to $145 with Dorper ewes reaching $147/head. Merino wethers ranged in price from $80 to $147/ head.

Marg Applebee with popular presenters at Homegrown Parkes in March, Phil and Nadia Donato. PHOTO: Supplied

Forbes’ annual first cross ewe sale saw 16,000 yarded last Thursday, full report on that special event in The Farmer.

8-12 JANUARY 2025

Jenny transforms scarf collection into outfit

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

Jenny Dollin has a Parkes Elvis Festival out t like no other.

It’s bright and colourful, and it’s personal.

The woman from the Blue Mountains, here for her eighth festival in 2025, had an Elvis scarf collection that was growing by the year.

Then she found an innovative solution.

“I thought ‘what am I going to do with them?’” Jenny said.

“They were just hanging on my light, they were becoming a re hazard,” she laughed.

“I’ve collected them from all the shows I’ve attended from all over the festival.”

Elvis Presley’s practice of giving away scarves began in 1970 - a stage tradition that continued during all his tours in the seventies.

He would pull the scarf from around his neck and

throw it to a fan in the crowd.

Watching the King of Rock and Roll perform live was a moment fans would never forget but receiving a token from him was even more special.

For Jenny that’s what her scarves mean to her - though not gi ed from the man himself and instead from some of the world’s best Elvis Tribute Artists, she didn’t want to throw them away.

So she made a skirt with them, a couple of years ago.

Her rst scarf she received from the headline act Pete Storm in 2017.

When more began to build up, she wondered what to do with those.

“I made a cape for this year,” Jenny said.

“I like to wear a costume for the festival.

“I got two more on the train coming up,” she laughed.

Jenny’s new cape is complete with a black and white eagle in the centre.

Easy Come Easy Go troupe stands out

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

WALKING through the crowds at the Parkes Elvis Festival, you couldn’t miss spotting this ‘Easy Come Easy Go’ troupe.

These Elvis fans have been attending the festival ranging from two to ve years, and while they might be considered relatively newcomers in the eyes of the event’s veterans, this group has immediately jumped on board the costume train.

This year’s theme for the 32nd festival was Easy Come Easy Go.

Like others who get involved in the dressing up culture of the festival, they had a new out t planned for each of the ve days.

Those who tuned-in to the morning breakfast shows on television on Thursday when the Elvis Express le Central Station in Sydney, knew who this group was prior to their arrival in Parkes that a ernoon.

They come from Canberra, Bendigo and Adelaide.

“We spend a year planning the out ts,” said Wendy Holland from Bendigo.

“We like to keep with the theme.”

And indeed they did with their white dresses and shirts with blue lettering and blue wigs they were wearing when they stepped o the Elvis Express.

Wendy said these Easy Come Easy Go outts, while appearing simple, took the longest to make because of the lettering.

Their out ts for the remaining days included sailors, two types of hippy costumes and a music out t.

Wendy said the idea of attending the Parkes Elvis Festival sounded like fun and even in the short time they’ve been coming they’ve noticed it has “really grown” since their rst year.

“It was myself, two dogs and a cat at the train station when we rst came,” joked Brad Hansen of Canberra, describing the growth in numbers at the Parkes Train Station for the Elvis Express.

Family tradition shines bright at Elvis Festival

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

EVERY year at the Parkes Elvis Festival there is sure to be some eye-catching out ts around every corner.

And with every out t there is a story to be told.

Karen and her four daughters have been coming to the Parkes Elvis Festival for 15 years and every year we wait in anticipation to see what dresses they are rocking.

The family is from Melbourne and every year Karen makes new matching dresses for her four daughters, Veronica, Diane, Janie and Kylie.

Last year you might have seen them around the festi-

val in their stunning avocado dresses but this year you will see them in beautiful daisy dresses and matching wigs.

Veronica said her mum made her and her sisters clothes growing up and she is still making clothes for the four sisters at 80 years of age.

As soon as the ladies leave the festival they are already brainstorming what their dresses will be for the next Elvis Festival.

The family love coming up to the Parkes Elvis Festival every year as they catch up with familiar faces and they love the happy atmosphere.

The ladies appreciate the

e ort the small local community goes to every year to put on a fantastic festival as they grew up in a small town in Victoria.

We look forward to seeing what Karen creates for her and her daughters for next year’s festival!

- - - -Don’t forget to head to the Parkes Champion Post website www.parkeschampionpost.com.au to check out our full coverage of the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival.

There are many more photos we’ve taken across the ve days that appear on our website.

Jenny Dollin from the Blue Mountains innovatively made her costume out of Elvis scarves she’s collected over eight years from the Parkes Elvis Festival.

PHOTOS: Christine Little

Kylie, Janie, Karen, Diane and Veronica have been attending the Parkes Elvis Festival for 15 years in their wonderful matching dresses. PHOTO: Madeline Blackstock

Easy COME GO Easy

8-12 JANUARY 2025

All the fashions of the festival

WHEN the Parkes Elvis Festi val is not about Elvis, it’s about the fashion.

We come across the most striking and fun-loving out ts every year and the 32nd festival didn’t disappoint.

Here are just some of the fash ion we spotted while out and about covering the event over the ve days. There are more photos on our website.

Rhonda celebrates her 80th by busking at festival

RHONDA Brain OAM wanted to do ‘something crazy’ for her 80th birthday.

“Some people celebrate by jumping out of planes but I’ve always had a secret wish and now that I am old enough to not care what anyone thinks, I wanted to busk at the Elvis Festival,” she said.

The founder of Paint The Town REaD and former Parkes Public School principal turned 80 on January 11.

Much to her delight, three of her octoge narian friends from her teachers’ college days Jan Kay, Marg Price and Pat Deady all came to Parkes to celebrate with her.

With Rhonda being the ‘baby octo’ of the group, these three golden oldies asked her what ‘fun thing’ she wanted to do for her birthday.

“I read in the festival information that in the busking, any quirky thing goes and I thought that is crazy enough for me,” Rhonda said.

Before any of her friends could refuse, Rhonda registered for busking at the fes tival.

And before she knew it, she and her friends were standing in Chamberlain Square in front of the NAB on her birth day on Saturday at midday, setting up for a busking performance.

A small crowd gathered.

“I’m not sure how long we’ll sing for, I might only last 10 minutes,” Rhonda laughed prior to the busk.

Being concerned the voices of four ‘old ies’, as Rhonda described, wouldn’t hold out, Parkes virtuosos Sherree Rosser, Ros Bell, Barb Newton and the ukulele players, Coralie and Bob Gould and Kaitlyn Strudwick were the backing group.

gather ideas for a children’s book on The Reading Bug visits Parkes Elvis Festival, volunteered to join in.

And they all did well, receiving applause from those who stopped to watch.

“These two are as crazy as me,” Rhonda said. Money collected from their busking tips will go towards funding the book.

LEFT: Doug Charles and Vivian Mizzi from the Sunshine Coast. Doug entered his second Ultimate Elvis

This troupe who hail from ‘everywhere’ they said, stood out in the Saturday morning crowd.

PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

RIGHT: How about those shirts! In their farewell shirts, this group boarded the Elvis Express home on Monday morning.

PHOTO: Keith Turk

Parkes Elvis Festival. RIGHT: When introduced to the small crowd on Saturday, everyone sang Rhonda Brain happy birthday.

PHOTOS: Christine Little

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.25 Beyond Paradise. 1.25 Miriam Margolyes In New Zealand. 2.25 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.10 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. 4.10 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World. 5.00 Eat The Invaders. 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 6.00 Brian Cox: Life Of A Universe. Final. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Beyond Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 10.05 Miniseries:

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 3.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. January Cup Day, VRC Summer Fun 5.30 Surf Patrol. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 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.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.25 Landline. 12.55 New Leash On Life. 1.25 Gardening Australia. 2.25 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden. 3.25 Long Lost Family. 4.10 Extraordinary Escapes. 5.00 Magda’s Big National Health Check. 6.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. 12.00 Horse Racing. January Cup Day, VRC Summer Fun Race Day and Eagle Farm Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: International. 7.30 MOVIE: Kindergarten Cop. (1990) Arnold Schwarzenegger. 9.50 MOVIE: True Lies. (1994) Arnold Schwarzenegger. 12.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Blokesworld. 11.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Women’s. Stage 2. 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 Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 Deep Water Salvage. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 The Garden Gurus. 6.30 Drive Safer. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 7. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 7. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 7. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late night 7. 12.00 New Amsterdam. 1.00 Casualty 24/7. 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.30 Global Shop. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 11.30

Programs. 4.05 Grace’s Amazing Machines. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 The Secret Life Of Our Pets. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 Doctor Who. 11.05 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10 ER. 2.55 Penn & Teller. 3.35 Speechless. 4.00 Would I Lie To You? 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. 6.10 A Wild Year On Earth. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Louis Theroux:

6.00 Danger Man. 7.00 Leading The Way. 7.30 TV Shop. 8.00 Thunderbirds. 8.30 Tomorrow’s World. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 7. 6.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 7. 11.00 MOVIE: The Sting. (1973) 1.40 MOVIE: Silver Bears. (1978) 4.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 12.10 Holey Moley Australia. 1.40 Blow Up. 3.20 A Moveable Feast. 3.50 Britain’s Got Talent. 5.15 MOVIE: A Dog’s Journey. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters: Afterlife. (2021) 10.00 MOVIE: Captain Phillips. (2013) 12.50 Late Programs.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) It’s a good time to take a muchneeded break from your recent hectic schedule and spend some time in quieter surroundings. Important news could arrive early next week.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The Taurean traits of reliability and thoroughness could be well-tested when decision-makers consider your proposals and/or requests. Be prepared to answer some probing questions.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A sudden attack of boredom leaves you with some tasks undone. It’s OK to take a short respite, but get back to work by week’s end so that you have time for other projects.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Avoid prejudging a situation just because it looks bad. Facts could emerge that can make your position uncomfortable, to say the least. Meanwhile, a relative has interesting news to share with you.

11.55 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Blow Up. Final. 1.00 My France With Manu. 2.00 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 3.10 The Voice. 5.00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 9.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.

Night 8. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 8.30

& Mrs Smith. (2005) 10.55 Chicago

LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time to begin reassessing some of your recent decisions about your long-range goals to see if they still have merit. In addition, spend more time with loved ones this weekend.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An unsettled situation at home or on the job early in the week could drain your energy levels, making it difficult to get your work done on schedule. But things improve by midweek.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A temporary setback could give you time to go over your plans to find weaknesses that you might have overlooked before. Also, a romantic getaway with a special person is favored this weekend.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Professional and personal situations benefit you once you set a positive tone in getting things off to a good start. Honest dialogue smooths over any occasional display of balkiness.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A problem with workplace colleagues or family members seems to defy even your sage counsel. But be patient. Your words will eventually lead to a resolution.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Don’t just wait out an unexpected and unexplained delay in your career move. You could gain added respect if you ask why it happened and what you can do to move things along.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Although your workplace strategies are usually accepted, you could be challenged by someone who isn’t so favorably impressed. Be prepared to defend your positions.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your friendship circle expands with new people coming into your life at this time. Welcome them warmly, but don’t neglect cherished longtime personal relationships.

CENTRAL WEST AND HILLTOPS

Irrigators protest price proposal

Sale delivers quality

Solid start to 2025 at first cross ewe sale

A Forbes farming partnership that spans three generations has won the Glamis Shield in a strong start to the year at the Central West Livestock Exchange.

The Morrison family was presented with the Forbes PA and H Association trophy for best-presented pen at the annual rst cross ewe sale, which took place on Thursday January 9.

The annual event is known for its quality and the 2025 sale didn’t disappoint.

Chris Morrison, who is pictured at the presentation with dad Trevor and sons Braith, Hayden and Jarrad, said they brought 1710 ewe lambs to the Thursday sale and averaged $252 a head.

Agent Adam Chudleigh, MCC Chudleigh Dobell, paid credit to the vendors as he introduced the sale - the Morrison’s prize winning pen rst up for bidders.

The quality on o er was once again unbelievable, Mr Chudleigh said.

The sale was within expectations, he added, the fat lamb market having opened the new year easier but buyers knowing the trip to Forbes is worth it.

Chris Morrison said his

family has been preparing their rst cross ewe lambs for this new year sale for 20 years now - and they were once again pleased with the results on Thursday.

“As you can see it’s a team e ort with three generations: dad and myself and my boys,” he said a er the sale.

Morrisons aim to produce long ewes with a big frame,

joining Glamis rams, from the Brown family’s Bedgerabong stud, with Pooginook Merino ewes.

Lambing in March, they shear in October, to prepare for this sale.

It’s been a good season for it on their property at Forbes which they also crop.

Chris extended the family’s thanks to lamb marker

Ben Bryan and shearers Greg Briggs Contracting, as well as the team at MCC Chudleigh Dobell.

The annual sale has again proven itself with vendors delivering quality and buyers drawn to it.

“We’re lucky to have it,” Chris said.

Jamie Buerckner, Bauer Border Leicesters, had the

unenviable task of judging the Glamis Shield from the yarding of 16,000.

“I’d like to congratulate all the vendors on a lovely line up of young ewes today,” Mr Buerckner said, before announcing Morrisons rst pen the recipients of the trophy.

“They took my eye as soon as I walked in: the evenness, the size and structure.”

Mr Chudleigh said sales of joinable ewes were strong. A pen of scanned in lamb ewes from Gary and Narelle Sunderland at Fi eld topped the sale fetching $355.

The top price ewe lambs were from Kevin and Jayne Norrie and fetched $318.

“Quality prevails and also weight prevailed today,” Mr Chudleigh said.

Trevor Morrison, Murray Brown from Glamis Border Leicester Stud, Braith Morrison, Chris Morrison, competition judge Jamie Buerckner, Noah Brown from Glamis, Norm Haley from Forbes PA and H Association, Hayden Morrison and Jarrad Morrison at the presentation of the Glamis Shield.

Farmers in focus in food future report

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed a new report that places farmers at the centre of a re-invented food system.

The Australian Food and Agriculture Taskforce in December handed down a report that warns the nation’s food system is at a tipping point.

NFF Chief Executive Officer Tony Mahar, who participated in the Taskforce, reiterated the report’s findings that farmers must be supported in order to shore up Australia’s agricultural potential.

“This report shows Australian agriculture is at risk of losing its competitive edge unless a number of changes are made,” Mr Mahar said.

“Issues like increased frequency and severity of climate events, trade tensions, shifting geopolitical environments, and global markets evolving at different speeds, are all threatening Australia’s food system.

“The Taskforce has recommended a number of actions to grow agriculture’s potential, following the expert lead of Australia’s farmers.

“It’s great to see a well-researched report back-up what we already know about Australian ag: It has huge potential, and with the right support, can be a $100 billion industry by 2030.”

Taskforce Chair Mark van Dyck said 44 per cent of farmers believed Australia was losing its competitive edge on the global stage.

“When it comes to implementing climatesmart practices, our farmers are world leaders, but they need more support to go further and really bolster the climate resilience of their farms,” Mr van Dyck said.

The Land of plenty: Transforming Australia into a food superpower report listed three areas that are key to unlocking agriculture’s potential:

• Climate-smart farming – transition financing, tax incentives, standardised measurement/reporting framework and central data exchange.

• Sovereign supply chains – national food system strategy, scaling manufacturing and regional precincts.

• Global markets and competitive positioning – diversifying exports into IP and agtech, communication tools to strengthen global positioning.

Mr Mahar said it was crucial that all entities along the food supply chain worked together to achieve these goals.

“Global markets are evolving at a rapid pace, and Australia needs to take action so we are not left behind,” Mr Mahar said.

“Our farmers are leading the charge, embracing climate-smart farming techniques and welcoming new practices to drive down emissions.

“This report shows if an extra 20 per cent of farmers adopt climate-smart practices, they will reap the reward with a 22 per cent increase in their bottom line and tap into new income streams from carbon markets.

“This is a win for farmers, the environment, the economy, and importantly, for future food security and affordability.”

Price proposal would be devastating: irrigators

Rural water users in NSW could see their costs more than double over the next ve years under pricing proposals currently before the Independent Pricing And Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

General security licence holders in the Lachlan Valley would face 20 per cent a year increases and high security 30 per cent a year in an information paper currently on display.

IPART is reviewing the maximum charges that WaterNSW can charge to provide rural bulk water services - with the price to apply for ve years from July 1, 2025.

For standard water use customers on regulated rivers in the Lachlan Valley, by 2030 bills would increase a cumulative 271 per cent for high security customers and 149 or 150 per cent for general security customers.

NSW Irrigators Council CEO Claire Miller said the organisation was alarmed by the proposal and urged stakeholders across industries to understanding the implications.

“WaterNSW’s revenue requirements are rising faster than businesses’ capacity to pay,” she said.

“Rural water customers are already grappling with soaring input costs - interest rates, fuel, insurance, machinery, wages, and energy.

“This is not just about farmers; everyone will feel the pinch from racing, to manufacturing, mining, processing and competitive sports like golf.”

Lachlan Valley Water Chair Tom Green said the pricing would leave irrigators asking, “how am I going to make money out of this?”

“I would say it would be devastating to the industry really,” he said.

“In terms of your general farmer ... your small irrigator’s probably already under pressure and going because of other reforms and so forth, including pricing, metering etc.”

But the proposal would equally a ect medium and large irrigators, he added, consid-

ering the value per megalitre of water.

The proposal includes rises to cover costs for both Water NSW and the Water Administration Ministerial Corporation (WAMC).

The Corporation charges aim to recover water users’ share of the costs of water management charges such as regulation and licensing; management agencies like the Murray Darling Basin Association; and things like metering charges.

They propose bills increase between 2.5 per cent and 28 per cent, proposing the NSW Government pay a larger subsidy to avoid price shocks.

Mr Green said discussions about an impending increase in prices had been ongoing for some 18 months but now the numbers have come out in the information paper NSW Irrigators Council has responded.

In a global market, it could leave our irrigators uncompetitive, Mr Green warned.

“It’s too expensive - there’s no money in it - and the risk is too great, you’re spending a huge amount of money for little return,” he said.

He’s already made signi cant changes to the amount of irrigation on his Forbes property, when it comes to river water they’re

Rural water customers are already grappling with soaring input costs - interest rates, fuel, insurance, machinery, wages, and energy.

now more likely to use irrigation to improve winter crops than to invest in summer crops.

“Where we would normally have done a lot of hay, lucerne seed and so forth we’ve cut that down to where we more so water winter crop,” Mr Green said.

“We still do some, we’ve probably halved it in terms of what we’d do over summer.”

Just how widespread that shi is could be hard to see across the industry a er the weather conditions of recent years, this Summer where there’s water available and more normal conditions could be more telling.

“It’ll be interesting with a normal summer what our water use is for the year because one of the issues is we’re not even using our limit that we’re allowed,” Mr Green said.

“(Properties) may have infrastructure, they may be temporary selling their water or permanently selling it.”

Ms Miller said the water pricing model in NSW was “fundamentally broken”.

“Rural water customers should be charged only to the extent of what it costs to deliver water, and that all other costs associated with water management should be shared across the community via the public purse,” she said.

PHOTO: Supplied

Lachlan Valley Water chair Tom Green said the outlined price increase would be devastating for farmers in the region.

PHOTO: File

- CLAIRE MILLER, NSW IRRIGATORS COUNCIL

As we step into 2025, the Central West is ready to embrace a year of progress, resilience, and innovation. The strong foundations laid in 2024 provide an opportunity to build on our successes, tackle challenges, and continue the determined, collaborative spirit that defines our region.

This year promises to be transformative for farming in our community. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill is poised for further progress, with the potential to revolutionise livestock management and reduce environmental impact. I am committed to ensuring this ground breaking technology becomes a reality, positioning our farmers as leaders in sustainable agriculture.

Advocacy for justice will also remain a priority, particularly in seeking an inquest into the tragic loss of 10-year-old Biddy Porter. Until her family receives the justice and answers they deserve, we will not rest. Our shared efforts are focused on fostering safer communities for everyone.

As the Central West continues its recovery from the 2022 floods, rebuilding stronger and more resilient infrastructure remains essential. We will push for further investments in water security, tourism, and community facilities to sustain growth, support families, and drive regional vitality.

Healthcare remains a cornerstone of our efforts. In 2025, we will work to address workforce shortages, advocate for better nurse-to-patient ratios, and enhance access to healthcare services for regional communities. These efforts are critical to ensuring everyone in our region has the care they need.

Transport connectivity Is vital for unlocking economic opportunities, and improving passenger rail services will remain a key focus this year. Enhanced transport options will keep our communities connected and ensure the Central West remains competitive and accessible.

Finally, collaboration with government and community organisations will continue to address pressing housing shortages and tackle homelessness. By working together, we can ensure everyone in the Central West has access to safe and secure housing.

2025 is set to be a year of action and achievement. Together, we will build on the successes of the past and create a stronger, more resilient future for the Central West.

Phil

GRANTS PROGRAM OPENING SOON GET READY!

The NSW Government’s 2025 Community Building Partnership Grants Program opens on January, 28 2025. Start getting prepared now, because the application window is only open until February, 21 2025. This annual grants funding program is popular and highly sought after in the local community. The Community Building Partnership Program is offering funding to support projects that deliver positive outcomes for communities in NSW.

If your organisation has a project that will strengthen our community, this is your chance to apply!

Applications close: 21 February 2025, 5:00 pm To view program guideline, go to nsw.gov.au and follow the grands and funding link.

COMFORT AT A DIFFICULT TIME

Two brand new state of the art cuddle beds are a welcome addition to the Orange Health Service Palliative Care rooms.

I must commend Orange Push for Palliative Care, lead by Jenny Hazelton and Janice Harris, for their continued advocacy for improved palliative facilities at the Orange Health Service.

I was delighted Health Minister Ryan Park was able to provide funding for these two double-sized cuddle beds for patients and their families. By providing the important opportunity to remain physically close during end-of-life care, these beds allow patients to maintain meaningful connection and help create a sense of comfort and peace during what can be an incredibly difficult time.

EASY COME, EASY GO

Parkes hosted another amazing Elvis Festival, in fact the 32nd, this month and as usual, the township turned on a great event.

This year’s theme was ‘Easy Come, Easy Go’, a 1967 musical comedy featuring the King and visitors from all around Australia arrived onboard the Elvis Express last week.

I’m sure the festival founders Bob and Anne Steele would never have imagined this festival would grow into what it is today - it’s an amazing success story for Parkes and NSW. If you haven’t ever experienced the Elvis Festival, it’s a must-do.

STAY SAFE ON THE WATER

School holidays are still in full swing, so please look out for one another when you’re enjoying our beautiful dams and rivers. Wear life jackets on the water, know your limits and

MENTAL WELLNESS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Do you struggle with the holiday season? If you find the holiday season challenging, you’re not alone. The holidays are often depicted as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but for many of us, it can bring up a range of difficult thoughts and feelings. It’s okay to feel lonely, angry, anxious, stressed, sad or something else entirely.

The most important thing is that you acknowledge your emotions and remember that your wellbeing matters.

LIFELINE has a mental wellness guide, with some helpful tips. Go to toolkit.lifeline.org.au, or you can call a trained Lifeline crisis supporter for confidential one-on-one support on 13 11 14 or, you can’t text lifeline on 0477 13 11 14 Rural Adversity mental Health Program can also offer support at https://www.ramhp.com.au

Pest management training update

Local Land Services has launched a new and improved training course for landholders using restricted pesticides to manage pest animals.

Available online and face-to-face, the free VPIT course takes landholders through the legal responsibilities, safety requirements and practical considerations for the safe and effective use of baits and pesticides to control pest animals.

All NSW landholders must hold an AQF3 Chemical Accreditation or VPIT certification to acquire and use pesticides and bait products for feral pigs, rabbits, wild dogs and foxes.

Local Land Services’ Principal Program Manager Biosecurity, Jake Tanner, said the upgraded VPIT course made it easier than ever for landholders to gain this certification.

“Education is a key part of Local Land Services’ role in supporting and providing best practice advice to farmers and landholders across NSW.

“We’re encouraging landholders to attend one of our face-to-face training sessions or save time and complete the course online.”

The online course is a streamlined version of the face-to-face workshop and takes only a few hours to complete. Certification is valid for five years.

The course upgrades were funded by the 2023-24 Feral Pig Program.

Visit the Local Land Services website for more information or to register for Vertebrate Pesticide Induction Training.

Those interested in participating in coordinated pest control programs should contact their nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.

Protect from bites in mosquito season

NSW Health is reminding people to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites this summer season.

NSW Health’s Executive Director of Health Protection Dr Jeremy McAnulty said mosquitoes thrive in warm conditions, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses in parts of NSW.

“Each year, NSW Health undertakes mosquito surveillance across NSW from November to April each year, which provides important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated,” Dr McAnulty said. Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been recently detected in a mosquito sample in Lake Wyangan collected on December 3.

Mosquito-borne Murray Valley encephalitis has been detected in sentinel chickens at Cowra and Japanese encephalitis in feral pigs in the Narromine shire.

JE vaccine is available through GPs, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists.

It’s a timely reminder to take all measures to avoid mosquito bites: avoid going outside at peak times; apply repellants containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus; wear light loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts and long pants, socks and covered footwear.

Another La Nina could form, modelling shows

By REBECCA HEWSON

For the fourth time in five years it is predicted that a La Nina event is forming, which could mean a lot of rain for the Central West and Hilltops regions, according to the World Meteorological Organisation.

La Nina weather events bring with them above average rainfall, and over the past decade, usually indicate potential flooding for areas such as Forbes, Cowra and Boorowa.

The Bureau of Meteorology dropped its individual drivers reporting in December 2024, retiring the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) dial, meaning the Bureau no longer issues La Nina watches or alerts, instead encouraging the public and media to follow their official forecasts, rather than gauging information from the dial.

According to the World Meteorologial Organisation there is the potential for a La Nina event to form in the coming months, but it is expected to be a short and less intense event.

In December the World Meteorological Organisation said its long range forecasts indicated a 55 percent likelihood of a transition from the current neutral conditions to La Nina conditions between December 2024 and February 2025.

Over the past 12 months the local region has experienced minor La Nina, El Nino and neutral weather events, all of which have impacted season rainfall, temperature and weather patterns.

“The year 2024 started out with El Nino and is on track to be the hottest on record,”

WMO Secretary General Celeste Saulo said.

“Even if a La Nina event does emerge, its short term cooling impact will be insufficient to counterbalance the warming effect of record heat-trapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

“Even in the absence of El Nino or La Nina conditions since May, we have witnessed an extraordinary series of extreme weather events, including record breaking rainfall

and flooding which have unfortunately become the new norm in our changing climate.”

According to the Bureau of Meteorology Southern Hemisphere Monitoring from the end of December 2024, since November, atmospheric indicators such as the SOI and trade winds have strengthened towards La Nina with oceanic indicators responding ‘in recent weeks’.

“Some oceanic and atmospheric patterns in the Pacific have at times shown weak La Nina characteristics in 2024 but with little coupling,” a BoM spokesperson said.

“For an event to become established, both atmospheric and oceanic indices would need to be sustained at La Nina levels for at least three months.”

The Bureau believes that though there will be an incline into La Nina in January, the forecast is expected to remain neutral.

“The Bureau’s model forecasts that sea surface temperatures in the central tropical

Pacific will remain in the ENSO-neutral range throughout the forecast period to April 2015, despite briefly dipping below the La Nina threshold in January,” the BoM spokesperson said.

“This is consistent with four of the six other international climate models surveyed.”

The BoM said the Indian Ocean Dipole and Southern Annular Mode will remain neutral through to April 2025. Over the coming three months between January and March the Bureau of Meteorology has predicted there is a 75 percent chance that the Central West and Hilltops will receive above average rainfall and is predicted to record up to 200mm.

They have also predicted there will be a 75 percent chance that maximum temperatures for the Central West and Hilltops will be above the average over the three months to March and minimum temperatures have a 90 percent chance of being warmer than normal.

The World Meteorological Organisation says a La Nina could form, the Bureau of Meteorology is encouraging people to follow official forecasts.

Sheep market performers of ‘24

NSW DPIRD analysis shows rise in economic returns for 20 micron ewes, first cross ewes

New gross margin calculations have shown that prime lamb production and replacement purchases emerged as the top-performing sheep enterprises of 2024, demonstrating resilience in a dynamic industry.

According to recent analysis from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD), economic returns for 20-micron ewe and rst cross ewe enterprises - both joined with terminal rams - have increased by ve percent from 2022.

Returns from the 20-micron ewe achieved a gross margin of $32.09 per Dry Sheep Equivalent (DSE), while the 1st Cross Ewe saw returns of $27.46 per DSE.

NSW DPIRD Sheep Development O cer Geo Cas-

burn said that stable slaughter lamb values and lower replacement ewe costs contributed to their gain, with 20-micron ewe enterprises claiming the top spot for 2024, thanks to the additional income generated from Merino wool.

“The second best result was self-replacing Dorper enterprises, which had a gross margin of $28.71 per DSE.

“They also recorded the third-highest sheep sale income, alongside the lowest variable costs per DSE,” Mr Casburn said.

Looking ahead, producers should focus on enterprise flexibility and diversification in both meat and wool to maximise returns and protect themselves from falls in either market

-

GEOFF CASBURN, NSW DPIRD

“This strong result is due to the absence of wool harvesting costs and low replacement expenses, enabling Dorper producers to avoid the volatility of wool prices and high labour costs.”

Sheep gross margin calculations covered three main cost categories: replacements, wool harvesting, and fodder.

Mr Casburn explained that these cost categories impact enterprises di erently.

Wool-focused enterprises typically have larger harvesting costs, while meat-

focused enterprises incur higher replacement ewe and fodder costs.

“There is anecdotal evidence that a shortage of shearers and shed hands in 2024 has driven wool harvesting costs higher across many regions.

“While the gross margin analysis used award rates to calculate wool harvest-

ing costs, if these costs increased by 25 per cent, it would lead to a reduction in gross margins - from $26.08 down to $24.03 per DSE in the 18-micron ewe enterprise this year.

“Similarly, a 25 per cent increase in fodder costs would reduce returns from $27.39 to $25.16 per DSE for 1st Cross Ewes joined 100 percent to terminal rams,”

Mr Casburn said.

“A combination of lower wool incomes, weaker mutton sale values, and an oversupply of ewe hoggets and wether weaners has put downward pressure on prices, resulting in reduced incomes for many sheep producers.”

“The self-replacing 18-micron wool-focused enterprise achieved $26.08

per DSE, which is below earnings for 2022, but still remains on par with meat-focused enterprises, demonstrating wool’s continued contribution to enterprise performance.”

Despite current market challenges, the outlook for sheep enterprises remains positive overall, with solid returns from prime lamb expected to continue.

This is likely to drive higher incomes within wool enterprises that are joining some or all of their ocks to terminal rams.

“Looking ahead, producers should focus on enterprise exibility and diversi cation in both meat and wool to maximise returns and protect themselves from falls in either market,” Mr Casburn said.

Strong start to year’s sales at Cowra, Forbes

COWRA REGIONAL LIVESTOCK SELLING CENTRE

Prime lamb and Sheep Sale every Wednesday 11:30am.

• Selling Agents • Allan Gray & Co • Normal C. Bellamy

• JJ Dresser & Co • James P Keady • Elders – Cowra

• Kevin Miller Whitty & Co • Landmark Cowra

The rst week of sales for 2025 has set the tone for livestock markets in Forbes and Cowra, with solid turnouts at both saleyards and mixed quality

The Forbes Saleyard opened the year on January 7 with an impressive 37,300 head yarded, including 28,850 lambs.

Quality was fair but varied, with some excellent trade and heavyweight lines alongside plainer secondary

Trade weight lambs (20-24kg) sold between $148 and $212 per head.

Heavy lambs up to 26kg fetched $196 to $228, while extra heavy lambs ranged from $223 to $293 per head.

Carcase prices for the better lambs averaged 800c to 850c/kg, with secondary types trailing slightly lower.

Mutton numbers were dominated by Merinos, with mixed quality across the

Heavy sheep commanded 510c to 580c/kg cwt, while Merino ewes sold from $70 to $206 per head.

Crossbred ewes ranged from $55 to $170, and Dorper ewes reached up to

The Cowra Saleyard followed with its rst sale of the year on January 8, o er-

Quality was notably good, with a yarding dominated by heavyweights, along with a mix of trade and store

Craig Oliver, one half of the MCC Howard Oliver team, re ected on the market dynamics, “we would like the market to be dearer than what it is. Pre-Christmas, it was really silly dear—a lot of the processors fell short of lambs, and the market was o its head”.

Lightweight restocker lambs sold for $60 to $156 per head, while trade weights (20-24kg) fetched $170 to $218 per head, averaging 820c to 890c/kg cwt.

Heavyweight lambs over 24kg ranged from $215 to $266 per head, with averages between 850c and 890c/ kg cwt.

The sale also saw heavy hoggets reach $130 per head.

The mutton yarding at Cowra included 1,800 head of mixed quality.

Merino ewes sold between $55 and $128 per head, while crossbred ewes fetched $86 to $173. Most mutton traded at 420c to 470c/kg cwt.

Summing up the atmosphere, stock and station agents provided positive re ections.

Daniel Wright from Allen Gray and Co described it as “another day in paradise”.

The rst week of sales for 2025 shows steady momentum in the livestock markets, with a mix of challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.

Sale-o at Forbes first cross ewe sale

Vendors, buyers and interested onlookers gathered at Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange on January 9 for the annual first cross ewe sale.

The yarding of 16,000 delivered the quality expected of

this sale and vendors from the regions gatehered on site or placed their bids through Auctions Plus.

Here are a few of the people we met out and about on the day.

Rural land increases 5.4pc across region

The value of rural land in the central west increased 5.4 per cent over the last financial year.

The NSW Valuer General has released land values for July 2024, revealing the total value of rural land in the central west region has had a moderate increase.

The region incorporates Coonamble, Dubbo Regional, Forbes, Gilgandra, Hilltops, Lachlan, Narromine, Parkes, Warren, Warrumbungle and Weddin local government areas.

The strongest growth in rural land values was in the Lachlan shire, where the total rural land value increased 19.1 per cent from a total

$2,892,716,340 to $3,445,020. Warrumbungle shire saw 12.6 per cent growth from $2.433 billion to $2.738 billion.

Drivers of these markets are due to strong confidence in the rural sector, supported by demand from purchasers expanding their holdings for succession purposes or increasing their economies of scale, the Valuer General’s report states. Closer to home Weddin 4.4 per cent growth in rural land value. Forbes (total $2.158 billion), Parkes (total $1.680 billion) and Hilltops (total $7.315 billion) shires were all steady.

Adam Chudleigh and the team from MCC Chudleigh Dobell take bids for the first pen of Morrison lambs.

The crowd gathering for the opening cry of “sale-o” at the annual Forbes first cross ewe sale.

Graeme Golden from Kegra Border Leicester Stud at Temora, Brian Frost and James Frost from Hillden Poll Dorsets at Bannister.

John Agustin with young Leo.

Jack Whitty with John and Sue Gibson, whose property lies between Grenfell and Young.

The Valuer General has released NSW property

per cent increase in value.

Chickpeas on rise in 2024 cropping

Harvest in at least some parts of our region exceeded expectations, with GrainCorp receiving more than 570,000 tonnes in the region.

Parkes sub terminal was the highest receival site in the southern part of NSW this harvest, with 260,000 tonnes received.

Graincorp regional operations manager for Southern NSW, Warwick Smith, said excellent quality wheat and barley made up the majority, with canola contributing about a h of the overall tonnes.

Other regions that exceeded receival expectations included Graincorp’s Temora and Wyalong areas.

“In the Temora region, our Quandialla site had its best ever season on record, taking in over 140,200 tonnes - with growers in the area saying they were pleased with the outcome of this harvest, with yields much better than expected a er a drier spring and frost events occurring,” Mr Smith said.

“The team at Barellan were also very busy, with over 230,000 tonnes making its way through the gates and the site breaking its daily receival record.

“Our teams are now turning their focus to out loading the grain accumulated this harvest - a program of works that continues all year round to support both domestic and export markets.”

Harvest started early and well for the region, before heavy rains and storms in early December downgraded what did remain in the paddock - with greater impact further south.

On the back of early harvest results, the December crop report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences predicted national winter crop production to increase to 55.1 million tonnes in 2024–25, 17 per cent above the 10-year average.

CHICKPEA PRODUCTION UP

ABARES had picked chickpeas as the big growth for the year, with production predicted to increase by 567 per cent to 1.1 million tonnes in 2024–25, a new record high.

The area planted to chickpeas had increased following the Indian government’s announcement of a tari free period for Australian chickpea exports, which led to an increase in Australian chickpea export prices.

Overall, ABARES forecast winter crop production to increase to 19.1 million tonnes in 2024–25, increasing by 68 per cent to be the second highest production on record.

This was a 13 per cent upward revision from the September 2024 Australian Crop Report and is now 62 per cent above the 10-year average to 2023–24.

This improvement in production follows average to above average rainfall in northern New South Wales throughout spring and an upward revision to area planted to chickpeas.

Growing conditions for winter crops in 2024–25 have been mostly favourable within New South Wales. The central west and northern cropping re-

gions have bene tted from above average soil moisture levels and favourable rainfall throughout winter and spring.

Southern growing regions experienced a drier start to the season as well as minor impacts from frost events throughout September limiting yield potential.

However, timely rainfall throughout October and November have aided frost impacted crops in their recovery, arresting further yield declines and supporting grain ll.

The area planted to winter crops in New South Wales is estimated to have increased by 23 per cent to 6.8 million hectares in 2024–25, the second highest on record.

This is 24 per cent above the 10-year average to 2023–24 and represents a 6 per cent upward revision from the September 2024 Australian Crop Report.

Favourable seasonal conditions at the time of planting led to increases in area for winter crops, with many expanding into regions not normally sown to these crops, such as northwest New South Wales.

Overall, wheat production in New South Wales is expected to increase by 75 per cent in 2024–25, with the average state yield forecast to be 46 per cent above the 10-year average to 2023–24.

Unlock your soil potential: test now

YLAD Living Soils uses a ground-breaking soil testing system, Soil Therapy, that can revolutionise your farming and identify the ‘weak’ link in your system.

Regularly taking soil tests can assist with informed decision making, implementing soil building practices such as applying Compost Mineral Blends, crop rotation, down the tube fertilisers, reduced tillage and cover cropping.

YLAD Living Soils soil testing system helps growers by enhancing their understanding of soil fertility and nutrition, unlocking the potential for increased yields, improved quality, and boosted profits.

With advanced testing techniques and comprehensive analysis, Soil Therapy provides accurate insights into soil composition and nutrient levels, enabling informed decision-making and optimised agricultural practices.

As well as the above, the Soil Therapy test includes analysis of the three pools of nutrients in your soils, Total, Exchangeable and Soluble.

This gives you the most comprehensive in-depth perspective as to what ‘locked up nutrients’ you have ‘in the bank’ and whether microbiology are cycling them to the soluble pool, where they can

be taken up by plant roots. Results come back in an ‘easy to understand’ graphed up format with ‘ideal’ levels provided. Interpreting soil test results can be rather daunting and look just like a heap of numbers that are unrelated to the physical, chemical or biological aspects of the soil.

That is why Rhonda Daly, co-founder and owner of YLAD Living Soils has developed an in-depth understanding and format of how to interpret soil tests that ‘makes the page sing’ to the landowner.

Soil is generally the biggest asset of the farmer, it is paramount that there is an intimate knowledge of understanding how to link the physical, chemical and biological aspects to create a functioning profitable soil.

Rhonda Daly offers a FREE SERVICE to all farmers to guide them through their soil test results, deliver advice and create the most effective program to rejuvenate soils and plant health.

To secure a spot in 2025, either take a new soil test by clicking https://www.yladlivingsoils.com.au/soil-therapy or call the office to send you a soil test kit or send me your soil test results.

Similar production upsides are expected for barley and canola, with mostly favourable conditions pushing average state level yields 34 per cent and 20 per cent above the 10-year average respectively.

Temora Road, Young

Grain Corp’s Parkes sub terminal received more than 260,000 tonnes of grain this harvest a er (inset) the winter grain harvest got away to an early and good start before heavy rains in December. PHOTO: Graincorp

Workshops, season updates for the diary

With the new year upon us, the Central West LLS will be hosting several events including:

Salinity Technology and Management Workshop - Parkes February 11.

Are some areas of your pasture or crops not performing as expected?

Dryland salinity could be the culprit, particularly in the Central West region of NSW. Even without visible signs, hidden subsurface salinity may be impacting your yields.

Join the Central West LLS at a free workshop at Bushmans Motor Inn where Ned Skehan from Optisoil will demonstrate how technology can aid in early detection of salinity.

Andrew Wooldridge, a Salinity Technical Specialist, will lead a hands-on soil pit session focused on management strategies. Topics include:

- understanding the risks of salinity to your production - technology tools: electromagnetic mapping, gamma, yield mapping, NDVI, and imagery - practical strategies for managing and preventing salinity.

- Morning tea and lunch will be supplied. There will be a field trip to a local property afterwards.

Please bring a chair and water bottle. You will also need to wear boots and a hat. The event will take place from 8am to 3:30pm. Register online at the Central West LLS website by Friday, February 7.

Natural Capital AccountingEugowra Meeting Supply Chain Demands Discover how to work with nature to boost productivity. Learn about

nature accounting and Local Land Services natural capital support services.

The event will take place from 9:30 am - 1:30 pm on February 15 at the St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School hall.

Join the LLS to explore: natural capital, on-farm and offfarm benefits integrating natural capital in meeting supply chain needs environmental accounting - the process of designing, building, and certifying an Environmental Account valuing natural assets on farm.

There will be lots of time for questions and answers, so please bring your questions!

Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Register online.

Soil Biology Workshop - Grenfell

Join the Central West LLS for an engaging, hands-on workshop with Simon Mattsson from Soil Land Food!

The event will run from 8am to 2pm on February 26 at 20A Warraderry Street, Grenfell. Look for the LLS field day signs.

Simon, a mixed cropping farmer and soil biology expert, will lead this practical workshop designed to help you enhance your soil health.

Topics covered:

- the importance of soil biology for your farm

- understanding microbes and organisms in soil

- identifying the biology in your soil - practical ways to improve soil biology, including biological products.

Workshop highlights:

- field walk – observe and discuss soil health

- soil pit exploration – gain handson experience with soil biology in action. Morning tea and lunch will be supplied.

Register online.

E icient Farming Opportunities

Workshop - Coonabarabran and Dubbo.

Join the LLS to explore what you can do now to become more efficient in your farming system, and hear from scientists, supply chain and sustainability experts, and AgTech specialists, on what to do now to farm efficiently and future-proof your farming business.

Topics that will be covered:

Optimising soil’s water and nutrient use

Techniques to leverage machine collected data for precision farmingJohn Deeree|Hutcheon and Pearce

Tools to accurately budget feed base and monitor land conditionsCibolab

Tools and strategies to support low emission agriculture (Know your numbers) – On-Farm carbon advice – DPIRD

Opportunities for biodiversity in farming systems –who buys themNature Market and Offsets, DCCEEW

Soil carbon farming opportunities and considerations; evidence-based science perspective – Select Carbon and LLS

Integrating farm efficiency strategies in the supply chain – Rabo Bank

There will be a panel discussion for questions and answers

Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Register online.

The workshop will take place on March 11, from 9:30am to 3:30pm in Coonabarabran at RFS Castlereagh

Fire Control Centre, 111 Saleyards Road.

The workship will take place inn Dubbbo on March 12 from 9:30am to 3:30pm at the Savannah Function Centre, Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

In the Central Tablelands region, events include: Blayney Pre Season Information and Lunch

February 6, from 11am to 2pm at Blayney Shire Community Centre, Blayney.

Join the LLS for a free lunch and hear lots of information to help you plan for the season ahead:

Monitoring soil moisture levels

Using CliMate to check the past weather and how likely it will happen again

Build a C3 feed wedge for Winter Hot tips for improving reproductive efficiency

Preventing phalaris staggers

To help them with catering, please register your attendance by clicking through to the registration form on the Local Land Services website.

Cumnock Pre Season Information and Lunch

February 13, from 10:30am to 2pm at Cumnock Bowling Club.

Join the LLS for a free lunch and hear a great range of information to get you ready for the season ahead:

- Monitoring soil moisture levels and using CliMate: Sarah Ireland

- Canola establishment: NSW DPIRD Colin McMaster

- Soil nitrogen strategies in cropping systems: Speaker TBC

- Maximising livestock reproduction - more than just $/breeder: Richard Parkes

- Farm tech in confinement feeding areas: NSW DPIRD Hamish Dickson and/or Clare Bellfield

- Preventing phalaris staggers: Local Land Services Vet

To help with catering, please register your attendance via the Local Land Services website.

Greenethorpe Pre Season Cropping and Livestock Breakfast

At February 20, from 7:30am to 11:30am at the Greenethorpe Soldiers Memorial Hall.

Join the LLS for a free breakfast and hear the latest information from a great range of speakers:

- Cereal varieties: NSW DPIRDPeter Matthews

- Canola establishment: NSW DPIRD - Colin McMaster

- Iandra CSIRO Farming systems

research update: CSIRO - Tony Swan

- Future Herbicide

Strategies:Speaker TBC (WeedSmart)

- Farm Emissions Planning Groups: Local Land Services - Phil Cranney

- Preventing Phalaris staggers: Local Land Services Vets

Please register your attendance via the LLS website.

Pastures and Grazing NSW Autumn Pasture Update

March 7 from 9:30am to 3pm at Cudal Bowling Club.

Learn about the latest research results from the NSW DPIRD Low Emissions Pastures and Acid Soil trials. Hear the latest livestock research from experts.

Inspect the local Pasture Trial Network site after lunch.

Please register by clicking through to the registration form on the LLS website.

Easy COME GO Easy

8-12 JANUARY 2025

Charlie Gaylard has us ‘all shook up’

By MADELINE BLACKSTONE

IF you haven’t heard the name Charlie Gaylard, where have you been for the last 12 months?

This young and upcoming Elvis star has everyone ‘all shook up’ with hearts wrapped around his nger.

Charlie had his rst taste of the Parkes Elvis Festival last year when the festival’s 2016 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist invited him to join him on stage.

Jack Gatto found the young talent from Colac in Victoria online as Charlie started posting videos of himself singing.

“I started posting videos of myself in my shed with a little microphone and a karaoke speaker, and then it got the attention of Jack Gatto, who’s probably one of Australia’s best ETA’s, if not the best,” Charlie said.

Charlie remembers a lot of suspense leading up to that moment which changed his life.

“It felt like a million years before Saturday came around and I had to stay low, I couldn’t perform any-

where as I had to be kept a secret.”

When Charlie stepped onto the main stage that Saturday night he was expecting a couple of hundred of people, not seven and a half thousand.

Before this performance the talented performer had never sung on a big stage before and had only performed on a cruise.

“It still doesn’t feel real even when I think back to it now. It feels like this is my rst time in Parkes and everything I did last year never happened.”

A er his unforgettable performance in Cooke Park Charlie’s life has become “pretty hectic”.

His performance on the main stage had over 1.5 million views on Facebook, and a er the Parkes

Elvis Festival he didn’t do a single show for ve months, but in that time he booked a cruise with people including Marcia Hines and Human Nature and was being booked with some of the world’s best Elvis Tribute Artists despite only doing two shows in his career.

“It was pretty surreal but the

people I have been able to meet in this time and the connections I’ve been able to make is not very common so it’s an honour.”

Charlie Gaylard didn’t expect his last 12 months to look like they have saying it has been a big juggle.

“I was in Year 10 last year and I wasn’t expecting to blow up so imagine what the school thought. They have been really good, they o ered me catch-up lessons and they became very exible so that was great of them.

“The last 12 months have just been nonstop and I haven’t really had a chance to just chill out and re ect, it keeps going so it’s been a pretty crazy ride so far.”

Like everyone who attends the Elvis Festival, Charlie watched the Baz Lurman lm Elvis starring Austin Butler which sparked his interest in Elvis Presley.

“I slowly started learning some of his songs and tried a dance move or two and started posting videos of myself singing in my shed.”

Donning those dancing shoes for festival fun

THE rst time Maddy Oostergo from Cairns attended the Parkes Elvis Festival she was part of a group of 10-15 young people who helped establish the rock ‘n’ roll dance competitions as a permanent xture in the festival program. That was 15 years ago. Like most, the now 29-yearold caught the festival fever and she’s been coming back almost every year since with mum Alice.

The pair has only missed two festivals since 2010.

Having been rock ‘n’ rolling since she was eight years old, Maddy obviously comes for the dancing.

But she and mum - who’s a big Elvis fan - love seeing the feature artists and the street parade, and catching up with friends they’ve made over the years at the festival.

Maddy would love to see the rock ‘n’ roll dancing at the festival reinvigorated and rise to a new level.

“I dance where I can now, I’m not as involved as I used to be,” Maddy said.

“But in general I would love to see more adults and kids competing, it would be nice to see more competition where they showcase their skills and raise the bar.

“They’re capable of it. Elvis is rock ‘n’ roll.”

Alice said when Maddy travelled down in their early years of the festival to compete, they were working.

“They had 12 performances over the ve days that involved showcases, workshops and busking,” she said.

Thanks to Parkes woman Michelle Roberts, who’s been their connection when they

came to dance, they’ve been able to stay in town during the festival with hostess Ma vis Moon for the last three years.

Almost at the sweet age of 92 Mavis attends the festival every year.

“I love the Gospel Service,” she said.

“I’m an Elvis fan, I love Elvis. I’ve seen all his mov ies.”

When she was in the audi ence at one of the Feature Concert shows in 2023, just weeks out from her 90th birthday on January 28, head line acts Victor Trevino Jr and Dean Z sang her happy birth day.

She even posed for a photo with them at the end of the show.

“It really was the highlight,” Mavis said.

At this year’s festival Charlie performed a solo show on the Memphis Satellite Stage on Friday, January 10 which was also his 16th birthday and was treated to a ‘happy birthday’ sung by the crowd.

As Charlie looks to his bright future, his one goal is to eventually go to America.

“To be known in the US and even the UK, that’s a big thing I want to accomplish because Elvis is a lot bigger over there, they’re Elvis mad.

“When I turn 18 I’d like to do the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition and then go over to Memphis and compete over there,” Charlie added.

At the moment Charlie has his focus on building his connections and getting to know everyone in the industry, and has his sights set on coming back to the Parkes Elvis Festival in 2026.

Re ecting on this year’s festival Charlie said “it’s been pretty crazy to be back and to see all of these

From Parkes to Memphis

By MADELINE BLACKSTONE

BEFORE the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition was o cially endorsed by the estate of Elvis Presley, Elvis Presley Enterprises, the Parkes Elvis Festival Tribute Artist Competition was held on the stage in Cooke Park.

If you were out and about during the Festival, you could catch some Parkes Elvis Festival Elvis Tribute Artist winners busking in front of Sew and Go.

Royden Donohue from Nyngan has loved Elvis his whole life and was the Parkes Elvis Tribute Artist winner for 2009.

“Mum and dad always played Elvis at home so I grew up with him and now my kids have to put up listening to Elvis,” Royden said.

Royden has been singing since he was 14 years old and when he’s not performing Elvis’ greatest hits you can catch him performing and writing his own music.

In 2009 Royden entered the Parkes Elvis Festival Tribute Artist Contest and won which began his journey to Memphis.

A er his success in Parkes he won the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist contest at the Gold Coast and earnt himself a spot in the World Elvis Competition in Memphis, America.

“That was a pretty awe-

some experience,” Royden recalled when talking to The Champion Post.

“There were 33 other Elvis Tribute Artists from around the world and despite not making the nals, I went really well.”

Royden has been coming to the Parkes Elvis Festival for years now and won the busking competition seven years ago.

Charlie Gaylard performed on the Memphis Satellite Stage on his 16th

Parkes women Michelle Roberts (le ) and hostess Mavis Moon (right) welcomed their guests Maddy Oostergo and her mum Alice from Cairns to this year’s Elvis Festival.

8-12 JANUARY 2025

All shook up on the Elvis Express

They shake, rattle and roll all the way from Sydney’s Central Station each year, and the arrival of the Elvis Express is much anticipated.

Visitors from as far as South Australia, Queensland and Victoria boarded the Elvis Express on Thursday morning and arrived at the Parkes Station at 3pm Thursday afternoon.

Hundreds of festival goers who were already at the Parkes Elvis Festival were seen heading down to the Parkes Station to welcome those aboard the Elvis Express.

Scuba gear, sailors outfits and of course jumpsuits were a common theme at this year’s Elvis Express.

Parkes Dance Co dancers had the energy high performing their rock an roll dances getting fans all ready to party through the festival.

Prestwidge. Leigh shares the same birthday as Elvis so Di and herself decided to make the trip to Parkes for their first Parkes Elvis Festival to mark the occasion.

Pina Fallone, Joy Clarke and Alex Borg. Pina and Alex are from Melbourne and Pina has been attending the festival for 12 years.

Leanne Graham from Melbourne, Gail Goulding from Albion Park, Jennifer Smith from Melbourne and Deborah Petreski from Wollongong are long-time Festival fans.

Janet, James, Isla, Riley, Lewis, Jordan and Ivey welcomed visitors o the Elvis Express.

From Adelaide, Shirley Farley, David and Zonda Weckert, Colleen Delaney, Ellen McCollell and Barry Weckert. All together the group has been coming to the Parkes Elvis Festival for many years.

Tracey Jones from Alexandra Headland in Queensland, and all of Wollongong Lisa Jones, Angela Hawker, Allira Hawker, Joanne King and Michelle Jones, and all here for their first festival.

Gellert were excited for their first Elvis Festival.

Ready for duty at their third Parkes Elvis Festival were Anna Solin and Fernando Interlandi.

Greg Williamson from Tenterfield and Anthony Hassett from Sydney have been coming to Parkes for 13 years.

These Sydney siders here for their first festival were spotted hopping o the Elvis Express - Victoria Cranch, Paula Arnold, Florence Derrien, Craig Dent, David Arnold and Phil Cranch.

PHOTOS: Christine Little

Easy COME GO Easy

Rocking and strolling in the street parade

The Parkes Elvis Festival Street Parade is always a stunner and 2025 delivered, Saturday morning featuring a range of floats, cars and characters colourful and quirky.

While the Easy Come Easy Go theme was a tricky one for the 32nd festival, we were thrilled to see some seathemed floats and walkers in the form of sailors, divers, boats and even a clown fish

Of course, many Elvii, Priscillas, rock ‘n roll dancers and more always make an appearance, and it wouldn’t be the iconic parade it is without all their incredible efforts.

A groovin’ week celebrating Elvis

THE annual Elvis rugby match was held on the Friday during the Parkes Elvis Festival at Pioneer Oval.

As an uno cial event, it’s not part of the program but it continues to draw-in the crowds of locals and festival goers just wanting to witness, perhaps something they’ve never seen before.

We have also captured some amazing pho tos from around the racetrack at the Elvis Trots.

All the action from the 2025 Elvis rugby match on January 10 at Pioneer Oval.

Evaleigh, Aubrie and Spencer Bateson with Daisy, Marley and Ruben Taylor.

Steve, Liz and Chris Behrendor from Warragul in Victoria were spotted at Elvis Trots last Wednesday.

Parkes Elvii Raiden Choyce, Tory Moon and Toby Tanks at Elvis at the Trots at the Parkes Showground. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Jason Lowe looking stylish as always at the Elvis rugby match. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Name a source of electromagnetic radiation (6)

7 Who formulated the theory of relativity, Albert ... (8)

8 Which term describes lively intelligence (6)

9 To begin, is to do what (8)

10 Name a herb of the trifolium genus (6)

11 Which parts of the cricket ground are nearest the wickets (8)

14 What is a discussion between two or more persons (8)

18 Name an infectious, eruptive fever of warm climates (6)

19 Name a popular game played in the USA (8)

21 What are oval drupes more commonly known as (6)

22 Which small car is used to make short trips (8)

23 Name an open item of footwear (6)

DOWN

1 To have allayed or satisfied, is to have done what (8)

2 Which Tuesday is Pancake Day (6)

3 When one goes to bed, one is doing what (8)

4 Which prefix means “against” or “opposed to” (4)

6 To have become limp and drooping, is to have done what (6)

12 What are areas of land on which cattle are hand-fed (8)

13 Name a cake topping of nuts, sugar, spices etc (8)

16 Which term describes extra space, time money, etc (6)

17 What is a standardbearer known as (6)

20 What is a call used in hailing, especially on ships (4)

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 KERF

(a) A fair in the Low Countries

(b) A silk cloth made in Ghana

(c) The groove made by a saw

2 PHENOLOGY

5 What is Australian English, humorously regarded (coll) (6)

Letters have a number value

15 Who used wings made of wax and feathers, and flew too close to the sun which melted his wings and he drowned in the Aegean (6)

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.

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

(a) The study of organisms as affected by climate (b) The practice of assessing a person’s character by the shape of the skull (c) The science of language

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:

Animal: ... Bear (5)

Cart (5)

Cavalry sword (5)

Cheap wine: red ... (Coll.) (3)

Energy Efficiency Ratio (3)

September (abb) (3)

Sundries (7)

Talks incoherently (7)

Wet paper pellet (3) Wood nymph (5)

Ladies slip on blue bowls shoes

PARKES WOMEN’S BOWLING CLUB

By LEA ORR

GIRLS! Girls! Girls! Bowls resumed this week, and only 11 shook-o the Elvis blues to get back among the hard-headed women on the green!

Mark was our Ground Control rep, in a world of his own, mowing and rolling the top green.

We’re stuck on you and your co-

workers!

The renovated main green is looking tops! 10 o’clock tolled – it was now or never!

On Rink 9, there was a little less conversation as the score between Carol/Marja versus Rhona/Merilyn/ Sue W remained close.

On the 14th end, Team Marja got lucky with a 6, but as they say, easy come, easy go, and those devils in disguise, Team Sue, nished

with fever in their game to take the treasure, 21–19.

On Rink 11, Lorraine/Janice/ Maureen rocked out in their blue bowls shoes to take on Ann/Elaine/ Lea in a triples game.

Team Maureen spelt trouble from the start.

Team Lea feeling like they were in the ghetto as the score climbed to 16–1 down at the halfway point.

With amazing grace, they scored on the following ends, 19–9 seemed

like a happy ending!

Merilyn tried to win the jackpot treasure for her team, but returned to her little sisters empty handed.

Jackpot rose to $60!

Our sincere condolences to Kay Cra on the loss of her husband, Mick. Our thoughts go to all the family.

And as the trips and falls continue, healing wishes to some of our girls!

During the next couple of weeks,

get yourself a partner ready to put in your nomination for the Club Major Pairs, opening on January 28.

So if you’re lonesome tonight, leave that hound dog at home and come and join us for a game of bowls at the best club in town! Visitors and newcomers always welcome.

To play next Tuesday, January 21, call the club 6862 1446, between 9–9.30am, with play at 10am.

action at the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival

OUR photographers were quite busy at the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival and get some great photos at the

More photos can be found can be found

CRAFT, Michael Shannon

Local

Late of Danilenko Street, Parkes who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday January 9, 2025 at the age of 77 years.

Dearly loved husband of Kay.

Much loved father & father-in-law of Catherine & Christopher and Paul & Vanessa.

Cherished Granddad to Emily, Sophie, Ashton, Harvey, Hamish and Louis.

‘Resting Peacefully’

The cortege is appointed to leave the Holy Family Catholic Church, Parkes a er a Requiem Mass commencing at 10am, on Monday, January 20, 2025 for interment in the lawn portion of the Parkes Cemetery.

LOGAN, Kerry Margaret

‘Fondly known as Meg’

Late of Downes Crescent, Parkes, who passed away peacefully on Friday January 3, 2025, at the age of 67 years.

Dearly loved mother of Scott and Ben.

Cherished nan of Trae, Brendan, Baillie and Jordyn.

Cherished nan nan of Brady and Kai. Loving sister, aunt and friend too many.

‘Resting Peacefully’

A service to celebrate Kerry’s life, will be held at The Chapel of Central West Funerals, Parkes, commencing at 10.00am on Saturday 18th January, 2025 followed by a private cremation at the Central West Crematorium.

RIGHT:Les Peters (Parkes Harness Racing Club treasurer), Damien Mullen and visitor to Parkes and winning ticket holder for $1000 voucher Jan Anderson.

Isabella Hughes enjoyed the Elvis Trots last Wednesday.

The crowd loved Damien Mullin. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Parkes Elvis Trots.

on page 16.

Mark shows he’s all class in titles

PARKES BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB

By MARTY TIGHE Championship matches

The new year ushered in the rst of the few remaining Major Singles matches when Dave Reilly put his best bowls forward against the formidable Mark Fitzalan.

Mark showed his intentions early in the match when he led by 6 shots to zip a er 5 ends.

Dave found his range to win the next 3 ends to tie the scores at 6 shots each a er 8 ends.

Mark then won the next 3 ends, followed by Dave winning the following 3 ends, to lead Mark by 11 shots to 10.

Dave also led by 13 shots to 12 a er 16 ends.

In a tense high quality match, Mark showed his class, consistently drawing his shot bowls when they mattered, to reach the winning score of 25 shots, ahead of a very gallant Dave Reilly, who was eventually outbowled on the day.

Mark advanced to the next round a er a hard-fought victory by 25 shots to 17.

Well played both bowlers!

Thursday social bowls

A good turnout of 26 bowlers embraced the easy come, easy go theme of the Elvis week to play one game of triples and ve games of Pairs on Thursday.

Bruce Orr, Bob Freeman and Steve Ryan enjoyed a tight 1 shot win over Ron Hornery, Paul Fenech and Warren Bevan, winning by 20 shots to 19.

Team Ryan were looking

forlorn and gone when they were behind by 2 shots a er the 14th end.

They rallied on the next end to pick up 5 shots, to lead by 3 shots.

Leading by that margin with the end in sight, Steve and his lads were good enough to withstand the late urry of good bowls from Team Bevan, to emerge victors by just 1 shot. Team Ryan won 20 shots to 19 over team Bevan.

Graham ‘Popeye’ Davis and that remarkable man Colin Mudie were good enough to withstand the challenge from Joanne Simpson and John Corcoran to win their pairs game by 22 shots to 18.

Popeye and Colin were behind by 6 shots a er the 7th end and were struggling against one of the best lead bowlers in the club and the white Marlin man with the green bowls.

However, Colin and Graham got their act together after the 7th end, winning the next 5 consecutive ends to lead by 6 shots a er 13 ends, and then bowled well enough to hold o their fast- nishing opponents, winning by 4 shots over Joanne and John.

The meat-tray ra e burglar Col Woods and Greg Townsend won a close game against Bernie Mitchell and Mick Simpson by 19 shots to 17 in a very entertaining game played in good spirit.

Greg made a successful return to the green, as he and Col led from the rst end to the last, winning by 2 shots over Bernie and Mick.

Phil ‘mad-mile man now with a barbecue’ Moran and

Brian Townsend were too consistent from the rst end to the last end, defeating John Carr and Colin Hayward. Phil and Brian won by 25 shots to 14.

Mal Porter re-emerged from under the air-conditioner to lead for his partner and Skip, big John Wright, in their pairs game against Graham Dixon and Gary ‘GOAT’ McPhee.

The GOAT and Dicko led by 11 shots a er the 11th end, and were heard subtly, yet gleefully sledging mighty Mal and John as they condently thought about the size of the nal margin.

The score-line didn’t faze big John and Mal however, particularly a er they scored 5 shots on the next end, followed by scoring 4 shots on the 17th end, and then winning 2 of the 3 re-

maining ends to level the scores at 18 shots end.

Mal and Gary agreed to nish the game on the 20th end, gratefully packing away their bowls, with the game drawn at 18 shots each.

Noel Johnstone and John Ward had a good solid win over George Bradley and Ian Simpson.

The youngest Man on the rink, Simmo had a good skips game, as he and George led by comfortable margin of 5 shots a er the 9th end.

Noel and John ‘look at my new old hat’ Ward then took command of the game from the 10th end onwards, bowling the better bowls over the 2nd half of the game.

Noel and John won the game by 24 shots to 17, defeating a bewildered George and Simmo.

Holiday break doesn’t slow Elliott

RAILWAY BOWLS

By PETER BRISTOL

January 8 report

January Monthly Medal

The January Telescope Tyres / Hankook Masters Monthly Medal was played on Saturday to kick-o what the club hopes to be a standout year for our golfers.

The day sponsor was the Parkes Services Club and again they were proud to sponsor their annual event to showcase the 83 players vying for the great prizes.

The morning golfers were met with a solid wind with strong gusts which meant the trip southward was okay but coming back toward the clubhouse was a di cult feat.

The a ernoon golfers got a calmer shot at it but had some heat to contend with.

In A grade Jack Elliott went back to back a er winning the last event in ’24.

He quickly settled into his rhythm to record a 73 o the stick, with consecutive birdies on holes 6-8 and another on 13 to shoot a 37/36 split.

With pennants season just around the corner the selectors are looking for the best players to be in their best form and Jack showed that in spades.

The runner-up was a new member Anthony Rath, who is from the Goulburn area.

Still getting used to the course Anthony still managed to shoot a

43/34 split, with a birdie and a double on the front and a 5 birdie blitz on the back.

Jack Matthews shot a very credible 78 on the day as well.

In the net event Matt Clarke with a 5 under 67 was the winner with only a stroke to spare from Phil Bishop.

Matt had a 40/40 split but his 13 handicap on the day helped get him over the line.

He has been working hard to get himself into A grade and looked comfortable there.

Phil has been looking for some good form and his 39/41 in trying conditions proved he is back to where normally resides.

In B grade Richard Hutchinson stepped up to claim the scratch prize.

Hutcho always wins a round or two of the medals.

A solid, though adventurous round, saw that happen in game one.

He had a 46 front nine and wouldn’t have been too happy with that but a bit of self analysis at halfway got Hutchinson into rhythm and a 40 nish saw him end up one in front of Rob Lea who was a bit more consistent with a 44/43.

In the net event Rob Lea won on a countback from Rob Staples as they both recorded a credible 70.

With Rob L’s short game to the fore and Rob S’s determined to get some glassware in 2025 this was a great tussle.

Another old warhorse in Peter Boschman came in a stroke further back.

In C grade Craig Dunn was another to go back to back with his 94 the best C grade scratch score but it was equalled by cagey Kiwi in John Fowler.

Craig knows he has to play well each week to get the better of the playing group he’s in and John Fowler was playing with Rob Lea so no doubt rose to the equation as well.

Craig was happy to scrape through with the countback win.

John was able to reverse the tide in the net with a very good 3 stroke win over Craig’s 72.

The Gri ns Leading Edge putting competition was won by Phil Bishop with 26 putts on a countback.

The Norman family sponsored Wally Norman Vets Medal was won also by Phil Bishop on 68 net.

The Nearest The Pins on Saturday were:

The Idlerite 1st was Idlerite Tyrepower by John Green at 699cm, the Gri ns Leading Edge was Torin Hando at 230cm;

The Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Rob Rae at 41cm;

The Harvey Norman 11th by Brad Conn at 1.56mcm and the 17th by Nick Kelly at 106cm. Ball winners were Phil Bishop, Ray White, David Stevenson, Jack Matthews, Andrew Bourke and Mick Smith.

Saturday social bowls

Twenty-six bowlers rolled up on Saturday, enjoying for 3 games of triples and 2 games of pairs.

The bowls were however bought to early end by the thunder and lightning storm, followed by good rain, a er most games had played 15 ends.

A notable result was the lowest score recorded in recent memory of just 4 shots a er 16 ends by the Steve Turner led team of Scott Allen and Rob Lacey, in their game against Joanne Simpson, Tony Riordan and Brian Townsend.

The big Kenworth man, seemingly bogged in neutral gear, tried his best as skip to drive Scott and Rob against their formidable opponents, but were only able to win 2 of the 16 ends bowled.

Their rain dances were rewarded by an early cessation of play.

Thankfully, they scored 4 shots as a wet nudie run would have sent the club, packed with Elvis fans, running for their caravans.

Thank you to all the bowlers who assisted with spreading the sand on the TV green over Christmas.

The green is now green, and is looking good for another year of good bowls on the best green in the zone.

A big thank you to all club volunteers.

Social bowls are played each Thursday and Saturday, commencing at 1pm, names in by 12.30pm. As always, the ‘Friendly Club’ welcomes all visitors to play social bowls. Ladies bowls are played on Tuesday.

Autumn Futsal competition is just around the corner: sign up now

The Parkes Bowling and Sports Club’s 2025 Autumn Futsal competition is just around the corner and they’re calling for registrations.

Grab a group of friends, colleagues or family members and enjoy the social side of soccer at the club.

Registration closes on February 4. Call in to the club in Cecile Street to collect your team and player registration forms.

Competition will begin on Tuesday, February 18 and end May 27. It’s $65 for senior players 18 yearsplus and $55 for juniors 14-17 years, with 12 players per team. Each team is to wear the same coloured shirt.

All senior players will need to be a member of the Parkes Bowling and Sports Club.

Shifting winds create challenging conditions for SSAA competitors

By BRIAN DRABSCH

SMALLBORE

Last Sunday saw six shooters attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex in the Back Trundle Road and shoot at standard round targets at both 25 and 50 metres for a collective score on 500 points. A nasty south westerly wind caught out everyone at 50 metres as it changed direction without warning.

Results - 25m, 50M, TOTAL: John Davis 250, 244, 494.

Brian Drabsch 250, 241, 491. Lachlan MacDonald 250, 241, 491. Steve Mitchell 247, 242, 489. John Maddison 247, 235, 482. Jarod Jones 243, 211, 454.

Our next shoot is at 10am on Sunday, January 18where it will be a feral animal target at both ranges.

SPORTING CLAYS

At last month’s shoot 8 shooters attended the Parkes Gun Club grounds and shot in a 75 target day with a number of events using 6 auto clay throwers set at various angles, height and speeds.

Dave Tanks 66, Clinton Duffy 63, Mitch McGirr 62, Brian Drabsch 56, Matt Duffy 54, Jeff Charlton 53, Brett Dean and Brian Rickaby 52 each. Our next shoot is at 10am Saturday, January 17.

SHARE YOUR NEWS

Want to share sports, news or achievements with the Parkes community?

Get in touch with the Parkes Champion Post editorial team.

Editor Christine Little can be contacted by emailing clittle@midwestmedia.com.au

Steve Turner of Parkes competing in a local carnival at the end of last year.

PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Drivers thrilled with wins in front of big Elvis crowd

By CRAIG DUMESNY

PARKES Harness Racing Club o cials were thrilled with the big crowds that attended the club’s two feature meetings over the holiday season.

The rst was on new year’s eve when a carnival atmosphere saw families enjoy a great night out which ended with an impressive rework display.

The feature race, the Langlands Hanlon Cup was taken out by the Steve Turnbull trained Allstarzzz Frankie which was driven by his niece Oliva Frisby.

It was an “all Turnbull” nish with Steve’s sons Nathan (Camanchi Warrior) and Mitch (Tamanisha Terror) lling the placings.

Olivia Frisby then returned to Parkes last Wednesday night where she landed a winning double, her rst victory coming up in the opening race when she combined with the Brett Davis trained Vamos to score.

The talented young driver then came out in race six and was successful aboard the Mark Hewitt trained Sporty Mickilla.

Frisby said a er her double that it was a thrill to win in front of such a great crowd.

Of course, it was the Parkes club’s “Elvis At The Trots” night and those who attended enjoyed being entertained by Damien Mullen who whipped the crowd up into a frenzy.

But the night belonged to Bathurst lass Erika Dwyer who took out the TAB Elvis Championship aboard Carbaganoosh.

It was Erika’s seventh win in a limited career, and she was all smiles a er the race.

Carbanganoosh is trained and part-owned by her father Darrell Dwyer, the gelding having won seventeen races from 113 race starts.

A Dusty Dance provided a winning double for Grenfell trainer Mark Hewitt, the mare posting a fast 1.56.4 mile rating.

Choc A Block was a smart winner at both Parkes meetings for Phoebe Betts while the other winners on Elvis night included Drive

A Little Less Conversation and a lot more Elvis rugby

SOMETIMES it’s hard to get these pictures out of your head but we know one thing is for sure.

The annual Elvis rugby match held on the Friday during the Parkes Elvis Festival, while an unofficial event, is a lot of fun to watch.

And the players seem to enjoy taking out one another too.

As previous captains have said “it’s just a bunch of mates getting together for a game of footy down at the park” and in Elvis jumpsuits and wigs.

There’s never a winner and never a loser, always a draw.

Photos appear on page 16.