PCP20250220

Open the gateway

Gateway development at the junction of the new

CONSTRUCTION on a state-of-the-art service centre, located within the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (SAP) along the new Newell Highway bypass, has begun.

The news was announced this week following a sodturn ceremony on the site of what will be the BP Highway Service Centre at the junction of the new bypass and Henry Parkes Way (Condobolin Road), to the west of the new roundabout. The development by the Stevens Group, in partnership with Parkes Shire Council and the NSW Government’s Regional Growth Development Corporation (RGDC), is also located at the Parkes SAP’s northern gateway that will connect the precinct with the Parkes town

centre and Newell Highway.

The rst stage of the project commenced construction in late 2024, with bulk earthworks, servicing and road infrastructure underway.

Once complete the Highway Service Centre will be anchored by BP with a convenience store, truck drivers

Construction begins on new service centre

lounge with showers, laundry and diner, and 26 heavy vehicle parking spaces to provide a much needed rest stop on this signi cant transport route.

Stage 1 of the northern gateway is set to coincide with the completion of the bypass in mid 2025.

“Wednesday’s modest sod-

turning ceremony belies the signi cance of this crucial development,” Mayor of Parkes Shire Neil Westcott said.

“This project is more than just a service centre; it serves as the gateway to the heart of national logistics and the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.

“We are thrilled to partner with esteemed developers like the Stevens Group and BP, whose involvement underscores the quality and national importance of this site.

“This development will not only serve the Newell Highway but also the expansive 4700-hectare Eco-industrial Special Activation Precinct.” Along with the service ■ Continued on page 3

The Parkes

Newell Highway bypass and Henry Parkes Way (Condobolin Road).

PHOTO: Supplied

Rex may be nationalised if no private buyer for airline

By Kat Wong and Jacob Shteyman for AAP

The federal government could buy out regional carrier Rex Airlines if a suitable private sector bidder can’t be found.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government would work with Rex administrators to nd a buyer committed to providing ongoing service to the regions, value for money and good governance.

If that falls through, Labor will begin working on contingency plans - including preparations for a potential Commonwealth acquisition.

“The collapse of Rex ... endangers access of these regional communities throughout Australia to our capital cities and to the connectivity that is so vital for the quality

of life, so vital for these local economies as well,” Mr Albanese told reporters in Merimbula, on the NSW south coast.

During the previous coalition government, Rex received substantial Commonwealth support in the form of JobKeeper payments and direct funds, Mr Albanese said.

But without strings attached to the payments, Rex expanded beyond its means into capital city routes, leaving it in a “ nancial mess” that his government now had to deal with.

This will be the second attempt to sell Rex a er it fell into voluntary administration in mid-2024.

Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said it was evident through the first sales process that without government support, a private sale was unlikely to be successful.

“My department will work with successful bidders on an incentives package from the Commonwealth government,” she said.

“It is absolutely critical for regional communities that Rex continues to operate and continues to provide those services.

“We know they are ying 41 different routes every single week, and on 22 of those, they are the only airline that is available to communities to get to medical appointments, to get businesses working, to get people in and out for tourism.”

Questions were raised over the government’s role in Rex’s future a er it acquired $50 million of debt from Rex’s largest creditor to ensure the airline could continue operations and loaned up to $80 million so the carrier could run regional routes until the end of June.

Should Rex be nationalised, it would be the rst time a federal government has owned an airline in three decades a er Qantas was privatised in 1995.

Deputy opposition leader Sussan Ley blamed the government’s “failure of management” for allowing Rex to go under in the rst place.

“Governments shouldn’t own airlines,” she told Sky News.

“Because that means that taxpayers own them and taxpayers pay for them.”

Mr Albanese said when markets failed, the government had to intervene in the aviation sector and look out for regional communities.

“We know internationally, Air New Zealand next door is owned more than 50 per cent by the government,” he said.

“The reason why governments

WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes

150TH ANNIVERSARY

February 21-23

The Anglican Ministry at St George’s Church is celebrating 150 years this year with some exciting events planned over three days in February. Friday will see an open house with live music at 4pm and a guest talk at 7pm. A celebration dinner at the Parkes Services Club on the Saturday at 6.30pm and a celebration and Thanksgiving Service at 10am on Sunday. See advertisement on page 5. Call 6862 1868 or visit their website parke sanglican.org.au for more details.

COUNTRY SOUNDS

Saturday, February 22

Country Sounds returns in February! Rob bie Mortimer, Tyla Rodrigues, Baeden Faint and Gracey Jones will be rocking the Cooke Park Stage. Make sure to mark your calen dars 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.

BOGAN GATE PAINTING WORKSHOP

Monday, February 24

Bogan Gate Community Memorial Hall will be running a painting workshop for seniors. The workshop will commence at 10:30am. Participants will need to bring their own canvas. Please contact Shelley on 0428738172 for more information and to book your place.

END OF SUMMER PARTY

Friday, February 28

Parkes Bowling and Sports Club is saying goodbye to summer with an End Of Summer Party. It kicks o from 6pm with social bowls at 6.30pm, live music - Noah Dorin from 8pm-11pm, and there will be a jumping castle, kids giveaways and 30 ra e prizes.

LIBRARY LEGO WORKSHOP

Tuesday, March 4

It’s LEGO time for students in years 1 to 4. Have some fun at the Makerspace using LEGO BricQ Motion kits and engage in STEM learning, experimenting with forces, motion and interactions in the context of sports. The

ings can be made at the Parkes Library.

WELCOME TO PARKES

Wednesday, March 5

Are you new to the Parkes Shire? Join Parkes Shire Council at the Cooke Park Pavilion at 5:30pm to 7:30pm for this free event to learn about local services, meet councillors and sta , and enjoy prizes and ra es in a welcoming atmosphere. RSVP by February 23 by completing the form via https://bit.ly/ WelcomeToTheParkesShire2025, email council@parkes.nsw.gov.au or call 6861 2333.

GREAT MOSCOW CIRCUS

March 6 to 9

At the Parkes Showground The Great Moscow Circus will be ready to entertain you and your family. With superstar international extreme acts this is a circus performance not to miss.

CHARITY WRESTLING SUPERSHOW

Friday, March 7

the world, whether you look at Singapore, BA got bailed out, Alitalia, Lu hansa, as well as of course the Middle Eastern Airlines, are all connected with their governments.

“There’s a reason for that, because aviation plays a critical role in communities.”

The government has also guaranteed Rex’s regional ight slots at Sydney Airport until October 2026.

The Transport Workers’ Union said nationalising Rex would be a signi cant turning point in building an aviation industry for the “public good”.

“This announcement ... is a huge moment for the aviation industry,” national secretary Michael Kaine said.

“This is a vital step towards a future where aviation actually works for the people of this country, not

Australian Wrestling Superstars is proudly joining forces with Peak Hill Roosters Rugby League Club to raise funds for Parkes PCYC team to compete in the Nations of Origin tournament during NAIDOC week 2025. Head on down to the Parkes Leagues Club and show your support when the Superstars of AWS put it all on the line in a bone-crunching, body-slamming, high-flying night of live pro wrestling action. Doors open 6.30pm, show starts at 7pm and tickets can be found at https:// events.humanitix.com/live-pro-wrestlingparkes-leagues-club-charity-supershowfor-parkes-pcyc. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to Parkes PCYC team for Nations of Origin 2025.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY LUNCHEON

Sunday, March 9

The International Women’s Day luncheon hosted by the Parkes Que Club at the Parkes Services Club is on Sunday, March 9 from 11.45am. There will be guest speakers, entertainment, a ra e, lucky door prizes and

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display/sales from local cra swomen. Tickets are $38 pp from 123tix.com.au/events by March 3.

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.

COMMUNITY FIBRE ARTS EXHIBITION OPENING

Saturday, March 15

The opening of the Community Fibre Arts Exhibition will be held at 10am to 12pm on Saturday, March 15 in the Coventry Room at the Parkes Shire Library where entry is free. The exhibition will be opened until Saturday, April 12. The exhibition will see art entries including applique, knitting, crochet, felting, sculptural, basketry, creative embroidery, collage, weaving and more. Make sure to check it out.

Fundraisers part of Gail’s cancer journey

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

Each year Musica Arioso in Parkes raises money for charity at its end of year recital.

Usually director and teacher Gail Smith likes to donate those funds to Father Chris Reilly’s Youth O The Streets program with the no tion of “children helping children” her motivation.

But in 2024 she wanted to make it a little more personal.

“Each year we like to donate whatever money we raise from our concert,” said Gail, who’s been teaching music for 30 years and founded Musica Arioso nine years ago this year.

“I like to donate to Father Chris Reilly’s Youth O The Streets, help ing to get children o the streets... I’ve been doing that for four or ve years.

“But with my diagnosis I wanted to support the McGrath Founda tion Breast Care Nurse and Can Assist.

“They run on funds the commu nity raise.”

Gail was diagnosed with breast cancer in February last year and she is immensely grateful to her friends who insisted she go for a mammogram.

“I just ippantly said ‘I can’t re member the last time I went for a breast screen’ and they said I needed to go and book in,” Gail said.

“And later on they called to see if I had made an appointment.

“I hate to think where I’d be if I hadn’t.”

Sod turn

■ From page 1.

centre, the northern gateway will include a future fast food, commercial and business park.

“Stevens Group is very proud to be part of the Parkes Special Activation Precinct. It is fantastic to see progress on-site on a project we have been working on for many years,” said Development Director of the Stevens Group Jason Capuano.

“This rst stage of the 20ha Parkes Gateway Precinct will be a state-of-the-art Highway Service Centre that will provide much needed infrastructure to service the Parkes SAP and heavy vehicles using the Newell Highway.

“Future stages will provide a great opportunity

“It blows your mind and I had no idea,” Gail said. She said she had started to notice changes in her body but had put them down to menopause and being rundown.

hides, you don’t know it’s there.”

Musica Arioso held 60 performances over three concerts in music and drama on November 17 for family and friends of its students.

A total of $3400 was raised from

Foundation Breast Care Nurse Di Green and the other half going to Parkes Can Assist.

Gail was very pleased with the outcome.

“Di Green’s wage is subsidised be-

tween the McGrath Foundation and NSW Health but that’s it,” she said.

“What I didn’t know is anything else she needs [to do her job] she has to raise herself.”

And as many may know, Parkes Can Assist is run by volunteers and whatever funds are raised or donated to them is given back to supporting and nancing local cancer patients through one of the hardest times in their lives.

“There are lots of other charities that rely on fundraising that people are unaware of - like there’s wigs for cancer patients done through Janice Cassidy, and Michelle Mikita at Mikita Barbershop shaves and styles your hair at no charge to you,” Gail said.

“So there are those quiet achievers in our town, then there’s groups like Georgie’s Pantry who can help you with grocer-

“Because of having no immune system [with treatment] I couldn’t work in childcare, so I lost income.”

Gail also raised additional funds for Di Green and Can Assist early on in her journey with the full support of the Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society.

Before her operation last March Gail shaved her head in front of the entire cast of Annie during one of its rehearsals.

She raised $2000 and donated half each to Di Green and Can Assist.

“My hair was something I could have control over,” Gail said.

marks start of service centre construction

for industrial and trade retail businesses to be located closer to their customers.”

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the Newell Highway is the longest and one of the busiest transport routes in regional NSW and that tra c brings opportunities for further growth and investment in the Parkes region.

“With its prime position on the Newell Highway, the Parkes Gateway will o er unique business spaces with highway frontage and the ability to host infrastructure like data centres that will support improved regional networks,” she said.

BP Senior Vice President of Mobility, Con-

venience and Midstream Australia and New Zealand, Paul Augé added Parkes is a key transport corridor for many drivers, from family road trips to truck drivers travelling across the country.

“This strategic location complements our national network well, o ering drivers a convenient place to rest, refuel and recharge for the rest of their journeys,” he said.

Special Activation Precincts are part of the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund, dedicated to major and transformative infrastructure projects that will bene t regional NSW.

For more information visit www.nsw.gov.au/ parkessap Corporation, and Development

Director Stevens Group Jason Capuano, at the sod ceremony.

Isabella’s passion for performing arts

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

A er a big year in 2024 for our 2025 Parkes Young Citizen of the Year, Isabella Hughes, shows no signs of slowing down in 2025.

In 2024 Isabella was a part of the Pulse Alive Show in Sydney.

Pulse Alive is a large-scale event held every March at Ken Rosewall Arena, Sydney Olympic Park.

The event provides highquality opportunities in performing arts for students and teachers from NSW public schools.

Being a part of the show for Isabella included rehearsals from 9am to 5pm from Sunday to Friday and performing shows on the Thursday and Friday nights which were 9am to 10pm days.

Following this Isabella took part in a week long Pulse Alive program in Moree where she had the opportunity to share her love of dance with kids who don’t have the same opportunities to participate in dance and performing arts.

“It was a di erent experience to me because normally I’m the one that’s being taught and not teaching,” Isabella said.

“It was a good experience because it means that I get to broaden my knowledge and my skills which could eventually help me in the future.”

Isabella’s favourite part of this experience was seeing

everyone come together at the end of the week and perform the nal performance.

“It’s a satisfying feeling.”

Isabella was lucky enough to be selected to participate in the Pulse Alive show and tour again this year.

This year she will be a part of the Pulse Alive show where she will perform on March 19 and 20 in Sydney.

Instead of touring Moree she will be taking the trip to Broken Hill to teach more kids some performing arts skills.

“I’ve never been anywhere close to Broken Hill before so I’m excited to go somewhere and work with some new kids and more people a part of the company,” she said.

Isabella said the tour is important because it teaches kids to give everything a go.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s not your background,” she said.

“Even the kids who didn’t dance or they didn’t sing, they just gave it a go and it turned out really good. A lot of them found hobbies out if too. Just take the opportunity.”

This experience was one of the many reasons Isabella was nominated for Parkes Young Citizen of the Year.

Last year Isabella also took part in an eight month mentorship with Regional Futures for Theatre where she was mentored by actor Kate Smith.

Isabella, with Kate’s guidance worked towards the -

nal showcase where Isabella performed a dance and monologue.

Isabella also achieved her Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award.

“We went to Berry in April and we completed a practical camp where we had to hike 12km, kayak 14km and take part in a lot of team building activities.”

In July Isabella returned to Berry and completed a 20km hike which Isabella said was very muddy, as well as a 15km kayak accompanied by more team building activities.

In October she took part in the nal camp.

To add to all of her achievements for last year the year 12 Parkes High School student was also elected as a prefect for the senior leadership team for 2025.

When Isabella arrived at Cooke Park for the Australia Day ceremony she was confused why everyone was congratulating her on her nomination as she had no idea she was nominated for 2025 Parkes Young Citizen of the Year.

“It’s a very big honour, I was in shock because it was the last thing I was expecting,” Isabella said.

This year Isabella hopes to continue stepping outside of her comfort zone.

“Last year was a big year, there are a lot of things happening this year too so I’m just excited,” Isabella added.

SETH KING IS OUR STAR OF THE WEEK

Seth King is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love, and Trust), making a great start to the year, and consistently showing enthusiasm in all aspects of school life.

What is your favourite subject?

Mathematics

In your free time, what do you like to do?

Play computer games

What is your favourite food?

Pizza

What do you like most about Holy Family School?

The basketball court

What are your strengths?

I’m good at counting

What would you like to be when you grow up ?

A chef

CHARLS CHEN IS OUR STAR OF THE WEEK

Charls Chen Is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love, and Trust) and for always participating enthusiastically in all school events.

What is your favourite subject?

English

In your free time, what do you like to do?

I love shing

What is your favourite food?

Chicken and beef kebab

What do you like most about our school?

Gaining new knowledge and skills

What are your strengths?

Fishing and computer games

What would you like to be when you grow up?

A car mechanic

Community Newsletter

COUNTRY SOUNDS

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, and Gracey Jones.

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

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Parkes Shire Council wishes to advise of the following temporary road closure and parking restrictions in Parkes for the Country Sounds at the Pavilion fireworks display.

A closure of the laneway alongside the Council Chambers, between Bogan Street and Cecile Street, and the two carparks located either side of the Post Office is scheduled for Saturday, 22 February 2025.

The Council carpark (Post Office Carpark) will be closed from 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm. During this time, no cars are permitted to park in the area. Parking restrictions will be in place along the northern side of Cecile Street, between Bogan and Welcome Streets, along with the western side of Welcome Street, between Cecile Street and the St Vincent’s De Paul building.

The Council Carpark (Council Carpark) will be closed from 6:00 am - 9:30 pm.

Residents and businesses are requested to always exercise caution when around the work area and to follow the instructions of Traffic Control staff onsite.

Should you have any queries in relation to this matter, please do not hesitate to contact Council’s Operations Department, on 02 6861 2333.

NOTICE OF WORKS

Council wishes to advise that LED pedestrian lighting will be operating on the crossing outside the Broadway Hotel on Clarinda Street, Parkes.

This installation is a 12-month trial aimed at improving vehicle and pedestrian interactions by reducing the crossing distance. The flashing lights will be activated by detecting pedestrian movement and will also feature a manual button, ensuring that the lights only flash when required.

The lights are scheduled to be operational from Monday 24 February 2025.

Your feedback during this trial period is welcomed.

If you have any queries regarding these works, please contact Council’s Acting Project Engineer, Mr Liam Willoughby, on 02 6861 2333, or email Council at council@parkes.nsw.gov. au.

WELCOME TO THE PARKES SHIRE

If you are new to the Parkes Shire, Council invites you to join us at our Welcome to the Parkes Shire event.

This free event will be held on Wednesday 5 March 2025, 5:30pm-7:30pm at Cooke Park Pavilion. Come along and learn more about our local services, meet our Councillors and staff, and enjoy prizes and raffles in a welcoming atmosphere!

Please RSVP by 23rd February 2025, by emailing council@parkes.nsw.gov.au, or calling 6861 2333.

For more information, visit Council’s website.

SHEEP TENDER

Notice is given that Parkes Shire Council has impounded one (1) Dorper (sheep) and two (2) cross breed sheep from the Trundle area on Tuesday, 23 April 2024.

The owner may claim the animals by providing appropriate identification and paying all expenses incurred by Council. To arrange collection, please contact Council’s Ranger on 6861 2373.

If not released, the sheep will be sold by public tender, which closes at 12 noon on Monday 3 March 2025. All tenders must be lodged in the Tender Box at Council’s Administration Centre, or emailed to tenders@parkes.nsw.gov.au. Please note that the lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Tenders should be clearly marked “Sheep Tender” and addressed to:

The General Manager

Parkes Shire Council PO Box 337 PARKES NSW 2870

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Parkes Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from Businesses in Parkes for the rental of a Dining Platform.

Your EOI should be addressed to council@parkes. nsw.gov.au outlining the location of where in the vicinity of your business you would like to place the Dining Platform.

A draft Agreement is available for review on Council’s website. EOI’s close Friday 7 March 2025. An Expression of Interest does not guarantee acceptance.

If you have any queries, please contact Council’s Manager Facilities, Sharon Ross, on 02 6861 2343.

Entry forms for the Fibre Arts Exhibition are due on 28 February 2025. Entry forms can be dropped off to the Coventry Room at Parkes Shire Library between Monday 3 March and Thursday 6 March or emailed to Sharon.Degeling@parkes.nsw.gov.au.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Are you a local Parkes Shire not-for-profit or community based organisation looking for a helping hand? Round 2 of Parkes Shire Council’s Community Financial Assistance Program is open. This round includes General grants of up to $1,000.00 for a specific purpose or event, and Leasing and Licencing grants to request a reduction in leasing and licensing fees on Council owned properties.

For more information or to apply, scan the QR code. For assistance completing your application, contact Council’s Governance team: 02 6861 2333.

Applications close at 5pm, Friday 28th February 2025.

150 years of Anglican Ministry

A big celebration for Parkes Anglican Church

1875

The Church of England, Parish of Parkes, was created in 1875 and at that time included several neighbouring towns.

On February 28 the Reverend R J Read became the first Anglican clergyman to be appointed to the Church of England in Parkes.

The first church, a timber building was built the same year and the first marriage solemnised on May 17 at 11am in St George’s Church Parkes between John Mobbs, a gold miner and Susan Hurkett.

This information was taken from the Marriage Register, which Gloria said, clearly indicated that the first Anglican Church, as well as the second and third were all called St George’s.

This first church was destroyed by fire at the end of 1918 or very early 1919, according to the old minute book of St George’s Vestry.

Baptism Register records show the first child baptised on March 14, 1875 was Lillian Jane - parents Robert and Clara Harrison, profession gold miner.

1875

There were 98 baptisms that year and the number of marriages for the year, performed throughout the district in homes, in Parkes, Trundle and Peak Hill, were nine.

1876

The first St George’s Church was consecrated on May 15.

1878

A site was dedicated at Bumberry for a church and parsonage.

1889

The foundation stone of the second St George’s Church was laid on May 23.

About 1889 a church was built at Tichborne at a cost of £100.

1906

An organist was appointed for St George’s at a salary of £20 per annum.

1910

A market day, probably the first of many was held on Easter Monday.

A telephone was installed in the rectory.

A flower show held about October.

1911

The laying of the foundation stone at St Stephen’s Bindogundra on December 13.

1912

The Bishop dedicated churches at Bogan Gate and Tichborne.

1913

It was moved at a meeting in June that a new church be built and the present church be used as a Sunday school but no action was taken at this stage.

1919

The Sunday school room, the first church, was destroyed by fire.

Incidentally the bell on the present day St George’s is the original one from the first Anglican Church in Parkes and has been rung every Sunday for about 150 years.

Cli Cowell rang the bell, which hung on the wooden frame east of its present position, when the Second World War ended in 1945. He was eight years old.

On August 15, 2020 Cli rang the very same bell at 11am to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific, VP Day.

1924

The first Anglican (Church of England) Debutante Ball was held.

1925

Electric lighting was connected to the church.

By May about £8000 had been collected for a third church.

1926

The foundation stone for the new church was laid on June 16.

1927

The first portion of the present St George’s Church was built for £12,000. This building included the sanctuary, chancel, north and south transepts tower crossing the vestries, side chapel and a portion of the nave, together with the kindergarten hall beneath the nave.

The total cost with furniture was £14,000.

The focal point of the western end of the church is the War Memorial Window, symbolising service and sacri ce. It was a gi from the Parkes RSL Sub-Branch in memory of fallen comrades of Parkes and the district, irrespective of creed, who gave their lives during the 1914-1918 War, the 1939-1945 War and the Korean War.

LEFT: Inside the grand St George’s Anglican Church in Parkes. BELOW: St George’s Anglican Church Women’s Group at the stairs of the church in the 1930s.

PHOTOS: Supplied

It’s one of the most signi cant buildings in Parkes, architecturally, and considered to be one of the nest country churches in the state.

St George’s Anglican Church on the corner of Church and Hill streets, standing at an incredible 80 feet high, was built in 1927 at a total cost of £14,000.

It has no arched Gothic windows but the mass and towers still give it a Gothic appearance. It adjoins the parish hall of 1889 with the north west end of the church added in 1955.

Its architect Louis Williams of Melbourne, a devotee to the interwar Gothic style.

While this glorious structure in the heart of the Parkes township is only 98 years young, its Anglican parish is marking a momentous 150 years of faith, fellowship and service to the community in 2025.

And its congregants are throwing a celebration this weekend to match.

To help mark this incredibly special occasion, here is a brief history of the early years of the Anglican ministry in the Parkes Shire, compiled from the research and history writings of Gloria Dietrich in ‘A history of the Anglican Church of Parkes’ and ‘Parkes 1983-2008 - Generation of Change’ by Eliza-

150th anniversary events

Members of St George’s Anglican Church have unearthed a treasure trove of thousands of photos, historic items and memorabilia, and information on the parish’s 150 years. Even right up to 2024 and 2025. And it’s well worth a look.

The memorabilia display will be open in the church hall on Friday from 3pm and Saturday from 10am to 2pm.

Reverend Ben Mackay said while it’s fantastic to have so much history on the years gone by, it’s great to show they’re celebrating and looking to the future as well.

FRIDAY

4pm – Open house: Come and explore the historic St George’s Parkes church building, view fascinating memorabilia and enjoy live music performed by talented local musicians.

7pm – Guest talk: Simon Smart from the Centre for Public Christianity will deliver an intriguing talk titled ‘How the Church Is Better and Worse Than You Ever Imagined’.

SATURDAY

6pm – Celebration dinner: A formal dinner will be held at the Parkes Services Club featuring a keynote speaker and reflections on the parish’s journey through the years.

SUNDAY

150 years of Anglican Ministry

10am - Celebration and Thanksgiving Service: A joyful worship service to thank God for His faithfulness and to celebrate the future of the parish.

outstanding architectural features rarely seen in such material in the fluted columns of the chancel arch.

The sanctuary is spacious and has a 10 foot altar of the English type, with viddels and dorsals.

The whole of the altar and sanctuary furniture is hand-wrought.

The cross, candlesticks, vases and sanctuary lamp are of hand-wrought copper and bronze. The chalice and paten are of hand-wrought silver with precious stones, and

the processional cross is silver and enamel.

All furniture within the church was designed by the architect.

The exterior has noble proportions, the chief feature being the great central tower which rises to a height of 80 feet above the kindergarten floor level. The last wedding held in the second St George’s Church was on November 7 between Victor Cole and Olive Wilson, and the first wedding in the new church was on November 26 of Owen Gosper and Daisy I land.

1933

The Bumberry Church was destroyed by fire about this time.

1935

Trouble began with pigeons on the building and has continued on and o ever since.

1937 By 1937 there had been 88 baptisms, 30 marriages, 36 burials and 136 confirmed for that year.

1956

The church purchased the corner block from the Municipal Council.

1959

The St George’s Anglican Youth Centre was dedicated and opened on November 13.

Parkes Bricks, Pavers and Tiles has a large display of all the popular brands. Come in and see our full range today or give us a call

Phone: 02 6862 2253

1960

Reedy Creek and Mandagery were included in the Parish of Parkes from July.

1961

In July a memorial rose garden was planned, fluorescent lights were installed at the church and in August the rectory was o ered for sale.

1962

There was discussion on designs and prices for a new rectory to be built on the southern side of the church grounds, at an estimated cost of £9000.

The old rectory and land adjoining was sole and leased back to the church until the end of December or until the new building was completed.

1975

Church centenary, 100 years since the first Anglican clergyman the Reverend R J Read took up residence and the first church was built.

St George’s Church was classified by the National Trust.

Over these years many diverse groups were formed - ladies guild, men’s club, girls guild, church choir, men’s society, young men’s club, church tennis club, sports committee, girls friendly society,

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boys hostel, St George’s Social Club, young wives group, St George Sing ers, Anglican Women of Australia and St George’s Parish Youth Committee.

Like with most longstanding institutions the Anglican Church of the Parish of Parkes and Peak Hill has faced its fair share of chal lenges, including changes to the type of ministry and the forms and times of worship. Such changes were intended to accommodate an ageing and declining congregation.

en were refurbished and parts of the church were re-carpeted.

Over the last 40 years a number of renovations and improvements have been carried out to the St George Church buildings.

The crypt, for many years used as a storeroom, was refurbished during the 1980s. A new auditorium was built, as well as a small meeting room and o ce.

In 1983 the old Shire Chambers in Currajong Street, owned by the church, became the temporary home of the St George’s Economy Shop.

In 1986 new lights were designed and installed in the church, the

Late in the 1990s the rectory was altered from two ats to a single home once again. In previous years it housed the assistant priest but from 2000 it became the home of the rector.

Maintenance is continually carried out, assisted by grants from the Heritage Council and the government, and money raised by the community.

Members of the St George’s Anglican Church in Parkes were busy preparing the memorabilia display on Wednesday - Cheryl Thompson, Carole Corbett, Betty Somers and Marg Klein. One of the special features in the display is this 1941 Signature tablecloth from the St George’s Church of England Women’s Guild.

PHOTO: Christine Little

Among the six Canberra Area Theatre Award nominations Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society received for Annie was Best Production of a Musical.

No win but six nominations ain’t bad

There’s no doubt about it, last year’s production of Annie is among the Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society’s best.

The judges involved in the Canberra Area Theatre (CAT) Award nominations saw it that way too. Annie, a production that was a sell-out by its second week last April received six CAT Award nominations.

The CAT Awards Gala Ceremony was held on February 15 at The Q in Queanbeyan.

And while the Parkes M and D didn’t come away with a winner in an area that covers 27 towns and cities, stretching from Dubbo to as far south as Albury-Wodonga and Merimbula, and includes the likes of Canberra, Campbelltown and Wollongong.

The Society was thrilled with the success of Annie, which had earned the nomination for Best Production of a Musical.

The remaining nominations all for the production of Annie included Russell Tanswell and Brian Townsend for Best Set Design for a Musical; Lyn Townsend, Elisa Massari and Tracey Ross for Best Costume Design for a Musical; Kimberley Ryan as Lily St Regis for Best Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical; and Lyn Townsend for Best Direction of a Musical. Lexi Herden, who was announced last November, was nominated for Best Youth Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical.

Police make arrest

Police have made an arrest in Parkes after a car was stolen from Forbes.

Officers arrested a 19-yearold male, who allegedly crashed the car near the Parkes skate park and fled on foot. He was tracked to the ground outside the units in Welcome Street and arrested.

Raft of works to enhance

Trundle Children’s Centre

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

Trundle Children’s Centre is showing no signs of slowing down as it continues to enhance and expand its facility for the community.

Thanks to a NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grant the centre has received $11,770 for new shade sails that will be added to the outdoor play area.

With extreme temperatures in summer and such a large outdoor space with little shade, the sails are a welcome addition.

“The only shade we had was over the sandpit, the shade sails will give us an extra play area in the heat of summer,” centre director Sarah Kilby said.

State Member for Orange Phil Donato made a return visit to the preschool and long daycare provider to see the sails in the process of being installed.

This old bowling green will no longer be unused - this year it will transform into a bush kindy for the Trundle Children’s Centre.

ing they’re receiving for a new play area shade sail I supported,” he said.

“This facility is so important to the community and helps prepare the kids for ‘big school’.”

The shade sails are part of a ra of improvements taking place at

The centre that boasts 42 children operates out of what was formerly Trundle’s bowling club and greens, and last year it received $80,000 to build a bush kindy on an unused green, to the le of the centre building.

Bush kindy is an outdoor early

learning program that encourages children to play in nature.

It’s a way to take learning outside and connect children with the natural environment.

Initial funds will go towards its plans and landscaping.

Bunnings has donated a chook yard, orchard, native bush tucker plants and a re pit.

The area will also include bike tracks and climbing trees.

“It’s an additional outdoor educational space,” Sarah said.

“Because we’re limited here it gives us another area to teach in and spend outdoors.”

Dooley Outdoors Landscaping has been tasked with the job with work beginning at the start of Term 2, around May.

This all comes on top of work to convert an unused storage shed into a multipurpose room a er more than $12,000 was raised and granted, news of which the Champion Post shared in November.

Jimmy Simmons, Ziggy Parker-Janbroers, Lilith Horkings and Trundle Children’s Centre director Sarah Kilby show Phil Donato how important the shade is in summer and (inset) Preschooler Jimmy Simmons shows State Member Phil Donato how good his counting skills are.

Celebrate International Women’s Day

By LYNN ROGERS

Members of the Parkes QUE Club will celebrate the achievement of women, while also raising awareness of women’s struggles through an International Women’s Day (IWD) luncheon.

The 2025 IWD theme is Accelerate Action for gender equality.

For just $38 per person a fabulous two-course luncheon will be served at the Parkes Services Club and includes guest speakers Rachel Kerin and Margaret Applebee, entertainment, a ra e, and several lucky door prizes.

Last year’s event attracted 200 women and QUE has planned another successful day for 2025.

The celebration will be on Sunday, March 9 at 11.45am.

This early start allows for visitors to browse the displays of art, embroidery and other needlework, as well as browse/purchase from the three stalls of local and hand-made products from local women.

Our guest speakers this year are Councillor Margaret Applebee and local physiotherapist and businesswoman Rachel Kerin.

Both these women have exciting career and personal stories to inspire all in attendance.

Rachel is a mum of three boys under 5, a farmer’s wife, physiotherapist and business owner of Kerin Health in Parkes.

She leads a team of 22 women who provide 17 di erent health care services to the Parkes and Forbes area.

Margaret was recently elected to her second term as Deputy Mayor of Parkes Shire Council.

She has been fortunate to work in areas that she has a passion for, including working with people with disabilities.

She is currently a director for Currajong Disability Services.

Her passion for the environment is well known through her

work as local Landcare Coordina tor for Central West Lachlan Land care, overseeing regional and local projects including Homegrown Parkes.

Tickets, $38 each, are available up to March 4 through www.123tix.com.au/events.

For more information go to our Facebook page Parkes Que Club Inc.

Entertainment from the local Ukulele Group will have us tapping our feet, and plans are underway to run a short mannequin parade of international costumes to highlight the ‘international’ aspect of the day. book your tickets early to ensure your place at this annual function.

Construction progress on Quorn Park solar farm

The Quorn Park Hybrid Farm on the Back Trundle Road in Parkes is progressing with construction as it soon prepares for the in stallation of the support structures for the solar panels.

Initial activities began with the material import for temporary tracks and working pads which will soon transition to perma nent internal access roads.

Vehicle movements towards the solar farm have remained monitored and under control, while the nal road upgrade in Henry Parkes Way and McGrath Lane are completed.

Once the upgrade is underway, additional construction activities will begin, including piling which is building the support struc tures for the photovoltaic panels, perimeter security fencing and foundations.

For landholders, light and heavy vehi cles are transiting on Henry Parkes Way, McGrath Lane and Back Trundle Road as goods and personnel are transported to the site, generally this occurs between 7am and 5.30pm Monday-Friday.

Meanwhile Enel Green Power Australia, owners of the project, o cially rebranded to Potentia Energy in December last year.

“This brand change represents a strategic evolution of the joint venture entity owned by Enel Green Power and INPEX and an exciting new chapter for our company in Australia,” a spokesperson said.

“With unwavering support from our shareholders, Potentia Energy is poised to set new standards for the renewables sector in Australia.

ing the potential for a sustainable future.”

Potentia Energy has been actively working towards building enduring positive legacies within the communities where they operate.

The Quorn Park project team took part in the Parkes Elvis Festival in January as part of this commitment.

“Potentia Energy had a stall at Cooke Park from January 8-11 where our team was able to share information about Quorn Park Hybrid, and solar and renewable energy more generally, answering questions about our project, who we are and what we do, while

giving away resources on renewable energy, and Potentia Energy branded merchandise,”

“Our team enjoyed the festival atmosphere and fully embraced the Elvis legacy by dressing up, and stepping back in time to celebrate his iconic in uence.”

Potentia Energy said its committed to a Creating Shared Value (CSV) approach during the lifetime of the project.

It intends to work closely with the local community to enhance the economic and social conditions in the area and proactively share bene ts within the community.

“Potentia Energy is also committed to local sourcing throughout the project’s operation-

al and construction phases, where feasible,” the spokesperson said.

“It is expected the project will create signi cant local employment and supply opportunities during construction.

“Potentia Energy will work closely with the main contractors to identify capability and capacity in the local area.”

Potentia Energy and Beon Energy Solutions - the Engineering Procurement and Construction contractor for the projectare aiming to maximise opportunities for local contractors and suppliers to participate in the project through the provision of goods and services to the project site and workforce.

Beon Energy Solutions plans to employ a local workforce to support the construction of the project, roles that include labourers, truck drivers, cleaners and plant operators.

The specifics of these roles will soon be made publicly available by recruitment agency Chandler MacLeod. For more information visit www.jobsinsolar.com. au, or contact Chandler MacLeod at jobsinsolar@chandlermacleod.com.

For any further queries or feedback about Quorn Park Hybrid please email quornparkhybrid@potentiaenergy.com.au or contact Community Engagement and Sustainability Team at 0438 464 593 (Dane) or 0419 668 522 (Giulia).

Project updates can also be found on their website at potentiaenergy.com.au/project/ quorn-park-hybrid/

JAMIE CHAFFEY THE NATIONALS for

A resident of the Parkes electorate for more than 35 years, Jamie and his wife Judy have raised four children on their family grain and cattle farm. With a strong business background and a boilermaker by trade, Jamie has led the growth of his family’s engineering business, supporting key regional industries. As Gunnedah Shire Mayor and an active member of community group Jamie understands the needs of rural communities. He is committed to securing greater cost-of-living support for families including improved access to childcare. He backs greater support for small business, and sensible energy policy.

Kerin Health sta - physiotherapist and businesswoman Rachel Kerin is a guest speaker at this year’s International Women’s Day luncheon. PHOTOS: Supplied

Aussie Biscuits cracks sales records

Forbes-based disability enterprise Aussie Biscuits has smashed sales records, increas ing its business revenue by 30 per cent in November last year (compared to October), despite months of ongoing setbacks and hur dles.

The humble bikkie factory pumped out more than 272,000 twin packs of its buttery treats, breaking its record for its most pro ductive month by 15 per cent.

The jam drop avour remains the most popular biscuit.

Aussie Biscuits reopened its online shop and shopfront in January, a er closing since June 2024 while the business worked through big corporate orders and dealt with a series of equipment issues.

Since it was hit with oods in December 2022, Aussie Biscuits has focused on rebuild ing both its bricks and mortar, and its team.

Production Coordinator Damian Little said it’s taken time for the team to rebuild.

“There’s a lot of new faces who naturally have needed time to learn the ropes and become embedded into the team,” Damian said.

“We’ve overcome hurdles with equipment breakdowns, an in ux of large corporate or ders and just all getting to know each other.

“This has meant we needed to taper back on our engagement with the public through our website and shop to give us space to get back on our feet.

“We are incredibly proud to have achieved such an amazing result, especially consid ering we haven’t been taking online orders, and our physical shop has been closed. We’re rapt with the growing support of big businesses, particularly coming from the accommodation sector.”

Aussie Biscuits has a strong focus on business development.

“With continued support from companies like commercial co ee company Espresso Services, and new business growth from

cleaning supplier Veridia and real estate company BGIS, we have seen impressive growth in our results. Attending large events like the No Vacancy expo over the last few years has signi cantly increased awareness of the business,” Damien said.

“We’ve seen strong growth in the hotel sec-

tor where more chains

With the website back in business and the shop front getting ready to open its doors soon, Aussie Biscuits is excited to see what 2025 will bring.

and environmentally sustainable packaging, which we hope will help us get on the radar of even more big clients this year,” Damian said.

Aussie Biscuits thanks its surrounding communities for their ongoing support.

Invitation to artists for CatholicCare art competition

Aboriginal community members of western NSW are invited to put paint to canvas for the 2025 CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art Competition.

A total prize pool of $4000 is on o er for the best original works.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes has launched the competition to discover and recognise emerging Aboriginal artists in western NSW.

Entries close on Monday March 31, 2025.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes chief executive o cer Anne-Marie Mioche said the organisation was pleased to hold the competition for the fourth time.

She is encouraging emerging Aboriginal artists living in the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes, or in communities where its services are available, to enter.

“Each time we’ve held this competition, we’ve received some truly 2019 because we knew there was

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pool to encourage emerging Aboriginal artists to create and share meaningful artworks that show the rich Aboriginal culture and artistry in western NSW.

The winner of rst prize will receive $2000, while second prize is $1500 and third prize is $500.

Previous winning artworks have subsequently featured in CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes branding and publications.

Ms Mioche said the competition was warmly embraced by her team.

“I always feel excitement at the arrival of new entries, and I know our team members do as well,” she said.

“We love viewing the artworks and learning the story behind them.”

The full information pack is available here: https://tinyurl.com/ mrck53an

like Best Western are looking to stock products with a purpose like Aussie Biscuits.”

Daniel Jones and Wayne Christensen boxing up packs of bikkies at the Forbes factory.

The 2025 CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art Competition is open for entries again. Pictured are the winning artworks in 2023 with judges Bishop Columba Macbeth-Green of the Catholic Diocese of WilcanniaForbes (right), CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche (centre) and Red Bend Catholic College visual arts teacher Tracie Axton (le ).

Porquet who’s in Year 1 this year and Koda (2), mum Kimberly Spicer and new kindie Poppy Porquet. PHOTO: Christine Little

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Optics. 2.00 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. 2.55 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.45 The Role Of A Lifetime. 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 10.05 The Newsreader. 10.55 Unforgotten. 11.45 Rage.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Silver Slipper Stakes Day and Caulfield Blue Diamond. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00

(2022) 11.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The 13th Summer. (2022) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 8.40 MOVIE: The Hitman’s Bodyguard. (2017) Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson, Gary Oldman. 11.05 MOVIE: No Sudden Move. (2021) 1.00 Getaway. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Silver Slipper Stakes Day and Caulfield Blue Diamond. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 1. Sydney 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race. 9.15 MOVIE: The Bourne Ultimatum. (2007) Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn. 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 National Drag Racing C’ship. Top Doorslammer. 4.00 Counting Cars. 4.30 Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Qualifying and support races. 6.30 Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Pre-race and race. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Taken 3. (2014) 9.45 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.45 Late Programs.

Kids’ Programs. 5.10

Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.15 Chopped Jnr. Return. 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.40 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.30 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Your Next Cruise. 2.10 MOVIE: City Slickers. (1991) 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (2018) Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Sam Elliott. 11.15 My Life As A Rolling Stone. 12.30 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 The Goldbergs. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 Holey Moley Australia. 2.45 Britain’s Got Talent. 4.50 Jabba’s Movies. 5.20 MOVIE: Blue Crush. (2002) 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part II. (1989) 9.45 MOVIE: Basic Instinct. (1992) 12.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 12.30 Farm To Fork. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. Return. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 What’s

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 MOVIE: The Man Who Loved Redheads. (1955) 4.00 MOVIE: Birdman Of Alcatraz. (1962) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 2. ACT Brumbies v Western Force. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: Operation Finale. (2018) 12.15 Late Programs.

To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 3.30 Steam Train Journeys. 4.30 I Escaped To The Country. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Extreme Railways. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Hook, Line And Sinker. 1.30 Tackling Australia. 2.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 2.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 3.00 Fishing Addiction. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 5.00 Hustle & Tow. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Die Hard 2. (1990) 11.00 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998) 1.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Surfing Australia TV. 10.30 For The Love Of Pets. 11.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. 12.40 To Be Advised. 1.40 Space Invaders. 2.40 MOVIE: Me Before You. (2016) 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.30 60 Minutes. 9.30 9News Late. 10.00 See No Evil. 11.00 The First 48. 11.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Getaway. 10.40 Skippy. 11.10 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.30 MOVIE: Rich And Strange. (1931) 2.15 MOVIE: The Scarlet Blade. (1963) 4.00 MOVIE: The Bridge At Remagen. (1969) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Rambo 3. (1988) 10.30 The Closer. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 Home And Away. 4.10 TBA. 6.00 The Goldbergs. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 The Blacklist. 1.30 Ordinary Joe.

(March 21 to April 19) Having second thoughts could be a

even if you’re determined to go through with your plans. You might find it worthwhile to take a fresh look at how things have been set up.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Financial matters could continue to be a problem until you’re able to straighten out some of the more pesky situations. Once this happens, the rest should be easier to unsnarl.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Family matters once again take center stage and should be dealt with competently and quickly. Again, insist that others take on their fair share of the responsibilities.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your creative pursuits seem to be running into a roadblock. But rather than blame outside factors, look within to see if you might be holding back your efforts for some reason.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Keep your keen Cat’s Eye focused on relevant aspects of this new situation in your life. Don’t be distracted by trivial matters. You need the pertinent facts before making a decision.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) As much as you prefer doing things on your own, continue to accept help if you still need to resolve the problem that affects your project. Meanwhile, some cheerful news is about to come your way!

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) While you might begrudge the added time it will take to get your project from point A to B to C, etc., you could benefit from the facts that will emerge over this expanded time span.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Regarding your workplace suggestions, be prepared to produce the facts to counter reactions from skeptics who feel like your approach is unreasonable or even impossible.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Savvy Sagittarians will look for work-related answers on their own rather than relying on unproved assumptions. It might take more time to do so, but the payoff is worth it.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Your aspects continue to favor family issues, with a special emphasis this week on changes in and around your home. Get everyone to suggest what they would like to see done.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A matter you thought had been settled still might produce surprises. Best advice: Continue to gather facts to bolster your position just in case you need to produce them quickly.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) While your instincts are usually right when discerning ’twixt truth and deception, you could benefit from doing more research on the new “prospect” that you’ve been pitched.

comfortable in her new classroom.

wished Fletcher all the best on his first day at Middleton.

Nora Tolhurst was already adding and counting numbers before she walked in the door. She’s pictured with mum Sheena Tolhurst.

Wishing James Freeland (le ) a happy first day was mum Leanne Freeland and siblings Ethan and Lucy who’s in Year 2 this year.

Trusted local journalism is key for factual reporting

META’S plans for the removal of fact-checking services on content posted to its platforms and the government’s decision to introduce age limits for access to social media has brought a renewed focus on the importance of regional, rural and local news publishers, according to Country Press Australia (CPA).

Andrew Schreyer, Country Press Australia president, said publishers have never been tasked with so many layers of responsibility, and it’s never been more vital for the work they do to be appropriately recognised and valued by government and the broader community.

“The decisions local newsrooms make about content, photo selection, accuracy, fairness, balance and integrity go to the heart of the cra of journalism,” Mr Schreyer said.

“Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.”

Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.

- ANDREW SCHREYER, COUNTRY PRESS AUSTRALIA PRESIDENT

Mr Schreyer said the vast majority of Country Press Australia publishers are the only local media outlet with boots on the ground in these communities, producing public interest place-based journalism that ful lls a vital role in our democracy.

“Country Press Australia is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon third-party fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US.

“Third-party fact checking has not yet been abandoned on Meta platforms in Australia, however the move in the US may be an indication of Meta’s intentions worldwide and is a worrying development regardless.”

media and the responsibility to comply with Australian law,” he said.

“The mis and disinformation that spreads on Meta’s platforms are harmful to people’s health, wellbeing and to social cohesion.

“This information can be hard for consumers to recognise.

“The removal of third-party fact checking will see the levels of mis and disinformation on social media increase exponentially.

“Without any fact checking mechanism the rates of mental health issues caused by social media will no doubt rise.”

He commended the government for its recently announced News Bargaining Incentive and News Media Assistance Program funding which will help Country Press Australia member publishers continue to produce the quality local public interest journalism that is so well trusted by its audiences.

Equally, Country Press Australia has welcomed Communications Minister Michelle Rowland’s strong comments that came in the wake of Meta’s announcement and her support for high quality fact checked information for the public, such as the placebased public interest journalism produced by Country Press Australia’s 240 member mastheads.

“We are also heartened by comments from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant on the harms of social

“Professionally produced local public interest journalism, such as that produced by Country Press Australia mastheads, is the antidote to mis and disinformation and this has been well recognised by the government,” he said.

Casual speeding is the biggest cause of trauma on NSW roads

Share your products at Homegrown Parkes

By MARG APPLEBEE

CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

Homegrown Parkes Expressions of Interest close on Friday, February 21.

We have been overwhelmed with applications for our March 29, Homegrown Parkes event.

As everyone kicks back into the new year, school, work etc, we have been receiving more stallholder applications.

If you have been tossing up whether to throw your towel in the ring, now is the time that the rubber hits the road.

We are pleased to welcome some new stallholders this year. Some local, some regional.

Our food vendors just about cover every type of request

for brekky, morning tea and lunch….and something to take home for afternoon tea.

We are estimating that our event will welcome approximately 2,500 – 3,000 people, based on our previous events.

This will be an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill and products.

Applications are reviewed by our Homegrown Parkes Committee to ensure that they fit with the ethos of Homegrown Parkes.

All stallholders and food vendors are required to provide $20 million insurance Certificate of Currency and food vendors need to supply their Food Safety Certificate.

We will continue to place a small fee on stallholders for our October event.

We want to keep the event as accessible as possible, particularly for small stallholders.

The fee of $30 will assist with covering the costs to sustain the event.

We have switched up the program slightly, but the good news is that we still have fabulous inclusions.

All this with the intent of highlighting processes for using locally produced food and products with the aim of encouraging locals to have a go and grow in their own backyard, your cupboard or your porch and make it yourself.

We want to keep these demonstrations and workshops as short, informative and entertaining as possible, so if there

is a demonstration that you would like to see, make sure that you provide feedback after the event.

The Homegrown Parkes Committee, made up of members of Central West Lachlan Landcare, Parkes Community Arts and Parkes Shire Council contributors, are looking forward to delivering two fabulous, encouraging and inspirational events in 2025.

Applications can be found on our Homegrown Parkes page via the Central West Lachlan Landcare website.

Don’t forget that Crop Swap will be part of our next event as well!

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

Trade weight lambs lift $5 reaching $215/head at Forbes sales

CATTLE SALE

Monday, February 17

Yarding 1145 (down 86)

Number eased this sale with agents yarding 1145 head.

Quality was very mixed with both well bred and secondary cattle penned.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a better market.

Yearling steers lifted 10 to 15c with those to feed selling from 338 to 387c/kg.

Finished lines to processors sold from 330 to 360c/kg.

An improved offering of heifers saw prices lift 8 to 10c/kg for the better types.

Processors paid from 280 to 340c with those to feed receiving 255 to 320c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks were limited but reached 360c/ kg.

Grown heifers sold from 275 to 315c/kg.

Cows were 15c better with heavy 2 score from 255 to 281c and 3 score from 278c to 302c/kg.

The best heavy bull reached 293c/kg.

Yarding 34,900 (up 9050) Numbers lifted this sale with both and mutton showing the increase.

Lamb quality was similar to previous sales with both well

Most of the usual buyers were present and competing in a firm to dearer market where quality was once again rewarded. Trade weight lambs 22-24kg lifted $5 selling from $170 to $214/head.

Heavyweight lambs to 26kgtra heavyweights were firm to $6 better to receive from $220 to $290/head.

Carcase prices averaged from 790c to 830c/kg.

Mutton numbers lifted with

mixed quality Merinos making up the majority. Prices were $6 to $10/head dearer and more in places. Merino ewes sold from $70 to $170/head.

Crossbreds received from $73 to $155 with Dorper ewes reaching $150/head.

Merino wethers sold from $116 to $177/head.

FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY

PIG SALE

Friday, February 14

A much smaller yarding today saw a lift in sow numbers and prices improved 10c to 20c p/kg. Boars also improved 5c to 10c p/ kg. There where no bacon yarded, pork was also in short supply and was firm on last sale. Suckers where also in short supply and prices lifted $10 to $15 p/head mainly on the heavier pigs.

FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK

Numbers li ed this sale with both and mutton showing the increase.

Shelley Nutley from Tumbling Downs is registered for Homegrown Parkes. EOI for Homegrown Parkes Stallholders/Food Vendors close on Friday. PHOTO: Supplied

isations and events were recognised for their achievements.

Mr Donato personally presented a certicate to each award recipient, endorsed with the speech he delivered in the NSW Parliament to o cially recognise them.

“It’s amazing to discover the contributions made by individuals and organisations to our local community, as well as people’s remark able personal or professional accomplish ments,” Mr Donato said.

“Most of these people do not do what they do for any recognition whatsoever, which makes this presentation so much more worthwhile when I see these humble individ uals being recognised by members of their community.

“For me, recognising people from our community and celebrating their work, ef fort and accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of my job as the local Mem ber of Parliament.

“We should all be proud of these people’s e orts, because their motivation and their values are what help to make our region bloom and such a great place to live,” Mr Donato said.

Young Volunteer Achievement Award for 2024 and is now the NSW entrant for the Tennis Australia Awards for the Young Volunteer Achievement Award.

Carolyn Keep

Carolyn has supported the Cancer Council for over a decade through her annual Trundle Pink Ribbon Night.

Parkes Early Childhood Centre

Amii Marchan, PECC director and Bron wyn Dean were in attendance to accept a rec ognition award from Phil Donato on behalf of PECC.

PECC celebrated 70 years of quality care for children in November.

Mr Donato congratulated PECC for being at the forefront of early education and child care for 70 years in the NSW Government. Member of the Rural Fire Brigade and the Secondary School RFS Cadet Program, Terry Job was recognised by the Member for Orange for his service.

Asha Munodawafu

“Carolyn, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, devotes a huge amount of her time to fundraising for the Cancer Council and raising awareness of the disease within the Trundle district and broader Central West.

“Her message to all women, relayed through fundraising events like Pink Night, is if you nd a lump, get it checked ASAP.”

Trundle Pink Night is now close to raising a total of $200,000.

Parkes CWA

Elizabeth MacGregor was recognised for Bankstown Bulldogs for its inaugural team in

“I wish to congratulate Parkes rugby league prodigy Elizabeth MacGregor on taking the

Day

Trundle Bush Tucker Day was congratulat ed on another successful community event in 2024 by Mr Donato and Parkes Home grown was recognised and commended for their event for the community.

Tess Woods

Tess Woods was acknowledged for her ris ing career trajectory, ful lling her enormous potential in shearing.

Tess’s commitment and talent have been endorsed by her appointment as NSW’s representative in the Australian Wool Innovation’s wool ambassadors’ program.

Ann Olsen attended the awards representing Parkes CWA as they were recognised for reaching 100 years.

“During its 100 years, the Parkes CWA membership has worked without fanfare to ensure its community was supported. It has linked with other service groups for the greater good on local and overseas projects.

“Tess has pursued opportunities to be mentored by some of Australia’s leading shearers while she has also branched into sports shearing. As part of her AWI ambassador duties, Tess also travelled across the Tasman as part of a New Zealand exchange and took the opportunity to absorb knowledge.

“Shearing is a very specialised, essential trade in rural NSW yet recruitment is slow. To have such a motivated young woman join the ranks is heartening and I wish her well,” Mr Donato said in NSW Parliament.

Irene Ridgeway

Irene Ridgeway was acknowledged for her work in her documentary ‘Her Name is Nanny Nellie’.

Parliament when acknowledging local busi ness Westonfence.

Mr Donato visited the Westonfence factory in Parkes where he was shown the process of turning discarded chemical drums into resin which is moulded into posts for electrical fence lines.

“Westonfence turns a waste product into a durable fencing material that is easy to install and plays an invaluable role in stock management and the control of feral and native animals.”

For 20 years, the business has produced 21,000km of fencing from 3800 tons of material which would have ended up as land ll.

“It’s great to see this innovative Parkes family company at the forefront of recovering a resource that is underutilized.”

Parkes Craft Corner and Rotary Club

Parkes Cra Corner was congratulated on 50 years of arts and cra s fellowship with the Parkes Rotary Club being congratulated on celebrating 85 years of community service.

“In the last year alone, Parkes Rotarians have raised $37,600 which is put back into Parkes and surrounding districts while also helping with overseas projects.

“At the forefront of its activities is the district management of the Driving Simulator Program for year 10 and 11 students, a program which shows young people the dangers of driving under the in uence of drugs, alcohol and fatigue as well as the consequences of distractions like texting.”

Mr Donato salutes members of the Parkes Rotary Club for living up to their motto ‘Service Above Self’ for 85 years and wishes them well for the next 85 years.

Parkes Shire Council

Young Parkes citizen, Asha Munodawafu was recognised for her involvement with the community through tennis.

“The Parkes CWA branch is a wonderful asset, and I congratulate the ladies on their 100th anniversary,” Mr Donato said.

“Irene has pushed for a more accurate telling of the aboriginal people’s stories and I commend her, and her family, on this important truth telling,” Mr Donato read in NSW Parliament.

Parkes Shire Council was recognised for winning the 2024 Tidy Town award for NSW.

Mr Donato commended Parkes’ commitment to sustainability and community spirit and its resident’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

• More achievements will be featured in a future edition.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Which ancient linear units were based on the length of the forearm (6)

7 To confuse or puzzle, is to do what (8)

8 What is a harmonious union of sounds (6)

9 Which term describes a man native to the Netherlands (8)

11 What are wigwams of Native North Americans (7)

13 What is one of the twelve disciples called (7)

15 To be of low character is to be what (7)

17 Name the mythological god of the sea (7)

20 What are hermits known as (8)

23 What, in biology, is the intercellular substance of a tissue (6)

24 Which portable shade offers protection from rain, etc (8)

25 When something confuses, it does what (6)

DOWN

1 What might we call a young girl’s sweetheart (4)

2 What is the big top known as (6)

3 Who was Eve’s gentleman friend (4)

4 Which device is used for moving heavy weights (5)

5 Name the muscle on the front of the upper arm (6)

6 How many singers are there in a trio (5)

9 Who was Australia’s second Prime Minister, Alfred ... (6)

10 What is the studio of an artist (7)

12 What, colloquially, are prison guards called (6)

14 Which word element refers to hardness or solidity (6)

E-QUATIONS 7

Letters have a number value

E-QUATIONS

Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

16 Which compounds contain oxygen (6)

18 To rub out, is to do what (5)

19 What is a means of connection (5)

21 Name the Italian island, the scene of Napoleon’s first exile (4)

22 Snake-like fishes are known as what (4)

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

WHICH WORDS

1 HESTERNAL

(a) Irregular (b) Of different origin (c) Of yesterday

2 NAZE

(a) A headland or cape

(b) A Jewish ascetic under a vow

(c) An Indian court official

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:

Chose (5)

Concealed (3)

Crimson (3)

Enthusiast (7)

Irate (3)

Kept company (5)

Metamorphose (abb) (5)

Scolds (7)

Sound detector (5)

State Electoral Office (3)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

IN PERSON BY PHONE

7 Court Street

PO Box 192 Parkes, NSW, 2870

02 6342 1044 classifieds@ parkeschampionpost.com.au

By 10am Wednesday

EMAIL WHEN TO BOOK

Classifieds

PUBLIC NOTICE

Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993

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 Goonumbla, those within and adjoining property at 2527 Bogan road.

(File Ref: 24/13439, Cluster: 673817)

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 Margaret Attwater by email at Margaret.Attwater@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3935 quoting file references above.

Mick Simpson Plumbing

Lachlan Valley Rams

White Su olk and Poll Dorset Rams for sale

Good Lamplan gures, Bruco free, Gudair vacc. Alan Sharrock 0427 511 397 or agsharrock@gmail.com

BUY

Wanted to buy ANY pre1990 cars

Toyota Landcruisers, Volkswagens, Landrovers, Holdens, Fords, Valiants, Porsche, Commodores, old trucks etc. any condition, restored, unrestored or parts.

Show’s popular

ewe competition is on again

Parkes Show Society is gearing up to stage its annual Doug Bicket Memorial Ewe Competition which will take place on Friday, February 21.

COMPULSORY ACQUISITION OF LAND – ROADS ACT 1993

Attention is invited to the notice published in Government Gazette No 42 of Friday, 07 February 2025 reference [NSWGG-2024-42-4] regarding the compulsory acquisition of land for road purposes at Parkes in the Parkes Shire Council area and said to be in the possession of The State of New South Wales.

(TfNSW Papers: SF2024/118380)

J Connell

Statutory Land Transactions Manager Transport for NSW

Contact: For full details call Transport for NSW on (02) 8650 1794. LT0225

Parkes Harness Racing Club AGM will be held on 21st February 2025 at 7pm at the Parkes Leagues Club.

CASH PAID Call - 0421 313 536

Doug was a tireless worker on the Parkes Show Committee, most particularly in the merino sheep section and had a strong passion for the merino industry.

He helped launch the competition and was a regular on the bus trip, never short of a story for whoever was lucky enough to be close by.

Whilst the season has dried up a little of the late the stock have been doing well and the sheep are sure to be presented in top condition.

Making supplements available to stock through the hot, drier months is key in maintaining production and will be touched on throughout the day.

Company reps and industry experts are always in attendance and a valuable source of information for local farmers.

An impressive eld of entrants has been assembled, obviously eager to display their ocks in peak condition.

Judges Nigel RobertsDunbogan Merino Stud and Hayden Cox-Bocoble Merino Stud are sure to have a tough time reaching agreement over which team is crowned this year’s champion.

The day has grown significantly in recent years with spectators eager to assess a good cross section of merino bloodlines run under a range of management systems and environments.

Industry representatives will be on hand throughout

the day to update attendees on all the latest advancements, technologies, markets and management strategies.

An air conditioned coach has been arranged to ensure spectators are able to travel from property to property in total comfort and allow for stories and experiences to be shared throughout the day.

An invitation is extended to anyone interested in attending this networking day

for the merino industry, departure will be 7.30am from the Parkes Town Bowling Club.

The day will conclude with a barbecue tea and presentations to the prize winners. Cost of the day is $50 which includes the bus trip, morning tea, lunch and barbecue tea.

To register your interest and book a spot please email secretary@parkesshow.org. au or phone Bev on 0467 622 580.

Craig and Liz Tanswell enjoyed showcasing their “Milpose” flock last year. PHOTOS: Supplied

Major pairs semi enthrals spectators

PARKES BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB

By MARTY TIGHE

Championship matches

A thrilling Major Pairs semifinal match kept a large crowd enthralled last week when John Wright and Brian Townsend stunned the awesome combination of Andrew Reynolds and Mark Fitzalan, by storming to the final end of the match with a 1 shot lead.

Despite earlier trailing by 8 shots after the 17th end, John and Brian bowled brilliantly to hold a 1 shot advantage over their more fancied opponents, and were holding shot after Skipper Brian bowled his last bowl.

A Match of this calibre is never over until the last bowl, and this again proved to be the case.

Marks’ last bowl of the match miraculously managed to nudge the Jack away from Brian’s near toucher bowl, toward Andrews’ back bowls, to incredibly win the final end by scoring 2 shots, and won the match by 21 shots to 20.

John and Brian could not have bowled better and were only deprived of victory by a bowl from Mark Fitzalan that was pure class.

Pennants

The 2025 Open Pennants season commenced on the weekend with 2 of the 3 Pirates’ teams enjoying wins.

The Grade 2 team defeated West Dubbo 72 shots to 56, recording a 9-1 result.

The Grade 5 team were narrow ly defeated by a very competitive Molong team by 59 shots to 61, overall result being 1-9.

The Grade 7 team had a re sounding win over Peak Hill by 72 shots to 59, overall result be ing 9-1.

The Pirates Mateys of the week awards for each grade were awarded to Mark Fitzalan, Matt Parker and Scott Allen.

Social bowls

Twenty-six social bowlers relished the opportunity last Thursday to bowl on the newly refurbished TV green – well done greenkeepers and volunteers, the playing surface is a great credit to each of you.

There was one triples game and 5 games of pairs played, with the most notable and interest ing result being a pairs game in which the evergreen John Carr and Geoff Freeman demolished Dave Parker and Colin Mudie by 38 shots to 10.

Team Mudie only reached dou ble figures on the last end! John and Geoff scored 6 shots on the 3rd end of the game and topped that effort by scoring 5 shots on a further 3 ends, to completely dominate the game against Dave and Colin.

The closest scoring game of the day was the pairs game of Rob Hill and John Corcoran defeating Mark Glasheen and Colin Hayward by 21 shots to 18.

Mark and Colin started well by scoring 5 shots on the 2nd end,

for a lead 6 shots to zip after 2 ends, but they were then outbowled by consistent play from Rob and John, who won the next 6 consecutive ends.

Having established a margin of 3 shots, Rob and John never let go of the scoring advantage, and bowled well to close out the game by that margin of 3 shots, despite

a late scoring flurry from team Hayward.

The Lucky Rink jackpot sits at $150 for next Thursdays’ social bowls.

A reminder to visitors or new bowlers that 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.

Two raffles are held each Friday, as well as the lucky 100 number wheel and pick-a-box, together with the members draw.

The members draw jackpot is now $1800.

Bowlers meet their matches in club championships

RAILWAY BOWLS

By PAUL LEWIN

Wednesday, February 12 we had 20 play ers for social bowls.

Winners were Andrew Trotman and Alan Affleck winning 19+31.

Runners-up were Nev Kirwan and Waz Watson winning 18+11.

Marble 14 came out and the Margins were 7, 8, 10, 11 and 31.

The jackpot this week is a crazy $738. Round 10 of the Parkes Services Club Power Play Pairs was on Thursday, Febru ary 13.

Weekly winners were High Rollers, Weakest Link and Low Rollers.

This leaving the Rhinos on top on 40 points ahead of High Rollers on 36 points and Low Rollers on 32 points.

Saturday, February 15 we had 20 players for social bowls.

Winners were Clive Stibbard and Dave Johnson winning 20+30.

Runners-up were Joey Van Opynen and Paul Townsend winning 20+20.

Club Championships

In the Minor Pairs Cody Hando and Andrew Trotman played Helen Clark and Peter Job.

Helen and Joby led 3-1 a er 4. Cody and Trotty led 9-7 a er 7 ends.

It’s 10 all a er 10 ends and 14 all a er 14 ends. Cody and Trotty lead 17-14 a er 17 ends but Helen and Joby won the next 4 ends and the game 21-17.

In more Minor Pairs action Joey Van Opynen and Blake Strudwick played Pauline Currey and Nev Kirwan.

It’s 3 all a er 3 ends. Joey and Blake lead 7-3 a er 6, 11-5 a er 10 ends and go on to win the game 26-9.

In more Minor Pairs action or Pairs games we saw Steve Clegg and Mick Dunn play Myra Townsend and Tony Latter.

Cleggy and Dunny lead 6-1 a er 3, 11-2 after 6 ends and 19-3 a er 10 ends. Cleggy and Dunny go on to win 37-5.

In the Club Triples Junior Thorne, Ray

Gri th and Paul Lewin played Phil Barnard, Juicy Daley and Benny McNaughton.

Team Lewi led 3 nil a er 2 ends. Team Benny Mac led 6-3 a er 7 ends.

Team Lewi got it back to 6 all a er 9 ends. It’s 11 all a er 13 ends. Team Lewi lead 14-11 a er 15 ends and 20-12 a er 18 ends. Team

Benny Mac pick up a 5 to go to 17, Team Lewi lead 23-17 a er 21 ends.

Team Benny Mac pick up another 5 and take the lead 25-23 a er 24 ends. Team Lewi picks up a 3 to win the game 26-25.

Open Gender Pennants

Grade 4 went down 9-1 to Manildra.

Grade 6.1 got up 9-1 over West Dubbo.

Grade 6.2 got up 9-1 over Dubbo City.

Grade 7 got up 8.5-1.5 over Manildra.

This week we have Grade 4 hosting Forbes, Grade 6.1 hosting Dubbo Macquarie, Grade 6.2 have the Bye and Grade 7 travel to Eugowra.

BPL Cup

We will be hosting some rounds of the BPL Cup quali ers at our club.

Starting Friday, February 21 at 6pm (this Friday) and running every about every few weeks we should have plenty of fast paced action.

Nominations are available on bowlslink.

The easiest way is just to search Parkes Railway under the competitions and available tabs or speak to Lewi.

This week we have the Parkes Services Club’s Power Play Pairs on Thursday, February 20 at 6pm, the BPL Cup kicking o on Friday, February 22 at 6pm and social bowls on Saturday, February 22 at 1pm.

As always names in half an hour before start times (except the BPL Cup), 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.

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

The Punters Club has been rolling along well and the results are put on the board as they happen. Money can be placed in the tin on the bar at any point along the way.

In the Club on Friday, February 21 we have meat tray ra es, badge draw ($400), joker draw ($2950) and the bistro serving meals from 6pm.

See you at the Railway! Toot Toot!

Saturday a ernoon.

PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Peter Job (right) hovers near opponent Andrew Trotman, who was paired with Cody Hando in the club championship pairs.

Job, won their match in the pairs in last week’s club championships.

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Experienced pair claim final round

GOLF

By PETER BRISTOL

Saturday was the 5th and nal round of the BWR Summer Comp for 2025 and again our thanks go out to Brett and Cathy for their great support of our club.

This week it was a 4BBB Multiplier, an event where each player needs a score on every hole to maximise the end total.

We had 86 players tee it up with a number of visitors (13) assessing the layout for the Pennants round on Sun day.

The scores were pretty hot on a day where the wind built up steadily all day.

The greens were receptive a er the recent rain and the fairways had started to spring back to their vibrant green.

Our winners on a count back were Garry Phipps and Joe Davies.

The battle of this experienced pair hit a ne 70 and Garry having a par round of his handicap and Joe a 34.

Joe has been on the Queensland circuit recently

honing his skills and coming back to route the bookies.

Garry meanwhile had taken a di erent track with a Cirque Du Soleil relaxation therapy getting him set for victory.

Runners-up were the Mudgee pairing of James Lucas, 37 and Trent Bright shooting a 34.

Chasing these 2 pairings home but 3 shots behind were the pairings of Tyson Spence and Peter Amor,

Peter Magill and Brendon Simpson and Victor Gaidzionis and Graham Cooke.

In the Individual stakes the standout score was handed in by Justin Middleton with a 44 o his soon to reduce 19 handicap.

Justin had a 4 over 40 on the front 9 to amass 24 points and nished with a 43/20.

A score worthy of any A grader.

Speaking of A graders,

Blake Parker shot an even par 35/37 to record a 23/18 haul o his 5 handicap.

Blake will gure in the nish of all the big club events this year if he is available to play.

Brendon Simpson, nally recovering from the serious thumb su ered some months back, shot a 40 score with 44 strokes on both sides of the course.

Tyson Spence having his rst run with a handicap

shot a 38.

Resident Pro, Zac Kelly, shot a 70 o the stick o his +3 handicap, with a bogey and eagle on the front and 2 birdies and a bogey on the back.

The New Nearest The Pins winners were – Bridgestone Mining 1st by Wayne Parker at 560cm, Gri ns Leading Edge by Jake Thompson 190cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Nick Strudwick at 173cm, the Westlime 11th by Rod Kiley at 300cm, the Gulf Western Oil 17th by Lindsay Elliott at 707cm.

The lucrative money hole was won by Lindsay Elliott at 707cm.

Ball winners were Blake Parker 41, Brendon Simpson 40, Tyson Spence 38, Lucas James, Mel Matthews 37, Brian Matthews, Garry Phipps 36.

The CWDGA Pennants continued with the Parkes No.1 side playing Duntry League at Forbes with only Aaron Wilkie winning his match 7 and 6.

Parkes is now at the bottom of their pool and will struggle to make the playo s.

The No 2s, played the Dubbo side at Forbes and Parkes su ered their 1st loss 3 to 2. John Green went down 2 and 1, Michael Thomas had a solid 3 and 1 win, Luke Clarke went down by 2, Jake Thompson was strong with a 5 and 4 and Max Kieth lost on the last.

Parkes still maintain the lead in their pool but will have to keep playing well to make the playo s.

The No 3s had the weekend o , but are at the bottom of their pool and will have to pull out all stops if they are to make the playo s.

The 4s played the strong Duntry side at Forbes and went down 4 to 1 with only Colin Breaden winning his match.

The 4s are at the bottom of their pool but as always the 4s are very volatile and they remain in the hunt.

The Parkes GC hosted 80 players in a round of the pennants and whilst the day was cold with a strong southerly the players enjoyed the outing and hospitality.

Thanks tohe volunteers that made the day a success and to Zac and Maddi.

Spirits high as Lachlan chases down Dubbo

CRICKET

In cooler conditions last Sunday, Lachlan Cricket Council faced-o against Dubbo White in Round 3 of the Greg Gri th Shield - Under 16s Western Zone Cricket Competition.

Coming o two defeats to start their representative campaign, Lachlan were determined for a strong performance in front of their home-crowd.

A large contingent of local supporters surrounded the ground to watch the next cohort of aspiring western zone cricketers.

Dubbo White won the toss and elected to bat first on the picturesque ground.

The opening bowling pair of Zach Guy and Billy Baldwinson from Parkes

bowled with precision and speed that continually troubled the Dubbo toporder which saw the pair collect one wicket apiece in their opening spell.

The Dubbo score stood at 3-3 and Lachlan in an exceptional position early. As con dence levels grew among the Lachlan out t, the wickets continued to tumble for Dubbo much to the delight of the jubilant Lachlan spectators.

The introduction of Max Hazell, Luke Beasley and Harry Yelland into the bowling attack brought immediate success. Luke collected 3 excellent wickets with precision and great line and length to nish with 3/2 o 4 tight overs.

Talented o -spinner Harry Yelland captured

2/1 o 2 overs and Max Hazell (1/11) removed the key wicket of Lewis Blizzard a er he topped scored with 8.

Dubbo was eventually bowled out for 27 in just 19.1 overs with Ellijah Turner taking the nal wicket with his rst delivery of the match.

Lachlan were quick to chase down the total with Jayden Kuun (12no) and Callan Venables (14no) hitting an unbeaten 28 runs and steering Lachlan to an impressive 10 wicket victory over arch-rivals Dubbo.

Both teams should be commended for playing the match in great spirts.

Lachlan will host Bathurst Gold in Forbes this Sunday in the round 4 xture.

The Lachlan Under 14s su ered a 4-wicket defeat

to Dubbo Blue in their nal xture of the season.

Needing a win to secure a semi- nal position, unfortunately Lachlan were unable to defend their total of 168 with Dubbo securing the win with 9.5 overs remaining.

The Lachlan Under 12s were unable to continue their recent form, falling 66 runs short against Dubbo Blue.

Lachlan Under 12s, under the guidance of Peter Yelland, have improved signi cantly over the season and have secured a home semi- nal a er nishing the regular season second on the ladder.

Lachlan will host Bathurst at Grinsted Oval in Forbes on Sunday.

The winner will proceed to the Western Zone Grand Final on March 2.

Charlton just shy of a perfect score

By BRIAN DRABSCH

Last Sunday saw 7 shooters attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex on the Back Trundle Road and shoot at fox targets at both 25 and 50 metres for a collective score of 530.53 points.

TARGET RIFLES: 25M, 50M, TOTAL

• Jeff Charlton 280.27, 250.23, 530.50.

• John Davis 280.27, 250.19, 530.46.

• David Tanks 279.21, 249.21, 528.42.

• Steve Mitchell 280.26, 247.14, 527.40. Brian Drabsch 280.22 for 25 metres only. FIELD RIFLES

• Alan Briton 280.27, 249.18, 529.45.

• Ron Cunningham 263.18, 249.18, 512.36.

The figure given after the decimal point is the number of central bullseyes shot.

Our next shoot is at 10am on Sunday 23/2/2025 where it will be standard targets at both ranges.

Billy Baldwinson bowling.

precision and speed that continually troubled the Dubbo top-order.

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Peak Hill Roosters already eyeing off grand final appearance for 2025

and some new

By CARA KEMP

Preseason is well underway for the Peak Hill Roosters, with strong attendance at training and a trial match against Narromine scheduled in two weeks.

First Grade Coach Daniel Thornton is pleased with the team’s progress, highlighting their commitment and enthusiasm ahead of the new season in the Woodbridge Cup.

“It’s been fantastic. We’ve been getting great numbers- around 20 to 25 each session,” Thornton said.

“The boys are ripping in hard, and we’re working towards our trial against Narromine in two weeks.”

The focus of preseason has been on attitude, discipline and tness,

had

ensuring the team is physically prepared and mentally sharp.

“At the moment, it’s all about our attitude and discipline, as well as a bit of tness.”

With last year’s campaign setting a strong foundation, Thornton has his sights set on going one step further and pushing for a grand nal appearance.

“The goal is probably to go one step further than last year and potentially make the grand nal.”

One of the team’s biggest strengths heading into the season is their ability to nish games strongly, with a well-conditioned squad ready to take on the competition.

Blaize Fuller will captain the Peak Hill Roosters for the upcoming season, bringing confi-

dence and determination to the role.

Fuller is pleased with the squad’s progress and the strong numbers at training, including several new faces.

“It’s been pretty tough in the heat, but we’ve been getting good numbers and a few new faces, so it’s been good,” Fuller said.

“The main focus has been effort and fitness.”

The Roosters boast a solid core of long-term players who understand each other’s game, and the integration of new teammates has added depth to the squad.

“I’m very con dent this year,” he said.

“A lot of the boys have been around for a long time, so we know how each other plays.

to the team, so I’m really con -

should bring even more to the team, so I’m really condent about this season.”

ultimate prize, winning the competition. said.

few times and fallen short, so that’s my goal. footy,” he said. quickly, blending seamlessly with the team.

forever. They’ve just t straight in.”

Bogan Gate holds Grinsted Cup in Trundle challenge

Bogan Gate has held the Grinsted Cup in the rst challenge of the summer.

The Rabbits, into their third season defending the historic trophy, met Trundle Ducks on

out to bat rst in cool conditions.

They set a total 7/179, which was to prove too tough for Trundle to chase down.

Newcomer Luke Walmsley debuted with a valuable 30 for his

C Anderson took three for 30 for Trundle, those three all caught out on a busy day for the Ducks’ eld-

Top scorer for the Ducks was T Parker, who held the ground for his team amassing 35 runs with three boundaries among them before he

claimed two wickets and Blake Smith two. Phil Dunford and Miles Smith accounted for the rest. Forbes now challenge Bogan

The Peak Hill Roosters first grade side

their first preseason training session at the end of November last year, with a good turnout of returning players

faces. 2025 coach Daniel Thornton is front, fourth from the right and captain Blaize Fuller is on his right. (Inset) Daniel Thorton and Blaise Fuller.

PHOTOS: Peak Hill Roosters

Luke Walmsley made 30 on debut for Bogan Gate as they held the Grinsted Cup against challengers Grenfell. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Sixes Soccer back for another year

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

The Parkes Sixes Soccer Tournament is back again for another year a er a successful rst year of competition in 2024.

Last year marked the inaugural event of the Parkes Soccer Sixes Tournament which saw 14 teams from Parkes, Forbes, Dubbo and Peak Hill competing over a single day.

“It was a great success, with teammates, friends and families coming together to

support one another while enjoying quality soccer,” Joel Cowling said.

This year’s tournament will be expanded to play over a two-day format which aligns with larger Sixes tournaments in the northern regions.

“We’re aiming to grow the event substantially over the next few years, with the goal of developing a larger regional competition that showcases local talent while providing a fun and competi

tive experience for all participants.”

Sixes soccer is fast-paced and played on a smaller soccer eld with six players per team.

The game emphasises quick play, lots of passing and high scoring opportunities which makes Sixes an exciting and dynamic format for players.

Parkes Soccer Sixes Tournament provides the perfect pre-season hit out for the

tournament being played on the weekend of March 15 and 16, 2025.

There will be a men’s competition as well as women’s with team registrations now open so make sure to get your teams together and enter to secure your spot in the tournament.

The tournament is open to everyone- whether you are an experienced soccer player or just looking for an enjoyable weekend with friends, the tournament

brings together soccer players of all ages and skill levels.

If you are interested in competing in or have any questions you can email parkessixes@gmail.com

“We’re excited to bring the Parkes Soccer Sixes Tournament back for another year,” Joel added.

nounce that the 2025 registration portal is open.

Parkes Soccer Association accepts players turning ve to players that are 99 years old.

There is no change to registration fees this year comparted to 2024 even though a liated fees have increased. Head to the Parkes and

Middleton makes a splash at swimming carnival

Middleton Public School had a lovely day down at the Parkes Pool for their annual swimming carnival.

Their swimming carnival saw sun, rain, clouds, hot weather, cold weather and high student participation which made the carnival a great day out.

Senior boys champion was earned by Noah Jayet followed closely by Lawson Roberts and Ryan Webb.

Senior girls champion was taken out by Emily Wild with Izzy Lucas placing second and Paige Cross close by in third.

Ashton Robinson and Will Rockwell were joint junior boys champions as Carter Bateson claimed second and Nate Sharwood claiming third.

Junior girls champion was won by Louella Kennaugh as Isabella Smeaton swam close by in second and Aubree-Mai Cowling in third place.

Noah Jayet was also the fastest boy to swim 50m with Emily Wild being the fastest girl to swim 50m.

The Standen Shield was won by Kingsford with the winning house being awarded to Hargrave.

Middleton Public School year six students Emily Wild, Sophie Smith and Sariah Folau re ected on the 2025 school swimming carnival.

By MPS YEAR 6 STUDENTS, EMILY WILD, SOPHIE SMITH and SARIAH FOLAU

As soon as the day started all we could hear was the roars, cheers and chants of the students supporting their peers.

First was the 50m freestyle where there were twice as many students competing in it from the previous year!

Almost everybody had a crack at an event.

We also had some novelty events including the run and walk race, wade and bob and as well as a relay at the end of the day.

Even though throughout the day there was rain and lighting, we still managed to get all our events nished on time.

All the work from the teachers behind the scenes did not go unnoticed which brought our swimming carnival together.

At the end of the day we were lucky enough to be able to send 23 of our talented students to Lachlan Swimming.

Overall the swimming carnival was a splash!

Parkes East students show off their swimming skills at carnival

Parkes East Public School held their annual school swimming carnival on Thursday, February 13.

A record was broken and many new names were crowned age champions. Warramunga house dominated the carnival winning both house spirit and champion house.

Saxon breaks 26-year swimming record

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

By a fraction of a second a 26-year-old swimming record at Parkes East Public School has tumbled.

Saxon Gosper is the new record holder in the 11 years 50m butterfly with a time of 50.12 seconds, set at the school’s swimming carnival on February 13.

The previous record was held by Robert Weaver in 1999 with a time of 50.56.

That’s a difference of just 0.44 of a second.

Robert is the son of long-time swimming coach Barbara Weaver, who just so happens to be Saxon’s coach.

“I am absolutely delighted for him,” Barbara said.

“I coached Robert too - I was coach at the pool and mum at home.”

Barbara has been coaching Saxon for a couple of years and said he is enthusiastic and loves his swimming.

“I’ve actually been impressed with his breaststroke, in technique,” she said.

“With his breaststroke technique he’s really willing to listen.. and really takes that on board.

“But he’s really taken that technique on board with butterfly too.”

Butterfly is a very physically demanding stroke and Barbara said Saxon is very eager but hasn’t quite yet got the stamina to match.

With years ahead to master his swimming, Saxon could very well be one to watch in the future.

The talented youngster scooped up at the school swimming carnival this year, also winning the Elliott Cup for the fastest 50m freestyle sprint in a time of 37.25, the Harbidge Cup (form stroke champions) with Zali Lovett and is the 11 years boys age champion.

The remaining 2025 Parkes East age champions are Ivy Hawken and Travis Hodges - junior champions, Paige Schapers (11 years), and Edison Hawken and Toby Wood (equal), and Zali Lovett are senior champions. (More photos pg 23)

Great night out to get teams to Nations of Origin

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

Peak Hill Roosters Rugby League Club alongside Australian Wrestling Superstars is proudly joining forces to raise funds for multiple Parkes PCYC teams to compete in the 2025 PCYC Nations of Origin Tournament.

PCYC Nations of Origin is held around NAIDOC week every year over four days.

The tournament is a program which focuses on sport, culture, education and leadership and sees around 1400 Indigenous and non-Indigenous teenagers representing their nation.

In 2024 Parkes PCYC attended their first Nations of Origin with two rugby league teams and one gymnastics team.

“It was a success, the kids really enjoyed it,” Senior Activities Officer at Parkes PCYC, Torin Hando said.

“One of our teams nearly made it all the way to the nals again.”

To help alleviate the costs associated with attending the tournament for players and families, Peak Hill Roosters and Australian Wrestling Superstars have put their hand up to help support.

On Friday, March 7 Australian Wrestling Superstars will be in action at the Parkes Leagues Club in aims to help expand Parkes PCYC’s participation in the 2025 Nations of Origin with

“Money that is raised will help support all sorts of things,” Torin said.

“From accommodation to food, it will cover the lot.” Torin encourages everyone to check out the wrestling action at the Parkes Leagues Club as your support will help fund local kids to compete for their nation in Sydney.

“It’s a good event, all the money goes to the kids and it’s for a good cause.”

PHOTO: Parkes East Public School

Two rugby league teams from Parkes PCYC competed in Nations of Origin last year. PHOTOS: Supplied