OAM honour for Anna
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
At just 38 Anna Barwick is excelling in her career and spends equally as much e ort and energy serving the health community.
And she says she still has so much more to give.
So it’s no wonder the announcement that she’s receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia has come as a big surprise.
Anna is one of 320 people to be named on the 2025 Australia Day Honours List to receive an OAM, for her service to the pharmacy profession.
Anna lives in Walcha but she grew up in Peak Hill, with the Parkes Shire setting the foundation upon which she would go on to build an exceptional and community-driven career and turn vision into reality.
It’s a career that has seen her named NSW Pharmacist of the Year and Innovative Pharmacist of the Year in the same year, NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year and the founder and director of PharmOnline, among her many accolades and achievements.
Anna is the daughter of Judy and Ray Unger, she completed her schooling at Peak Hill Central before graduating to study pharmacy at Charles Sturt University in Orange, where she met her future husband Mathew Barwick, during O-week to be precise.
Between 2005 and 2010 she interned at the Parkes Pharmacy in the Parkes Plaza before moving on to work at the Tamworth Base Hospital.
When the opportunity presented itself, Anna and Mathew took hold and purchased their own pharmacy in Walcha, where Anna also worked at Armidale Hospital and became Pharmacy Practice Lecturer at the University of New England from 2012 to 2022, then Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy in 2022.
She’s also been the consultant pharmacist at Walcha Multipurpose Service since 2018. Anna nished lecturing just this year in January and took an exciting step into a new role as an aged care onsite pharmacist in Walcha that’s part of a new Australian Government initiative that kicked o last July.
And if she hasn’t been busy enough juggling her career, motherhood (with a nine-year-old daughter Evie and seven-year-old son William) and the family farm, she’s also studying her PHD via distance through the University of
Queensland.
She’s focusing her work on telepharmacy, a service that allows patients, particularly in rural and remote areas so they don’t have to travel, to receive pharmaceutical care from a pharmacist remotely.
“Fi een years, it seems too soon,” Anna said about receiving the OAM.
“I’ve got so much more to do, I want to give a fair bit more back.
“I’ve always been interested in health care. I think coming from a rural town you see gaps present.
“My family also runs an organic/ biodynamic farm that focuses on preventative health.”
Anna said it’s all contributed to her interest in balancing what people can treat or prevent without medication.
In her short 15 years Anna has been heavily involved in the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia as vice president of the NSW Branch from 2014-2018, NSW committee member 2014-2020 and chair of the Practice Support and Education Committee from 2018-2020.
During the same time (2014-2017) she was a Rural Observer for the NSW Branch of The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia. Anna founded PharmOnline in
2020, a service that aims to provide Australians with 24/7 remote access to registered, experienced pharmacists, which is particularly valuable to people who are isolated and unable to easily access their community pharmacy or other health services.
She said starting her own business with PharmOnline has been a big highlight.
“I started PharmOnline during Covid when people really needed the service but couldn’t access it, it’s online advice when you need it,” Anna said.
■ Continued on page 2
Anna Barwick who’s originally from Peak Hill and now lives in Walcha has been named on the 2025 Australia Day Honours List to receive an OAM. INSET: William, Mathew, Evie and Anna Barwick on the family farm about five years ago.
Car, property thefts spike
Police have launched multiple investigations into a spike in property crime that’s not only affected Parkes but its surrounding neighbours of Forbes and Condobolin too.
A home in Clarinda Street was broken into on the evening of January 20 where a 2020 model 110cc motorbike was stolen.
O cers arrested and charged a 36-year-old man ve days later in relation to this o ence.
Another break and enter occurred at a house in Belmore Avenue in Parkes on January 23 where property including jewellery and an i-Pad were stolen.
Police are reviewing footage and have identi ed a person of interest for this incident.
A white Toyota Corolla was stolen from Bushman Street on the night of January 22 where inside the car police found an air compressor, Milwaukee toolbox and a tool believed to have been stolen from another motor vehicle in Pearce Street the day before.
“No o enders for this have been identi ed as yet,” Parkes Police O cer in Charge Chief Inspector Scott Rayner said.
There was also a shopli ing incident from a Caledonia Street business on January 20 where a female was issued a criminal infringement notice.
Meanwhile police have engaged in several pursuits around Parkes, Forbes, Condobolin, Lake Cargelligo and Orange in recent weeks.
Police from Parkes responded to a report of three stolen carstwo from south of the state and one from Euabalong - travelling in convoy between Lake Cargelligo and Condobolin on January 21.
Officers intercepted one of
the vehicles and a pursuit occurred.
Two offenders were arrested, including an 18-year-old male from Narrandera who was charged with four counts of take a drive conveyance and unlicenced driver.
He was refused bail by police on January 21 but granted bail by Condobolin Local Court.
A 22-year-old woman was also charged with two counts of be
carried in conveyance and one count of larceny. She appears before Condobolin Local Court in early February.
Parkes Police were involved in a pursuit of a red Toyota Camry sedan that had been stolen from a home in Orange on January 18 and ended in Forbes, a report on which the Champion Post published last week.
A 14-year-old boy was charged
and appeared before Orange Children’s Court on January 20 where he was granted bail.
A second o ender, a 22-yearold male from Forbes has since been charged in relation to the same o ence, with entering building with intent, goods in custody and custody of a knife.
O cers also seized a blue Toyota Camry sedan from a Currajong Street address a er it was involved in several pursuits.
WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes
CROP SWAP
Saturday, February 8
Crop Swap is back for 2025, in the Library Courtyard at 10am on Saturday, February 8. It’s a great way for those who grow their own food to make sure nothing is going to waste. If you have an overabundance of particular fruits or vegetables in the garden, preserves or homemade goods - they are all welcome! Swap excess produce and fairly barter with like-minded people for fresh, local and delicious goods.
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 Anglican Church coming soon.
COUNTRY SOUNDS
Saturday, February 22
Country Sounds returns in Feb-
ruary! Robbie Mortimer, Tyla Rod rigues, 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 ex citing updates.
TRUNDLE BACK IN TIME
March 15 and 16
This celebration of heritage re turns 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.
HOMEGROWN PARKES
Saturday, March 29
It’s back for 2025 - Homegrown Parkes is an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill
and products with the community. Markets, music, crop swap, performances and demonstrations in Cooke Park - it’s all homegrown in Parkes and it’s a great family day out.
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OAM recipient says she has more to give
■ From page 1
She’s thrilled she’s been able to grow the service to o er advice from eight other expert pharmacists.
“There’s also lots of medical writings and medication reviews, all helping to evolve what pharmacists do,” she said.
In 2021 Anna was named NSW Pharmacist of the Year, received the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia Pharmacy Shark Tank Award for her innovative idea of helping women with advice on gestational diabetes through a pharmacy newsletter, and the University of Technology Sydney’s Innovative Pharmacist of the Year.
2022 was another big year for Anna where she was named NSW Regional Woman of the Year and went on to win the NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year.
From 2023-2024 she was recognised as a Superstar of STEM through Science and Technology Australia, and she’s currently an inaugural member of the NSW Regional Health Ministerial Advisory Panel.
Meanwhile in the community Anna was a member and fundraiser for the Walcha Town and Country Club (20102015), treasurer for the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering (2018-2020) and has been a mentor since 2020 for the prestigious annual competition Country to Canberra that awards winners a ‘Power Trip’ to Canberra to meet inspiring leaders, politicians and CEOs.
Among Anna’s other highlights has been teaching.
“I’ve taught hundreds of students, while most are pharmacy students I’ve taught nurses as well,” she said.
“Then watching them go out and advocate for their communities, that’s what inspires me, that’s what I enjoy.”
Re ecting on her OAM and all her accomplishments thus far, Anna said “it shows you don’t have to come from the city to be successful”.
BOOTS AND BOWTIES BALL
Saturday, April 5
This is a fundraiser ball not to be missed presented by the Eugowra Public School P and C at the Eugowra Showground Pavilion. Think hay bales, festoon lights, warm tones, plenty of seating and the beautiful country night air. Roving canapes by Smoking Brothers Catering and live music from Foxxy Cleopatrait’s going to be spectacular. There will be buses from Forbes, Parkes, Canowindra and Gooloogong. Ticket details to come.
Homegrown Parkes event.
Trundle Back In Time returns March 15-16.
A car was on fire in bushland along Russell Street on Sunday night.
Award recipients devoted to community
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
Fiona Quinney has continued on the same path that has seen her devote herself to and serve her community since she was 20 years old.
The now 64-year-old said she was the inaugural recipient of a junior citizen award in 1981.
On Sunday she was named the 2025 Parkes Citizen of the Year.
Fiona selflessly volunteers at Niola Baptist Care Nursing Home where she brings comfort and companionship to residents who rely on her kindness and presence.
She also regularly visits the residents of Southern Cross Village, offering support to those in need of companionship and emo tions care, and organises a monthly social gathering for locals living with Par kinson’s Disease, providing a safe and supportive envi ronment for them to con nect and share their experi ences.
“Fiona Quinney is truly deserving of this prestigious award due to her unwavering dedication to others, despite her own personal health challenges,” her award nomi nation read.
“Her e orts go beyond simple volunteering: she is o en the rst to step up when someone is in need, whether it be emotional sup port or assistance with med ical issues.
“Fiona has a natural abil ity to empathise with others, giving her time and energy freely, without ever expect ing anything in return.
“Her contributions are not just limited to her actions, but also re ect the deep love and concern she has for those around her.”
Fiona said she was truly humbled by the award that was presented to her by Australia Day ambassador Tasman Cassim during the ocial Australia Day ceremony.
“I promise to keep doing my best for those around me,” she said.
Meanwhile the 2025 Parkes Young Citizen of the Year award was presented to a very deserving Isabella Hughes.
This award was rst established by Cr Robert Wil-
Isabella is a dedicated and accomplished young person who has made a signi cant impact in the arts and her community.
for 2024 and 2025.
Through her involvement with Regional Futures for Theatre, Isabella pursued a mentorship to enhance her skills and was also selected for the prestigious Pulse Alive 2024 Dance Company, where she showcased her talent and commitment.
As part of the Pulse Alive regional tour to Moree in May 2024, Isabella mentored children at remote schools, sharing her passion for dance and inspiring children.
Her positive in uence extends to her school, where
Isabella has participated in the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award program via PCYC NSW and volunteered at the PCYC NSW Nations of Origin tournament in Sydney.
“Isabella’s passion, leadership, and unwavering drive make her a deserving recipient of this award,” her award nomination read.
Liesel Walters was overwhelmed to receive the 2025 Parkes Shire Lifetime Achievement Award.
For more than 30 years, she has been a tireless volunteer in the Parkes community, always putting others rst and giving her time and energy to countless projects.
“Everything Liesel does comes from the heart,” her award nomination read.
“She genuinely loves the Parkes Shire and its people, and it shows in the way she steps up to help whenever there is a need.
“She is a role model for what it truly means to care for your community.”
Liesel said the recognition was extremely humbling.
“I came to Parkes 30 years ago and fell in love with it,” she said.
“The last 30 years have been the most privileged years of my life.”
The Community Event of the Year was presented to
communities for their support of Northparkes over the years.
An estimated 8000 people attended, making it the largest stand-alone event ever held in Cooke Park.
It featured headline act Daryl Braithwaite with support from local band Foxxy Cleopatra and Indigenous artist Isaac Compton.
With more than 23 food vans and an in atable world as well as special guest Bluey, there was something for everyone at this family friendly event over four hours.
The night ended with a reworks display.
Ticket locations re ected
that nearly 5000 tickets were taken from Parkes postcode residents, with a further 2500 tickets reserved by people
ard for the future with no incidents at all with such a large number of people and the alcohol ban li ed for the festival,” its award nomination read.
“Overwhelming feedback from the community and those who attended was that this event had a special vibeeveryone wanted to just have a nice time listening to music with their friends and family.”
Thrilled with their award Northparkes Mines turned to social media and said “we are proud to have created an event to say thank you to our communities for all of their support for the last 30 years”.
Northparkes Mines’ Rachael Whiting, Brooke Plunkett, Chloe Allan and general manager Rob Cunningham with their Community Event of the Year award.
Parkes at the core for award-winning artists
grandmother Nellie’s past.
The documentary premiered at the 2023 SA Film Festival, and has since been screened on SBS in early 2024, and remains available on SBS on demand for the next two years.
It’s also won the Museum Display Award at the National Museum and Galleries Association Awards and the NSW Museum and Galleries Imagine Award.
And in an overwhelming step forward, it will now be
part of the NSW Curriculum for Years 11 and 12 from 2025.
The documentary was screened at Parkes Library during NAIDOC Week with Irene and Daniel participating in a Q&A session a er the lm’s screening, allowing audience members a chance to hear rsthand Irene and Daniel’s personal re ections
on making the lm.
“The documentary is a powerful piece of truthtelling and reconciliation,” Irene’s award nomination read.
“We all have powerful women in our family and we all have powerful men in our family - they shape us who we are today,” Irene said at the ceremony.
There were two Visual Arts Awards announced on Sunday, one going to the Parkes Community Arts for its exceptional photography exhibition and public art project Who is Parkes and the other to artist Sean James Cassidy for his ongoing service to the arts of Parkes and Wiradjuri culture.
The Who is Parkes bill-
board project throughout 2024 has now become an integral part of the landscape across the Parkes Shire, showcasing works by photographers – both professional and amateur, old and contemporary.
“Not only has this project showcased our creatives, our history and our loved citizens, it has also provided
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a tourism o ering in Parkes and our villages,” its award
Meanwhile Sean and his company Ub Ubbo assisted in a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scienti c and Cultural Organisation) development of a 30 metre mural
The wall showcases a mixture of Wiradjuri and Philip-
Sean worked with the Australian Embassy to have the mural created and was the go-between person for the Wiradjuri artists of the Parkes Shire and the Philip-
“Ub Ubbo Exchange has worked to promote indigenous and non-indigenous collaborations through the arts,” the award nomination
Sean’s e orts were acknowledged by UNESCO and the Australian and Philippine Embassies for his capability of expressing art concepts of many cultures.
The mural was named Yindyamarra, a Wiradjuri word for respect.
“Sean presented the name and meaning of yindyamarra to the Philippines and they grabbed the idea with great gusto,” the nomination said.
“We acknowledge that for a man from the small town of Parkes in NSW to have worked at such high levels is amazing, and Sean is a very worthy recipient of this award.”
ABOVE: Donna Davis and Veronica Sutton looking colourful and bright on Australia Day. PHOTOS: Christine Little RIGHT: There were lots of families in Cooke Park for the ceremony including the Kross, Rice, Robinson, Allan and Celledoni families.
Dressing to the occasion as they do every year are Bob and Bev Bokeyar, and Bev Grange.
Margot Jolly representing the Parkes Community Arts who received a Visual Arts Award for its Who is Parkes billboard project.
Performance Award during the Australia Day Cultural Awards in Cooke Park. PHOTOS: Christine Little
Wiradjuri art to appear along bypass
Perhaps their biggest and most public canvas yet to showcase their work, three Parkes Wiradjuri artists have been selected to display permanent artworks along the Parkes Bypass.
In September 2024 Transport for NSW, in consultation with the local Aboriginal community, invited local Aboriginal artists to submit artworks to feature on two elements of the $287.2 million Parkes Bypass project.
One on safety screens on the Victoria Street Bridge and the other on signage at either end of the bypass.
Following a review of the submissions, Wiradjuri women and cousins from Parkes Kyah and Katlyn Turnbull’s design was selected to appear on the bridge’s safety screens and Wiradjuri man from Peak Hill Scott ‘Sauce’ Towney’s artwork will feature on the signposts.
These artworks will be seen by thousands of motorists every day.
Kyah Turnbull said their design re ected Wiradjuri culture and the local environment by using symbols and patterns alongside a range of animals local to the Parkes area.
“We have used meeting place symbols and travelling lines to connect Parkes to its surroundings towns, essentially creating a map of the Parkes Shire. These include Peak Hill, Trewilga, Alectown, Cookamidgera, Bogan Gate, Trundle and Tullamore,” Kyah said.
“The animals used are the kangaroo (Wambuwuny), goanna (Gugaa) and echidna (Wandayali) and they
A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the bridge, which is one of two being built for the Parkes Bypass, will connect the project to Country and its people while delivering a safer road for the community.
“The Victoria Street Bridge is a key element of the project as it will allow light vehicles as well as pedestrians and cyclists via a shared path to cross over the bypass to Back Trundle Road safely,” the spokesperson said.
women just enhances the way it ties to and bene ts the whole community.”
Vehicle access via the Victoria Street Bridge, which is to be named by Parkes Shire Council, wasn’t included in the original designs for the bypass, but following feedback from the public Transport for NSW added it to connect the community to Parkes Christian School and the Shallow Rush area of town.
The bridge is expected to be open to tra c in the coming months.
Re ecting on his winning submission, Mr Towney said the Parkes
Shire community was central to the design.
“Wiradjuri pattern symbols serve as a visual representation of the land while the people gures are a nod to our elders who have paved the way for us,” he said.
“Parkes is depicted as the main meeting place, symbolising its importance as a cultural hub for the Wiradjuri people and its outreach to surrounding towns.”
The Transport for NSW spokesperson said the signposts would acknowledge the Wiradjuri Country on which the project is built.
“It’s vital we pay respect to the traditional custodians who have nurtured this land for millennia. Scott’s design will signify that history and serve as a welcome to users of the bypass long into the future,” they said.
The Australian and NSW Governments are investing $287.2 million in the Parkes Bypass project, which is expected to be completed mid2025, weather permitting.
The project is part of the $1.5 billion investment from the Australian and NSW governments into the Newell Highway corridor.
So much to celebrate
The spirit of Parkes shone brightly and proudly on Sunday, Australia Day.
After what the Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott described as a fantastic morning at Trundle, for its official opening of the beautification works of the main street and a tour of the new community gym, there was still so much more to celebrate and recognise at the official ceremony in Cooke Park.
Kim Robinson was MC, Aimee Ross sang the national anthem and Charlie Oraha gave the Welcome to Country.
Our Australia Day ambassador Tasman Cassim, who’s from a farming family originally in Woodstock near Cowra, had the opportunity to hear and meet some of our town’s greatest citizens.
“Parkes Shire punches
above our weight when it comes to supporting one another,” Cr Westcott said in his speech at the ceremony.
“There is so much to be thankful for.”
Cr Westcott said he wanted to keep building a future that is welcoming and inclusive, and one that also celebrated the country’s similarities and differences.
“We must not forget those before us that have shaped this land for thousands of years,” he said.
“Let’s celebrate the nation we are and the nation we strive to be.”
Tasman said he was very humble and grateful to be in Parkes and acknowledged the day brought many complexities for First Nations people.
He spoke about his time
working with people across the country, adding many came from the Central West and regional areas, experiencing homelessness through Wayside Chapel.
Wayside Chapel provides care, support and essential services for people experiencing homelessness and social isolation in Sydney.
As their head of fundraising, Tasman has also established and worked in fundraising programs at the Heart Foundation, Good360 and more recently the Black Dog Institute.
And through his Superhero Walk, he’s walked more than 1000km since 2015 and raised more than $100,000 for Australians in need.
“I’m just a bloke trying to do good so I never expected to be up here today,” he said.
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Perfect morning for celebrations
Australia Day in Parkes again started with the annual breakfast and walk from Cooke Park at 7am.
Many community members and their dogs gathered in park to start their Australia Day. Parkes Action Club provided a delicious breakfast which was enjoyed by many.
The 2025 Australia Day sel e board was very popular and provided the perfect photo opportunity for those who attend the breakfast and walk.
Also in Cooke Park was a display of vintage cars which supported the rst event of Aus
Suzy Gil and her dog all smiles.
Emmerson and Riley Kaden.
The selfie board was fun for many who came to the breakfast.
The Campisi family came to the park for the Australia Day Breakfast. Bob and Ann Steele.
Trundle shines bright and so does its citizens
The Trundle community was buzzing on Australia Day a er some very special milestones were marked, such as the opening of the main street and the community gym.
The openings saw the attendance of Australia Day ambassador Tasman Cassim, Mayor Neil Westcott, Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee and other councillors and Parkes Shire Council representatives, State Member for Orange Phil Donato, as well as those who supported and helped to fund the projects.
Trundle Village Rural Fire Brigade has received another generous donation from a local business, this time Sullivans Mining and Industrial.
Sullivans Mining and Industrial have donated the local heroes of Trundle Village RFS a tool box and a much-needed pump to assist their efforts this fire season.
“At Sullivans Mining & Industrial, we’re passionate about supporting the communities that mean so much to us, and we see Trundle as part of our community- our people, our families, and our shared future,” branch manager at Sullivans Mining and Industrial, Bianca Coster said.
With summer well and truly here, the incredible volunteers of the Trundle Village RFS are preparing to protect our communities.
“Thank you Sullivans Mining and Industrial for
the amazing donation to our brigade of the toolbox and pump. These will make a huge difference not only to our station but also to our field works as well, we sincerely appreciate your support for our brigade,” Trundle RFS secretary/firefighter Kim White said.
Sullivans Mining and Industrial Parkes are proud to play a small part in supporting their vital work in the community.
“Trundle holds a special place in my heart, it was my home for several years,” Bianca said.
“This little village and its wonderful community have given so much to my family, and I feel incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to give something back.
“Supporting the Trundle Village RFS is a way of showing our appreciation for the vital work they do in keeping us safe, especially in challenging times.”
6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 Doctor Who. 3.35 Speechless. 4.00 Would I Lie To You? 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 Love Your Garden.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Horse Racing. Southern Cross Stakes Day, Caulfield Members Day and Doomben Raceday. 5.30 Lunch Break. 6.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 4. Afternoon. 7.00 Dog Patrol. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 9.30 I Escaped To The Country. 10.30 Amazing Homes. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.25 Optics. 1.55 Extraordinary Escapes. 2.45 Croc Watch With Steve Backshall. Final. 3.30 Australia Day Live. 5.30 Eat The Invaders. 6.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Beyond Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 11.35 Rage. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road 2.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 2.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. 3.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Morning. 5.30 Border Security. 6.00 News. 7.00 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Afternoon. 8.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. 8.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Late arvo. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 3.00 Bathurst 12 Hour. Qualification and support races. 3.30 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. 4.30 Tea Break. 5.00 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Late arvo. 7.00 Dinner Break. 7.30 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Evening session. 10.00 Late Programs.
2.50 Doctor Who. 3.35 Speechless.
4.00 A Bite To Eat. 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 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) 8.50 Live At The Malthouse. 9.55 Ab Fab. 11.25 ER. 12.10 Late Programs.
6.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road 4.00 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. (Alt schedule may be shown). 4.30 Tea Break. 5.10 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Late arvo. 7.10 Dinner Break. 7.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Evening session. 10.00 Late Programs.
Australian Idol. Return. 8.50 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. 10.50 April Jones: The Interrogation Tapes. 12.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 6.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 5. Afternoon session. (Please note: alternative schedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 8.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. 8.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 5. Late afternoon session. 11.00 MOVIE: Underwater. (2020) 1.00 Late Programs.
TAURUS (April
to
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Rival factions are pressuring you to take a stand favoring one side or the other. But this isn’t the time to play judge. Bow out as gracefully as possible without committing yourself to any position.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Reassure a longtime, trusted confidante that you appreciate their words of advice. But at this time, you need to act on what you perceive to be your own sense of self-interest.
6.00 Drive Safer. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Attenborough’s Wonder Of Song. 1.30 MOVIE: The Dust Factory. (2004) 3.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Elvis. (2022) Austin Butler. 10.35 Becoming Madonna. 12.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Britain’s Got Talent. 2.00 The Food Trail. 3.00 Mesmerised. 3.30 Motor Racing. Bathurst 12 Hour. Qualification and support races. 4.30 Travel And Eat With Dan & Steph. 5.00 A Moveable Feast. 5.30 MOVIE: A Dog’s Way Home. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Grown Ups 2. (2013) 9.30 MOVIE: Last Cab To Darwin. (2015) 12.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Running Wild: Australia’s Camels.
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 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 8.30 The Dog House. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. 10.30 Ambulance UK. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Shopping.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Avengers. 11.40
MOVIE: My Learned Friend. (1943) 1.10
MOVIE: The Oracle. (1953) 3.00 MOVIE: I’ll Take Sweden. (1965) 5.00 MOVIE: Some Like It Hot. (1959) 7.30 MOVIE: The Man In The Iron Mask. (1998) 10.00 Are You Being Served? 11.00 Tennis. Davis Cup. Australia v Sweden. Day 2. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Fishing Australia. 12.30 The Pet Rescuers. 1.00 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights. 1.30 MOVIE: Much Ado About Nothing. (1993) 3.50 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 See No Evil. 11.10 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 1.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Dream Home. 11.30 My France With Manu. 12.30 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 1.40 The Voice. 3.30 MOVIE: A Dog’s Way Home. (2019) 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Monk. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 19. Sydney Kings v Perth Wildcats. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Sunday
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 MOVIE: The Floating Dutchman. (1952) 12.05 MOVIE: Father’s Doing Fine. (1952) 1.50 MOVIE: The Constant Husband. (1955) 3.40 MOVIE: The Honey Pot. (1967) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Monuments Men. (2014) 10.50 Chicago Med. 11.50 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) You need to let your warm Leonine heart fire up that new relationship if you hope to see it move from the “just friends” level to one that will be as romantic as you could hope for.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) There’s still time to repair a misunderstanding with an honest explanation and a heartfelt apology. The sooner you do, the sooner you can get on with other matters.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Expect a temporary setback as you progress toward your goal. Use this time to reexamine your plans and see where you might need to make some significant
Babies of 2024
It’s time to celebrate the little stars of the Parkes Shire.
The Parkes Champion Post has put together this special collection, featuring the beautiful bubs from the Parkes Shire born in 2024. Here are our babies of 2024.
Thank you to all the families for taking part and submitting their little bundles of joy to make this bumper baby feature possible.
Babies who were born in
Born 15th August 2024, weighing 3.65kg. Son of Jake and Larissa Maitland.
Born 12th June 2024, weighing 3790g and measuring 51cm. Son of Luke and Chloe, and brother for Mackenna (3). Grandson of Darryl and Donna Stone, David and Karen Swindle, and great grandson of Cecil and Shirley Charlton, and Hazel Bateson.
Christian Joseph Swindle
Born 2nd July 2024, weighing 2.71kg. Son of Jessica Stronach and Tristan Lane.
Hudson Andrew John Lane
Indie Maree Watt
Born 16th May 2024, weighing 3.89kg. Daughter of Matthew and Demmi Watt of Trundle, and sister to Archie Watt.
Born 30th November 2024, weighing 3920 grams. Son of Mitch and Bec Baker.
Finn James Baker Rosie Chatman
Louie Simon Parker Kopp
Born 22nd July 2024, weighing 4470g. Fi h child for Michael Sutton and Lauren Hogan, and brother to Evie, Hudson, Lilah and Arthur.
Lawson Edmund Sutton
Born 26th January 2024, weighing 3.6kg (8lb .025oz). Daughter of Shelby-Lee Dellow and Kynan Pappin.
Avery Ann Joy Pappin
Born 5th December 2024, weighing 3340g. Son of Scott and Renée Massurit, and brother to George Massurit.
Henry Geo Massurit Ayla Rose Symington
Born 12th September 2024, weighing 4.09kg. Son of Mitchell and Annalea Ringk.
Fletcher Alexander Ringk Miles Joseph Johnson
Babies of 2024
Born 16th December 2024 at Dubbo Hospital at 9:10am, weighing 3.14kg. Fourth child of Brooke and Jay Smith of Parkes, and brother to Riley, Adeline and Lily Smith. Grandchild of David and Patricia Carpenter (Peak Hill), and great grandchild of Ronald and Dolly Simmons (Alectown) and great grandchild of Fay and Kenneth Carpenter (Trundle).
Born in 2024, weighing 3.52kg. Son of Mikeely Bermingham and Jordan Clark.
Born 13th August 2024. Son of Jake Elliott and Georgia James.
Born 9th November 2024 at Orange Hospital weighing 7lb 12oz. Baby of Caitlin and Luke.
Born 29th April 2024 at 9.40pm three weeks and two days premature, weighing
Born 18th October 2024, weighing 3.97kg. Son of Symone Taylor and Mitchell Nolan.
Born 10th August 2024, weighing 3.31kg. Son of Adam and Brooke Tanswell, and brother for Charlotte and Dustin.
Born 9th September 2024 at 3.53pm, weighing 6lb 14oz and measuring 53cm. Daughter of Samantha Mill and Craig Townsend, sister for Jace and Darcey.
Born 6th July 2024, weighing 6.5lb. Daughter of Katie Turner and Brenden Bennett.
Kaitlynn Maree Tillman
Darcy James Lindley
Emerson Adelie Berry
Thea Alisa Gibson
Cruze Knowles
Marli Joy McCracken
Ted Barber
Born 16th December 2024 at Dubbo Hospital at 9:10am, weighing 3.14kg.
Nathaniel Alexander Smith
Thia Shauna Leigh Bennett
Austin Reece Nolan
Robert Michael Tanswell Thea Margaret Brown
Rylie Ruth Townsend
Ashton Steven Clark
Babies of 2024
Born 26th August 2024, weighing 3kg. Daughter of Cameron Standen and
Born 28th October 2024, weighing 8lb 15oz and measuring 57cm. Son of Taylor and Aaron Boney.
2.88kg. Baby of Jenna Welsh and Christopher Parker.
Born 5th March 2024 at Forbes District Hospital at 3.27pm, weighing 3.76kg and measuring 57cm. Second son of Rhiannon and Carl Redenbach, and brother for Noah (3). Sarah Hodge Essjay photography Hogan (Parkes) and Bob and Heather Brooke (Parkes).
Lacey Jane Rickaby
Gemma Standen
Harper Jane Hennock
Haze Aaron Boney
Lane Daniel Adam
Miami Michelle Stevenson
Billie Cleo Parker
Dallas William Tandy
Zach William John Redenbach
Lorelei Isabel Hankinson
Archie (2). Granddaughter of Bruce and Elizabeth Barber, Veronica Amor and Clive Amor, and great granddaughter to Janeine Davies.
Third child to Shari and Harley Mahoney of Bogan Gate, and sister to Harrison (7) and Samuel (4). Sixth grandchild of David and Patricia Carpenter (Peak Hill) and third grandchild (first granddaughter) to Danielle and Steven West (Adelaide).
Phoebe Elizabeth Amor
Georgie Tarrin Mahoney
Casablanca wins on Australia Day
By COLIN HODGES
Eighty three years a er the movie Casablanca was rst screened, a handsome four year old chestnut gelding by the same name won a Maiden Handicap on Saturday at Parkes.
Set in Morocco and starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, the 1942 lm is regarded as a masterpiece and the owners who payed big money for the equine Casablanca were hopeful of Academy Award winning performances.
There was justi cation for the high price as Casablanca was by the champion sire Snitzel and from the ATC Australian Oaks winner Rising Romance.
Adding further to the sales ring appeal, the Arrow eld stud bred Casablanca was a full brother to the team Hawkes trained lly Yearning, winner of the Group 1 Caul eld 1000 Guineas when ridden by Damien Thornton and placed 3 times in Group 2 races, the Edward Manifold, Armanasco and Lets Elope Stakes.
But alas, the hoped for rewards did not eventuate and Casablanca knocked down for $1.4 million to TFI/Kia Ora stud at the 2022 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale was sold again for $11,000 in 2024 through the online Inglis Digital platform to clients of the Dubbo trainer Cindy Monaghan.
Angus Barlow a Dubbo based stock and station agent who doubles as a livestock market reporter on ABC radio is now a part owner of Casablanca and takes up the story.
“Originally trained by Gerald Ryan and Sterling Alexiou at Rosehill, Casablanca with no luck a er 3 starts was transferred to Stuart Kendrick at the Gold Coast where the best result from 2 starts was a second on the poly track,“ Angus Barlow said.
“Entered for the April 2024 Inglis on line sale, shrewd horse investor Tim Moses from Dubbo snapped up Casablanca for $11,000 a er making enquiries with Brisbane jockey Michael Cahill.”
“Tim then formed a syndicate to race Casablanca with trainer Cindy Monaghan and a er a couple of dis-
mal runs it was deemed to need the tie back operation.”
“The operation was performed, the horse was put back in work and presto, a good win at Parkes”, Angus Barlow related.
Ridden by Nick Heywood in the 1200 metres Parkes Farm Centre/ Kennards Hire Maiden Handicap, Casablanca jumped quickly and led for home.
Donna Emilia ((Dylan Stanley, $19) nished well but was beaten a nose by Casablanca ($12) with threequarters of a length to the third placed Rebel Flyer (Shayleigh Ingelse, $41).
Keenly awaited was the appearance of the highly promising galloper Zarizatycoon in the 1400 metres Parkes Couriers/Standen Building Class 2 Handicap.
Trained at Bathurst by Gayna Williams, Zarizatycoon had looked well above average when leading throughout to win at Narromine and Mudgee, however bled when unplaced at Rosehill.
Following the mandatory time away from racing, Zarizatycoon resumed over 1280 metres at Orange and after travelling wide finished less than a length from the winner Nomorenightshift, the Mack Griffith trained 4 times a winner, half brother to Zarizatycoon.
Away quickly from an outside barrier at Parkes, Zarizatycoon was eased back and at the 600 metres trailed the leading trio by several lengths.
Expertly ridden by Clayton Gallagher, Zarizatycoon ($1.65 favourite) gained an opening at the top of the straight and broke clear for a comfortable win by over a length from Extravagant Choice (Ellen Hennessy, $21) and Lockadente (Claire Ramsbotham, $13).
A big ve year old gelding, Zarizatycoon looks to be still learning how to gallop and with further improvement is forecast to win plenty more races.
The good crowd on Saturday has Parkes Jockey Club o cials looking forward to the Parkes Cup meeting on Sunday, May 18.
Bathurst to race on Friday and Dubbo on Monday, February 3.
the Australia Cup running.
Thompson.
Mia Rathbone and Riley Prout.
Tim Keith, Tony ‘Scrubber’ Evans and Alex Prout with the Australia Day shirts and caps to be presented to the winner of Race 3.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Become part of the CWLL committee
By MARG APPLEBEE
CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
Join us for our Central West Lachlan Landcare Annual General Meeting!
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Wednesday, February 5 at 5.30pm.
We are looking forward to providing a sum up of our 2023/24 year to our members and welcome attendance from Parkes or Forbes Shire residents who are interested in becoming more involved with CWLL.
As you may have seen, the last nancial year was an extremely busy time for us and the Committee provide the much needed voluntary support to everything that happens on a day to day basis. While I’m talking about our voluntary CWLL Commit-
tee….our Treasurer Maree Yapp has just been awarded Forbes Citizen of the Year!
Just one of our fabulous Committee Members who support Landcare and make a di erence in our commu nities.
We traditionally have held our AGM in September/Octo ber, but due to a changeover with our nancial reporting program, which was beyond our control, we sought an extension from the Depart ment of Fair Trading to en sure that our reporting is perfect. CWLL is a registered charity and an incorporated body, so accountability and transparency is crucial.
Our existing Commit tee have been instrumental in committing to support Homegrown Parkes as for the next two years.
Without their support, we would not be able to com-
like the Landcare Enabling Program, Biodiversity Conservation Trust Private Land Conservation Matters and People Led Preparedness, which have provided em-
awareness raising across the Region.
Importantly, moving forward, the Committee will provide a support network for our Regional Landcare
Carcase prices averaged 774c to 820c/kg
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, January 28
Yarding 24,500 (down 2000)
Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 24,500 head.
There was 17,450 lambs penned and quality was similar to that of previous sales.
There were good numbers of finished lambs offered along with the plainer types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a fairly steady market that did fluctuate with quality.
Trade weight lambs held steady with 20-24 kg selling from $147 to $210/head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg
were firm to $2 better ranging from $192 to $224/head. Extra heavyweights received from $210 to $284/head.
Carcase prices averaged 774c to 820c/kg. Mutton numbers were made up of mostly Merinos and quality was very mixed. Prices eased with Merino ewes selling from $65 to $153/head. Crossbreds sold from $68 to $176 and Dorper ewes reached $130/ head.
Merino wethers received from $77 to $140/head. FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
tively in Parkes and Forbes Shires, usually at our o ce at Kelly Reserve or at the
We are very conscious unteers contribute each month and try to make meetings accessible via
mittee roles of Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, Public O cer and Secretary, a Parkes Shire Councillor lor, plus three Committee
These positions allow me to focus more on Parkes and Forbes Shires. Our Committee commitment is one meeting per month.
age will be forwarded ahead of the AGM. For further information on this article, please go to www. centralwestlachlanlandcare. org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare
Central West Young Aggies tour
Join Central West Young Aggies for a farm tour at Parkes on Saturday, February 15.
Local farming family based in Parkes, Mark and Katrina Swi will be hosting the farm
Mark and Katrina are both Nu eld scholars and have traveled the world, learning more about decision making management and the use of AI to improve innovation and pro-
The farm tour will focus on all the ‘need to know’ questions you may have about fam-
From decision making for management to creating your business vision and up skilling, this farm tour is for all those interested in a future in
On the day you will have the opportunity to hear from multiple guest speakers on the day.
Claudia Mitchell will be speaking about decision making for management and Brooke Watts will be speaking on business vision and succession.
Brooke and Chiara from Central West Farming Systems will also be introducing their derisking the seeding program, connecting young farmers and agronomists.
The farm tour will run from 10am to 3pm and you can register your attendance online via hummanitix.
If you are interested in joining the Central West Young Aggies committee they will also be holding their AGM on the day.
There are multiple positions open and they look forward to welcoming new young aggies that are passionate about progressing our community.
forbeslivestock.com.au
Email us info@forbeslivestock.com.au
Phone us 02 6852 2299 Tim Mackay 0424 116 631 Randal Grayson 0428 287 020
Grace 0427 422 383
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Which shortened Latin term means “for the time being” (3,3)
8 What is an orchestral composition forming the prelude to an opera (8)
9 Name a private or personal concern (6)
10 Which persons fix windows with glass (8)
11 What is a fleet of warships (6)
12 Name a coastal resort in SE France, on the Riviera (4)
13 Who wrote The War of the Worlds, and The Time Machine, H G ... (5)
16 Name late Australian Aboriginal rock singer, Archie ... (5)
19 What is a colloquial term for an earlier pound note (4)
21 When one circulates counterfeit money, one does what (6)
22 Which dog originated in Newfoundland, Canada (8)
23 Name a renowned US band leader, Woody ... (6)
24 Name a former English colony on the Atlantic coast of North America (8)
25 To have brought forward any point for discussion, is to have done what (6) DOWN
2 Name another term for an umpire (7)
Letters
Some
3 What is physical exertion, especially when painful (7)
4 Daniel who, was known as “Mad Dog” (6)
5 Name the owner of a rural property on which sheep or cattle are pastured (7)
6 Which contagious disease resembles scarlet fever (7)
7 Name a title applied to Jesus (7)
13 Name an English crime novelist, Edgar ... (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
14 Who was an Australian painter and sculptor, born in Russia, George ... (7)
15 What are sudden strong winds also called (7)
17 Toronto is the capital of which province in Southern Canada (7)
18 Name an alternative term for butchery (7)
20 Name a county in northeastern England (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 AUTONYM
(a) Hallucination of an image of one’s body
(b) An author’s real name
(c) A true impress or copy of the original
2 EQUIVOCAL
(a) Of doubtful meaning
(b) Without ghorsereat variations (c) In the direction of the equinox
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 the earliest (7) Desire strongly (5)
Each (5)
Fish (3)
Graph: ...-chart (3) Insect (3)
Irrefutable evidence (5) Letter (3)
Openings (5) Player piano (7)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Bourke and Elliott a solid pairing
By PETER BRISTOL
Saturday was the third 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 4Ball Worst Ball – where the worst score of the 2 person team are counted.
There were 63 starters.
The winners on the day were Andrew Bourke and Jack Elliott who compiled a solid 32 points.
The competition is more suited to a low marker team and Andrew and Jack worked well in tandem to basically score a par stableford score on each hole.
Prominent amongst the chasing pack were the ‘Baron’ Rob Cheney and Ian Hendry, in need of an optometrist on the day, who managed a 30 point haul.
In the Individual stakes it was Jordan Grosvenor who stood tall, with 42 points on his card. He was 2 points clear at the end of the day with Craig Dunn, eating away at his handicap again, with Charlie Howe and Andrew Bourke on the same score.
Jordan is just getting into the more regular appearance on the course, and this is aiding his accuracy.
He had a very good 41 on the front nine o his 16 handicap and then did likewise on the back nishing with a nice birdie on the last hole.
The New Nearest The Pins Sponsors ongoing from Saturday were – Bridgestone Mining 1st by Tony Hendry at 74cm, Gri ns Leading Edge by Chad Porter at 215cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Andrew Bourke at 99cm, the Westlime 11th by Phil Bishop at 233cm, the Gulf Western Oil 17th by Wayne Tucker at 179cm.
The lucrative money hole was won by Wayne Tucker at 179cm.
Ball winners were Craig Dunn, Charlie Howe, Andrew Bourke 40, Rob Cheney 39, Nathan Johnston, Wayne Tucker, Peter Magill 38.
The winners on Saturday were Jack Elliott (pictured) and partner Andrew Bourke who compiled a solid 32 points.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
GOLF
Memorial triples success
RAILWAY BOWLS
By PAUL LEWIN
Wednesday, January 22 saw 24 bowlers roll up for Social Bowls.
Winners were Gene Rapp and Kevi Hynds winning 19+8.
Runners Up were Paul Lewin and Denis Daley winning 17+14.
Marble 21 came out and the Margins were 5, 8, 9, 14, 17 & 17.
The Jackpot this week is a whopping $676.00.
The Parkes Services Club Power Play Pairs Round 6 was played on Thursday, January 23.
Weekly winners were High Rollers, Low Rollers and Rhinos.
Leaving the Rhinos on top from the High Rollers and Low Rollers.
Only 10 players rocked up for Social Bowls on Saturday, January 25 with lots of bowlers playing championships.
Winners were Lea Tanks and Pauline Currey winning 15+3.
Runners Up were John Corcoran, Myra Townsend and Dave Littlewood winning 13+6.
On Sunday, January 26 we had our inaugural running of the Chris Dunn Memorial Triples Australia Day Bowls, proudly sponsored by Chris’ family and we thank them for their support and for honouring our mate.
We would like to thank everyone involved in making the day so special, especially Chips and Bung on the BBQ, Jed behind the
bar and Pete for catching our memories.
Winners with a massive 3 wins +32 were Junior Thorne, Geo Leonard and Andrew Trotman.
Runners Up were Marty Fitzpatrick, Stevie Torrens and Paul Townsend with 3 wins +13.
Club Championships
In the Major Singles Geo Leonard played Paul Kirwan.
Geo led 5 nil a er 3 ends. Paul got it back to 5 all a er 5 ends.
Geo got out to 10-5 a er 8 ends and 17-7 a er 12 ends. Geo kept it going to win 25-9.
In the Major Pairs Lea Tanks and Juicy Daley played Ray Grifth and Tony Bright.
Gri and Brighty led 5-1 a er 3 ends and 9-2 a er 6 ends.
Gri and Brighty led 16-5 a er 9, 20-7 a er 11 ends and ran away with it 29-11.
In more Major Pairs action we had Peter Creith and Peter Job play Dave Johnson and Blake Strudwick.
Dave and Blake led 10-1 a er 5 ends and 11-7 a er 10 ends.
Dave and Blake led 15-10 a er 14 and 15-14 a er 17 ends.
The Peter’s got it back to 16 all a er 19 ends and hit the lead for the rst time since the rst end 17-16 a er 20 but Dave and Snake picked up a 3 to win the game 1917.
In the Club Fours we had Wally Grant, Goerge Greenhalgh, Helen Clark and Dale McGlone play Bill
Dodd, Terry Clothier, Dave Ford and Greg Howlett.
Team Grant led 4 nil a er 3 ends. Team Howlett got it back to 5 all a er 8 ends and 7 all a er 11 ends.
A er 14 ends it’s 10 all. Team Grant li and a er 17 ends they lead 14-11 and they go on with it to win the game 18-12.
Pennant Trial
We have a Trial against Dubbo Macquarie on Saturday, February 8 at 10am.
Please let Lewi know if you are unavailable. Teams will be out shortly for this.
BPL Cup
We will be hosting some rounds of the BPL Cup quali ers at our club.
Starting Friday, February 21 at 6pm and running every three weeks we should have plenty of fast paced action.
Nominations will be available shortly on bowlslink.
This week we have Social Bowls on Wednesday, January 29 at 1pm.
The Parkes Services Club’s Power Play Pairs on Thursday 30th January at 6pm and Social Bowls on Saturday, February 1 at 1pm. 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 of bowls, please note the following.
A little too hot for bowls
LADIES BOWLS
By LEA ORR
Today’s score: Heatwave 1... Bowls 0!
Just a few dates for the diary, girls:
Tuesday, 11 February – a shared lunch, cake and pavlovas to celebrate Frances’ birthday! Please bring a small savoury plate for lunch, followed by the cake and pavs. Come and say g’day to everyone about 12.30pm!
Tuesday, 18 February – trading table, gifts to the value of $15 please.
March 18 – our Gala Day - Garden Party theme.
Just keep in mind we are catering for the Open Pennants on each Sunday from February 23 to March 23. Helpers will be required, please consider (see Lea).
Nominations are now open for Club Major Pairs and will be open for two weeks only. Find your partner soon!
To play social bowls next Tuesday, 4 February, call the club, 6862 1446, between 9am–9.30, with play to begin at 10am. All welcome. Stay cool, ladies!
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 general 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. Quickshine Punters Club
Calling all punters. Punters club starts this Saturday so still time to get in on the action. Runs for 40 weeks.
3 di erent clubs. $2 week. $5 week. $10 week.
Chance of winning some good cash. $2500 top prize in the Melbourne Cup sweeps. And some keno action too.
All info on the board at the club or msg/ring benny Mac for more details. 0407171711.
See you at the Railway!
SSAA news: Five shooters near perfect scores
By BRIAN DRABSCH
Last Sunday saw 8 shooters attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex on the Back Trundle Road and shot at standard targets at both 25 and 50 metres for a collective score of 500 points.
TARGET RIFLES: 25M, 50M, TOTAL
• Jeff Charlton 250, 248, 498.
• John Davis 250, 246, 496.
• Dave Tanks 250, 245, 495.
• Brian Drabsch 250, 242, 492.
• Beverly Drabsch 244, 206, 450.
FIELD RIFLES
• Ron Cunningham 249, 241, 490
• Jim Nash 227, 206, 433.
• Harry Schaumburg 226 for 25m only.
Our next shoot is at 10am Sunday 2/2/2025 on a feral animal target.
Shooters are reminded that if you rely on the SSAA to hold a shooters license you have to attend four shoots for target and two for hunting, and reminders will be sent out in the next two weeks.
If you require a test for a new license just ring Brian for an appointment on 6862 1969.
Wisdom leads way on Australia Day
Geo and Bruce won 7 of the remaining ends to close to margin to just 2 shots a er the nal end.
Ron and Ian were pleased to pack their bowls away, feeling pleased the game nished when it did.
Ron and Ian won by 17 shots 15 over the fast- nish-
ends, li ing their spirits to enjoy a handy 5 shot lead. Colin and Warren won 4 shots on the next 2 ends, to take the lead again by 19 shots to 18, with 2 ends to bowl.
Marty and Tony won thenal 2 ends, to win the game by 22 shots to 19, over Colin and Warren.
Despite leading by 2 shots a er the 17th end, team Riordan were over-run by the fast- nishing trio of Ward, Woods and Miller who won each of the remaining ends. John, and the 2 Cols’ won by 22 shots to 17 over team Ri-
a hearing aid to bowl’ Mudie. A er a tight tussle, team Mudie won by 20 shots to 17, courtesy of winning 5 consecutive ends in the second half of the game. The score in the pairs game between Ethan Lacey and Gary McPhee who played against John Carr and Brian
the record, John and Brian defeated Ethan and Gary by 22 shots to 15.
Saturday social bowls
Sixteen social Bowlers escaped the air-conditioning at home to sweat through 2 games of triples and 1 pairs game.
John Ward, Col Woods and
Joanne Simpson, John Carr and John ‘P&O’ Wright were too strong for Jim Blake, Dave Parker and Colin Mudie, winning by 26 shots to 17.
The game was as good as over by the 12th end when team Wright led by 14 shots to 5.
Team Mudie staged a mini- comeback over the
able roll and win over Ethan Lacey and Mick Simpson, winning by 26 shots to 11. Ethan and Mick tried hard all game, but winning only 5 ends for the whole game was never going to end well. The lucky rink draw for $100 was not won, and now sits at $110 next Thursday. Social bowls are played each Thursday and Saturday at 1pm, names in by 12.30pm and, as always, the ‘friendly club’ welcomes all visitors to play social bowls. Ladies bowls are played on Tuesday. Friday ra es and members draw are held from 7pm. The members draw jackpot is now $1500.
Gong for Sarah as sport stars recognised
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
She’s tackled hundreds of kilo metres on foot, including on the in ternational stage and through the Goobang National Park.
Now distance runner Sarah Har tin is the Parkes Shire Sportsperson of the Year for 2024.
Recognising the shire’s most out standing sportspeople on Sunday during the Australia Day celebra tions, the 32-year-old was awarded the top gong ahead of her fellow talented nominees Jack Westcott in hockey and last year’s winner Danielle McDonald in motorcycle racing.
Relatively new to the sport, Sarah completed her rst half marathon in 2020 only 16 months a er her rst daughter was born, igniting her passion for long-distance run ning.
She won her rst trail race last year and nished in the top 10 of her rst international 100km race.
She also established the Parkes Running Group (PRG), a support ive, inspiring group of locals who train together every week.
During 2024, Sarah planned and completed a 130km endurance run through the Goobang National Park, which included members of the Parkes Running Group pacing with her as she moved through six stages of the run.
She also had a lm crew accom pany her journey and there are plans for the lm called Project Goobang to premiere in Parkes in April.
“I was doing 100km training weeks,” Sarah said.
“It was mainly to put Goobang National Park on the map... to showcase what’s out there.
“It’s super untouched, not many people have been there or know what’s there.”
Sarah also trains a number of young athletes, including Ryker Moore who has taken out this year’s Junior Sportsperson of the Year.
“For the establishment of a new sport in Parkes, her running achievements and willingness to help out our young aspiring runners, Sarah is a worthy winner,” Sarah’s award nomination read.
Ryker Moore was up against 18 other junior athletes vying for the Junior Sportsperson of the Year title.
“By far this is the largest eld of nominees and the most dicult category from which to select a winner,” Parkes Sports Council chairperson Al Gersbach said.
“This category was bristling with very talented and outstanding sports stars of the future including three national champions in Riley Horsbrough for clay target shooting, Henry Kross for squash and Ryker Moore.”
Ryker has excelled in the eld of athletics as a sprinter in the 200m, 400m and 800m, winning multiple state titles and most recently coming rst in Australia for the 400m and 200m mixed relay at the Australian Athletics Championships in Adelaide, where the relay team set a new championship record.
TEAM OF THE YEAR
This year there were many outstanding team e orts.
In this category the nominees were Parkes Marist U16s (rugby league), Parkes Boars Ladies (rugby), the Parkes Spacemen (rugby league) and winners the Parkes Under 16 Boys Hockey Team.
The Parkes Under 16 Boys were named joint winners at the NSW State Championships in Division 1. They made it to the semi- nal and showed determination in claiming
coaching roles in hockey.
the win, 1-0 over Newcastle. Unfortunately, due to the elds being ooded and deemed unplayable for the nal, the boys were declared joint winners with Northwest Sydney.
ships as well as being a member of the Parkes Over 45s Team that nished joint state champions and the Parkes Masters Team that nished on top of the Western Masters League competition.
role in sport.
And this year’s recipient is Chris Reynolds for touch football.
bers and provide opportunities for prospective swimmers.
In the round games Parkes and Northwest Sydney played out a 0-0 draw.
“The Under 16 Boys were punching above their weight at state, and Parkes punches above its weight in hockey,” team coach Ian Westcott said.
SENIOR SPORTSPERSON OR TEAM
This category is once again dominated by hockey players and included the Casey Miles, Maureen Massey, Denise Gersbach, Dean Powter, Mandy and lan Westcott, and Lee Hodge.
With the award going to Lee this year, she’s managed to t a lot into 2024 as a player, manager and coach.
On the back of bringing home a gold medal with the NSW Over 70s and a bronze with the NSW Over 40s teams, both in an assistant coach role, Lee represented Australia Masters as a player in the Over 45s team at the Indoor World Cup in Nottingham and as an assistant coach with the Over 55 Women’s Team at the World Cup in Auckland.
Locally, Lee has coached and mentored juniors through to masters players for many years and this year facilitated training for Parkes’ masters players in the lead up to state and national championships as well as the World Cups.
Lee was an integral member of the Parkes team that took home the Division 2 Indoor State Champion-
“It is for her all-round contribution to and participation in women’s masters hockey that the committee recognises Lee as the Senior Sportsperson for 2024,” Mr Gersbach said.
COACH, TRAINER
OR MANAGER OF THE YEAR
This award recognises excellence in coaching, training or managing a team in a team sport, with nominees including Jason O’Bryan (junior rugby league), Lee Hodge for hockey and Angela Bottaro-Porter for soccer.
Angela was recognised for her service to soccer in 2024 when she was awarded life membership of the Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association.
She’s been involved with Parkes Soccer for more than 20 years starting as a player and being a valuable referee, coach and committee member.
Angela was also awarded the Female Regional Coach of the Year at the recent Football NSW Coaching Conference.
An emotional Angela proudly accepted her award on Sunday.
“I love my sport,” she said.
She added that she would like to see and that she always strives to get more people involved in volunteering.
REFEREE, UMPIRE OR OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR
This award recognises excellence and dedication, encouraging those who take on this crucial
Chris is passionate about and dedicated to the sport of touch football, in particular officiating as a referee.
He spends many hours dedicated to supporting, encouraging and developing younger referees at grass roots level within the Parkes Touch competition.
He’s a certified level 6 referee (the highest possible grading) and has represented the Parkes region at many tournaments, most notably being selected to referee at the Masters Touch Football World Cup in England in 2024.
“Chris is Parkes’ most recognised referee in recent times, having received this award numerous times in the past for touch and last year for rugby,” Mr Gersbach said.
Chris said at the awards presentation that volunteering is still well alive in Parkes.
LONG SERVICE AND DEDICATION
Finalists in this category included long-time coach and previous award recipient Helen Magill and Barbara Weaver for swimming.
The award went to Barbara for her five decades of service to Parkes Swimming.
As a qualified and accredited coach, Barbara has played a crucial role in developing swimmers’ skills and helping them achieve their goals, including qualifying for state and national championships. She’s been instrumental in organising events and activities, such as the ‘come and try’ days, which aim to attract new mem-
Her mentorship has led to numerous successes for the club’s swimmers, including representing their schools in various competitions and achieving state qualifiers.
“Barbara’s commitment to the Parkes Swimming Club and her efforts to nurture young talent have made her a respected and valued member of the local swimming community,” Mr Gersbach said on Sunday.
“In fact many of us here today have been taught to swim by Barbara.”
Barbara said swimming is a life skill and something she’s been very passionate about for 50 years.
“I could have done anything but [there’s] joy and a wonderful feeling of teaching children to swim,” she said.
“I encourage all the grandparents, you can be as old as me and still get that wonderful feeling.”
ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
This award recognises excellence in sports leadership and administration, with finalists including Rachel Rice and Andrew Thomas who both oversaw growth in touch and junior league, and Wayne Osbourne in soccer.
This award recognises Wayne’s leadership at the helm of Parkes Soccer over a number of years, which culminated in his life membership award in 2024.
Wayne has been a driving force for Parkes Soccer who have seen some major improvements in its facilities including changeroom upgrades, drainage, parking and a new storage facility.
Our sports people of 2024 Masters strike gold at indoor hockey nationals
The Parkes Over 50s Masters Women’s team has returned home victorious, claiming gold at the prestigious Hockey Australia Masters Indoor Challenge in Canberra from January 20 to 22.
Competing in the competitive Over 50s division, the team delivered an outstanding performance, going undefeated through the three-day competition before sealing the gold medal match with a composed 3-1 victory.
The tournament attracted some of the best Masters Indoor Hockey players from across Queensland, Tasmania, NSW, Victoria and the ACT, showcasing the exceptional standard of competition.
Parkes rose to the challenge, displaying grit and precision in every game.
The team’s round matches set the tone for their dominance, with decisive wins of 3-1 (scorers: Jenine Watson, Denise Gersbach, Kath Boicos), 3-0 (Narelle Richardson 2, Amy Billett), and 4-0 (Denise Gersbach 2, Jenine Watson 2).
They overcame a nail-biting semi- nal to emerge with a 2-0 victory (Jenine Watson, Jane Mattiske), paving the way to their gold medal success.
In the grand final, the Parkes women showed their class with a composed and structured performance, defeating their opponents 3-1.
Goals from Kath Boicos, Jenine Watson, and Narelle Richardson capped off an incredible campaign.
The team owes much of its success to their experienced coach David Mike, who has been guid-
ing Parkes Masters indoor hockey for over 17 years.
With his wealth of experience coaching at both Australian and NSW levels, Mike’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the team’s strategy and cohesion throughout the tournament.
Reflecting on their success, coach David Mike praised the team’s dedication and teamwork.
“The women demonstrated exceptional discipline, structure, and composure in every game,” he said.
“This gold medal is a testament to their hard work and passion for the sport.”
The team’s indoor hockey season is far from over, as two Parkes teams are set to compete in the NSW Masters State Championships in Goulburn starting on January 31.
PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB
Parkes Harness Racing Club will race again this coming Friday night 31st January 2025. We have 8 races scheduled with the first to start at 6.10pm. Gates will open to the public at 5pm with free entry or all patrons.
FullBar, Canteen & TAB facilities will be available on course
Sponsors for the meeting are:
PARKES LEAGUES CLUB
LANGLANDS HANLON
PARKES FARM CENTRE
TOM YOUNG CONCRETING
GARRARDS HORSE & HOUND
GRENFELL COMMODITIES
KENNARDS PARKES
of the Year.
pictured with her six-year-old daughter Rhylee. PHOTOS: Christine Little
■ Full story of our Australia Day sport award winners and more photos can be found on page 19.