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Come together on Australia Day

PARKES is gearing up to celebrate Australia Day this Sunday and all the people, stories and achievements that make this shire what it is today.

A full day of community activities across the town have been planned, with several events also taking place in our shire villages.

As usual the day will begin with the community walk at 7am at Cooke Park followed by a free breakfast.

At the same time, until 11am, kites of all sizes and shapes will be ying ‘Over

the Hill’ at Northparkes Oval.

All Australian cars will be on display at Cooke Park from 10am, ahead of the ofcial ceremony and annual Australia Day Awards presentation.

Live entertainment by the Parkes Shire Band will begin at 10.30am at the Cooke Park Pavilion and the o cial ceremony will begin at 11am at the same location.

The awards presentation features the Parkes Shire Sport Awards (see back page for this year’s nominees), the Community and Cultural

Awards and of course the much anticipated Citizen of the Year Award.

With temperatures expected to reach as high as 38 degrees on Sunday, residents may opt to spend the rest of their day at the Parkes Aquatic Centre. It’s free entry from 2pm and the popular in atable will be ready.

Then end your evening at the Parkes Showground from 6pm until 9pm to enjoy the setting sun and some harness racing.

The return of the infamous Golden Yabby Races takes

place at 7.30pm (registration from 6pm-7pm).

As revealed last week Parkes Shire is excited to welcome Tasman Cassim as the o cial Australia Day Ambassador for 2025.

Tasman is the Head of Partnerships at the Black Dog Institute and the founder of the annual Superhero Walk, an initiative where he dresses as a superhero and walks long distances to raise funds for small charities.

Since 2015, he has walked over 1000km and raised more than $100,000 for Australians

in need. His passion lies in bridging the gap between the for-purpose and for-pro t sectors to solve society’s biggest challenges.

“We are delighted to have Tasman Cassim as our Australia Day Ambassador for 2025. His story of purpose, kindness, and communitydriven action aligns perfectly with the spirit of Australia Day,” Mayor of Parkes Shire Neil Westcott said.

“His Superhero Walk is a brilliant example of how individual passion can create a powerful impact, and we are

excited to have him share his message across our shire.” Tasman will attend Australia Day celebrations across the shire, inspiring local residents with his journey of making a di erence through community engagement and philanthropy. There are also other events happening on Australia Day or prior residents might be interested in: From 12pm on Saturday there’s races at the Parkes Racecourse, Parkes Golf Club is hosting an Australia Day Golf Stableford ■ Continued on page 6

Parkes ladies connected to the Never Late Fe-Mail Postie Bike Ride and who were in the Parkes Elvis Festival Street Parade were Amanda Mongan, Madeline Blackstock, Kylie Blackstock, Renae Smith, Monique Rice and Katie Mapperson.

2025 date set for Bush Tucker Day

ORGANISERS of the Trundle Bush Tucker Day Festival have announced this year’s date.

September 6 has been saved for the event that draws crowds from near and far as it grows in popularity from year to year.

“Excitement is brewing in Trundle, and our fantastic committee is gearing up to deliver the ultimate Trundle Bush Tucker Day experience,” organisers wrote on social media.

There will be your traditional bush games, kid’s entertainment and incredible artists to entertain attendees throughout the day.

There is something for everyone.

More details on the day will be revealed in the coming months.

“We can’t wait to see you there!” Organisers said.

Bypass work on London Road

TRANSPORT for NSW is advising motorists of changed traffic conditions on London Road in Parkes from Wednesday, January 22 to support the Parkes Bypass project.

There will be changes to the way road users access London Road between Ballerdee Lane and the Parkes Golf Course.

Traffic will be diverted onto the newly constructed London Road offset intersection while the bypass alignment is constructed over the current London Road traffic alignment.

The current temporary traffic signals will also remain in place for several weeks to allow for completion of work in this location.

Intermittent stopping and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place during work hours and may affect travel times.

Work will be carried out between 7am and 6pm from Monday to Friday and 8am to 6pm on Saturdays and is expected to be complete in eight weeks, weather permitting.

Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time.

Australia Day - worth celebrating

AUSTRALIA Day and its approaching national holiday weekend will see a new Australian of the Year recipient announced by the Prime Minister, along with Senior Australian, Junior Australian, and Local Hero of Australia awards.

Closer to home regional and local Australia Day Awards will be featured by our council to recognise and celebrate a range of local community contributors.

For all this Australia Day has in recent years been questioned as a day of celebration. Federal, state and some councils have been ambivalent, tending to side with minority groups’ sentiments around the debate.

This is not just a rejection of the date but a lack of recogni-

tion of what has been achieved by this relatively young country, a foundation from which set a course based on colonisation, but with democracy and the rule of law, and shaped by immigration and opportunity.

Some councils have sought compensation from the federal government for citizenship ceremonies, citing extreme heat and irregular working hours as justification, prompting the Opposition leader to come up with a plan to make the ceremonies mandatory.

While the date of Australia Day January 26 continues to be debated, the question of citizen-

ship ceremonies on the day can be separated from the issue of whether it is the best date to recognise our nationhood.

For those councils who continue the long-standing tradition of awarding citizenship on Australia Day, it marks a recognition and respect for our national ceremonies.

As with the indigenously inspired Welcome to Country, our new countrymen and women who have chosen to embrace Australia by becoming citizens, are welcomed, and embraced into an increasingly multicultural country.

A recent survey by the Institute of Public Affairs has shown that 69 per cent of Australians say Australia Day should be

celebrated on January 26, which is up from 63 per cent 12 months ago; a majority of age groups also support the day.

Of the world’s approximate 200 countries, only a few do not have a national day; many have undergone tortuous journeys of war and revolution in their national days becoming integral to their culture.

Without denying the special place for our Indigenous First Peoples, their culture and future wellbeing, Australia’s national day whatever the date, needs to be more collectively celebrated for the country’s cultural, geographical and historical threads and achievements, that offers common values and a future worth preserving and living.

WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes

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 a ernoon will feature a seven race TAB program. Gernal admission is $10 with kids under 16 free. There will be fun for the kids with an in atable water slide, yabby races (TBC) and live music at the Parkes Race Course.

AUSTRALIA DAY KITE FESTIVAL

Sunday, January 26

Mon - Fri 7am to 5pm

8.30am - 12.30pm

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.

AUSTRALIA DAY IN TRUNDLE

Sunday, January 26

Trundle will come alive with Australia Day celebrations and activities, kicking-o with a gym tour and main street walk at 8am

which will end with a community breakfast at Berryman Oval. The award presentations and speeches will take place at 9am at the oval and this year’s special guest will be State Member for Orange Phil Donato. There’s also a pool party at the Trundle Swimming Poolfrom 2pm until 9pm which will feature a pool in atable, music and a barbecue. The Mr Whippy ice cream van will also make an appearance from 2pm to 4pm.

AUSTRALIA DAY TROTS

Sunday, January 26

The Parkes Harness Racing Club is gearing up for its traditional Australia Day night meeting at the Parkes Showground from 6pm until 9pm. The return of the infamous Golden Yabby Races takes place at 7.30pm (registration from 6pm-7pm).

150TH ANNIVERSARY

February 21-23

The Anglican Ministry is celebrating 150 years in Parkes this year with some exciting events planned over three days in February. Stay tuned, more details on this massive milestone for the church coming soon.

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JOURNALISTS

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Maddie Blackstock 0478 675 220 mblackstock@midwestmedia.com.au

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 to Trundle with the theme Show Us Ya Tracks. There will be all the regular favourites - the tractor pull, sheaf toss, swap meet, market stalls and kids zone with live music too. 2025 also marks 100 years of John Deere tractors.

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.

THE AUSTRALIA DAY KITE FESTIVAL RETURNS TO NORTHPARKES OVAL IN PARKES ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 26.

Eight fire tankers needed to contain large grass fire

A LARGE grass re ignited on the outskirts of Parkes on Sunday that required eight re tankers to extinguish it.

At 5.38pm the rst units were called to a “running” grass re burning in a paddock in Renshaw McGirr Way.

There was also a possible risk of the re threatening nearby property.

“First arriving units were faced with a large area of grass and stubble alight,” said Mid Lachlan Valley Team Operational O cer Scott Baker.

“This re quickly burnt 45ha due to being driven by the a ernoon winds and required eight RFS appliances to be able to contain the re.”

RFS Operational O cer Baker said the recent warm and dry weather in the Mid Lachlan Valley Team area has cured grass to such a high level that it now presents a serious re threat.

“Under hot and windy conditions, grass res can spread

quickly and threaten lives, property, crops and stock,” he said.

“I urge Mid Lachlan Valley Team landholders to be aware of this threat and of the risks associated with using machinery and harvesting during these conditions.

“Every landholder should be prepared for re and have suitable re ghting equipment on hand.”

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;

Operational O cer Baker said grass res travel much faster than bush res because grass ignites so quickly.

“Mid Lachlan Valley Team residents need to ensure they have an up-to-date bush fire survival plan and know what they and their family will do if a fire threatens their property,” he said.

The RFS provides the following

advice about protecting properties from grass res:

 Put re breaks in place around assets and standing crops as well as boundary fences.

 Check your farm equipment is in good order and is ready to deal with a re.

 Be aware that slasher and mower blades can spark if they strike rocks or metal, causing dry grass to ignite.

 Register Static Water Supply sources on your property, such as dams, swimming pools and water tanks, with the NSW RFS, which will assist re ghters in a re emergency.

“Our re ghters do a great job in challenging situations, but preparation is a shared responsibility,” Operational O cer Baker said.

“Property owners must take proactive steps to safeguard their homes and communities.”

More information is available on the RFS website at www.rfs. nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare.

Teen allegedly leads police on pursuit across region in stolen car

A TEENAGE boy has been charged a er allegedly stealing a car in Orange and leading police on a pursuit through the region that ended in Forbes over the weekend.

O cers attached to the Central West Police District commenced an investigation following reports of a break and enter and stealing at a house on Noonameena Drive in Orange between 4pm on Saturday and 9am Sunday.

Police were told a Toyota sedan was allegedly stolen from the house, along with jewellery, clothing and money.

Police located the vehicle in Parkes, where a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued for some time, with the vehicle being tracked through Parkes, Eugowra, Cudal, Manildra, back to Parkes and Forbes.

Police tracked the vehicle to a reserve in McDonnell Street in Forbes where it was found abandoned about 11.35am on Sunday.

It was seized for forensic examination.

A short time later, o cers arrested a 14-year-old boy at Wyndham Avenue, Forbes.

He was taken to Parkes Police Station, where he was charged with break and enter house etc steal value, goods in personal custody suspected being stolen and be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.

The items allegedly stolen from the house were recovered.

New time for council meetings

PARKES Shire Council will now hold its ordinary monthly meetings at 3pm on the third Tuesday of the month.

The time has been pushed an hour back to help accommodate working councillors and council sta who need to support the meetings.

Council meetings are held once a month, mostly in the Council Chambers at 2 Cecile Street and are open to the public.

The meetings are held on the below dates for 2025. In the past one or two meetings a year have been held outside the town centre in one of the shire’s villages, but at this stage there are no plans for a meeting to take place in a village this year.

 February 18, March 18, April 15, May 20, June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, November 18 and December 16.

A large running grass fire ignited in Renshaw McGirr Way on Sunday that required the attention of eight fire tankers.

PHOTOS: Parkes Headquarters Rural Fire Brigade

Storms lash region, man killed by fallen tree in Cowra

A MASSIVE storm front moving east across NSW has seen a man killed by a fallen tree in Cowra, with thousands of others le without power a er heavy rain, winds and lightning recorded across the state.

The elderly driver has not yet been formally identi ed, but it is believed his car was struck by a falling tree about 3:50pm on Wednesday on Lachlan Valley Way, between Cowra and Gooloogong.

At the time, the Bureau of Meteorology reported

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Cowra’s wind gusts to be around 107km/h. Wind gusts of 120km/h were recorded at Trangie west of Dubbo and 113km/h at Cabramurra.

Tra c was diverted away from the scene, with drivers and emergency services personnel clearing roads of fallen trees and debris.

Another four people were injured in Wagga Wagga when high winds ripped o the roofs of demountable huts.

Parkes and Forbes were lucky to miss the brunt of the storm, when it reached

Parkes gusts peaked at 69km/h about 5.22pm and the airport measured 8mm of rain for the night.

Forbes had speeds of 59km/h from 4.42pm but no rain.

NSW State Emergency Service crews have received more than 2250 calls and responded to more than 1800 incidents in 24 hours, predominantly for fallen trees and property damage.

More than 120,000 residents were le without power across the State.

The forecast does now predict a stablisation of the weather, but certainly heating up.

The Bureau of Meteorology is expecting a top temperature of 32 degrees for Parkes on Friday, but rising across the Australia Day weekend.

Saturday is expected to have a top temperature of 35 degrees and Sunday a top of 38 degrees with overnight temperatures falling to between 14 and 18 degrees.

Monday and Tuesday are forecast to peak at 39.

Eyecare Plus Orange

Hansen Optometrists 170 Summer Street Orange NSW 2800 P: (02) 6362 2222

NEW SCHOOL YEAR IS FAST APPROACHING

Did you know that one in 5 children has an undetected vision problem? It is recommended that all children have a full eye examination with an optometrist before starting school and regularly (every two to three years) as they progress through primary and secondary school.

WHAT IS CHILDREN’S VISION & BEHAVIOURAL OPTOMETRY?

Children’s Vision and Behavioural Optometry is a philosophy of vision care that looks beyond the health and clarity of sight. It is an expanded area of optometry that looks at the functioning of the eyes and the brain together, rather than individually.

WHAT ARE BEHAVIOURAL OPTOMETRISTS?

Behavioural optometrists have a special expertise in children’s vision, patients with learningrelated vision problems, traumatic brain injury, binocular vision dysfunction, as well as training in enhancing visual skills for different sports.

Lightning strikes Cowra ahead of heavy rain and hail on Wednesday a ernoon.

PHOTOS: Dan Ryan

Community Newsletter

2025 PARKES ELVIS FESTIVAL

We want your feedback to help us make the next Parkes Elvis Festival even better! Share your thoughts about the 2025 festival by completing our quick survey (just 5-10 minutes). Add your contact details, and you’ll go in the draw to win one of two Official Parkes Elvis Festival Merchandise Packs (total prize pool $225)! Entries close midnight, 2 February 2025. Winners drawn at random.

To complete the survey, visit: bit.ly/2025PEFsurvey

SPLASH PARK UPDATE

Council is pleased to advise the splash pad at Kelly Reserve has now been fixed and is operational again! Thank you for your patience as our team worked to fix an issue caused by an electrical storm.

Are you a local Parkes Shire not-for-profit organisation or community-based organisation looking for a helping hand? The next round of Parkes Shire Council’s Community Financial Assistance Grants for 2024/2025 will open at 9am on Saturday 1st February 2025 and closes at 5pm on Friday 28th February 2025. This round includes General grants of up to $1,000.00 for a specific purpose or event and Leasing and Licencing to request reduction in leasing and licensing fees on Council owned properties. For more information or to apply, visit: bit.ly/ ParkesShireGrants

For assistance completing your application, contact Council’s Governance team: 02 6861 2333.

NOTIFICATION OF ROAD CLOSURE: LACHLAN STREET, BOGAN GATE

Council would like to advise of the temporary road closure of Lachlan Street, Bogan Gate for road rehabilitation. The following closures will be taking place to allow the rehabilitation works to take place:

• Lachlan Street from Edols Street to Hutton Street from Monday 20 January until Monday 3 February.

• Lachlan Street from Lister Lane to Hutton Street from Thursday 23 January until Wednesday 29 January.

• Hutton Street will remain open but with active traffic control to allow for half closures from Monday 20 January until Monday 3 February.

The Post Office located on Lachlan Street will remain open and will be accessible for pedestrian’s during this closure. Council apologises for the inconvenience this will cause to residents, businesses and the greater community. Please exercise caution and follow all instructions from staff and traffic control onsite to ensure safety.

Should you have any queries in relation to these works, please contact Parkes Shire Council’s Project Engineer, Liam Willoughby, on 6861 2343.

Get ready to feel the love because the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival theme is “Love Me Tender”! This theme is set to bring romance and nostalgia to life with a western twist! Mark your calendars for 7-11 January 2026 and stay tuned for more updates as we prepare for another unforgettable celebration of the King!

PUBLIC NOTICE

NAMING OF PUBLIC ROAD

Parkes Shire Council, in pursuance of Section 162 of the Roads Act 1993, proposes to name the following roads as shown hereunder:

Proposed Names:

BUCHANAN PLACE (is part of the subdivision off Cookapie Street in Parkes. Refer to Councils website for more information).

EUREKA DRIVE (runs off Page Street, for approximately 400m).

Any person may lodge with Council a written objection to the proposed names which must be received on or before 10am on Friday 30 January 2025. Any such objection should set out fully the reasons for the objection. This should be emailed to council@parkes.nsw.gov. au; or posted to; The General Manager, Parkes Shire Council, 2 Cecile Street, Parkes NSW 2870. If you require further information, please contact Sue McGrath on 6861 2333.

AUSTRALIA DAY

Join us for an exciting line-up of community activities planned across the Parkes Shire as we come together to celebrate Australia Day and share the stories that come from our diverse backgrounds and experiences. To view the program of events, visit: bit.ly/AustraliaDayProgram2025

WASTE COLLECTION CALENDAR

The 2025 Waste Collection Calendar outlines which weeks the red, yellow and green bin will be collected, and what types of rubbish should be disposed of in each bin. To download the 2025 Waste Collection Calendar, visit: bit.ly/WasteCollectionCalendar2025

POSITIONS VACANT

For further information on these positions and to apply please visit: bit.ly/ParkesShireCareers

COUNTRY SOUNDS AT THE PAVILION

Get ready for a night of incredible music and entertainment as Parkes Shire Council proudly presents Country Sounds at the Pavilion!

Brace yourself for a stellar lineup featuring:

• Robbie Mortimer

• Tyla Rodrigues

• Baedan Faint

• Gracey Jones

For more information or to book your free ticket, visit: bit.ly/CountrySounds2025

2026 PARKES ELVIS FESTIVAL THEME

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Pixie’s special connection to Elvis

By MADELINE BLACKSTONE

YOU might have seen the pop-up shop Pixie K Creations down the main street this Parkes Elvis Festival but did you know the lady behind the creative skirts has actually seen Elvis Presley live?

Pixie Keenan, despite being only four years old at the time, remembers every second of Elvis’ performance when she watched him live at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas.

Growing up on Elvis’ music, Pixie’s parents took her on a trip to America in 1972.

“My dad tipped the bus boy and he sat us at the front table,” Pixie recalled.

“Obviously at the ripe old age of four, I had not really seen many live performances so when Elvis came out on the stage, it was like seeing God himself, he was truly angelic and the voice when he sung was like an angel.”

Pixie remembers being so close to the stage that she could see Elvis perspire when he sang.

“Because I was only very little I stood on my chair because I really wanted to see up nice and close.”

Pixie remembers being metres away from Elvis when he was performing on stage.

“He was larger than life, extremely energetic and he never stopped on stage,” she said.

“There was just so much to

use facial expressions when he sung.

“I can’t even explain the words of what a privilege it was to witness this man share his natural born talent with me, everybody else who was in that room and the whole world because he really is just a master of music.”

Pixie remembers the women in the room squealing with joy and the men looking at Elvis with jealously as he performed.

“He literally brought joy to people.”

Pixie rst attended the Parkes Elvis Festival 21 years ago and has been attending for the last six years.

She is in awe of how the festival brings all generations together in one place to celebrate a love of music.

“You see babies in prams that are dressed up as Elvis to the other end of the scale where there’s people in their 70s, 80s and 90s all together enjoying one festival.”

Pixie is from Sydney and hand makes everything that you can nd in Pixie K Creations.

“My skirts are all one of a kind and I make the skirts to t you on the spot, and that means you will be the only person in the world with that skirt.

“I believe with all the things that I make that your clothing and accessories should be as unique as you are, which is one

Pink Postie bikers raise awareness for charity

By MADELINE BLACKSTONE

DID you catch the la dies on postie bikes in this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival annual street parade?

If you didn’t don’t worry as they will be back in Parkes this April and will be bringing 90 other ladies from around NSW on their postie bikes as well.

Nine of the Parkes ladies who will be doing the 2025 Never Late Fe-Mail Postie Bike Ride took part in the parade behind the Wing s4Kidz bus which travelled from Sydney for the occa sion.

The aim of the girls rid ing in the parade was to raise the pro le of the Wings4Kidz charity and their annual 800km Never Late Fe-Mail Postie Bike Ride, as they will be nishing their ride in Parkes this year.

Wings4Kidz aims to lessen the signi cant burden and e ect of long distance travel for seriously ill children and their families to reach specialist care and treatment.

Wings4Kidz does this by providing specialist free air and ground transport service and keeping families together during their di cult journey.

For a child requiring specialist treatment for heart conditions, blood disorders, cancer, congenital disorders, burns treatments or the many other conditions which can only be treated at major hospi-

tals, Wings4Kidz is there to support them throughout their treatment journey.

The Never Late Fe-Mail Postie Bike Ride raises vital funds for the charity.

This year the ride will see over 90 ladies depart from Bathurst via a detour around Mount Panorama in early April before they take back roads to Young, Temora and West Wyalong.

The girls will then trav el to Forbes and Bogan Gate before they nish in Parkes.

The ride travels through the towns of other families that utilise the service.

These families are invited to join participants for dinners to share their stories.

Over the last two years

the ride has raised $500,000 and only being in it’s third year, riders are hoping to raise in excess of $300,000 this year.

Lots to celebrate on Australia Day

■ From page 1 at 9.30am-4pm and the bowling clubs are holding Australia Day bowls events from 9.30am/10am.

BOGAN GATE

4pm - Community event at Bogan Gate Tennis Court which features various sporting challenges, sausage sizzle and icypoles. And a movie night to end the evening.

TRUNDLE

8am - Main street opening and gym tour, ending with a community

breakfast at Berryman Oval. 9am - Award presentation and speeches.

2pm-9pm - Pool in atable, music and Mr Whippy van (2pm-4pm) at Trundle Swimming Pool.

TULLAMORE

11am-6pm - Make a splash with free entry to Tullamore Pool with the kiosk and in atable in action.

2pm - Free Australia Day sausage sizzle and kids activities at the pool.

4pm - Tullamore Hotel open, live music.

6pm - Barefoot bowls at the Bowling Club.

8pm - Karaoke at Tullamore Hotel.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to join in the celebrations across the Parkes Shire. For more information about the 2025 Australia Day events, visit the Parkes Shire Council website: https:// www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Community/Events-and-Festivals/Australia-Day-2025?transfer=3aa5bd771268-4a8e-980f-245280d3c649

Pixie Keenan from Pixie K Creations was selling her beautiful one of a kind creations at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival.

The 2025 Never Late Fe-Mail Postie Bike Riders, including Madeline and Kylie Blackstock took part in this year’s Elvis Festival Street Parade to raise awareness.

Remember road safety as children go back to school

THE new school year is set to resume for thousands of local students in the coming weeks and Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are reminding local drivers and parents about children’s safety around schools.

The councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Ofcer, Melanie Suitor, said that road crashes account for over half of all accidental deaths among children aged 5 - 14 years old.

“Children are vulnerable road users. They are at risk in the tra c environment because of their size, their inability to judge speed and distance, as well as the fact that they may behave unpredictably,” Ms Suitor said.

“Drivers are reminded to slow down, pay extra attention and be patient when school resumes as there are more cars, buses and cyclists on the road and young pedestrians crossing the streets.

“Over the long summer break it is easy to forget just how busy and congested the streets around schools can get.

“Please obey the parking signs around schools. They are there to keep children safe. The most common are

‘No Stopping’ and ‘No Parking’.

“You cannot stop in a ‘No Stopping’ zone, however you can drop-o or pick-up passengers in a ‘No Parking’ zone as long as you are only there for two minutes and are no more than three meters away from your vehicle.”

There are 40km/h school speed zones around all schools in NSW.

Most school zones are operational between 8am9.30am and 2.30pm - 4pm on school days, when the lights are ashing.

The school zone in Bushman Street, Parkes, is operational all day from 8am - 4pm.

Police will be targeting school zones to ensure drivers obey the 40km/h speed limit when school returns.

strained in an approved child restraint. For more information visit www.childcarseats. com.au

 Where possible, drop-o and pick-up your children on the school side of the road.

 Make sure children use the footpath-side door when getting in and out of a car -this is called the ‘safety door’.

 Use a pedestrian crossing where possible and avoid being distracted by friends, mobile phones or listening to music through headphones whilst walking.

 Children aged up to 10 years old should always be supervised when near tra c.

Careers at Northparkes

Northparkes Operations is excited to launch a pilot program aimed at offering flexible rosters for Ore Processing Technicians. This initiative is designed to provide alternate scheduling options for local individuals who are new to the mining industry and may face challenges working a traditional mining roster.

By offering these more flexible rosters the program aims to support individuals who are seeking a better work-life balance while still providing valuable opportunities in the mining sector. To apply follow the QR code below.

“Parents and carers can help students remain safe by regularly reinforcing important road safety behaviours with their children and following these safety tips,” Ms Suitor said.

Parents and carers should:

 Always make sure your children wear a seatbelt or use a child restraint when travelling in a car. Child restraint laws require children up to seven years old to be re-

 Children aged up to eight years old should always hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road or walking near tra c.

 Make sure your children always wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter or skateboard.

 If your children catch a bus, always walk with them to the bus stop.

“Road safety around schools is everybody’s responsibility - students, teachers, parents, carers and drivers. We all have a part to play,” Ms Suitor said.

RFDS Medical Services Condobolin has an exciting opportunity for a Registered Nurse to join our team.

Experience in Primary care and chronic disease management

Excellent communication and teamwork skills. Proven multi-tasking, problem-solving, and

Ability to maintain high levels of confidentiality and

Proficient in the use of computers and IT systems - experience in Best Practice medical software will be highly regarded

We as an Equal Opportunity Employer offer our team members a unique and dynamic work environment with generous salary

Reliability, Care, Trust, and Safety shape the way we work as individuals, as team members and with the communities we serve. For more information or to register your interest please contact Fallon Gray at Fallon.Gray@rfdsse.org.au or 0413 739 193.

Road safety and injury prevention o icer Melanie Suitor.

PHOTO: Supplied

Easy COME GO Easy

Elvis fans can’t help falling in love

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

WHY go to Vegas when you can renew your vows in Parkes with Elvis?

On Sunday morning of this years Parkes Elvis Festival 17 couples gathered at the Mosonic Lodge to do just that with Elvis Tribute Artist Dean Vegas.

Couples ranged in length of mar-

riages from 11 months to 52 years with each couple just as in love as they were on their wedding day.

The longest married couple at the Renewal of Vows was Sydney couple Mary and Mario Axisa.

Mary and Mario have been married for 52 years and decided it was about time they renewed their vows.

The happy couple’s daughter also

renewed her vows with her partner of 20 years two weeks ago in Vegas so they thought why not renew theirs at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival which was also their h time at the annual festival.

2025 Miss Priscilla, Gracey Jones, led the 17 couples down the aisle to Dean Vegas to kick o the ceremony.

Vows and rings were exchanged under Dean Vegas’ humorous and

heartwarming guidance before couples had the chance to take a photo with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Elvis.

Originally from Scotland, Sydney couple Tracey and Lee Ritchie with their son Flynn Elvis were given the honour of cutting the annual cake.

Tracey and Lee decided the day before the renewal of vows ceremony that they were going to renew

their vows with Elvis at the Parkes Elvis Festival.

Tracey said it was quite a surprise but her husband, Lee is a big fan of Elvis hence why their son’s middle name is Elvis and why they decided to renew their vows on their 14th year of marriage at the festival.

Couples le the Masonic Lodge with big smiles and special Parkes Elvis Festival memories for 2025.

Ryan and Vanessa Johnson have been married for 25 years. They are joined with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Dean Vegas.

Fiona and Lance Crapper have been married for 24 years. They are joined with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Dean Vegas.

Douglas and Karen Edwards got dressed up to renew their vows on their 18th year of marriage. They are pictured with 2025 Miss Priscilla Gracey Jones and Dean Vegas.

Philip and Donna Azzopardi have been married for 14 months. They are joined with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Dean Vegas.

Raymond and Karen Gillespie have been married for 45 years. They are joined with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Dean Vegas.

Glenn and Sue Blackmore have been married for 16 years. They are pictured with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Dean Vegas.

Roland McAdam and Chrissie Camp have been married for 27 years and renewed their vows with 2025 Miss Priscilla and Dean Vegas.

Frank Bojarski and Cora Bencio have been married for 40 years. They renewed their vows with 2025 Miss Priscilla Gracey Jones and Dean Vegas.

Here to promote reading and annual reading days around the country, as well as research a new children’s book, these Paint the Town REaD representatives who were aboard the Old School Fire Engine collected the Best Float runner-up in the process.

Best parade entrants in the spotlight

THEY sang, they danced, they even rolled down the main street, but best of all they looked spectacular.

The Parkes Elvis Festival Street Parade is one of the biggest highlights of the festival, taking place every year on the Saturday morning and attracting hundreds of entrants and thousands of spectators.

And every year there are some cracker out ts and oats.

Once the parade leads down to Cooke Park the winning entries in a range of categories are announced.

Here are this year’s winners.

The awards were presented by a representative from a sponsor of the festival Central West Credit Union.

- Best Dressed Shop Sta : Central West Credit Union.

- Best Dressed Shop Front: Parkes Baptist Care Niola.

- Best Walker winner: Sailor Girls and Scuba Men.

- Best Walking Entry runner-up: Dooley and Co.

- Best Float winner: Parkes Observatory.

- Best Float runner-up: Paint the Town Red Old School Fire Engine.

- Best Non Motorised winner: Kristy’s Pushbike Girls.

- Best Non Motorised runner-up: Elvis on Skateboard.

- Best Roadster winner: Chris Beuzeville.

- Best Roadster runner-up: Al Gersbach.

- Best Hotrod winner: John Armstrong.

- Best Closed Car runnerup: Alaistair Webb.

Best Hotrod winner went to John Armstrong.

Best Roadster winner was Chris Beuzeville.

Best Roadster runner-up went to Al Gersbach, who’s pictured with Graham Lawrence from the Gold Coast.

Best Dressed Shop Front was Parkes Baptist Care Niola.

Best Dressed Shop Sta went to Central West Credit Union.

Best Non Motorised winner was Kristy’s Pushbike Girls. Accepting the award were Kristy and Pascal Berry.

Best Walking Entry runner-up went to Dooley (Trent Thomson) and Co.

Best Walker winner went to Sailor Girls and Scuba Men. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Morning Programs. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.50 Keeping Up Appearances. 3.05 Antiques Roadshow. 3.35 MOVIE: Train Of Events. (1949) 5.30 Escape To The Farm With Kate Humble. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 TBA. 8.30 MOVIE: Rocky. (1976) 10.55 The Closer. 11.55 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules: High Stakes. 12.00 Big Brother. 1.25 My Kitchen Rules. 3.05 Around The World With Manu. 4.05 Jabba’s Movies. 4.35 Bondi Vet. 5.35 Britain’s

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Carrington Stakes Day, Caulfield Australia Day and Sunshine Coast Cup Day. 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 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Carrington Stakes Day, Caulfield Australia Day and Sunshine Coast Cup Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Twenty20 International Series. Australia v England. Game 3. 10.30 MOVIE: Dracula Untold. (2014) 12.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Blokesworld. 11.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 5. 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 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.25 Miriam Margolyes In New Zealand. Final. 2.25 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.10 Croc Watch With Steve Backshall. 3.55 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. Final. 4.55 Eat The Invaders. 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 5.55 Hear Me Out: Australia Day. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Australian Of The Year 2025. 8.45 Beyond Paradise. 9.45 Vera. 11.15 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 The Snail And The Whale. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.55 MOVIE: Gangsta Granny. (2013) 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.45 Speechless. 10.05 Officially Amazing. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Cybershack. 12.30 Destination WA. 1.00 MOVIE: Waiting For The Light. (1990) 3.00 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. 4.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. 6.00 9News Saturday. 6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14. 12.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 12.10 Dream Home. 1.45 Holey Moley Australia. 3.15 A Moveable Feast. 3.45 Britain’s Got Talent. 5.10 MOVIE: Lyle, Lyle Crocodile. (2022) 7.30 MOVIE: Grown Ups. (2010) 9.40 MOVIE: Nomadland. (2020) 12.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Australia By Design: Innovations. 12.30 Exploring Off The Grid. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Good Chef

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER. 2.55 Not Going Out. 3.30 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.10 Speechless. 4.35 MythBusters. 5.25 Love Your Garden. 6.10 Amazing Spaces. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) New. 8.45 Live At The Malthouse. 9.55 Ab Fab. 10.55 ER. 11.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Sailing. Grand Prix. H’lights. 3.00 Women’s Weekly

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.00 New Leash On Life. 1.30 Gardening Australia. 2.25 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden.

3.35 Extraordinary Escapes. 4.20 Magda’s Big National Health Check. Final. 5.20 Hear Me Out: Australia Day. 5.55 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Australia Day Live. 9.30

2.30 Better Homes. 3.30 Steam Train Journeys. 4.30 Australia’s Amazing Homes. 5.30 I Escaped To The Country. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 To Be Advised. 11.30 Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica. 12.30 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. 1.30 The Road To The Open: A New Chapter. 2.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 3.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 15. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 6.30 Australian Open Tennis PreShow. 7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. 12.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 MOVIE: Chase A Crooked Shadow. (1958) 12.20 MOVIE: Scott Of The Antarctic. (1948) 2.35 MOVIE: The Winslow Boy. (1948) 5.00 MOVIE: The Unforgiven. (1960) 7.30 MOVIE: The Magnificent Seven. (1960) 10.10 MOVIE: Guns Of The Magnificent Seven. (1969) 12.15 Late Programs.

Morning Programs. 12.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 Farm To Fork. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 18. Brisbane Bullets v Melbourne United. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Sunday Project. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Hook, Line And Sinker. 1.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 2.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 2.30 Portland Charter Boat Wars. 3.00 Fishing Addiction. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 5.00 Nature Gone Wild. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The Patriot. (2000) 11.45 Late Programs.

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

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Shutting

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Although your keen Bull’s eyes can usually discern what’s fact from what’s faux, an upcoming decision will need really solid data before you can risk a commitment.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) As your confidence grows, you should be able to work toward your goals with more enthusiasm. Open your mind to suggestions; some of them might even work for you.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Reconnecting with someone from your past stirs up an old sense of adventure. But before you do anything else, be sure to get answers to any lingering questions.

M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Australia. (2008) 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.05 A Moveable Feast. 1.35 My France With Manu. 2.35 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 3.50 The Voice. 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 Avengers. 11.40 MOVIE: The Siege Of Pinchgut. (1959) 1.50 MOVIE: It Always Rains On Sunday. (1947) 3.45 MOVIE: We Of The Never Never. (1982)

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Some people might resent the way you plan to resolve a difficult situation. But your commitment to making tough but fair decisions soon wins you their respect and support.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Mixed signals could be causing a vexing workplace problem. Before you choose to leave a project, ask for a meeting where you can get things out in the open.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Your good intentions could backfire if you’re not careful with other people’s

Winners of the 2025 look-a-like competitions

THE Parkes Elvis Festival has been running look-a-like competitions since it began 32 years ago.

A fun way to get involved in the festival as an audience member, the public is invited to take part by simply showing up on the day and registering.

Prizes go to the best Junior Elvis Look-aLike and best Junior Priscilla Look-a-Like, which is open to babies and up to 15 years old.

There’s also a Senior Elvis Look-a-Like and Senior Priscilla Looka-Like for anyone 16 years and over.

The competition takes place at the Cooke Park Main Stage on Saturday afternoon.

Featured in this photo gallery are the junior entrants and winners.

◀ Central West Credit Union sponsor representative with Senior Priscilla

West Credit Union sponsor representative with Senior Elvis Look-aLike winner Elvis Roberts.

◀ Central West Credit Union sponsor representative with Senior Elvis Look-aLike runnerup Darren Armstrong. ◀ Central

Looka-Like winner Vivian Tosetti of Parkes.

Senior Miss Priscilla Look-a-like entrants.

2025 Miss Priscilla Gracey Jones with Anne Steel who presented her special award to Junior Tribute to Elvis winner Harrison Rowbotham.

◀ Looks like all the hard work by Parkes seamstress Jo-Ann Lenord at Sew and Go in making Jack Torrens’ jumpsuit paid o when he was awarded runner-up in the junior Elvis look-a-like and an encouragement award in the Junior Tribute to Elvis, presented by 2025 Miss Priscilla Gracey Jones.

junior Elvis look-a-like winner Poppy Munroe.

with encouragement awards - Curtis Puchner and Jesse Whalan (Jay Elvis).

with junior Miss Priscilla runner-up Charlotte McGrath.

an encouragement award recipient.

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Celebrating Landcare success

By MARG APPLEBEE

CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN

LANDCARE

Continuing on from last weeks column, today I am sharing more of a re-cap from 2024, highlighting our events and undertakings.

2024 was a massive year for Central West Lachlan Landcare over the Parkes and Forbes shires.

It was a big second half of the year for us, with preparation for the October Homegrown Parkes even, lining up presentations with Buckwheat and sausage making.

We were thrilled to be able to contribute to the Tidy Towns application through Keep Australia Beautiful with Homegrown Parkes being entered in the Community Spirit and Inclusion Award.

I was thrilled to be part of the presentation to our assessor along with Michael Chambers and Hannah Farrant-Jayet from Parkes Shire Council.

Landscapes to present two workshops on Improving on Farm Biodiversity, with the support of the Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT) in

tion Trust and Landcare NSW under the Private Land Conservation Matters project.

Also under this project, we also welcomed Nathan Em-

and banking.

We were once again so thrilled with the community support for Homegrown Parkes in October, with fan-

Parkes Shire Concert Band.

In October we also caught up with over 300 Year 5 students from Parkes and Forbes Shires at Eco Day at

the Parkes Racecourse. The next day then brought over 150 Kindy students from Parkes Shire to our Kindy Enviro Morning held in partnership with Parkes Shire Council at Kelly Reserve.

….and then we won! We won our category for the Tidy Towns Award … and Parkes Shire won the overall award.

As a result of this win, Parkes hosts the 2025 NSW Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns Awards on October 11, in conjunction with our Homegrown Parkes event … and we will also be entering the overall National Awards in May 2025!

I would also like to acknowledge Forbes Riverside Community Garden for their support over the past 12 months.

We hold our Forbes committee meetings at the Garden and work to share opportunities with them in return.

Information online at www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org

Extra heavyweights sell to $309 at this week’s Forbes sales

CATTLE SALE

Monday, January 20

Yarding 2369 (up 758)

Numbers jumped at Monday’s cattle sale at Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange with agents yarding 2369 head.

Quality was mixed but fair with a handy o ering of well bred cattle available.

Yearlings made up the majority of the yard along with a good run of cows.

The usual buyers were present and competing in an easier market.

Yearling steers slipped 10c/ kg with feeders paring from 330 to 400c/kg for middle and heavyweights.

The nished types to processors sold from 335 to 363c/ kg, middleweight heifers held fairly steady to sell from 331 to 355c/kg to feed. Heavyweights were back 10 to 14c with processors paying from 321c to 347c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks dropped 10c ranging from 310c to 363c/kg.

Grown heifers sold from 305 to 335c/kg.

Cows held mostly steady with heavy cows from 285 to 313c with plainer types from 282c to 302c/kg.

The best heavy bull reached 337c/kg.

SHEEP SALE

Tuesday, January 21

Yarding 26,500 (down 3400)

Numbers fell at Tuesday’s sheep sale at the Central West Livestock Exchange with agents yarding 26,500 head.

There was 19,100 lambs penned and quality was mixed but fair.

There was a good o ering of nished trade and heavyweight lambs available along with the plainer secondary types.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a market that held steady for the better types but slipped on the secondary lines.

Trade weight lambs were

back $6 to $10/head with prices ranging from $140 to $200/ head.

Heavy lambs to 26kg sold from $198 to $223 while extra heavyweights held steady to receive $215 to $309/head.

Carcase prices averaged 763 to 815c/kg.

The best heavy hoggets reached $200/head.

Mutton numbers showed the decrease and quality was very mixed.

Prices held up with Merino ewes selling from $57 to $155/ head.

Crossbreds received from $65 to $154 and Dorper ewes reached $160/head.

Parkes Public School Kindies enjoying the Kindy Enviro Day in October 2024.

PHOTO: Supplied

There was a good o ering of finished trade and heavyweight lambs available at Forbes’ Tuesday sheep sale along with the plainer secondary types.

Sweet sounds of Elvis Gospel Service

FOR more than 20 years the Gospel Service has been one of the most attended and popular events of the Parkes Elvis Festival.

So much so it has had three location changes in that time to accommodate the numbers.

This year’s Gospel Service in Cooke Park on January 12 didn’t disappoint.

Hundreds came together to listen, to sing and to dance.

There are three parts to these photo galleries of the 2025 Gospel Service.

Hundreds of people turned out for this year’s Gospel Service in Cooke Park.

David Caskis with Poppy.

Elizabeth and Brett O’Neill with Koba and Bonnie.

James Whalan performed.

One of the festival’s international headline acts Riley Jenkins.

The Elvis Gospel Service choir.

Gavin Chatelier performed.

Mark Andrew, Charlie Gaylard and Gavin Chatelier back stage.

Bruce and Gordon from the Southern Cross Vocal Band performed before the Gospel Service.

Garth and Kay Power with Gizmo were spotted at the Elvis Gospel Service.

Liz Naveau, Trundy Haak, Catie Gardner and Jacinta Haak.

Busking finalists Tennessee Tajc, Ruben Aglioera and James Hill.

This year’s Gospel Service had the audience up and dancing.

This year’s Gospel Service had the audience up and dancing.

Easy COME GO Easy

8-12 JANUARY 2025

See the faces of the festival

Parkes singing trio Amitie - Shevaun Brown, Christie Green and Christa Radley - in Cooke Park.

We meet thousands of faces at the Parkes Elvis Festival every year.

main street during the festival.

Pippa Westcott, Finlay Macgregor, Pip ten Cate da Silva, Isabelle and Breanna Powell.

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

in the park during the Parkes Elvis Festival.

Parkes Elvis Festival.

Elvii come in all shapes and sizes.

Now that’s some big hair!

Big Music Bandits are regulars at the Parkes Elvis Festival. These ladies looked spectacular in their matching outfits.

Entertainment on the Cooke Park Main Stage.

Members from Musica Arioso in Parkes busking at the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival.

Photo booth fun at the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival.

Busker in the main street during the Parkes Elvis Festival.

busking at this year’s festival.

Diane Montoya, Brad Hansen and Louise Skinner looking the part at the Parkes Elvis Festival.

We meet thousands of faces and personalities from around Australia and the world when we cover the Parkes Elvis Festival every year.

We love your costumes, your pets, your friendly faces and the wonderful happy spirit you bring to our town every January!

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

3 What one might do to a male waif (5,3)

7 Name the bell in the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament in London (3,3)

8 To have palpitated, is to have done what (8)

9 Name a Pacific Island State in the USA (6)

10 What are official government journals (8)

11 Name the language of Austria (6)

14 Name an English cookery writer, Isabella Mary ... (6)

17 Which imaginary island, populated by tiny people, is referred to in Gulliver’s Travels (8)

18 Who composed “White Christmas”, and countless other songs, ... Berlin (6)

19 To have deprived of clerical status, is to have done what (8)

20 What is a colloquial term for a cheap restaurant (6)

21 Which term describes reddish yellow (8) DOWN

1 To be whimsically strange, is to be what (7)

2 Name the Biblical father of Isaac (7)

Letters

Some

3 Which substance, when injected into animal tissues, will stimulate the production of antibodies (7)

4 Who is under the friendly patronage of another (7)

5 What is a place of abode (7)

6 Name the fourth President of the US, James ... (7)

11 Which Italian physicist built the first astronomical telescope (7)

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.

12 Name the English explorer and author, Sir Walter ... (7)

13 To be stupid or obstinate, is to be what (7)

14 Which term suggests that which comes to pass (arch) (7)

15 To lift up, is to do what (7)

16 What might we call the first two cricketers batting (7)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

SILVA (a) Fine sediment (b) The assemblage of trees in a region (c) The earth’s crust underlying the sial 2 VALKYRIE

(a) One of the minor goddesses who conducted battlefield slain to Valhalla (b) A monument for a nation’s great men (c) A bidding farewell

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:

At value: ad ... (7)

Cedric (abbr.) (3)

Comedian (5)

Connectors (5)

Deep regret (7)

Large excavator (coll.) (3)

Leaf of paper (5)

Not many (3)

Open source software (3)

Weary (5)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Classifieds

Fortescue

Community Notice Exploration drilling

Following consultation with landowners, Fortescue exploration drilling activities will commence in the greater Parkes/Narromine/Tomingley areas from January to mid-April 2025. Work will be undertaken seven days a week, and is expected to last for up to three months.

Landholders within 5km of expected drilling should receive notification in mail before activity commences.

For further information, please contact us on 0429 452 273 or at nsw@fortescue.com

Aboriginal community consultation and registration of interest

Burra Scandium Project

This notice is advertised in accordance with clause 60(2)(c) of the National Park and Wildlife Regulation 2019. Niche Environment and Heritage (Niche) has been commissioned by EN21 Op Co Pty Ltd (herea er referred to as ‘the Proponent’) to conduct Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessments (ACHA), including Aboriginal community consultation, for the proposed Burra Scandium Project at Fifield, New South Wales (NSW). The Burra Scandium Project (herea er known as the ‘Subject Area’) is a scandium producing mine located approximately 13 kilometres (km) southwest of Tullamore, NSW in the Central West region of NSW within the Lachlan Shire Council Local Government Area (LGA). The Subject Area would cover approximately 530 hectares (ha) and would be located north of Melrose Plains Road. The Project encompasses the following lots: 19// DP753987; 1//DP372852; 21//DP753987; 2//DP1241051; 1//DP1241051; 3// DP1241051; 4//DP1241051 and is shown in the Figure below.

Further information on the Project is available at https://www.riotinto.com/en/operations/projects/burra-project.

In accordance with Section 4.1.3 of the Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents 2010, the Proponent is seeking to consult with any Aboriginal persons or groups who may hold cultural knowledge of, or who have a right or interest in Aboriginal cultural heritage of the Subject Area. The purpose of the consultation will be to assist the Proponent in the:

• Identification and determination of the significance of any Aboriginal objects and/or places within the Subject Area.

• Preparation of ACHA in order to fulfil the conditions of the Guide to Investigating Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in NSW (OEH 2010)..

• Appropriate management recommendations for any Aboriginal objects and/or places identified.

Please be advised that as per Section 4.1.6 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation Requirements for Proponents (OEH, 2010) the names of Aboriginal persons and groups who register an interest will be forwarded to Heritage NSW and the Local Aboriginal Land Council unless the person or group specifies that they do not want their details released.

All registrations for the project must be received by 5 pm on 6/2/2025 and should be directed in writing to Niche Environment and Heritage consultation@niche-eh.com

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

Schedule 1: Crown roads at Parkes, adjoining the property at 305 Back Yamma Road and within the property ‘Springvale’ at 388 Kinsela Lane. (File Ref: 24/13563, Cluster: 673889)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.

Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. For the Manager, Divestments

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Jessica French by email at jessica.french@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3951 quoting file references above.

McGEE, Mary Elizabeth

Late of Southern Cross Care who passed away peacefully on Thursday January 16, 2025, at the age of 84 years.

Dearly loved wife of Charles. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Jenni & Dick, Brian, Peter, and Xenia. Loved mama of Charlie and Keira, Bill, Meg, Millie, and Digby.

Adored great mama of Finnley.

‘In God’s Care’

The cortege is appointed to leave the Holy Family Catholic Church, Parkes a er a Requiem Mass commencing at 10:00am, on Thursday January 23, 2025 for interment in the lawn portion of the Parkes Cemetery.

Central West FUNERALS

In loving memory of June and Noel Cli on

23yo first time come in the town, Japanese nuru massage NO rush Phone 0414 005 215

Married 65 years ago on 16 January 1960. Passed away on 17 January 2015 at 73 and 76 a er 55 years of love and life together.

Missed and remembered every day with love and gratitude.

The kindness and love given to us by so many over the years is deeply appreciated.

Judi, Karen, Doug and Sheri

LINA

Parkes hockey trio on tour in Asia

THREE Parkes players have been ying the Australian ag in Thailand and Malaysia representing the Australian Country Men’s and Women’s Under 21s teams.

Jack Westcott, Emmie Searl and Eloisa Purtell began their campaigns in Bangkok early last week where they played a four game series against the Thai national team.

They then moved onto Kuala Lumpur to play another four games.

“From all accounts they are all playing amazingly and are two games into their Bangkok venture,” Parkes Hockey Incorporated reported on social media last Wednesday.

“They’re doing really well,” dad Ian Westcott said on Monday.

The trio wrapped up their tour yesterday and y home today.

Nominations for these teams are called for prior to the Australian Country Hockey

Championships held in August each year and a rigorous and transparent selection process is undertaken during the championships to ensure quality representative teams are selected. We’re hoping to catch up with our local players in the coming weeks.

PARKES TO HOST STATE TITLES

In some big and exciting news for Parkes Hockey Incorporated and the town itself, Parkes will be hosting the Under 14s State Championships from May 9-11, 2025.

Sporting events like these draw hundreds of players and their families from around NSW to the area, bringing a little boost to the local economy in the hospitality, accommodation and tourism industries.

It also means Parkes’ facilities are up there among the best when being selected for such hosting duties.

watched

Club hosts cracker finals of Mid West Singles

RAILWAY BOWLS

By PAUL LEWIN

Welcome back to our rst bowls news of the new year!

We hope everyone had a safe, happy and healthy new year!

Social bowls have been going strong with numbers up across all bowls days, although last week dropped o a bit a er Elvis le the building, so thank you, thank you very much!

We had 16 energetic bowlers try out the main green a er the recent renos on Wednesday, January 15 for social bowls.

Winners were tied on 14+10, so they split rst and second between them.

Rob Hill, John Taylor and Mick Furney in the triples and Gene Rapp and Junior Thorne in the Pairs.

Marble 6 came out and the Margins were 6, 10 and 10. The jackpot this week is at a massive $652.

The Parkes Services Club Power Play Pairs returned on Thursday, January 16. Weekly winners were High Rollers, Rhinos and SUC. Leaving the Rhinos on top of the ladder on 24 points, with the High Rollers close behind on 21 points.

Saturday, January 18 we hosted the nals of the Region Singles but we squeezed in a social game for the crazy

volunteers. Winners were Junior Thorne and Rob Hill winning 11+9. Runners-up were Geo Leonard and Dave Ford winning 8+4. Mid West Region Singles Finals

Over the weekend we had the privilege of hosting the Finals of the Mid West Region Singles.

Our best performed bowler was the great green keeper Juicy Daley in the Men’s State Open Singles going down narrowly in a cracking game of bowls against Adam Favell from Wallerawang. Adam lost to Richard Clarke in the next round, who went on to win the Final against Brad Lamont. Well done to all involved, there were some amazing bowls bowled.

Our bar tender and Condobolin’s up and coming bowler Danielle Thompson stole the show winning her spot at the State Championships in Ballina in April. Danielle bowled beautifully to win the Final over Michelle Harkin from Dubbo City. Congratulations Danielle and good luck in Ballina.

New bowler Rob Hill got out to a lead in the Reserve Singles but got nailed late by Adam Simpson from Orange City, who went on to win his way to Ballina. Well done Rob, what a great experience in your rst year bowling.

The board would like to thank Tony Latter and Mick Furney for umpiring both days and all of our wonderful markers that generously volunteered their time to help the bowlers enjoy their days.

Club Championships

In the Major Singles Mikey Hackett took on Shane Hodge. Shane led early 8-1 a er 5 ends. Hackett fought back to 8-5 a er 9 ends but Shane stayed strong winning 25-6.

In the Minor Singles we had Andrew Trotman play Tony Latter. Latts won the rst end with a single and Trot kicked out to an 11-1 lead a er 5 ends.

Trot kept it going leading 22-4 a er 13 ends. Latts red up but Trot nished it o winning 25-10.

In the Major Pairs we had Marty Fitzpatrick and Dave Ford play Gene Rapp and Junior Thorne.

Gene and Junior hit the green running leading 6 nil a er 4 ends.

Marty and Dave got back to 6 all a er 9 ends. 7 all a er 11 and Marty and Dave led 14-12 a er 15 ends.

Gene and Junior grab the lead back 17-14 a er 17 ends but Marty and Dave wouldn’t have any of that closing out the game solidly to win 21-17.

In more Major Pairs Pissy Peisley and Jake Brown played Clive Stibbard and Paul Townsend.

Clive and Paul led 9-1 a er 6 ends and 14-5 a er 12 ends. Pissy and Jake pick up a 3 but Clive and Paul went on to win 28-8 a er 17 ends.

In more Major Pairs action we had Ben McNaughton and Mick Furney play Greg Howlett and Tony Latter.

Greg and Latts won the rst end with a single but Benny and Mick went mad leading 9-1 a er 6 ends and 19-3 a er 9 ends. Greg and Latts tried hard but the game was called a er 17 ends with a win to Benny and Mick 2311.

In the Minor Pairs we had Ash Kirwan and Mike Valentine play Myra Townsend and Tony Latter. Myra and Latts led 4-1 a er 4 ends.

Ash and Mike got it back to 4 all a er 6 ends. Ash and Mike led 9-6 a er 10 ends and Myra and Latts got it back to 9 all the next end.

Ash and Mike lead 13-12 a er 15 ends. Myra and Latts lead 19-13 a er 18 ends and go on with it to win 20-17.

In the Club Triples Mick Hackett, Mick Furney and Tony Bright played Dale McGlone, Frank Van Opynen and Paul Kirwan. Team Kirwan led 2-1 a er 2 ends.

Team Bright led 6-5 a er 6 ends before they strung 10 ends together to blow the score out to 28-5 a er 16 ends and went on to win the game 32-13 a er 23 ends.

In the Club Fours we saw Tommy Davis, Tory Moon, Michael Hackett and Toby Tanks take on Frank Van Opynen, Rob Hill, Paul Kirwan and Joey Van Opynen.

Team Joey led 7-1 a er 3 ends and 9-3 a er 7 ends.

Team Joey went on to win the game 20-9 a er 17 ends.

Australia Day

The Chris Dunn Memorial Australia Day Triples is on Sunday, January 26 at 10am.

$20 per person, team or single entries, barbecue lunch, best dressed prizes, cash prizes and a guaranteed fun day with lots of laugh, while we celebrate our mate and Australia Day.

Heartfelt thanks to Chris’ family for their wonderful support.

This week we have the Parkes Services Club’s Power Play Pairs on Thursday, January 23 at 6pm.

Social bowls on Saturday, January 25 at 1pm and The Chris Dunn Memorial Australia Day Triples on Australia Day Sunday, January 26 at 10am. As always names in half an hour before start times, everyone is welcome and quality new loan bowls are available at the club.

For those interested in having a roll at bowls, please note the following. Social bowls means anyone and everyone is welcome to come have a game.

If it’s your rst time this is

where you start. Just come to the club on the desired day at least 45 minutes prior to the advertised start times and see one of our dedicated volunteers and we will assist with getting you sorted and some bowls and point you in the right direction.

Social bowls is competitive without being too serious. Players generally use this time as practice. We have some experienced bowlers that are always happy to play with and help new learning bowlers. We have our Thursday Evening Barefoot Twilight Bowls going now, that is a great way to start and learn the game. Please feel free to call in to the club at anytime to have a chat.

Punters Club

The Quickshine Punters Club is up and running please check the board at the club for full details or contact Benny Mac. New format and new ideas makes this the best punters club going, with di erent entry fees for di erent budgets. Get your names in before you miss out.

In the Club on Friday, January 24 we have happy hour 5-7pm, meat tray rafes, badge draw ($200), joker draw ($2700) and the bistro serving up their amazing meals from 6pm.

See you at the Railway! Toot Toot!

Brad Lamont was runner-up in the Men’s State Open Singles

Danielle Thompson from Condobolin -

by Sue Clinghan, Orange - stole the show winning her spot at the State Championships in Ballina. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Jack Westcott of Parkes is the Australian Country Men’s Under 21s goalkeeper. PHOTOS: Banworth Photos

Emmie Searl playing for the Australian Country Women’s Under 21s in Bangkok.

Precious gains and escapades with the lady bowlers

LADIES BOWLS

By LEA ORR

Our second shot at social bowls for 2025, the call went out, and we rallied 3 more supporters than week one!

The big wigs of ground control had the top arena manicured – perfect! Thanks to executive manager Buddy!

Our own president, standing proud on both feet at

last, addressed her supporters and stated the agenda for today - two games of triples plus a consolation game of scroungers! What a capital idea!

Donned in our regulation uniforms, we took up our allotted positions in the arena.

Merilyn, Gwenda and Betsy headed over to the security of arena 13 to roll a few down and release some

energy! No score recorded, possibly hidden in a box in the ladies’ bathroom!

On arena 11, six celebrities, Annie, Carol and Lorraine, in opposition to Lil, Michelle and Marja, engaged in a mad campaign to gain the majority of points. Tapes were used and measures were taken and debated as each gain was precious.

were locked up, 13–all, and they signed off with a draw!

Lynn, Fran and Cherie had Irene, Lea and Maureen in their sights on arena 10.

Team Maureen quashed most of the fake moves by their opposition and came up trumps on the scoreboard, 23–13.

bowls!

Marja, Rhona and Fran rapidly stashed the funds they won in the 100’s club. Gwenda failed in her attempt to blitz the jackpot, which rises to $70.

The Parliament Of Women Enjoying Raucous Rapport, aka “P.O.W.E.R” , gathered apres-bowls and larked the afternoon away!

PARKES BOWLS

By MARTY TIGHE

Vale: Michael Craft

The club’s flag has been lowered to half-mast over the last week in respect and honour of the late Michael ‘Mick’ Craft who passed away recently. Mick was a stalwart bowler and keen supporter of bowls and the club. He always enjoyed his bowls and the company of bowlers. His notable bowls achievements included winning the club’s Minor Triples in 2009, 2010 and 2011, as well as the Minor Fours in 2009 and Minor Pairs in 2012. Condolences to Kay and family.

Championship matches

Two Major Pairs matches were played on Saturday on the top green, which was full to capacity with 38 bowlers.

Ian Simpson and Brian Hampton had a close 3 shot win over Scott Allen and Jock Townsend.

There was never more than 2 shots difference between the 2 teams until Ian and Brian scored 4 shots on the 18th end, to open up a lead of 3 shots.

At the final end, the scores

Congress voted a bronzed Irene “Most Valuable Player” with her consistent lead

Nominations for Club Ma-

Clubs mourn loss of big supporter

end, winning by 25 shots to 15 over Brian.

Nathan advances to the semi-finals of the championship.

Thursday social bowls

Scott and Jock bowled well all match, and won the last end, picking 2 shots, however they were defeated by 3 shots.

Ian and Brian advance to the next round, after winning 22 shots to 19 over an improving duo in Scott and Jock.

Father and Son pairing of Rob and Ethan Lacey were stoic in their defeat by tournament favourites Mick Simpson and Mark Dwyer, who had to dig deep to fend off the Lacey challenges all match.

After a sluggish start, Mick and Mark won the match by 24 shots to 14. Ethan and Rob won 7 of the last 10 ends, bowling out the match in fine style.

Major Singles

On Sunday morning Nathan Reynolds dominated Brian Hampton in a Major Singles match for the first 10 ends to lead by 19 shots to 3. Brian won the next 4 ends, scoring 8 shots to add respectability to his side of the scorecard, but it was too little too late.

Nathan was in fine form, and finished off the match on the 20th

Twenty-two social bowlers hit the top green with enthusiasm. The four Colins in our club all played in the one game, that being the triples game featuring Mike Valentine, Bob Freeman and Colin Mudie against Col Woods, Col Miller and Colin Hayward.

The game was a tight tussle until the 9th end, whereupon team Hayward went on a scoring spree, winning 7 consecutive ends to lead by 21 shots to 8 after 15th ends.

Team Mudie scored 6 shots on the 17th end, and also won the majority of the remaining ends, however the damage was done earlier and they were not able to bridge the gap.

Team Hayward won the game by 23 shots to 18.

Brian Townsend and Gary McPhee had a good tight game against the old stager John Corcoran and star young bowler, Cooper Fliedner.

Brian and Gary established a 5 shot lead after the 10th end and were good enough over the second half of the game to fend off the challenges from John and Cooper.

Brian and Gary won the high standard game by 17 shots to 14.

Phil Moran and John Ward had a comprehensive win over Mal Porter

and Rob Tinker, winning 25 shots to 10.

A very competitive game of pairs was played between Bruce Orr and Marty Tighe against Ian Simpson and Tony Riordan.

Both teams each won 6 of the first 12 ends played, which saw the scores locked at 8 each after the 12th end. Ian and Tony broke the game open on the next end when they scored 4 shots.

On the 18th end, Bruce and Marty regained their earlier touch and form, scoring 4 shots to draw level at 14 shots each.

Ian and Tony won the penultimate end by 1 shot and took that margin into the last end of the game.

Bruce and Marty again stood up under pressure and bowled well on the last end, scoring 4 shots, to win the game by 18 shots to 15, defeating a good combination in Ian and Tony.

A similar tight tough scoring game was played between Arthur Corbett and Geoff Freeman against Ron Hornery and Graham Dixon.

‘King’ Arthur and Geoff were behind on the score-card all game until the 17th end. They scored 4 shots to move ahead by 15 shots to 13.

Ron and Graham managed to win the next end by 1 shot.

Arthur and Geoff bowled well under pressure on the last 2 ends, picking up 1 shot on each end, enabling them to emerge unlikely victors.

Athur and Geoff won the game by 17 shots to 14 over Ron and Graham.

Saturday social bowls

Five games of triples were required to cater for the monster rollup of bowlers on Saturday.

Alan Frame, Steve Parker and Col Woods proved too strong in their game against Faith Parker, George Bradley and Phil Betts, winning by 27 shots to 14. Called up at the last minute, ‘Lucky’ Phil skipped well for Faith and ‘georgous’ George as they kept in touch on the scorecard with team Woods until the 7th end.

Scoring 6 shots on the 7th end enabled Alan, Steve and Col to open up a winning margin, to which they were able to add over the remaining ends, enjoying a nice cruisy win over team Betts.

John Ward, Tash Allen and Geoff

Freeman played a good game of triples bowls against Joanne Simpson, Nat Hancock and Brian Townsend.

Only 1 shot separated the 2 teams after the 13th end, however John, Geoff and particularly Tash combined well to score 2 shots on the next 3 consecutive ends to draw away from team Townsend, and won the game by 20 shots to 13.

Phil Moran, Colin Hayward and Gary McPhee dropped 5 shorts on the very first end in their game against Colin Mudie, Marty Tighe and Brett Frame, but were good enough to recover from their inauspicious start to not only catch up, but also match team Frame.

Gary, Phil and Colin squared up the scores at 15 shots each with 2 ends remaining.

Team Frame defeated a gallant team McPhee by 20 shots to 15.

Graham ‘pop-eye’ Davis, Rodney Ford and Mark Glasheen had a tight dour contest in the first half of their game against Dave Parker, Geoff Smith and Warren Bevan.

After 11 ends, the scorecard favoured team Glasheen by 7 shots to 5, but they won the next 3 ends, to open up the lead by 12 shots to 5.

Team Glasheen won by 17 shots to 11 over team Bevan.

John Carr, Bob Freeman and Colin Miller won the first end of the game by 2 shots but didn’t trouble the Scorers again until 10th end, in their game against Ray Jones, Ron Hornery and Skipper Mike Valentine.

Leading by 16 shots to 2 after 9 ends, team Valentine were enjoying their stroll on the green in ideal conditions.

John, Bob and Colin disturbed their opponents’ slumber to win 5 shots and another 2 shots on the 10th and 11th ends, breathing some life back into the contest.

However, the team Miller comeback was short-lived as Ray, Ron and Mike regained control of the game by winning the majority of the remaining ends, and won the game by 24 shots to 11, over team Miller.

Graham Davis had the opportunity to win the Lucky Rink jackpot of $270 but unfortunately was not successful. The jackpot now sits at $280 for Thursday.

Winds don’t blow Elliott off his game

GOLF

By PETER BRISTOL

Saturday was the second round of the BWR Summer Comp for 2025 and again our sincere thanks go out to BWR Accountants and Advisers for their continued great support of the club.

This week it was a Stroke event and we had 69 participants.

It was a very blustery start to the day with only the very early golfers escaping with a few holes of still-

ness.

The wind gusted to 45km for the whole day with very few golfers able to keep control of the little white ball.

One of those with command of his game was Lindsay Elliott who shot a 71 net to clinch the prize for the day.

Playing off his 15 handicap Lindsay went out in a scrapy 46 but then sizzled home with a 40 to clinch the prize from one of his regular playing compatriots in Ken Keith. Ken shot a 72 but was very evenly

balanced with a 45/44 split to claim the runner-up on a countback from Tony Hendry who went out well with a 42 but faded on the run home, although he threw in a birdie in his 47.

Luke Clarke, who was the best performed golfer on the course with his 39/39 split and a birdie on each of the last holes on both 9’s also returned a 72.

Luke is gearing up for the Pennant season and is looking good on the course.

The New Nearest The Pins Spon-

sors ongoing from Saturday were – Bridgestone Mining 1st by David Brown at 375cm, Griffins Leading Edge by Peter Boschman at 367cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Peter Amor at 33cm, the Westlime 11th by Richard Hutchison at 77cm, the Gulf Western Oil 17th by Blake Parker at 83cm.

The lucrative money hole was won by Blake Parker at 83cm.

Ball winners were Tony Hendry, Luke Clarke 72, Mark Kelly, Peter Magill, Phill Smith, David Brown, Phil Bishop, Michael Riley 73.

jor Pairs open next week. Find your partner! Australia Day bowls day will be held next Sunday, January 26. Teams of three, mixed, lunch included. Names on board. To play social bowls next Tuesday, January 28 call the club 6862 1446, between 9–9.30, with play at 10am. A hot one is forecast, so hydrate well!

One point the difference in Edwards’ victory

By JOHN DWYER

Popular Bogan Gate player Steve Edwards scraped home by a point to win last week’s twin-towns veterans golf competition played at Forbes. Representing the host club Edwards compiled a handy 35 points which was enough to shade Parkes’ Dale Stait who had his first vets hit for the new year.

In what was a somewhat disappointing roll-up 24 players contested the event - 15 from Forbes and nine from Parkes - with the home side victorious in the twin-towns shield by 202 points to the visitors 177.

Graham Cooke from Parkes was the encouragement award winner, while honours were even for the nearest-to-pins with Todd Callaghan from Forbes the A grade winner on the 18th hole and Parkes’ John Fowler the closest in B grade on the ninth.

The ball sweep went to 32 points and winners were: 34 - Dale Stait (P); 33 - Lex Hodges (P); 32 - Steve Uphill and Jeff Hayley (F).

Next week Parkes will host the twin-towns where officials from both towns will be hoping for an increase in playing numbers. Registrations will be taken from 8.30am for a 9am shot-gun start.

Worth noting, the first of the Lachlan Valley 18-hole events for the year will be in Forbes on February 20 with players from Grenfell, West Wyalong, Condobolin, Cowra, Parkes and Forbes expected to contest the event.

By BRIAN DRABSCH

Last Sunday saw 10 shooters attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex on the Back Trundle Road and shot at foxes at 25 and 50 metres for a collective score of 530.53 points.

TARGET RIFLES: 25M, 50M, TOTAL Jeff Charlton 280.27, 250.21, 530.48.

John Davis 280.26, 250.20, 530.46; Brian Drabsch 280.20, 250.21, 530.41; Paul Hocking 280.25, 249.15, 529.40; Steve Mitchell 279.19, 249.18, 528.37; Bev Drabsch 233.07 for 50 metres only, not bad for her first try.

FIELD RIFLES

Ron Cunningham 280.24, 250.17, 530.41. John Maddison 280.25, 249.15, 529.40.

Brett Cowling 280.21, 249.14, 529.35.

Wally Rudenko 259.14, 242.12, 511.26.

This week the wind was kind to shooters with very little wind blowing.

Our next shoot is at 10am Sunday 26/1/2025 where it will be standard targets at both ranges.

Best of the best on show

FROM international reps and state champions to rising stars, the best of the Parkes Shire’s athletes will be celebrated again at the annual Sport Awards on Australia Day.

The awards look back on the incredible achievements and milestones of athletes throughout 2024 and this year features a diverse range of sports.

As excitement builds for who will take out the coveted 2025 Sportsperson of the Year and Junior Sportsperson of the Year awards, the nominees for the nine categories have been released by the awards committee.

With so much talent on the table selecting the recipients wasn’t easy.

The nominees are: Sportsperson of the Year:

Jack Westcott (Hockey), Sarah Hartin (Running) and Danielle Mcdonald (Motorcycle Racing).

Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Archie Daley (Hockey), Asha Munodawafa (Ten-

nis), Charlie Rix (all-rounder), Elizabeth Macgregor (Rugby League), Ewan Moody (Rugby), Henry Kross (Squash), Harry Yelland (Hockey), Jett Johnstone (Hockey), John Thomas (Rugby League), Maddison Spence (Cricket), Maley MacGregor (Rugby), Mason Wild (Motorcycle Racing Dirt), Patrick PJ McPherson (Hockey), Riley Horsbrough (Clay Target Shooting), Ryker Moore (Athletics), Sam Westcott (Hockey), Toby Collins (Hockey), Vashti Williams (Athletics), Zanda Johnstone (Hockey).

Sports Team of the Year:

Parkes Marist U16s (Rugby League), Parkes Boars Ladies (Rugby), Parkes Spacemen (Rugby League) and Parkes U16 Boys Hockey (Hockey).

Coach/Trainer/Manager of the Year: Angela Bottaro-Porter (Soccer), Jason O’Bryan (Junior Rugby League), Lee Hodge (Hockey) Referee/Umpire/Official of the Year: Chris Reynolds (Touch),

John Thomas (Rugby League) and Kim Robertson (Athletics).

Senior Sportsperson or Team of the Year:

Casey Miles (Hockey), Dean Powter (Hockey), Denise Gersbach (Hockey), Ian Westcott (Hockey), Lee Hodge (Hockey), Mandy Westcott (Hockey) and Maureen Massey (Hockey).

Sports Administrator of the Year: Rachel Rice (Touch), Wayne Osbourne (Soccer) and Andrew Thomas (Junior Rugby League).

Lifetime Contribution to Sport Award: Helen Magill (Tennis) and Barbara Weaver (Swimming).

Ron Harrison Rising Star:

Aaryab Gautam (Soccer), Arlo Cassidy (Athletics), Davey Saunders (Basketball), Henry Kross (Squash), Khan Jackson (Rugby League), Mason Wild (Motorbike Racing), Max Jones (Squash), Nate Calabro (Athletics), Ryker Moore (Athletics), Toby Morgan (Athletics) and Vashti Williams (Athletics).

PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB

PARKES HRC WILL RACE AGAIN THIS COMING SUNDAY NIGHT AUSTRALIA DAY JANUARY 26TH, 2025.

The first race is scheduled to start at 5.52 pm. Gates will open to the public at 5pm with free entry for all patrons.

Full TAB, Canteen & Bar facilities will be available on course along with the Ice Cream Van.

Free Face painting will also available and the Yabby Races will be a highlight so please bring your fastest Yabby along.

SPONSORS FOR THE MEETING ARE C & S STOCKFEEDS PARKES

KIETH RITCHIE FAMILY

WAL NORMAN FAMILY

DUMESNY FAMILY

QUICKSHINE CARWASH

WORKLOCKER PARKES

CLARINDA PARK IT

PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB

Full Bar, Canteen and TAB Coverage Enjoy Harness Racing at its best

Some of this year’s 2025 Parkes Shire Sport Awards nominees, top - Henry Kross, Maddison Spence, Elizabeth Macgregor, Jack Westcott, Casey Miles, Maureen Massey, Angela Bottaro-Porter, Wayne Osbourne and Ian Westcott.