Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott has penned a letter to the community following widespread concern over a proposed Energy from Waste facility for Parkes.
The project was officially launched on 24 March after its developers were appointed and proposes to convert Sydney’s rubbish into electricity, heat and steam.
■ Read the full letter from Mayor Neil Westcott on page 12
Residents want to be heard
Members of the Parkes Shire community want their voices heard regarding a proposal to build a $1.5 billion Energy from Waste facility just west of the town.
Many are calling for answers and raising concerns on potential impacts such a development could have on human health, animals, vegetation, farmland and food production, air quality and water pollution.
■ More coverage on the Energy from Waste facility proposed for Parkes and the town’s feelings on pages 12 and 13.
CONCERNS OVER WHAT FACILITY WILL DO TO PARKES’ FUTURE
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
Cafe owner Darrin Gibson has rmly and publicly made his stance known on an Energy from Waste facility that has been proposed for Parkes.
Last week he hung printed signs in the windows of the Roasted Kombi cafe in Clarinda Street, strongly opposing the $1.5 billion development and calling on Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott to “send it back to Sydney”.
On March 24 the next signi cant steps in establishing an Energy from Waste facility on land the state government has earmarked within the Parkes Special Activation Precinct were revealed.
A development agreement has been
signed with the developer - a consortium led by Tribe Infrastructure Group - and details on the facility proposed, including a timeline were also released.
The plant will convert rubbish from land ll in Sydney that cannot be recycled into electricity, heat and steam.
Mr Gibson is far from alone in his feelings on the development.
A large number of Parkes residents have voiced their concerns across social media regarding the impacts such a facility will have on their health and that of the environment, and their anger at the lack of communication and community consultation.
A petition to reject the project is also circling the community and a Facebook
group called ‘Stop the Parkes ‘Energy from Waste’ facility’ has formed.
Mr Gibson said he is ghting for our children and their future.
He questions the impact the Energy from Waste facility and any emissions will have on people’s health and lives, land and air quality in ve, 10 or 15 years’ time.
“Our children are the most important thing in our world,” he said.
“I’ve already lost one family, my children (who died in the Black Saturday bush res in Victoria in 2009) are buried here.
“But my children who are living, I speak up for them.”
■ Continued on page 13
SHERYL STEVENSON AND ROASTED KOMBI CAFE OWNER DARRIN GIBSON DO NOT WANT AN ENERGY FROM WASTE FACILITY BUILT IN PARKES.
PHOTO: CHRISTINE LITTLE
Ugandan Children’s Choir returns to Parkes
The Ugandan Children’s Choir is making its way back to Parkes after it was so warmly received six years ago.
Australian school teacher Trishelle Sayuuni (née Grady) arrived in Uganda over a decade ago, determined to make a difference.
Despite facing armed robbery on her first day, she chose to stay, becoming ‘mum’ to hundreds of orphaned and vulnerable children.
She’s now the founder of 100% hOPE, an Australian-registered charity, and she is bringing a group of these incredible children to Parkes again for another cultural exchange and uplifting community concert.
On Thursday, 10 April, the hOPE Kids Choir - a group of nine talented Ugandan children and youth - will visit Middleton Public and Parkes Christian schools, offering students a unique insight into life in Uganda through music, dance and inspiring personal stories.
That evening, the choir will perform a free community concert at Parkes Christian School at 6pm, sharing their powerful message: ‘Rise Up – You Can Bounce Back from Anything!’
This tour, spanning from Townsville to Canberra, showcases the children’s vibrant African singing, drumming and dance, while also raising funds to build a much needed six-classroom secondary school block at Hope Village in Mityana, Uganda.
Currently, the school only runs up to Grade 10, leaving many students without access to further education.
Parkes event coordinator Heidi Field believes the choir’s visit will be an enriching experience for the community.
“We can’t all travel to Africa but by bringing a piece of Uganda here, the hOPE Kids Choir reminds us that helping others is not only rewarding but truly life changing,” Ms Field said.
“The previous choir tour, which took place in 2019, was well attended by many locals.”
The public is warmly invited to attend this free, family-friendly concert: Thursday, 10 April, at 6pm at Parkes Christian School hall, 243 Back Trundle Road, Parkes.
A free-will donation will be collected at the event, with 100 per cent of proceeds going directly towards the new classroom block.
About 100% hOPE and Hope Village 100% hOPE is an Australian charity registered with ACNC, dedicated to transforming lives in Uganda through education, shelter, and vocational training for orphaned and vulnerable children.
Hope Village in Mityana is home to a school serving over 400 students, safe houses for more than
WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes
PROJECT GOOBANG PRE-
MIERE
Friday, 4 April
Join Parkes’ Sportsperson of the Year for an unforgettable night of celebrating adventure, resilience and the wild beauty of Goobang National Park. Sarah Hartin ran the entire length of Goobang last year and was followed by a camera crew who documented the journey. The premiere of the Project Goobang lm will be held at the Parkes Christian School Hall and you will have the chance to hear from guest speaker Kylie Brockmann. Don’t miss out and grab your tickets now at Humanitix. com
SUPPORT GROUP
Friday, 4 April
The Adult Survivors of Child Abuse - Cowra Support Group meets on the rst Friday of each month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm and is open to survivors of all communities. All details online via: recover.itmatters.com.au. Alternatively, call Pascale, the facilitator, on 0458 698 460.
THE REAL RECONNECTIONS
TOUR
Saturday, 5 April
This free community event at the Tullamore Showground hosted by Tradies in Sight aims to bring the community together along with some delicious food from 5.30pm. The Real Reconnections Tour has been made possible by Foundation For Rural and Region-
al Renewal as part of their support of small regional communities reconnecting and coming together to learn and discover new ways in supporting each other during hard times. Tradies in Sight will also be highlighting services available for ongoing support if needed. RSVP is essential, contact 6892 5277 or 6892 5558.
PARKES PUBLIC EASTER FETE
Saturday, 5 April
Parkes Public’s School’s Easter Fete will be held on 5 April from 9am to 2pm. There will be games and activities, live music and entertainment, an animal nursery, food, emergency services, student artwork exhibition, an auction and the major ra e will be drawn. Don’t miss out on this great event at Parkes Public.
BOORI EASTER
Saturday, 5 April
From 10am to 2pm at Peak Hill Memorial Park, Neighborhood Central will be hosting a free community event for Easter. For more information contact 6862 1872.
WASTE 2 ART LAUNCH AND WORKSHOP
Saturday, 5 April
The Parkes Shire Waste 2 Art Exhibition and Competition is back starting with its launch at the Parkes Shire Library and Cultural Centre from 10.30am-1pm. Waste 2 Art is an inspiring initiative that challenges individuals, schools,
and communities to rethink waste by transforming discarded materials into works of art. Bill Tink from NetWaste will explore all things Waste 2 Art in his talk with a focus on this year’s theme waste – Toys. Bill will cover topics like recycling, wish-cycling, and the many waste issues we face, especially in relation to toys. This will be followed by an amazing workshop with Orange artist Jac Davies. Jac’s enthusiasm for recycling and using waste materials will inspire you to kick start your Waste 2 Art entry. Tickets can be purchased at www. events.humanitix.com/waste2-art-launch-and-workshop.
COMMUNITY DROP-IN ENERGY RECOVERY
10-12 April
From 8am to 5pm each day at the Cooke Park Pavilion learn about the proposed Energy-From-Waste facility at the Parkes Special Activation Precinct, which will bring a reliable energy source to homes and businesses. Find more information at parkesenergy.com.au
HOPE KIDS CHIOR TOUR
Thursday, 10 April
Experience the vibrant energy of traditional acapella singing, lively dancing and African rhythm drumming, while hearing the heartwarming stories of courage and hope from the talented children of 100% Hope Uganda. At 6pm in the Parkes Christian School Hall you won’t want to miss this free event.
130 children, vocational training programs (hairdressing, sh farming and more), sustainable agriculture and forestry projects, and community sports initiatives.
All donations go directly to projects, with no administrative fees.
The organisation is run entirely by volunteers, and only local Ugandan sta are employed.
Trishelle Sayuuni’s inspiring
PAPER FLOWER WORKSHOPS
Saturday, 12 April
Come along to Marramarra Makerspace Studio for two different paper ower workshops10am-12.30pm for a paper poppy workshop and 2pm-4.30pm for a paper iris workshop. Keryn from The Flower Fold will teach you how to create beautiful crepe poppies or cra beautiful paper iris owers. Discover the art of paper cra ing and create your own stunning owers to take home. Tickets can be found on www.eventbrite. com.au.
journey was featured in the Channel 9 documentary ‘Aussie Mum, African Heart’ - watch it at www. facebook.com/100hOPE/. Come and experience the energy, joy, and resilience of the hOPE Kids Choir as they bring their songs of hope to the Parkes community.
For more information visit www.100-hope.org
GENEROCITY CHURCH EASTER EGG HUNT
Sunday, 20 April
Generocity Church Parkes will be hosting their annual Easter egg hunt followed by a short gospel service at Cooke Park. Stay tune for more information.
HOMEGROWN PARKES
Saturday, 26 April
Homegrown Parkes is an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill and products with the community. Markets, music, crop swap, performances and demonstrations in Cooke Park - it’s all homegrown in Parkes and it’s a great family day out.
MAMMA MIA OPENING NIGHT
Saturday, 3 May
Parkes M and D have done it again and will be putting on a an exciting performance of Mamma Mia from 3 to 25 May. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! Tickets are on sale now and you can book through www.parkesmandd.com.au or at the box o ce at Parkes Little Theatre which opens Sundays from 10.30am to 12pm.
HAPPY DOG, HAPPY
LIFE
Saturday, 3 May
Calling all dog lovers for a fun and interactive guide to being a pawsome dog owner. Join in for a tail-wagging good time tackling the most common challenges dog owners face. Spots are limited and registrations are essential so make sure to contact Gail from Bartley’s Barkers on 0408 968 175.
The Ugandan Children’s Choir will visit two Parkes schools before performing in a free community concert on 10 April.
PHOTO: Submitted
Fairytale ending to Maggie’s project
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
As Trundle university student Maggie Anderson embarks on the exciting next stage in her young life, her HSC year could almost be described as that of a fairytale ending.
Not only did the teenager place second in the state in her HSC for textiles and design last year, her Year 12 folio project - an exquisite quilt based on traditional fairytales - was so impressive it was selected to feature in TEXStyle 2025.
TEXStyle is the annual showcase of excellence in HSC textiles and design, featuring more than 30 exemplary major textiles projects submitted by HSC students across the state, including furnishings, apparel, textile art and costume.
It’s all on exhibition now at Gallery 76 in Sydney (76 Queen Street, Concord West) until 24 April.
“I was so excited, I had no idea I was second in the state,” Maggie said.
“It’s such a mix of emotions actually - excited and surprised but also a huge relief, like ‘thank goodness all that hard work amounted to something’.”
Maggie is the daughter of Debbie and Digger Anderson of Trundle, who run a family farm out towards Condobolin.
As a student at Kinross Wolaroi School in Orange, her major HSC piece in her textiles and design subject involved hand cra ing a 185cm by 155cm quilt and preparing a 12-page report explaining her work and what she experimented
with. She called it ‘When Wishing Was E ective’, drawing from traditional fairy tales a er si ing through old books and some online research.
“In research I found that’s how old fairy tales used to begin - ‘In the olden times when wishing was still e ective’,” Maggie said.
And there is so much more to the quilt than meets the eye.
It features motifs, princesses and birds, and many di erent types of owers.
Each ower is unique in the sense that Maggie illustrated each one, cut them out, hand-dyed and applicated them on to give a raised texture.
There are six di erent quotes that Maggie selected from fairy tales, such as Cinderella, Snow White, 12 Huntsman, the Golden Goose and 12 Dancing Princesses, that adorn the edges of the quilt.
“My favourite is ‘Once upon a time in the middle of winter when snow akes were falling from the sky like feathers, a queen sat sewing’ which is from Snow White,” she said.
“I wanted to include historic elements as well, so I have doilies from my grandmother’s collection that were applicated on.
“It’s a traditional style of patchwork where fabric blocks are incorporated in a modern asymmetrical layout.
“I wanted to show how historical stories have morphed and transcended into modern society.”
In total the quilt took Maggie a year to create, from the idea and
beginning the design process to the nished product hanging at the school during its textile showcase night. It consumed all of her free time a er school, on weekends and during holidays.
A highlight for Maggie was seeing it on the catwalk at the school’s showcase.
“While it wasn’t an out t, a friend of mine dressed in pjs and walked down the catwalk with the quilt draped over his shoulder,” she laughed.
“It’s more for show than practical use as it’s a bit delicate.
“I can nally really appreciate it and be proud of it.
“It was a massive weight o my shoulders when it was nished.”
Her hardest challenge, and not one you’d expect, was having to draw the full design of the quilt before even threading the needle.
“I’m a very visual person, I like to do it as I go and see how it evolves over time,” Maggie said.
Since her teacher specialised in clothing and hadn’t done quilting before, Maggie turned to the experience and expertise of the women in her family - her father’s mum is a quilter, so is her aunty and her mother can sew.
“Being at school and away from home made it tricky but I would call when I needed to, they were great for advice on certain techniques,” she said.
“I’ve made a few quilts before but nothing this intricate.
With AAP
Australians will head to the polls for a federal election on May 3.
A er months of speculation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the election date following a visit to Governor-General Sam Mostyn last Friday morning.
A ve-week campaign will count down to the poll for all 150 seats in the House of Representatives and 40 Senate places.
Mr Albanese is looking to become the rst prime minister since John Howard to win back-toback elections.
Peter Dutton will aim to lead the coalition back to power a er one term in opposition, to become Australia’s 32nd prime minister.
Forbes and Parkes residents now vote in the electorate of
Parkes, with four candidates putting their hands up for the vast regional seat to date.
The Nationals have a candidate in Jamie Cha ey from Gunnedah and the Greens have a candidate in Trish Frail from Brewarrina.
Family First have a candidate in the Central West’s Maurice Davey; and Sally Edwards from the Warrumbungle region will stand for the Libertarian party.
Eugowra and Cabonne communities are in the federal electorate of Calare.
To date, Calare voters have six candidates: two independent and four representing parties.
They are: Andrew Gee, Independent; Kate Hook, Independent; Julie Cunningham, Labor; Sam Farraway, The Nationals; Ben Parker, Greens; Jennifer Hughes,
One Nation. Nominations close at midday on Thursday, 10 April, so there is still time for more candidates to put their hands up.
Australian citizens 18 years and over do need to vote and anyone who has changed their address does need to update their details by 8pm on Monday, 7 April.
You can do that online through the Australian Electoral Commission website at https://www.aec. gov.au/enrol/
“I actually entered the Braidwood Quilt Show at the end of last year and I received a rst and a second.”
Maggie has started her rst year with arts history and is excited to see
Maggie has started her rst year with Australian National University in Canberra, studying a double degree in arts and international relations. She’s very interested in arts history and is excited to see where her studies take her.
Town votes May 3 in new seat of Parkes
Australians can vote on election day, during the two weeks before election day, interstate, in-person overseas, overseas via international courier, via domestic post, through a mobile voting team at some hospitals and residential care facilities, via a remote area voter services team and via phone (for people who are blind or have low vision or in Antarctica).
Applications for postal votes are now open on the AEC website for those who are unable to get to a polling place on polling day.
The Australian Electoral Commission says it will take about 100,000 temporary sta to run the election and workers will be needed in regional areas. You can register your interest online at www. aec.gov.au/employment/workingat-elections/index.htm
Motorcyclist killed in crash on highway
A motorcyclist has been killed in a crash just north of Forbes.
NSW Police released the tragic news that a 32-year-old man died following a crash between a motorcycle and a utility on Monday.
Emergency services were called to the crash at Landrace Road about 7.25am, initial investigations indicating both were travelling north on the highway, the bike behind the ute, and the crash occurred when the ute turned right.
The Newell Highway was closed in both directions for investigations.
The driver was uninjured and taken to Lachlan Health Service for mandatory testing.
Maggie Anderson from Trundle with her exquisite quilt she created for her major HSC project.
Sarah’s adventure hits the big screen
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Our Parkes Sportsperson of the Year Sarah Hartin is all about stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing nature.
Last year she did just that by running 130kms from Goobang National Park’s southernmost point to its northernmost edge.
Followed by a talented camera crew - including Declan HartleyBrown, Justin Broughton and Ashley Swallow - who captured her incredible journey you will have the chance to see what the experience was like rst hand.
On Friday, 4 April the highly anticipated premiere of the Project Goobang Film will be held at the Parkes Christian School Hall.
“I couldn’t be more excited for the launch of the Project Goobang Film at our upcoming premiere evening,” Sarah Hartin said. “This event is more than just showcasing a run through the Goobang National Park - it’s about revealing the magic that exists in our own backyard and reminding people of the power of nature.”
This lm captures an un ltered adventure across Goobang showcasing the beauty of our own backyard and the challenge of pushing beyond limits.
A journey through rugged trails, untamed wilderness and the human spirit, Project Goobang is a story of resilience of a mother taking in this immense challenge while involving her daughter in the journey, proving that strength
held Friday, 4 April. (Inset) Sarah and her number one supporter, her daughter
and determination can coexist with motherhood.
“As a mother, this premiere holds another layer of meaning. It’s about showing that motherhood doesn’t mean losing who we are - it means becoming a role model.
“It means showing up for ourselves, pushing our own boundaries, and leading by example. I want my daughter, and others, to see that we can take on big challenges, chase what sets our soul on re, and still be present for the people we love.”
Project Goobang aims to inspire a healthier and more adventurous lifestyle.
As you watch the lm you will be inspired and discover what is possi-
ble when you dare to take on something bigger than yourself.
“There’s something deeply transformative about immersing yourself in the outdoors.
“Sometimes, we need to feel something before we truly believe it - the sense of freedom, the challenge, the connection.
“If we can capture that in a lm and give it back to the community, inspire someone to step outside their comfort zone, initiate a health journey, try something new, or seek the outdoors in a way they haven’t before - then my job here is done.”
More then just a lm screening, this event is designed to inspire, connect, and ignite a sense of possibility within the community.
Homegrown is growing
“Alongside the premiere of Project Goobang, we’re bringing together incredible individuals like Kylie Brockmann and initiatives including Talk2me Bro, who will share their powerful stories and initiatives that align with the theme of motherhood, resilience and prioritising health and wellbeing.”
Thanks to the support of local businesses there will also be amazing giveaways at the event that are designed to help someone take that rst step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle.
“This journey has been a testament to the power of community.
“While Project Goobang was a solo undertaking, it was never done
alone. It was backed by a beautiful network of people who encouraged, supported, and believed in it.
“It’s proof that when you surround yourself with the right people, anything is possible,” Sarah added.
Whether your a runner, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a story of courage and endurance, this is an event not to be missed.
Get your tickets now at: https:// events.humanitix.com/project-goobang- lm-premiere
“Please come and join us for a night of inspiration, storytelling, and community - an evening that just might spark something new in you.”
Homegrown Parkes is growing thanks to additional government funding.
Parkes Shire Council is using surplus funds from the Open Streets Program that's funded by Transport for NSW to extend and enhance Homegrown Parkes.
The March event was due to take place on 29 March but due to a forecast heavy downpours, it's now been rescheduled for 26 April.
Since 2023 this biannual festival, run by Central West Lachlan Landcare, has brought together more than 2000 participants per event at Cooke Park, celebrating all things sustainable,
homegrown, and local.
"Now we’re expanding the festival space by activating a nearby street with safe, accessible event areas, allowing Homegrown Parkes to grow and evolve," Council announced.
So what's planned for Homegrown Parkes?
More space for stalls and activities, a community art project with Parkes Community Arts, and workshops and demos on sourdough making, native bee habitats, sustainable gardening, native reptiles and Indigenous cooking.
"This initiative will enhance the event experience while staying true to its homegrown roots," Council said.
Parkes Bricks, Pavers and Tiles has a large display of all the popular brands. Come in and see our full range today or give us a call
Phone: 02 6862 2253
Wine Barrels We hire for weddings and events
Wine barrels make a good garden feature or a bar table for that special event. Call us for a quote today.
Email for free Quote Email: gary@pottsgroup.com.au Website: pottsgroup.com.au
Wind your clocks back this Sunday
We will have an extra hour of sleep this Sunday as our clocks are set to go back one hour marking the end of Daylight Saving Time.
As the days continue to get shorter and the temperatures slowly continue to fall it can only mean the end of daylight saving.
On Sunday, 6 April at 3am our clocks will be set back to 2am, which means we will have more daylight in the mornings.
Many modern devices such as smartphones, automatically adjust for daylight saving.
For your analog clocks, you’ll need to manually adjust the time.
As well as New South Wales, Daylight Saving Time will end in South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory on 6 April.
Investigation leads to 19 charges
A man has been charged with more than a dozen rearm o ences following an investigation in the Central West.
In December 2024 Rural Crime Investigators attached to the Central West Police District began an investigation into drug, rearms and property o ences alleged committed by a man in the Forbes area.
Following inquiries, about 12.50pm on Wednesday, 26 March police executed a search warrant at a property on Calarie Road, Forbes.
During a search of the property, police allegedly located and seized two rearms, an amount of ammunition, electronic devices and items associated with drug supply.
A vehicle was also seized for forensic examination.
Two further search warrants were executed at properties on Crouch Street, Forbes, and Carrington Street, Parkes.
A 42-year-old man was arrested at the Calarie Road property and taken to Parkes Police Station.
He was also allegedly found to be in possession of a small amount of drugs, believed to be methylamphetamine.
The man was charged with 19 o ences including:
• Three counts of acquire unregistered rearm-prohibited rearm.
• Three counts of possess shortened rearm (not pistol) without authority.
• Three counts of acquire etc rearm partsubject to prohibition order.
• Two counts of not keep rearm safelyprohibited rearm.
• Two counts of acquire etc prohibited rearm part - prohibition order.
• Two counts of acquire etc ammunition subject to prohibition order.
• Acquire etc pistol part - subject to prohibition order.
• Use prohibited weapon contrary to prohibition order.
• Receive property-the equaling serious indictable o ence.
• Possess prohibited drug.
He was refused police bail to appear before Cowra Local Court the following day.
The community who supported Sarah along her incredible adventure across Goobang. PHOTOS: Supplied
Project Goobang the film premiere will be
Rhylee.
Finn and Mitch Miles at the Dirty Gloves stall at last year's October Homegrown Parkes event.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Community Newsletter
EVENTS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Council wishes to advise that applications for Round 1 of the 2025/2026 Community and Destination Events Financial Assistance Program are now open.
Council is committed to supporting the development, growth, improvement, and sustainability of local and destination events.
The Events Financial Assistance Program ensures a consistent, transparent and equitable approach to the consideration and distribution of financial assistance to event organisers.
For more information, or to apply visit Council’s website or scan the QR code above. HAVE YOUR SAY
GRANTS INFORMATION SESSION
Join us for a Community Grants Workshop on Thursday 1 May 2025, 5pm - 6pm, in the Committee Room at Council’s Adminstration Building. Bring your ideas for community projects and help us compile a community wishlist!
This will help our grants team to better coordinate all the different projects in the Parkes Shire. We will be able to send out alerts about upcoming grants, and possibly combine ideas to make them even better. Our grants team will walk you through the process to bring your ideas to life.
RSVP by 29 April to grants@parkes.nsw.gov.au. Light supper will be provided.
For more information, visit Council’s website or contact the grants team at grants@parkes.nsw.gov. au.
Council wishes to advise the Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2025-2029 is now on public exhibition. Council invites community members to review the Plan and provide their valuable feedback. The plan can be viewed on Council’s website or in person at Council’s Administration Building.
Council develops a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan after every election to identify and remove barriers for people with disabilities, aiming to create a more accessible and inclusive community. This draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan outlines the intentions and actions that Council will take to improve access to our information, services, facilities, and employment, as well as to promote the rights of people with disabilities. Feedback can be provided by either:
1. Sending an Email to Council
2. Writing to the General Manager Parkes Shire Council PO Box 337 Parkes NSW 2870.
When providing feedback, you should indicate if you support the plan and include any suggestions you may have. Community members are encouraged to submit their feedback by 5pm Tuesday 15 April 2025. For more information, visit Council’s website.
COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN
Council wishes to advise the Draft Community Strategic Plan 2025-2029 is now on public exhibition. Council invites community members to review the Plan and provide their valuable feedback. The plan can be viewed on Council’s website or in person at Council’s Administration Building.
The Community Strategic Plan is the Parkes Shire community’s highest-level plan, outlining our main aspirations and priorities for the future, including a long-term vision for the Parkes Shire Local Government Area. Feedback can be provided by either:
1. Sending an Email to Council
2. Writing to the General Manager Parkes Shire Council PO Box 337 Parkes NSW 2870.
When providing feedback, you should indicate if you support the plan and include any suggestions you may have. Community members are encouraged to submit their feedback by 5pm Tuesday 15 April 2025. For more information, visit Council’s website.
WASTE 2 ART
The Parkes Shire Waste 2 Art Exhibition and Competition is back starting with the launch on Saturday 5 April.
Join us for a thoughtprovoking look at how the Waste 2 Art competition aims to inspire us to do better when it comes to the waste we generate! Waste 2 Art is an inspiring initiative that challenges individuals, schools, and communities to rethink waste by transforming discarded materials into works of art.
Bill Tink from NetWaste will explore all things Waste 2 Art in his talk with a focus on this year’s theme waste – Toys. Bill will cover topics like recycling, wish-cycling, and the many waste issues we face, especially in relation to toys. This will be followed by an amazing workshop with local Orange artist Jac Davies. Jac’s enthusiasm for recycling and using waste materials will inspire you to kick start your Waste 2 Art entry.
For more information, contact the Library on 6861 2309.
Community
on display in the Coventry Room at the Parkes Shire Library.
There is an amazing collection of works on display with more than 40 artists and crafts people submitting over 100 entries.
The exhibition is open until Saturday 12 April 2025. For more information, contact the Library on 6861 2309.
www.parkes.nsw.gov.au
The
Fibre Arts Exhibition is
Corvettes take over Parkes for weekend
Did you have the chance to catch a glimpse of the Corvettes last weekend as part of the Corvette National Convention?
Corvettes were spotted from the Dish to McFeeters Motor Museum in Forbes and everywhere else in between making it hard not to see a glimpse of the American sports cars.
The 110 Corvettes started to arrive in Parkes early last week before they did a lap of the main street Saturday morning as they headed out to the Parkes Showground for their Show ‘n’ Shine.
With the expected 70mm of rain disappearing before Saturday, it was the perfect day to go see the Corvettes up close.
“We were very fortunate with the weather,” 2025 Corvette National Convention organiser Harry Turner said.
“Lots of people came out for the Show ‘n’ Shine which was great.”
At the Show ‘n’ Shine people had the chance to see one of 300 original 1953 Corvettes ever made.
From the Show ‘n’ Shine Harry won best C2 Modi ed with his Tribute to Race Car of 63 and local Corvette Owner Dusty Powter was awarded second best C2 Original with his 1963 Chevrolet C2 Corvette Sting Ray.
On Sunday Corvettes headed to McFeeters Motor Museum in Forbes and the Dish before they started their journey home on Monday.
“It has been two years since the last convention down in Ballarat so it was good to catch up with people from South Australia, Western Aus tralia and from all over the place,” Harry said.
Corvette enthusiasts are now look ing forward to next year’s convention on the Sunshine Coast.
Community
Joe Farrugia of Sydney shows
Joe Hlubucek of Canberra with his 2010 Corvette C6 Grand Sport.
Bron and Matt Alexander from Perth who still came to the convention a er their Corvette broke down, with Joe Younane with his 1969 Corvette Sting Ray.
What a response to Fibre Arts exhibition
When an invitation was sent out to everyone in the Parkes Shire and beyond to participate and showcase their talents in a community exhibition celebrating bre arts, more than 40 artists and cra s people responded and submitted their work creating this unique and stunning exhibition.
The exhibition featuring more than 100 entries was opened by Director of Arts OutWest Kylie Shead on 15 March in the Coventry Room, and there were over 80 people in attendance.
Ms Shead commended the artists involved in the exhibition.
“Fibre art has an incredible history and is of great cultural importance, as it tells the story of family, society and the environment, and has done for thousands of years as one of the oldest art forms,” she said.
“This exhibition is a wonderful example of bringing community together and showcasing this important art form.”
Mayor Neil Westcott described the exhibition as “a testament to the strong art community and diversity of talent we have here in the Parkes Shire, and the enthusiasm to participate and exhibit”.
Entries from a series of workshops supported by Arts OutWest and the Country Arts Support Program were also received.
The workshops included a popular yarn wrapping session, resulting in more than 60 brightly coloured pods, two mini brooch workshops and a weekend Stitched Landscape Workshop with Blue Mountains artist Pippita Bennett.
The diversity of works is impressive including felting, crochet, patchwork, knitting, weaving, tapestry, embroidery, macrame, collage, sculpture and hand and machine stitching.
The use of recycled fabrics is also on display and visitors can contribute to community weaving.
There are many surprising and fun works including Michelle Hazelton’s woven and crocheted pizza titled There’s a lot of bre in pizza, and Bernadette Tait’s crocheted mythical creatures.
Ronda Sharpe’s Dilly Bags made from recycled canvas and hessian explores Wiradjuri cultural artefacts and the use of contemporary recycled and natural mediums.
The exhibition is open until 12 April in the Coventry Room at the library.
Special advocate Orange electorate’s Woman of the Year
An advocate for mothers in the Central West who’ve expe rienced pregnancy and infant loss, Jessica Crawford, has been named this year’s Local Woman of the Year.
Member for Orange Philip Donato announced and pre sented the 2025 award to the young mother from Orange on Monday.
Jessica started Made to Bloom in 2021 in memory of her rstborn child Lilly.
The business creates be reavement care packages to support families going through di cult times.
She also started Central West Pregnancy and Infant Loss for local mothers, which aims to facilitate support and bereavement care for those who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or child.
with amazing women who do amazing things, so it’s always a challenge to single someone out,” he said.
Jessica volunteers for Bears of Hope and Red Nose, and is nalising studies to become a doula.
She is also a committee member of Better Births Central West, a position she took on with the hope of bringing advocacy, education and positive change to the birth experiences of women in the Central West.
Mr Donato said Jessica is passionate about this particular role because she rmly believes every family deserves to feel safe, informed and heard
“It’s an honour to o cially name Jessica Crawford as the Orange electorate Local Woman of the Year for 2025.
“Jessica is a thoughtful and community-spirited young lady, who has sought to help families across the district.
“She is most thoroughly deserving of this prestigious annual award.”
Jessica is the nineth Local Woman of the Year Mr Donato has named since he was rst elected.
Parkes’ Betty Somers was the third recipient, announced in 2019.
Evie Cunningham with some of the many yarn cushions made in a popular yarn wrapping workshop that feature in the exhibition. Photos from the opening appeared in the 20 March edition of the Champion Post.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Youth Week celebrates our future leaders
From what began as a NSW Government initiative in 1989, Youth Week has grown to be a celebration of young people in every state and territory across Australia.
This year Youth Week will be held from 9 to 17 April.
The theme for this year’s celebrations is ‘I am _______. We are the future and the future is now’.
This theme is all about celebrating every young person’s unique strengths and recognising
their individual and collective power as our current and future influencers, leaders and decision makers.
Youth Week activities are organised by young people, for young people in communities across NSW and Australia.
Following the success of the Youth Week program, Youth Week became a national event in 2000.
Youth Week is an opportunity for young people across NSW to come
together in their local communities.
Councils, youth organisations and schools work with young people to host free activities, events and competitions.
If you are aged between 12 and 24, you can get involved and celebrate Youth Week.
You can attend live events, showcase your talents, take part in competition, use your voice to advocate for things young people want in
PARKES HIGH SCHOOL SAFE
RESPONSIBLE RESPECTFUL
your local community and have fun.
To celebrate Youth Week, NSW Advocate for Children and Young People (ACYP) are running a creative arts competition.
This competition is your chance to celebrate everything that makes you, you.
ACYP want you to create an art piece that shows them, who you are, your skills, your best qualities and what you’re most proud of.
You can submit a drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, digital art or photography.
The competition is open to children and young people aged 12-24 who live in NSW. To learn more and submit your work before Sunday, 13 April visit https://bit. ly/3Fm7XwM
National Youth Week is jointly supported by the Australian government, state and territory governments and local governments.
Parkes High School is a welcoming and friendly comprehensive high school where every student has:
• Opportunity for academic excellence, leadership development and social responsibility.
• Access to outstanding, exciting and diverse education programs that challenge and inspire enquiring minds.
• Access to specialist Gifted and Talented programs, Learning and Support teachers, Transition and Careers Advisors. Bro Speak and Sista Speak Cultural Programs.
• Contact with challenging and diverse learning experiences that inspire lifelong learning and opportunities for success.
• Experienced and dedicated teaching staff who are all accredited with the NSW Institute of Teachers, providing individual learning programs that cater for their needs and talents.
• Parents who are valued partners in their education and achievements of the school.
For more information: PARKES HIGH SCHOOL
2a Albert Street, Parkes NSW 2870
Ph: (02) 6862 1844 | Fax: (02) 68625046
Email: parkes-h.admin@det.nsw.edu.au
This year, Youth Week is all about celebrating every young person’s unique strengths. PHOTOS: Parkes High School Facebook page
LUCY DOWSETT IS OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Lucy Dowsett is Middleton Public School’s personal best award winner.
Lucy is always trying her personal best and has positive attitude towards school life.
What is your favorite subject?
Sport
What is your favourite things about your school?
Everyone is kind
What are your hobbies?
Gymnastics
What do you want to be when you grow up?
LOHKI COLEMAN IS OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Lohki is in class 2R with Miss Reeves at Parkes Public School.
Teacher comment: Lohki is an incredibly kind friend who always wants to help his peers, whether it be by comforting them or helping them problem solve a tough situation. He always tries his best and comes into the classroom ready to learn. Lohki is always a respectful, responsible and safe student. What are your favourite activities? I like free drawing and soccer. What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to be an engineer rst and a
Tullamore’s first of many Pulse Alive performances
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Tullamore Central School have experienced their rst Pulse Alive performance and already can’t wait to do it all again.
The NSW Department of Education Arts Unit initiative ‘Pulse Alive’ is now in its fourth year with 5000 students from across the state taking part in performances over two massive nights.
The large-scale performing arts event showcases the talents of students from kindergarten to year 12 from public schools in Sydney and around the state.
Ten Tullamore Central School students had the opportunity to be part of the massed choir with 1000 students.
Tullamore students were accompanied by Tullamore Central School principal Kelly Jesser and two teachers.
They all made their way to Sydney by train to perform in this large-scale production at Sydney Olympic Park’s Ken Rosewell Arena.
“This was such an incredible opportunity for students from small, rural and o en isolated communities to be a part of,” Tullamore Central School principal Kelly Jesser said.
“For our kids to be a part of something involving schools from all over the state, sent a strong message that whilst we may come from a small school, we are in fact part of a much larger statewide system that is NSW Public Education.”
Tullamore Central students were amazed to see the sheer scale of the event and felt priv ileged to be part of the incred ible opportunity.
“We look forward to Pulse Alive becoming an annual xture in our yearly planner moving forward as an oppor tunity to continue to inspire our students to not only en gage in creative and perform ing arts, but to embrace op portunities to step outside of their comfort zone,” Ms Jesser added.
In this event there was also two more students from the Parkes Shire who had the op portunity to perform.
Siblings Oliver and Isabella Hughes were two of the 248 principal performers who per formed over the two massive nights.
The siblings performed as part of the NSW Pulse Alive Dance Company in two sold out shows of 10,000 people.
Continuing from this event both Oliver and Isabella will be part of upcoming Pulse Alive tours.
The tours are a chance for the Pulse team to take the experience of the Pulse Alive event to regional areas via the Pulse Alive tours.
Oliver is currently on the Pulse Sunraysia tour which started Tuesday, 1 April and will continue to Thursday, 3 April.
Isabella is part of the Pulse Broken Hill tour which will be held from Tuesday, 20 to Thursday, 22 May.
Write to celebrate country newspapers
Country Press NSW, the peak body representing independent regional newspapers, is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year with a special writing competition.
The competition is open to primary and secondary school students, and adults, living in readership areas of the Country Press NSW newspaper network, and President Lucie Peart urges them all to take part.
“In 1900, local newspapers were the primary source of news for country residents of this State, and all these years later,
that remains true: our member newspapers remain trusted news providers, owned by country people, and always here to support and encourage rural and regional NSW,” Ms Peart said.
“So, help us celebrate this milestone by being part of our writing competition; you can get inspiration from the pages of our many newspapers situated in all parts of country New South Wales!”
time for students to write their stories over the school holidays and throughout Term Two, with the deadline for entering closing on 4 July.
Entry is free, thanks to generous sponsorship of the State-wide event by Australian agribusiness company, Manildra Group.
Entry forms can be downloaded through the Country Press NSW website: cpnsw.org.au
The competition is opening in
Short stories entered may be on any topic or theme, or set in any time period, but must have one special inclusion: the words “local newspaper” must be included as part of the story.
Please note that entries must be posted to the central mailbox
listed on the entry form. Judging of the Country Press NSW 125th Anniversary Writing Competition will be carried out by leading creative writing organisation, the Fellowship of Australian Writers (NSW). FAW (NSW), which will provide a panel of judges from its 14 country branches, specialises in helping people develop their writing talent and has resources available to help youngsters and adults improve their writing experience (visit fawnsw.org.au for more information).
Tullamore Central students were part of the massed choir at Pulse Alive.
6.00
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. The Star Championships Day and Caulfield Race Day. 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 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. The Star Championships Day and Caulfield Race Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: Central Intelligence. (2016) Dwayne Johnson. 9.45 MOVIE: Battle Los Angeles. (2011) Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriguez. 12.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 12.00 The 4WD Adventure Show. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 1. Day 1. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Football. AFL. Round 4. North Melbourne v Sydney. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.40 MOVIE: Uptown Girls. (2003) 3.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 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: Black Adam. (2022) Dwayne Johnson, Sarah Shahi, Aldis Hodge. 10.50 MOVIE: Shazam! (2019) 1.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.00 Dream Home. 1.40 Holey Moley Australia. Final. 3.10 My France With Manu. 4.10 Dodger. 5.15 MOVIE: The Tiger Rising. (2022) 7.30 MOVIE: Jumanji. (1995) 9.35 MOVIE: The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty. (2013) 11.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Intrepid Adventures. 12.30 Australia By Design: Architecture. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 2.30 Taste Of Aus: BBQ. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 GCBC. 5.00 News. 6.30 Dog House Aust. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. 9.30 Ambulance
Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021) 11.10 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022) 1.15 Late Programs. 6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 A Current Affair.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.40 Doctor Who. 3.25 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Louis Theroux: Louis
Designs Revisited. 4.30 Restoration Australia. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Darby And Joan. 8.15 Unforgotten. 9.05 Boat Story. 10.05 MOVIE: Ali’s Wedding. (2017) 11.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Octonauts And The Ring Of Fire. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Peter Rabbit. 5.50 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
ARIES
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) There could be some lingering problems from a previous matter that involved a decision you felt you had to make. Resolve the situation with your strong Taurean no-nonsense approach.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) The Gemini’s carefully made plans could be undone by someone’s unexpected decision. Getting the full story behind a surprise move can help you decide how to deal with the matter.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Recently uncovered information might put a new light on a situation you thought had been resolved. Keep an open mind about possible changes that you might have to consider.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.15 MOVIE: The Brigand Of Kandahar. (1965) 3.00 MOVIE: The Day The Earth Caught Fire. (1961) 5.00 MOVIE: Vera Cruz. (1954) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 8. Western Force v Highlanders. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific PostMatch. 9.45 MOVIE: Rocky Balboa. (2006) 11.45 Late Programs.
Cook With Luke. 2.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 2.30 Expedition: Australia’s West Coast. 3.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00
Sea Eagles v Melbourne Storm. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.50 60 Minutes. 9.50 9News Late. 10.20 See No Evil. 11.20 The First 48. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 Getaway. 12.30 My Favorite Martian. 1.00 Avengers. 2.00 MOVIE: The Man Who Haunted Himself. (1970) 3.55 MOVIE: The Cruel Sea. (1953) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Fugitive. (1993) 11.10 The Closer. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 My France With Manu. 2.00 Home And Away. 4.00 Australian Idol. 5.00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) With a potential revision of an old agreement, you can’t beat the Big Cat for knowing how to sharpen a “clause” to the best advantage. Meanwhile, someone close could have the news you’ve been waiting for.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Certain issues in the workplace could put you in the middle of a dispute you’d rather not deal with. Express your honest feelings before the pressure to take sides builds up.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You might feel uneasy disagreeing with someone you’ve been close to. But your relationship should be able to withstand and even thrive when you confront your true feelings.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A romantic situation seems to be creating more confusion than you can handle. If so, own up to your feelings. The sooner you do, the better your chances are for working things out.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) New contacts help you learn some important information about upcoming developments. The week calls for the Sea Goat to be more
than usual in a number of matters.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) With both change and uncertainty in your aspect, you might feel less confident in a previous decision. This is OK. Check it out and see where it could be modified, if necessary.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Old relationships that seemed to be sinking are buoyant again, and new relationships are benefiting from Cupid’s loving care. This could be a good time to make a major move!
STUD TO CELEBRATE SILVER MILESTONE AT SYDNEY ROYAL
The Royal Agricultural Society is preparing to bring the country back to the city once again, as people across the region gear up for the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Inside this special edition of The Farmer, we spotlight some of the region’s brightest young talents in agriculture—future leaders who will showcase their skills in everything from judging to auctioneering.
Among the long-time contributors to the Show is Hollywood Angus Stud from Peak Hill, which is celebrating 25 years of recognition by the Royal Agricultural Society. Founded in 2000 by Lyn and Ian Frecklington after decades of breeding commercial Angus cattle, the stud has become a fixture in the industry.
This year, Lyn Frecklington takes on a busy role as breed captain, bringing eight adult cattle and two calves to the Show, supported by a team of four helpers.
Continued page 11
Advocacy
groups call for parties to declare support for farmers in lead up
With Australia heading to the polls on 3 May, the National Farmers’ Federation is calling on all parties to commit to our farming future.
“This election comes at a critical moment for Australian agriculture and every family that relies on farmers for a ordable food and bre,” Federation President
David Jochinke said.
“The choices made by the next government will shape our ability to feed Australians for generations to come.”
The Federation is calling for immediate action on:
Developing a National Food Security Preparedness Strategy;
Reducing regulatory bur-
dens and maintaining vital support programs; Investing in practical environmental solutions led by farmers;
Addressing critical labour shortages and enhancing safety;
Strengthening trade relationships and boosting export competitiveness;
Fixing unsafe rural roads and delivering on regional housing and childcare.
“Australian agriculture stands at the intersection of major global trends that will reshape farming and food prices,” Mr Jochinke said.
“From rising input costs to climate pressures, our $80 billion export industry faces
A critical time for ag
to Federal election
unprecedented challenges.
“But with the right policies, we can turn these challenges into opportunities – keeping food a ordable while growing towards our goal of becoming a $100 billion industry by 2030.”
The Federation spoke on the Federal Budget - delivered earlier in the week.
“While we acknowledge some new funding targeting the sector – especially the $3.5 million for a National Food Security Strategy, a key election ask – the budget falls well short of the investment needed to unlock agriculture’s full potential,” Mr Jochinke said.
■ Continued page 4
Search on for next generation leaders
A statewide search is underway for five young rural leaders as NSW Farmers opens applications for its 2025 Tertiary Scholarships.
Each worth $4000 annually, the NSW Farmers 2025 Tertiary Scholarships will be awarded to members or their children in their second year of study for a university degree or vocational qualification, in a field relevant to regional and rural Australia.
NSW Young Farmers Chair Martin Murray said the scholarship program aimed to build the farm communities of the future.
“As the state’s peak farm body, we exist to help farmers right now, but also in the future – and this scholarship program is part of our commitment to help the next generation access opportunities and careers in rural Australia,” Mr Murray said in a NSW Farmers announcement to the media.
“Investing in skill development and building capacity is essential if we want these future leaders to find their passion and get the head start they need to achieve their goals.”
2024 scholarship recipient and Rural Science student Jennifer Corderoy said the program had proved pivotal in unlocking new resources and experiences on her journey into the agricultural sector.
“This scholarship truly reflects the community unique to our industry, in which one generation gives a ‘leg up’ to the next,” Ms Corderoy said.
“By studying Rural Science, I am being equipped to address farming challenges, and I hope that the contributions of my career to our industry will be a return on the investment of NSW Farmers in me.”
Applications for the Tertiary Scholarships program close on 11 May.
Scholarships will be awarded based on academic performance, commitment to agriculture and rural communities, and all-round ability including leadership qualities and communication skills.
For information or to apply, visit the NSW Farmers website www.nswfarmers.org.au
Tasha’s life-long passion for ag and her community
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Tasha Hurley is one of eight in the state heading to this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show as a Rural Achiever nalist.
The Rural Achiever competition recognises young leaders working hard to make a signicant contribution to their local community, show society and Australian agriculture.
Tasha threw her hat in the ring and was surprised when she found out she had been selected as a nalist.
“I was very excited, I’ve spent a bit of time with the Rural Achievers in previous years as I was on the Royal Ag Society Youth Group so it’s quite an honour to be associated with them,” Tasha said.
Growing up on her family farm 100kms north west of Condobolin, Tasha has never considered a career outside of the agriculture industry.
She has completed a Bachelor of Agriculture Business Management and spent three years at Forbes Livestock Agency as a Livestock Marketing and Business Development O cer before moving to On The Box as an Agency Representative.
She now hopes to go into the grassroots of the industry, working on farm with producers.
“I’ve grown up surrounded by agriculture and love it so much, so I want to be able to contribute to the industry,” she said.
Tasha has already been recognised for multiple leadership roles: as a Red Meat Ambassador for Meat and Livestock Australia, and as the chair of the Royal Agricultural Society Youth Group when she was 21 years old.
THEN
NOW
ty: volunteering is something the Rural Achiever nalist is most passionate about.
“Growing up I absolutely loved my childhood in Condobolin where you could play pretty much every sport in the world and all the events that were on too,” she said.
When Tasha came back to the family farm for her gap year in 2018 during the drought she saw the closure of many shops, the end to local events and the folding of sporting teams.
“Obviously when farmers aren’t going too well the town struggles a bit too and it clicked with me that year and I was like, wow, people don’t shop local, help out and join committees,” she said.
Condobolin didn’t have a rugby union team for three years, a netball team for ve years and even a rugby league team for a while.
son all these people are having so much fun’.”
From events to the agriculture industry the people is what Tasha enjoys the most.
“Growing up we spent a lot of time with our neighbours who were obviously farmers so I think the people of agriculture are very resilient, they all have a good sense of humour because you need it, they are all hard working and I think they all have the features of great leaders and people,” she said.
Looking towards the Sydney Royal, Tasha is looking forward to catching up with people and being part of an exciting experience and professional development.
“I’m looking forward to meeting all the other nalists so it should be a great week,” Tasha added.
Our region’s Young Achievers
“I really want to contribute and be on all of those committees because these events are my favourite parts of the year,” Tasha said.
bassador Award recognising his enthusiasm for community engagement and agricultural advancement.
Brooke Watts from Molong founded The UpGen Project and oversees operations at her family owned company, Bralca.
Bralca which o en hold events and work with people in our region.
Brooke has deep roots in agriculture, growing up on her family farm in Molong.
Armed with a Bachelor of Business Management, she leverages her wealth of knowledge and passion to ignite innovative conversations in industry.
In the industry’s future Tasha would love to see every person in Australia have a basic understanding of agriculture, where their food and bre comes from and why the industry is so important to everyone in Australia.
Sales Courtney Gambrill Manager Mobile 0448 248 080 cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au
“I think there is a growing divide between the city and the country and it’s getting harder with some people just not really appreciating agriculture for what it is,” she said.
“Being able to educate everyone to understand we’re doing our best, we’re doing it because we love it and we’re also feeding and clothing the nation, so it’s not an industry to be laughed at.”
Outside of the paddock you can nd Tasha in the communi-
Tasha is the founder and event manager of Condobolin’s successful Oktoberfest.
Last year Tasha was part of the team that raised more than $30k from this event which goes towards local sports clubs.
“Seeing this event grow each year and make a tangible impact on the community has been incredibly rewarding,” Tasha said.
“It’s not hard to join committees and it’s very satisfying at the end of the event when you get to look around and go, ‘I helped make this happen’, ‘I’m the rea-
From eight Rural Achiever nalists four, including Tasha, have a connection to our region.
Jacob Moriarty from Canowindra discovered a passion for agriculture following high school.
Jacob is currently completing a Diploma in Agriculture while working as an assistant farm manager in Canowindra.
This Rural Achiever has been recognised for her leadership being named a 2024 nalist for Western NSW Outstanding Young Business Leader of the Year and a nalist for 2023 Charles Sturt University Young Alumni of the Year.
Brooke has a passion for inspiring youth initiatives in agriculture and an increased adoption of ag tech.
Roy Elder from Wongarbon managed the construction of the multi-million dollar grain silo and railway upgrade at Red Bend and managed the build of a new silo factory at Forbes.
In this role Jacob’s responsibilities include, enhancing soil carbon levels in dryland cropping and managing livestock in the mixed farming system.
He is an active member of the Canowindra Show Society and serves as the organiser of the Canowindra Crop Competition.
Last year saw Jacob honoured with the Canowindra Rural Am-
Roy is a project manager delivering infrastructure to improve the competitiveness of Australian grain growers holding a Master of Construction Project Management and a Bachelor of Architecture and Environments.
He is involved with local tree planting and river clean up initiatives.
Tasha has always had a love for agriculture. PHOTOS: Supplied
Tasha Hurley is one of eight Rural Achiever finalists at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Quality offering at Reiland bull sale
The autumn Reiland Angus bull sale is set for Wednesday 16 April at Killimicat Station, Brungle.
Several new sire lines will be represented via Reiland Republic who is an Ashland son with tremendous so ness, growth and marbling focus.
This drop represents his rst sire group from a two-year-old joining.
An additional sire line is that of Reiland Speculator S257, who currently is ranked in the top one per cent on both $A an $ A-L indexes.
The bulls that represent this sire will impress buyers by his moderate frame, low birth, high growth and exceedingly positive carcase data
of +12.7 EMA, positive fat and +4.0 marbling.
Reiland has used Speculator S257 widely in 2024 AI joining programs and is looking forward to o ering expanded numbers from this industry leading sire.
Popular AI sires who are represented include: Baldridge Goalkeeper, Millah Murrah Paratrooper, SS Brickyard, Landfall Mainland, Sterling Paci c. The sale comes on the heels of recent Reiland Premier female sale where cows and calves topped at $3300 per unit and PTIC heifers made $2100 in a challenging southern season.
Call for federal candidates to show support for ag
From page 1
“Farmers are grappling with major geopolitical, environmental and societal shi s,” the National Farmers Federation presi-
“We need a sharper focus from Government to ensure we keep farmers farming, and keep food a ordable for Aussie families.”
Mr Jochinke said trade was a worthy focus for the agriculture portfolio, and showed the Government was listening to farmers’ increasing concerns about the changing trade environment.
“Farmers export about 70 per cent of what they produce, so undoubtedly any threats to market access are top of mind,” he said.
The budget includes $6.8m for international engagement and market access, as well as $20m
for a Buy Australian campaign.
“We acknowledge funding for new and existing infrastructure and $2.9m to help fresh produce suppliers better negotiate with supermarkets,” Mr Jochinke said.
“We need billions more invested in xing potholed rural roads. We need innovative approaches to stimulate regional housing and overcome workforce challenges.
“We need major investment in our waterways and in ecosystem services to protect our environment.”
NSW Farmers also put the spotlight on poor infrastructure, telecommunications and biosecurity.
“Billions have been promised to x roads and rail in the cities, but we don’t know whether there will be any allocated to x the
roads, railways and bridges that are falling apart throughout the bush,” NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said.
“Meanwhile, our telecommunications are in ruin and farmers are ghting a losing battle against a growing number of biosecurity threats.
“Promises to upgrade the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness and deliver $11 million to ght pests, weeds and feral animals are only a drop in the ocean, and we need much more funding to deliver a serious biosecurity regime that will defend our industry and assure our food security into the future.”
Funding commitments to keep Rex Airlines a oat and regional bank branches open were welcome, alongside commitments to
drive competition reform, create a National Food Security Strategy and deliver cost of living relief for communities Australia wide.
However, Mr Martin warned more targeted investment in regional, remote and rural communities would be essential to ensure farmers could keep growing the Aussie food and bre the nation needs.
“Investing in farming communities drives productivity and will deliver food security,” Mr Martin said.
“Our government keeps talking about a future made in Australia, but how about a future grown in Australia?
“As we head to the polls, our politicians can’t forget the fact that people need fresh, Aussie grown food at fair prices.”
Lot
National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke PHOTO: Supplied
Every Easter, the country’s best young auctioneers put their skills to the test under the bright lights of the Sydney Royal ampitheatre.
Each has three steers to sell - prime stock of Sydney Royal competition to showcase their skills in commanding the room and getting the best price for the vendor.
This year, central west auctioneer Darcy Howard will step up to the microphone to represent NSW in the competition at a national level as the reigning champion from the NSW title this time last year.
The ampitheatre at Sydney Royal Easter Show is a far cry from the Central West Livestock Exchange and Cowra saleyards, and it does take some adjustment.
“You’ve just got to do a little bit more practice focussed on that competition,” Darcy said.
“I feel very privileged to go down there and represent NSW, I want to give it my best shot.”
But for Darcy, it’s about more than just the competition - it’s about people and his passion for agriculture and the ever-evolving livestock industry he loves.
The young auctioneer has had a whirlwind 12 months, busy across the Forbes and
Cowra selling centres but also in business, becoming a director of the new Cowrabased MCC Howard Oliver.
“It’s been a big 12 months but a very exciting 12 months as well,” he said.
The competition is just one part of the job and the industry he loves.
“There’s a few facets to it but I really enjoy being able to work with my clients,” Darcy said.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing them have good results in di erent sales whether it be in the yards or over the hook.”
There’s just nothing better than partnering with clients to grow their business and seeing them reach their goals: in this industry clients become friends and Darcy counts himself very lucky to work with very good people.
“I love the industry in terms of it’s very competitive but some of my best friends are in the industry as well that are competitors,” he said.
Being part of the Young Auctioneers competition has grown the opportunities to expand those networks.
“The biggest thing is the exposure you get from being in the competition and the networking that comes from that,” Darcy said.
“It’s just such a good op-
portunity for agents across the country to put a face to the name - you meet a lot of people down at the shows.
“The networking with other people in the competition and other people down there, that’s invaluable for your business.”
It’s a business Darcy has long-term con dence in, despite seasonal variations and market uctuations.
“In agriculture we are so reliant on rain and on the seasons, and in Australia we’re so reliant on export markets, there’s going to be times where the industry’s tested,” he said.
“But we’ve got a growing population in the world and the world needs protein.
“In Australia we can produce high end quality red meat and that gives us a big competitive advantage on the world stage.
“Our animal welfare standards are better than anywhere else in the world and I think that’s something we can be really proud of in Australian agriculture.”
And the season ahead?
Seasonal rains will make all the di erence.
“The livestock job’s all set up to be really, really strong going into the winter but we just need a bit of rain to make that happen,” Darcy said.
Darcy Howard, MCC Howard Oliver, pictured right with Craig Oliver, will represent NSW in the national Young Auctioneers finals. PHOTOS: Supplied
Experience vital in Jack’s Sydney bid
Jack Whitty reckons he’s a better auctioneer and a better person for his 2024 Sydney Royal experience in the State Young Auctioneersnal - and he can’t wait to open bidding in this year’s big event.
Jack was just 19 when he contested his rst State nal, an experience that’s shaped both the day-today of his job and his preparations for this year.
“Last year was a really good building block,” he said as he looks to the 2025 event scheduled for Friday 11 April.
“I’m a lot better auctioneer for it.
“I learnt plenty of di erent techniques o the back of it and a different style of selling so I’m really looking forward to going to Sydney again and giving it another crack.”
Jack grew up around cattle and shows and then followed dad Luke - a former winner of this competition - into the business at a young age.
His dad has obviously been one of his key mentors both in getting established as a livestock agent, but in knowing the value of the Young Auctioneers competitions.
There are some key di erences between selling at the sheepyards at the Central West Livestock Exchange of a Tuesday morning, and selling at Sydney Royal.
Just getting used to a microphone and using that to your advantage is key - but so is adjusting your tempo and intensity to create atmosphere within the very different environment that is Sydney Royal.
“You need to be able to take your
intensity to another level to engage 3000 people,” Jack said.
“With a bit of experience and practice coming into the competition this year I feel as though I’ve got that ability to engage a crowd.”
Jack’s plan for the main event is
to have as ordinary a morning as possible, and to keep his sale approach simple.
“Going over those steers and picking out four or ve key aspects or each steer to emphasise - emphasising those key factors rath-
er than trying to do and say too much,” he said.
“That’s probably where my focus is this year: say more numbers than words.”
But there’s so much more to this event than making a sale.
“I really like livestock and probably more so connecting with people through the industry,” Jack said.
“That’s where my focus is and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to do it all again.”
Jack Whitty, KMWL, is preparing for the 2025 NSW Young Auctioneers finals at Sydney Royal.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Jack Whitty’s dad Luke is his mentor in business and the Young Auctioneer competition.
Lockie’s set for next steps in livestock industry
the opportunity to go to Syd-
The increasingly popular competition attracted about 40 young auctioneers from around the State and in itself opened up great opportunities - because the industry is as much about connections as
training and learning, each of the contenders had their chance to sell three steers for
The opportunity to meet and work with people is a huge part of what attracted Lockie to the business and what he hopes to gain from Sydney.
It’s what he loves about his
“I love that I can do my job where my Pop is, one of my best friends, it’s really good having someone like that as
“He’s a very good mentor and I’m very lucky to be under
Matthew Lennon is another in the business who’s showing the next generation the way.
“They’ve taught me a lotand obviously there’s still plenty to learn,” Lockie said.
“They’re steering me in the right direction anyway.”
KMWL today is based in Forbes with a vast reach and Lockie’s work most frequently takes him to the north and west - between Parkes and Dubbo, to Nyngan and Cumnock.
While he’s had plenty of selling experience at Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange, Lockie’s been preparing himself for Sydney by working with mentors with competition experience and watching videos of previous winners.
Lockie Miller, KMWL, will contest the State Young Auctioneers final at Sydney Royal. PHOTOS: Supplied
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Hollywood Angus to celebrate Sydney Royal milestone
From page 1
“Sydney is one of the most prestigious cattle shows in Australia so the competition will probably be the best in Australia,” Lyn Frecklington said.
“You always hope you can win your class at Sydney but we just hope to be competitive and pick up a few ribbons.”
Hollywood Angus has already seen some promising results this Show season, claiming Junior, Senior and Grand Champion Angus Bull titles at the Canberra Royal Show.
Hollywood Top O’ The Morning was awarded Senior and grand Champion Angus Bull which he also won last year at the Canberra Royal.
“His half brother and half sister won the sires progeny and the breeders group in the Angus as well and his younger half brother, Hollywood Vaya Con Dios, won Junior Champion Angus Bull,” Lyn said. All four of these cattle are the progeny of Hollywood Longmire who Hollywood Angus Stud bred themselves.
“That made us really happy. When you use your own bull and they’re capable of winning at the Royal Shows, it’s pretty good,” Lyn said.
Hollywood Angus Stud place strong emphasis on structural correctness, feed e ciency, good growth and docility within their Angus cattle.
“We like structurally correct cattle which is why they do well at shows,” Lyn said.
“I don’t like looking at ugly cattle and when you go to sell them it’s the good looking ones, the structurally correct ones, that people prefer and that’s why we like breeding them.”
Lyn prefers the Angus breed as she sees them as the premiere breed and sees more demand for
Angus cattle through the sale yards and from the processors.
“The Angus Society does a good job at marketing them but it’s not just Australia, it’s the same in America and Canada. Angus are sort of a premium, therefore Angus beef,” she said.
“Angus beef have certain standards that it has to achieve or they won’t get the grading, Certi ed Australian Angus Beef (CAAB), and apart from just being black they have to have certain meat quality characteristics to pass to get graded that way.”
Apart from Canberra and Sydney Royal, Hollywood Angus will only be competing in local shows around the Central West this year and are excited to have the opportunity to display some of their cattle at the Angus World Forum.
Held every four years the Angus World Forum sees Angus studs from around the world and this year it will be held in Australia allowing Australian Angus studs to display a representation of their herd to the world.
“We went to the Angus World Forum in Scotland in 2017 and it was absolutely fantastic and we thought we’d really like to be part of the Australian one.”
This will be the rst Angus World Forum since 2017 with the original forum being scheduled in 2021 being cancelled due to Covid.
The event is also promising to be the largest gathering of registered Angus cattle ever held in Australia.
“They are expecting a lot of Angus breeders from all over the world to come out here and be part of it and look at Australian Angus,” Lyn added.
Looking ahead, Lyn and Hollywood Angus are looking forward to an exciting 2025 marking 25 years of Hollywood Angus.
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Sizzle set to return to beef prices
By KIM WOODS
There are golden times ahead for the nation’s cattle producers with a “new norm” of 630c/kg liveweight for feeder steers next year as the markets enter a sevenyear period of stability.
Market analyst Simon Quilty, Global AgriTrends, Wangaratta, delivered his price forecast out to 2028 at the Pasture Agronomy Service conference at Gundagai on March 10.
Mr Quilty forecast 2026 average prices to reach 630c/kg liveweight for feeder steers, 510c/kg LW for Jap Ox, 420c/ kg LW for cows and for the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) to peak at 1277c/kg carcase weight.
This would be up on the strengthening 2025 prices of 490c/kg for feeder steers, 410c/kg for Jap Ox, 325c/kg for cows and an ECYI of 954c/ kg carcase weight.
Prices have been tipped to remain elevated through 2027 but begin trending downwards in 2028 with feeder steers slipping 80c/kg LW as the national herd rebuild grinds to a halt.
Overall, the cattle market has recorded a ve per cent
(up from 276c/kg in southern Queensland), driven by exceptional price levels for grinding meat at a time when we hit the herd rebuild.”
Mr Quilty has the nominal yearling carcase weight indicator entering a seven-year period of stable prices this year until 2032, o the back of a decade long transitory period when prices rose 35 per cent since 2015.
in Queensland and northern NSW a month earlier than normal due to the lack of cattle in the south.
“This year I expect these Victorian processors to travel north even earlier by late March/early April due to more processor capacity in Victoria and NSW, and further herd liquidation.
tralian imported prices are tipped to move higher on the back of rocketing domestic prices and Brazilian product becoming uncompetitive due to tari s.
this year.
“They see shortages with the liquidation and the increased global demand.”
Market analyst Simon Quilty, Global AgriTrends.
Supplied
fall in March due to Cyclone Alfred closing major ports, with Meat and Livestock Australia quoting yearling steers trading at 370c/kg, feeders averaging 356c/ kg, heavy steers at 342c/kg, heifers 299c/kg and cows at 284c/kg.
Mr Quilty expects the market to move upwards in late April for feeder steers to 536c/kg by September.
“A good quality Angus feeder steer is 410-420c/kg liveweight today in the market and lot feeders are willing to pay 420-430c/kg now for forward cattle,” he said.
“In terms of cows, we are still talking around 440c/ kg by the end of this year
“Input costs have run ahead but by the start of 2027 to 2032, those input costs will be in line with your returns.”
Processing capacity in NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Queensland has risen to 3600 cattle per day, o the back of the herd liquidation for at least seven quarters.
The herd liquidation has resulted in a 60-80c/kg LW discount on heifers relative to feeder steers across Queensland. Heifers are trading at a 70c/kg discount in NSW and 90c/kg in Victoria.
Mr Quilty said northern processors would be squeezed as young cattle ow from the southern states to Queensland and older heavier cattle ow to southern processors.
“We are about to go into a staggered rebuild phase where prices for heifers go back to a premium if good rain comes to the southern Australia in July. If we don’t get the rain, liquidation will stop, and the herd will hover in a holding pattern for six months.
“The rebuild will start in Queensland, move into northern NSW and by the end of this year and early next year, southern NSW and Victoria will be in a rebuild, resulting in higher prices.
“We are expecting the steer kill to subside over the next six months – add that to the female kill and suddenly supply is getting tight.
“The higher prices from this rebuild are potentially coming this year and will carry into next year.”
Grinding beef is at record levels of 385 USc/lb and Aus-
“Price rises in America on all beef cuts are so bene cial to us – if consumers cannot pay the price for cuts, they go into the 90CL pack (90 per cent lean meat). The higher the 90CL price goes, the less US exports and the more Australia becomes the player in those markets,” Mr Quilty said.
The makeup of Australian feedlots is changing with less Wagyu cattle on feed and mid-fed programs switching to larger short fed programs of 110-120 days.
There is a record number of Australian cattle on feed at 1.45 million head with that forecast to increase to 1.6 million by the end of 2025.
“Flatbacks are playing a huge role in the Japanese market – marble score doesn’t matter any more, they just want 100-day grain fed cheap beef and atbacks provide that,” Mr Quilty said.
“There is genuine concern from the major players on how many Angus feeders will be around at the back end of
Mr Quilty said the long fed Wagyu market had been challenging with marble score 8-9 falling in the US from US$53/ lb in June 2022 to US$28.50/lb in February 2025. Australian Wagyu prices in the US have seen tenderloins fall in value by 33 per cent, ribeyes by 48 per cent and striploins by 57 per cent.
“In the US, Australia Wagyu F1 marble score 3-4 and 4-5 now trade at a discount to Prime, Certi ed Angus, Choice and just above Select – equating to a 77 per cent fall in price,” he said.
“Wagyu marble score 6-7 plus still sit at a signi cant premium in the market. Australian Wagyu numbers on feed have come o a peak of 306,000 in 2022 to 275,000 head and at the moment Australian domestic supply is outstripping demand.”
“We have unsold Wagyu F1 cattle, poor quality cattle and it will be a year before we start to see some of the old premiums that we are used to. Poor quality Wagyu F1 steers will trend at a discount to Angus.”
Roots on the le showing active rhizosphere where YLAD Living Soils Seed Dressing treatment was applied – Roots on the right are without seed dressing.
PHOTO: Supplied
PHOTO:
Young judges set to shine in Sydney
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
The Central West and Hilltops will be well represented in young judges competitions at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.
It has been 105 years since the rst young judges competition kicked o at the Sydney Royal in 1920 with the competition continu ing to improve the youth of agricul ture’s knowledge and skills.
Qualifying for young judges com petitions including beef, dairy, meat breeds sheep, Merino sheep, Merino eece, fruit and veg and grain were held at multiple shows around the state last year.
One passionate Grenfell young judge, Heather Walker, has quali ed to compete at multiple com petitions at the Sydney Royal once again.
This year she quali ed for eece judging and meat sheep judging at the Henty Show (Group 8), meat sheep judging at the Cootamundra Show (Group 9) and grain judging at the Dubbo Show (Group 11).
At Sydney Heather will also be entering into the poultry and pigs young judges competition and the soil young judges competition which is a new competition at the Sydney Royal.
Heather will be aiming to place in events that will qualify her to compete at Nationals later in the year at the Melbourne Royal Show.
Heather started competing in young judges coemptions when she was in year 9 and continued to compete in the competitions as she is studying to be an agriculture teacher.
“My drive to do shows was because I wanted to be one of those
ag teachers who has the skill set,” Heather said.
“I don’t want students to feel lost, I want them to know they are being taught by someone who has been in their position and I was that person standing in front of the judge with mic really scared.”
A big achievement for Heather
this year in young judges was quali fying for beef cattle judging.
She is currently working with Forbes Livestock Association and says this experience has had an inuence on how far she has come in beef judging.
“I have never made it past the oral class to speak on my placings
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in beef judging and to actually take out the competition and have the opportunity to speak about the class of beef cattle was really exciting and something new I’ve chucked into the mix this year,” she said.
Heather enjoys getting the ribbons but also loves hearing from the judges and building connections and networking.
“I enjoy learning new things, every time I go to a show there is something new,” she said.
“When I’m looking at a eece, I’m looking at something that I’ve liked and then I hear a judge and they tell me what they see and it’s like, ‘oh, I’ve never thought of that’, so it’s the journey of learning that I enjoy.”
Heather’s favourite young judges competition is anything to do with sheep.
“For anyone that knows me, I’m a big sheep lover, I love judging meat sheep,” she said.
The passionate young judge’s advice for anyone who wants to have a go at young judges competitions is don’t be scared, embrace the experience and learn from the judge.
“No body is exactly right but if you can explain yourself and use the correct terminology it will get you through and don’t be afraid to say, ‘honestly, I don’t know, can you explain?’
“When I was competing as a year 9 student I never use to get ribbons or placings, it does come instantly for some but give it some time and practice because you never know where it will take you,” Heather added.
Young Judges competitions at
this year’s Sydney Royal will be held from 12 to 22 April.
Our Young Judges From Group 10 Shows including Bedgerabong, Cowra, Eugowra, Forbes, grenfell, Koorawatha, Murrumburrah Harden, Parkes, Peak Hill, Trundle, Tullamore, Woodstock and Young the following young judges have qualified for the Sydney Royal: Beef: Jess Tudgey and Alana Haynes
Dairy: Lily Eagles, Jess Tudgey and Abby Fuge
Meat Breeds Sheep: Eli Brown and Rhys Knight
Merino Sheep: Bryce Tandy
Merino Fleece: Lachlan Haynes and Anderson Ball
Fruit and Veg: Sienna Pearce, Lila Gascoigne and Marnie Noakes
Grain: Anderson Ball and Lila Gascoigne
Beef Paraders: Ava Rouse, Claire Wilkins, Chelsea Hall, Max White, Jack Smyth, Sam Garvin, Lachlan Haynes, Maddy Lawry and Issy Pearce.
From Group 11 Shows including Canowindra the following young judges have qualified for the Sydney Royal:
Beef Young Judges: Alana Haynes and Issac Bennetts
Meat Breeds Sheep: Alexis Farrugia and Marc Presnell
Merino Sheep: Mary Westwood
Merino Fleece: Brendan Mitchell and Zachery Charlton
Fruit and Veg: Immy Ousby, Tegan Godwin and Lachlan Hooper
Grain: Immy Ousby and Heather Walker
Beef Paraders: Lachlan Hooper, Angus Johnson, Jack Taylor, Faith Green, Sophie Lockyer, Max Taylor, Charlie Lockyer, Marcus Wythes, Fraser Gill and Amelia Miller.
Dealership gong for AGnVET team
AGnVET with Darling Irrigation have received the 2024 Top Dealership Award for the Asia Paci c region from Lindsay Corporation.
Darling Irrigation’s business manager Sam Maroulis accepted the award on behalf of AGnVET at the International Dealer Convention in Costa Rica.
Gustavo Oberto, Lindsay President Agricultural Irrigation, said the organisation was proud to recognise AGnVET and Darling Irrigation on their outstanding achievement.
“We congratulate our award winners for their relentless commitment to excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction,” he said.
Sam Maroulis founded Darling Irrigation in Bourke, NSW with his
have nine outlets across NSW, Victoria and Tasmania.
“This award is testament to the
daily basis are delivering legendary service to our farming customers across our network,” Sam said.
“The dynamic and changing nature of the irrigation, water and pumping industry means that we always need to be at the cutting edge of technology and innovation, so we value solid relationships with leading manufacturers such as Lindsay, who manufacturer Zimmatic irrigation infrastructure and FieldNET remote irrigation management technology.”
AGnVET is only the second dealer in the APAC region to receive this prestigious award, making the occasion even more special for the Australian company.
Founded in 1915 by Harry Walker in Forbes NSW, AGnVET has
years to a network of businesses in the broadacre cropping, irrigation and mixed farming areas across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
Darling Irrigation is its specialist water and irrigation business and excels in water use e ciency and advanced irrigation services.
With Darling Irrigation branches located in Bourke, Dubbo, Latrobe, Launceston, Leeton, Narromine, Rochester, Scottsdale and Wagga Wagga, AGnVET provides readily available, high-quality products and services across Australia.
Lindsay dealers are selected for a variety of awards based on their dealership’s performance in the categories of overall sales, FieldNETâ„¢ subscription sales, FieldNET Advisorâ„¢ sales, a ermarket
sales, top-performing new dealer, marketing, and the coveted Zimmerer Entrepreneur Award, which recognises the dealer who demonstrates innovation, creativity, and the drive to make a di erence.
An awards ceremony is held biennially to recognize all winners in their respective category.
With a global network of authorised dealers and manufacturing facilities, Lindsay stands at the forefront of agricultural innovation and irrigation solutions.
“It’s an exciting time for AGnVET, Darling Irrigation and our clients and partners,” Mr Maroulis said.
“Our team looks forward continuing to provide expert service, products and advice that clients and businesses can count on.”
Region’s women share their passion and purpose
Passion and purpose were front and centre as rural women celebrated International Women’s Day in Forbes.
Central West Farming Systems hosted a lunch and learn event, with some 60 women from the central west gathering.
“It was great to see Forbes buzzing celebrating International Women’s Day,” Brooke said.
“The energy in regional NSW is contagious and has a bright future.”
The national industry-led Carbon Farming Outreach Program was the rst topic for the day, with plenty of discussion in the room with presenters Emma Ayli e and Central West Farming Systems’ Diana Fear.
This program is supporting more than 3500 farms with carbon reduction tools, and ensuring access to independent advice on low emission farming.
COWRA REGIONAL LIVESTOCK SELLING CENTRE
Prime lamb and Sheep Sale every Wednesday 11:30am.
• Selling Agents • Allan Gray & Co • Normal C. Bellamy
• JJ Dresser & Co • James P Keady • Elders – Cowra
• Kevin Miller Whitty & Co • Landmark Cowra
A panel discussion on passion and purpose followed with Emily Sinderberry, Tasha Hurley and Chiara Stommel, facilitated by Brooke Watts.
All had plenty to share to inspire and empower others.
Diana Fear is the CEO of Central West Farming Systems (CWFS), an independent, not-for-pro t, farmerdriven organisation based in Condobolin.
Under her leadership, CWFS oversees agricultural projects across 14 million hectares in the lower rainfall, mixed farming regions of Central West NSW.
Chiara Strommel is the trials agronomist at Central West Farming Systems, designing and managing eld trials that address the unique challenges of the region’s mixed farming systems.
Tasha is a State nalist for the 2025 RAS Rural Achiever Competition, and has served as Chair of the Royal Agricultural Society Youth Group and as a MLA Red Meat Ambassador.
Brooke Watt’s dedication to industry growth and sustainability has earned her recognition as a nalist for 2024 Western NSW Outstanding Young Business Leader of the Year and 2023 CSU Young Alumni of the Year Finalist.
She too is heading for Sydney Royal this year as analist in the 2025 RAS Rural Achiever competition.
More about them on page 2 of this edition of The Farmer. This event was delivered with funding support from the Commonwealth of Australia through the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Carbon Farming Outreach Program in collaboration with the Grower Group Alliance.
Weston, Julia
Darling Irrigation; Randy Wood, Corporate President and CEO.
Trundle Back In Time
Green machines take centre stage
The Trundle Showground was almost glowing green as hundreds of tractors young and old were on display for Trundle Back In Time.
The display was bolstered by a range of John Deere tractors to mark the celebration of just over 100 years of the company manufacturing its own tractors.
And among them was one close to Chris Green’s heart.
Chris, along with his three-year-old son Al e who are from Forbes, spotted a John Deere Model D tractor that belonged to his grandfather Jack Green who owned it in the late 40s and early 50s.
While it’s no longer in the family, Chris didn’t want to miss the opportunity to have a photo with the tractor on Saturday a ernoon.
The John Deere Model D tractor was introduced in 1923 and became the rst tractor built, marketed, and named John Deere.
It replaced the Waterloo Boy in the company’s product line.
The two-cylinder kerosene-burning engine produced 15 horsepower at the drawbar and 22 at the belt, and was the longest model run of any John Deere tractor.
Attendees over the weekend of 15 and 16 March were very fortunate to see one of these original 100-year-old Model D’s in Trundle and in action in the precious parade.
Andy Mackenzie and his father Norm came over from Molong with Andy’s
John Deere D Spoker tractor.
The Spoker style was produced from 1923 to 1926, and as the nickname suggests, the ywheel had spokes like a wagon wheel.
Only 5846 of these were produced.
The father-son duo have restored the tractor and it looked in spectacular condition for the parade.
“There’s only four or ve [of these] in Australia,” Norm said.
“It took us six months to restore it, there wasn’t much to do.”
While there are many activities taking place at Trundle Back In Time - like car and engine displays, sheaf toss, market stalls, kids entertainment and a great opportunity to catch up with friends - the event very much focuses on tractors.
And those who are very passionate about these machines are very much in their element.
Like central west farmer Edgar Orr, who is very well known in the Parkes Shire and those in the vintage machinery circle for his John Deere tractor collection.
Edgar had 14 tractors on display at Trundle Back In Time, including a ride-on tractor, and has a collection of about 30.
His oldest is a 1925 John Deere model.
Sporting bright green and yellow John Deere suspenders, Edgar was found among the tractor display only too happy to share his knowledge and stories on the tractors with visitors.
Tractors make tracks to Trundle
More than 100 tractors and their drivers from near and far showed spectators their tracks in one of Trundle Back In Time’s best tractor pull competitions yet.
Organisers of the biennial tractor pull and the annual vintage rally, Trundle P&A Society were delighted with this year’s results with some entrants coming away with multiple awards and placings across the 20 competing classes in the tractor pull, including a ladies class.
It all took place at the Trundle Showground on 15 and 16 March.
John Deere tractor collector and Goonumbla farmer Edgar Orr not only took home the Rob Goodsell Memorial Trophy for Best Looking Tractor with his John Deere 5020, but his John Deere 720 also won Best John Deere Tractor on Ground.
Andrew McKenzie’s 100-year-old
John Deere Model D Spoker was the Best Restored Tractor and Duncan Howe with his International Crawler B-TD6 won Most Original Tractor.
The Show Us Ya Tracks Best Track on Ground was Scott Goodsell’s TD 24 Crawler.
Meanwhile the remaining machines at the event weren’t forgotten with the Best Restored Truck going to Peter Thomas from Trundle for his Furphy Chevrolet and Most Original Truck to Andre Moser and his 1922 Renault.
Tony McGrath had the Best Re-
stored Car, the 1937 Ford Coupe ute and Most Original Car was Kellie Thomas’ 1982 Chevrolet.
The Best Restored Stationary Engine went to Joe Collet, Most Original Stationary Engine to Mick Buezell and Best Display Stationary Engine to Eddy Gould, who all had their entries featured in the weekend’s Stationary Engine Display.
2025 TRACTOR PULL RESULTS
Class is listed above, tractor make is listed a er the winner’s name and the distance pulled in their rst, second and third attempts listed last.
Under 20 HP
First Peter Thomas, Hart Parr 16/30: 60m, 45m.
Second Joe Collet, Lanz Bulldog “J”: 20m.
Under 25 HP
First Digger Anderson, McCormick Deering 15-30: 39m, 24m.
Second Will and Terry Charlton, Case Dexter: 37m, 24.5m.
Under 30 HP
First Rob Robertson, Oliver Hart Parr 28-44: 70m, 55m, 52m.
Second Bruce Capps, Lanz Bulldog “K”: 70m, 51m, 49m.
Under 35 HP
First Scott Walder, Inter WG: 70m, 54.5m, 55m.
Second Digger Anderson, Massey Harris Model 25: 20m.
Under 40 HP
First Geo Heinjus, Hanomag
R40: 51m, 56m, 70m.
Second Murray Mitton, John Deere Model “D”: 47m, 63m.
Under 45 HP
First James Hetherington, John Deere Model “R”: 62m, 61m, 70m.
Second Jason McCutcheon, John Deere Model “R”: 49.5m, 48m, 70m.
Under 50 HP
First Mick Umback, International WD-40: 75m.
Second Claude Fuller, Chamberlain 9G: 61m, 67m, 70m.
Under 55 HP
First Warren Krause, John Deere 730: 48m, 68m, 70m.
Second Geo Heinjus, Chamberlain 55 DA: 62m, 63.5m, 70m.
Under 60 HP
First Norman Bush, Case 500: 76m, 68m, 64.5m.
Second Claude Fuller, Chamberlain 60 DA: 74.5m, 60.5m, 59.5m.
Under 70 HP
First Warren Krause, Internation-
al 756: 76m, 65m.
Under 80 HP
First Murray Milton, International 660D: 80m, 80m. Under 90 HP
First Graham Pont, Chamberlain 354: 80m, 80m.
Second Matt Vella, Fiat 900: 77.5m, 63m.
Under 100 HP
First James Hetherington, Minneapolis Moline G1000: 80m, 80m. OPEN
First Ben Armstrong, Massey Ferguson 4800: 80m, 80m.
First James Hetherington, John Deere 4630: 80m, 80m.
Second Bill Shandley, John Deere
6030: 80m, 80m, 76m.
Crawler Under 30 HP
First Jason Goodsell, International T20: 48m.
Crawler Under 40 HP
First Steven Umback, McCormick
TD 35: 80m, 80m.
Second Peter Thomas, McCormick TD 35: 80m.
Crawler Under 50 HP
First Duncan Howe, International B-TD6: 78m, 61.5m.
Second Peter Thomas, Fiat Crawler: 67m.
Crawler Under 70 HP
First John Glanville, Caterpillar D4D: 80m, 80m.
Second Patrick Umback, International TD9: 70m, 80m, 80m.
Crawler OPEN
First Scott Goodsell, International TD24: 80m, 80m.
First Chris Axiah, ANS Crawler, 80m, 80m.
First Jason McCutcheon, International TD-18 1946: 80m, 80m.
Ladies Class
First Zoe Herbet, John Deere 8960 (Open): 80m.
Second Maree Krause, John Deere 2010 (U40 HP Class): 33m, 40m.
ABOVE: Andy Mackenzie from Molong showing his 100-year-old John Deere D Spoker tractor. RIGHT: Chris and Alfie Green from Forbes with Chris’ grandfather Jack Green’s John Deere Model D tractor from the 40s-50s.
PHOTOS: Christine Little
Edgar Orr, beaming in his John Deere braces, had 14 tractors on display at Trundle Back In Time. Here he is catching up with Bob Wythes from Forbes.
Peter Thomas from Trundle finished the tractor pull with a first in the Under 20 HP class and two seconds in the crawler classes.
‘We do not want this’: Residents concerned and angry over facility
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor
The community does not want the proposed Energy from Waste project to proceed and have been quite vocal about it across social media platforms.
I work in the health industry.
I am concerned the emissions produced by such a facility will have devastating health consequences for the community, for generations to come.
Some impacts won’t be fully realised for decades.
Parkes is not short of industry, so to suggest this is required to prop up industry is irrelevant.
The proposed 400 jobs created in the construction of this project will not be locals.
If we had that number of skilled labour employees in the community, there would have been no need to recruit out of town for the current bypass project.
The impact of this alone is not being considered by the council either.
To house an addition 400 people means less available housing for Parkes locals.
It also means an increase in the cost of rentals, as demand will increase the housing market.
The Council has failed to consult the public on this issue and as such, trust in the elected officials has been severely compromised.
People are becoming more conscious of what they are putting in and on their bodies.
I believe this project removes that choice of bodily autonomy.
I have spoken to many locals who are planning to leave town, should this proceed.
My family will also.
Should the Council ignore the very valid concerns of their community, they will literally drive their very own people out of town.
This project is not needed, nor is it wanted.
Kylie Gooch Parkes
Mayor: Council will stand for health, environment
Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott has penned a letter to the community following widespread concern over a proposed Energy from Waste facility for Parkes.
The project was officially launched on 24 March after its developers were appointed and proposes to convert Sydney’s rubbish into electricity, heat and steam.
The following letter was published on Cr Westcott’s Facebook page on Sunday night and features below:
With so much interest in the Waste To Energy proposal that was launched last Monday (24 March) by state government and with the strong opinions being expressed, I feel it is appropriate that you know where I stand on this personally, and why as Mayor, I have not come out for, or against, from the outset.
Most would understand this is not a Council project, it is stateled, on state-acquired land - nor will we have the nal say in two years’ time a er it has gone through all the permits required by the EPA and bureaucratic agencies, that’s the role of state government.
This doesn’t mean we don’t have in uence, and it is right that our community asks questions.
By doing this I realise I open myself up to comments but that’s ok, I will try to reply to respectful engagement.
As an opening comment I would just like to say that any success I can claim in my life outside of my own personal faith comes from two things: opportunity and surrounding yourself with good people.
Both are apt in this situation and hopefully helps explain my current mindset on this proposal.
Clearly the current situation is new territory for Parkes Shire Council and we are trying to get our heads around the sheer enormity of this project.
We have known this has been a core project for the Special Activation Precinct (SAP) for a couple of years, however the Council has only been a few days in front of the o cial media releases being published.
During this time our message has always been the same – we are non-negotiable on human health and environmental health.
If
toxic plumes or cancer clusters are possible, if there is residual contamination, or if there isn’t real time monitoring of emissions then it
is a ‘NO’ from me.
- PARKES SHIRE MAYOR NEIL WESTCOTT
That hasn’t changed and won’t.
The likes of myself and other council representatives are not the experts you need generating the answers for your questions, but we are here (as your voted representatives) to hear your feedback and be your voice.
The Deputy Mayor and I visited the Minister for Energy (Penny Sharp) in Sydney on Friday and, among other things, we have asked (and been successful) in getting an extension on the EPA submission period to well after the community consultation meetings occur.
So, good people and opportunity are why I haven’t come out strongly against this.
The rst reason is easy. I am continually in awe of the character and knowledge that exists within the walls of Parkes Shire Council, both my fellow councillors and sta .
We should all be proud and thankful to have them representing and working for us, and I value their integrity and trust their opinion on o er at any time.
Our Council and councillors live (with their families) in our shire, and many have been here for generations so they too will have opinions and have a vested interest in the industries that come to our shire.
Is this an opportunity for Parkes Shire? As I said earlier, there is no opportunity here if human health
or environment is compromised. If toxic plumes or cancer clusters are possible, if there is residual contamination, or if there isn’t real time monitoring of emissions, then it is a ‘NO’ from me and Parkes Shire Council.
That is my promise to you.
We have always prided ourselves on being a Council that actively seeks to involve our community in the major decisions that happen in our shire.
This is why we need to give our community the opportunity to investigate, ask the hard questions and come to their own conclusions.
Councillors are your voted voice and we are listening to you.
We need to consider that this is new technology and even comparing plants built a just decade ago will be di erent to this proposal and given the ever-tightening minimum residue standards (now the strictest in the world), I don’t feel it’s fair to give a kneejerk reaction without all the facts at hand.
Two similar plants are being commissioned in Perth as we speak, and this will enable us to learn a lot from those facilities as they begin operation.
Which brings us to opportunity.
If we can be satis ed that human health and environment is in no way threatened by this plant, then we can allow ourselves the luxury to think what this would mean for our shire and the future of our community and generations to come.
such as health, shops and entertainment that we all deserve.
I’m not saying we need to be a Dubbo or Orange, but to stay at 15,000 people, into the future won’t cut it.
To stand still is to slowly fade away and frankly we have stood still long enough – we need to get proactive about our future.
Council has met with members of Parkes Energy Renewal last week and I hope as many of you as possible can nd some time at the Cooke Park information sessions on 10-12 April.
They are articulate, knowledgeable individuals who can give you the insight and answers to your concerns that we can’t.
Please go along to these sessions with your questions and we think it is an excellent opportunity to engage respectfully with the proponent to get the answers you seek.
This is the initial step in any development for the SAP so, hopefully, we will be able to be involved in this type of process for any future developments that come to the SAP.
We want you to engage in these sessions and reach out to your elected councillors so Parkes Shire Council has the opportunity to hear all viewpoints.
I just write this (and thank you for reading) to let you know that I would like to see decisions on this project being made on science, facts and social license (ie what’s in it for Parkes) - and ultimately we will stand together on what’s negotiable and non-negotiable for the best interests of all of us that call Parkes Shire home.
Mayor Neil Westcott
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WE ARE HIRING
Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott. File photo.
Facility will undergo comprehensive tests
Parkes Energy Recoveryan Energy from Waste facility proposed for Parkes - will undertake comprehensive assessments of potential environmental and human health impacts, says its developer a consortium led by Tribe Infrastructure Group.
It says these assessments will be reviewed by the EPA NSW and the NSW Government.
The plant will also be subject to strict regulations from EPA NSW, will be closely monitored throughout operations and it will adhere to EU Best Practice Requirements.
In information provided to the public when the rst stages of the new development were launched on March 24, Tribe Infrastructure has explained what Energy from Waste is, how it works and why it’s important.
It also says Energy from Waste is an established and commonly used way of generating energy around the world.
Kanadevia Inova (KVI) is the reference technology provider for Parkes Energy Recovery.
“We’re working with them to design and operate our facility harnessing their worldleading technology,” Tribe Infrastructure said.
“KVI has been building and maintaining EfW plants for over 90 years, including facilities in Australia, the UK, Switzerland, Dubai, Finland, Germany, Japan and many more.”
Energy from Waste aims to reduce reliance on fossil
fuels and divert waste away from land lls.
There are more than 2000 Energy from Waste facilities operating around the world, including in major cities such as Paris, London, Tokyo and Copenhagen.
Australia has started implementing Energy from Waste, with two facilities under construction in Western Australia and a number approved in Victoria. Waste generation across NSW is rising.
The NSW Government is calling it a waste crisis, projecting that key land ll capacity will run out by 2030.
Four locations in NSW have been identi ed as priority areas where Energy from Waste facilities can be proposed and developed - Parkes Special Activation Precinct, West Lithgow Precinct, Southern Goulburn Mulwaree Precinct and a new location at Tomago, near Newcastle.
The Richmond Valley Jobs Precinct at Casino is no longer identi ed as a priority infrastructure area for an Energy from Waste facility.
Richmond Valley Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said they had no intention of building such a facility and no one else had come forward with a proposal to do so.
He said his Council had investigated a range of options for dealing with residual waste because the current practice of land lling waste and/or transporting it to Queensland was unsustainable.
No large-scale energy re-
Four locations in NSW have been identified as priority areas where Energy from Waste facilities can be developed, including Parkes, however the Richmond Valley Jobs Precinct at Casino has no longer been identified as a priority.
covery from waste facility has been approved for development in NSW in any of the four precincts to date, but two proposals are mature and progressing - that being Parkes and Southern Goulburn.
Parkes Shire Council said the inclusion of the Parkes SAP in the plan was not unexpected, as the suitability of the location for waste management (including Energy from Waste) and recycling has been an explicit inclusion in the SAP since incep-
tion in 2018.
The NSW EPA says over the next 20 years NSW waste volumes are forecast to grow to 27 million tonnes in 2041 and Energy from Waste can help reduce the need for additional land ll capacity.
The NSW Government has set ambitious targets to transition to a circular economy over the next 20 years.
This means the state will minimise what is sent to land ll and use or reuse more products to keep them in our economy for longer.
“Facilities like Parkes Energy Recovery are critical for achieving these goals,” Tribe Infrastructure said.
“EfW means that we can change the way we view and manage waste to recognise it as a critical resource that can be used, rather than something to be discarded.
“By doing so, we can preserve precious materials, drive better economic outcomes and leave a positive legacy for the environment.”
Parkes Council accepted its submission on the Envi-
ronment Protection Authority (EPA) Energy from Waste Options Paper at its meeting on March 18. The EPA has extended the feedback and submission period for people to have a say on proposed changes to the the NSW Energy from Waste framework until 5pm Friday, 2 May.
Parkes residents are welcome to make a submission: visit yoursay.epa.nsw.gov. au/nsw-energy-waste-framework-review.
Cafe owner calls for town meeting so residents can voice concerns Petition just shy of 1000 signatures
■ From page 1
Mr Gibson has an organic hobby farm in Parkes.
“We really care about what we eat,” he said.
“What will people who use rain water for drinking do?
“I haven’t seen one person here yet who is for it.
“I’m not against the technology but don’t take the chance of having it right on the edge of town.
“When it rains where’s it going to go? There are so many questions to ask.”
Mr Gibson is among several who say they will leave town, and his business along with it, if the development goes ahead.
“We love this town, we don’t want to move but if they turn soil we will be moving,” he said.
“This will push me out.
“I’m devastated and angry that the government should make me move away from my family who are deceased and buried here.”
Mr Gibson is calling on the mayor and Parkes Shire Council to be a champion for the people.
“Now is the opportunity to move forward... and to be a champion for the people,” he said.
He has commended Mayor Westcott and Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee on negotiating an extension to the deadline for feedback and submissions on the En-
vironment Protection Authority’s Energy from Waste options paper which is now Friday, 2 May.
Mr Gibson believes the community drop-in sessions that will run next week from 10-12 April from 8am to 5pm at the Cooke Park Pavilion are being held to “tick boxes” and won’t bene t residents.
He’d like to see a town meeting facilitated by Council where people can ask questions and raise concerns.
“I want to see the masses turn up,” he said.
“We ght for now.”
He’d also like Council to guide residents and provide advice on how best to submit their own feedback to the EPA.
Parkes woman Sheryl Stevenson is feeling angry and frustrated over the development, also raising concerns for people’s health.
“I already have health issues,” she said.
“We have a hard time seeing doctors as it is.
“We deserve to have a say on it ... There’s a time to say no to the big dollars and yes to the people.”
Sheryl has signed the petition and has called on Council to take action.
“If they don’t listen to the people what are they there for?”
Members of the Parkes Shire community want their voices heard regarding a proposal to build a $1.5 billion Energy from Waste facility just west of the town.
Many are calling for answers and raising concerns on potential impacts such a development could have on human health, animals, vegetation, farmland and food production, air quality and water pollution.
Some are calling for a town vote on the matter and others are calling for a town meeting.
An Energy from Waste facility converts non-hazardous waste from landfill that can’t be recycled into energy such as electricity, heat and steam.
Parkes resident Kylie Gooch has started a petition urging Parkes Council to reject the project and within a week has attracted 954 signatures, prior to publication.
A public Facebook group called ‘Stop the Parkes ‘Energy from Waste’ facility’ has also formed with a membership of 978 people, prior to publication yesterday, also within a week.
The state government through the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation is in charge of either approving or rejecting the project.
The Parkes facility will be called the Parkes Energy Recovery and will be designed, funded, built and operated by a consortium led by Tribe Infrastructure Group within the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.
Construction is expected to begin in 2027 following licencing and environment approvals with its operation to begin by late 2030.
Parkes Energy Recovery will be hosting three drop-in sessions to inform and gather feedback from the community.
They will run from 10-12 April from 8am to 5pm at the Cooke Park Pavilion.
For more information on the proposed facility, visit www.parkesenergy.com.au, email info@parkesenergy. com.au, or call (02) 8405 7915.
Send a letter to the editor to share your thoughts on the proposal to clittle@midwestmedia.com.au
Roasted Kombi owner Darrin Gibson hung these printed posters protesting the Energy from Waste facility development on the windows at his cafe last week but has since taken them down a er hearing from Mayor Neil Westcott.
ACROSS
4 Which term describes a mother or a father (6)
7 Who has terminated a marriage (8)
8 What are heavy steel blocks on which metals are hammered (6)
9 What is the art of prose (8)
11 To be trembling, is to be doing what (7)
13 Name a tropical American pear-shaped fruit (7)
15 Which animal has eight sucker-bearing arms (7)
17 Which contrivance is used to support a horse rider’s foot (7)
20 Name an alternative term for theology (8)
23 What do pilots earn their money doing (6)
24 To weaken, is to do what (8)
25 What is a superabundance (6)
DOWN
1 To yearn or long, is to do what (4)
2 Which term implies a relationship to literature in verse form (6)
3 What is a mark left by a healed wound (4)
4 Name a drupaceous piece of fruit (5)
5 To take back, is to do what (6)
6 Name a noted Australian painter, Sir Sidney ... (5)
9 When one responds, one does what (6)
10 What is any of two or more forms of a particular chemical element (7)
12 Who played the role of Mrs Miniver, Greer ... (6)
14 To be bear-like, is to be what (6)
E-QUATIONS 7
Letters have a number value
16 What are wild, drunken festivities (6)
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD QUICK THINK
SUDOKU
18 Name a once popular two-way communications system (5)
19 When one prompts, one does what (5)
21 What is another term for an elevator (4)
22 What is another term for lubricates (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 PECCADILLO
(a) A trifling fault
(b) A hog-like South American animal
(c) An old gun for discharging stones, pieces of iron etc
2 SOJOURN
(a) To dwell for a time
(b) To comfort in distress
(c) To use flattery
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:
Chinese complementary force (3)
Documentaries (coll.) (5)
Hindi film genre: ...wood (5)
Japanese monetary unit (3)
Nocturnal flying animal (3)
Organic poison (5)
Peaceful (7)
Screw-like curves (7)
Tiny (5)
Tributary of Derwent River (Tas.) (3)
SOLUTIONS
Grant to deliver power upgrade for Pistol Club
Shooting clubs across the region, including Cabonne and Parkes Shire, are celebrating a major funding win a er securing nearly $800,000 from the NSW Government’s Safe Shooting Program.
The grants, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, are part of a statewide initiative designed to enhance safety, improve storage and security at shooting facilities, and help clubs purchase new equipment.
Graham Edward (Mick) Welsh 31/3/1941 - 13/9/2024
Sylvia, Maree, Michael (dec) and Mandy, family of the late Mick Welsh, would like to thank everyone who has supported us in any way during this di cult and sad time.
Particular thanks to the sta of Southern Cross for their care during Dad’s time there , Parkes Palliative Care Team and Bernadette Orange, Hanley’s Funeral Home Forbes and Kristy Hartwig, who did an incredible job personalising Dad’s service.
As there are so many to thank, please accept this as our personal thanks.
Among the 25 recipients across New South Wales, local clubs like the Parkes Pistol Club and Eugowra Ri e Club received signicant support - $18,707 and $21,846 respectively. The funding will help these clubs upgrade their infrastructure and equipment, ensuring their continued success and growth.
Eugowra will bene t from the purchase of two long range electronic targets, which will help increase Eugowra Ri e Club membership through o ering additional long range activities. These targets will also be made available to local, State, National and International teams for practice, including male, female, junior and veteran sides.
The Parkes Pistol club currently gets its electricity from their neighbor, Parkes gun club and will bene t from connecting to mains power, as well as an onsite solar system.
The state government says that the Safe Shooting Program is not just about improving the physical spaces for shooting sports and aims
to improve inclusivity and accessibility. The program funds projects that aim to improve environmental sustainability, incorporate inclusive design, and increase the accessibility of shooting venues. A key goal is to remove barriers for underrepresented groups, including women and girls, people with disabilities, First Nations communities, those from culturally diverse backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
For Member for Orange, Phil Donato MP, the funding is a re ection of his deep support for shooting sports, which he says are an important part of Australia’s cultural heritage. “I’m a massive supporter of all our shooting sports, many of which are deeply rooted in our nation’s history,” Donato said. “The Orange electorate is home to many shooting sports organisations and venues, which are broadly inclusive. I encourage shooting sports participation and welcome new-
comers to the variety of these enjoyable and challenging shooting disciplines.”
The local funding projects are expected to not only improve the infrastructure but also increase the use of shooting facilities, attracting participants from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, also expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing that the Safe Shooting Program is key to ensuring the future success of shooting sports in Australia. “This funding will play a signi cant role in supporting the next generation of Olympians and ensure Australia’s success at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games,” Kamper said. As the Orange electorate’s shooting clubs continue to thrive, the funding marks an important step in making these sports safer, more inclusive, and accessible for everyone, from seasoned athletes to newcomers of all ages and backgrounds.
By PARKES VET
Gastric Dilation Volvulus or otherwise known as ‘GDV’, is a critical, life-threatening emergency in which a dog’s stomach distends (bloats) and then twists upon itself.
Whilst GDV can occur in any breed, it is more prevalent in large breed dogs with deep, barrel-shaped chests, such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, St. Bernards, Greyhounds, Boxers etc.
prognosis is guarded as it strictly depends case by case on the outcome, the rst hurdle being the animal surviving surgery, which is not always the case as the risks are signi cant.
However, if the procedure is successful, the days following are critical in their recovery.
If you have a large-breed dog that is predisposed to bloat, consider discussing the option of a gastropexy with your local veterinarian. This procedure can be performed at the same time as your dog’s desexing, o ering a preventive measure against the risk of GDV.
The exact cause of GDV occurring is still unknown but there are several factors that increase a dog’s risk and these can include:
When the stomach bloats, and then rotates, which can be anywhere from 90 to 360 degrees, the food in the stomach cannot pass into the intestines as it is trapped and the gas inside the stomach continues to accumulate.
A rotated stomach crushes vital blood vessels in the abdomen which means blood supply is cut o to the a ected area.
Without urgent surgical intervention to untwist the stomach, the animal will endure intense pain and pass away within a matter of hours (although it is not the same time frame for every dog).
If surgery is opted for,
A prolonged hospital stay, coupled with intensive care and treatment is essential in supporting the animal in their recovery.
If surgery is not an option, euthanasia is the kindest thing we can do to take away their su ering.
A preventative surgical procedure known as a Gastropexy can be performed to reduce the risk of GDV.
During this procedure, the stomach is sutured to the abdominal wall to prevent it from rotating if the dog does experience bloating.
While a gastropexy does not o er a complete guarantee that the dog will never experience a twisted stomach, it signi cantly reduces the likelihood of GDV occurring.
With this surgery, the risk drops to approximately 6%.
• Vigorous exercise a er eating
• Eating too quickly
• Overeating or drinking too much
• Ingesting bones that may block the out ow of food, uid and gas from the stomach
• A foreign body obstruction
GDV is a true emergency, and it’s crucial to act quickly if your dog begins to show signs.
If you suspect your dog is su ering from GDV, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Time is critical, and prompt intervention is essential to increase the chances of a successful outcome.
New date for Homegrown Parkes
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
Well, our Homegrown weekend came and went.
A er a forecast of up to 50ml on Friday and Saturday, we had no choice but to post pone our event.
The safety of our stallhold ers and community are para mount and if we had pro ceeded and had a downfall, destroying your hard work and passion, that would have been devastating.
So….onward! We are thrilled that Chef Jack Brown, Sourdough by Kath and Land scape Designer Elizabeth Briton are able to join us again on our re-scheduled date of Saturday, 26 April in Cooke Park.
Registrations for these
Trade
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 31 March
Yarding 1251 (up 15)
Numbers remained steady this sale and quality was fair.
There was good numbers of well bred cattle on o er along with the secondary types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a dearer market.
Yearling steers to processors were 10c better to sell from 325c to 397c/kg.
Un nished lines to feed were 15c better to receive from 340 to 419c/kg.
The heifer portion was also rm to dearer with feeders paying from 280 to 349c/kg.
Those to processors ranging in price from 320 to 380c/kg.
Heavy steers and bull-
ocks sold from 369 to 397c/kg.
Grown heifers received from 295 to 342c/kg.
Cows were the biggest move jumping 40 to 50c/ kg on a quality yarding.
Heavy 2 score sold from 280 to 328c and 3 score from 328 to 350c/kg.
The best heavy bull reached 330c/kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 1 April
Yarding 30,100 (down 6600)
Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 30,100 head.
There was 23,400 lambs penned and quality was fair with some good lines of trade and heavyweights penned along with the secondary lines.
The usual buyers were
present and competing in a dearer market.
Trade weight lambs 2024kg li ed $15/head to sell from $170 to $225/head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg were $10 better to receive from $207 to $235/head.
An excellent run of export lambs li ed $5 to range from $225 to $306/ head. Carcase prices averaged 820 to 898c/kg.
The best heavy hoggets reached $188/head.
Mutton numbers remained similar and quality was mixed.
Spirited bidding saw prices jump $25/head with some sales more.
Merino ewes sold from $112 to $201/head.
Crossbreds received from $100 to $229 with Dorper ewes reaching $225/head.
An exceptional o ering of heavy Merino wethers ranged in price from $185 to $250/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
PIG SALE
Friday, 28 March
There where no sows or boars yarded this sale and very few bacon to quote. Pork were also in very short supply and prices remained rm on last fortnight, suckers made up the majority of the yarding, heavy suckers were $20 to $30 cheaper and light suckers were rm.
FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
line of Friday, 4 April for responses from existing stallholders.
We will then open the registrations and they will go through the process of review by our Committee.
Stallholders will be noti ed shortly a er.
We also welcome back Clancy The Bee Man and Andrew with a Reptile Display and, of course, Crop Swap will be back!
With each workshop registration, you can go in the running to win some wonderful prizes from our local Homegrown Parkes businesses.
Of course….you need to attend the workshop on 26 April at Cooke Park.
For those of you who don’t know about Homegrown Parkes, it is a free event and an opportunity for the com-
munity to gather together and enjoy fresh produce, entertainment, purchase from local and regional stallholders and food vendors and spend time in our beautiful Cooke Park.
Funding has been granted to Parkes Shire Council under the Open Streets Program, funded by Transport for NSW to support this event, in addition to support from Central West Lachlan Landcare and volunteers from Parkes Community Arts.
Chef Jack Brown is providing a workshop at Homegrown Parkes with the support of Landcare NSW. For more go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, Facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare or head to our Homegrown Parkes Facebook page.
Trade weight lambs 20-24kg li ed $15/head to sell from $170 to $225/ head. PHOTO: File
Townsend, Greenhalgh claim gold in Masters Games bowls
RAILWAY BOWLS
By PAUL LEWIN
Wednesday, 26 March we had 20 players for social bowls.
Winners were Marianne Watson and John Corcoran winning 18+8.
Runners-up were Graham Thom son and Mick Dunn winning 15+6.
Marble 22 came out and the Mar gins were 4, 6, 6, 6 and 8.
The jackpot this week is a ridicu lous $862.
Parkes Masters Games
Saturday, 30 March we had 20 players for Parkes Masters Games.
Gold medal winners were Myra Townsend and George Greenhalgh with 3 wins +20.
Silver medal winners were Lea Tanks and Peter Job with 2 wins +14.
Equal bronze medal winners were Gene Rapp and Ray Gri th along with Dave Littlewood and John Corcoran with 2 wins +12.
Thank you to everyone that participated in the 2025 Parkes Masters Games and a special thank you to Louise O’Leary and the team for all their hard work.
Club Championships
In the Minor Singles we had Stevie Torrens play Frank Van Opynen. ends.
Frank went on to win the game 25-9.
In more Minor Singles action Toby Tanks played Graham Thomson.
It’s 2 all a er 2 ends. Toby led 4-2 a er 4 ends and 5-3 a er 6.
12. In the Minor Pairs we had Trish Allen and Stevie Torrens play Joey Van Opynen and Blake Strudwick.
Joey and Blake led 9 nil a er 3 ends and 24-2 a er 13 ends.
Trish and Stevie rallied hard but the game was called a er 19 ends
with Joey and Blake winning 26-10. Open Gender Pennant
Our winning Grade 6.1’s will head to Grenfell on Sunday, 6 April at 1pm to take on Cowra in Round 1 of the Region Playoffs and then will travel to Dubbo City to play the final 4 rounds in an attempt to get yet another team into the State Pennant Championships. We wish them the best
NSW State Championships
Last week we had the dynamic duo of Phil Barnard and Danielle Thompson play in the State Mixed Pairs Final.
Unfortunately they su ered 3 narrow losses in a very strong pool which housed the eventual win-
Danielle now has the State Women’s Singles starting Saturday and we wish her all the best.
Team Bright the Region Fours Champions will head to Ballina this week in an attempt to become State Champions.
The very consistent team of Aar-
on Saturday, 5 April at 1pm.
As always names in half an hour before start times, everyone is welcome and quality new loan bowls are available at the club.
For those interested in having a roll of bowls, please note the following.
Social bowls means anyone and everyone is welcome to come have a game.
If it’s your first 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 running
Golfers fine-tune skills ahead of championships
PARKES GOLF CLUB
By PETER BRISTOL
Saturday’s results
Saturday was a medley Stableford sponsored by the Kennedy family at Dirt Doc tors Landscaping Yard, and the players and PGC appreci ate their continued support of golf in Parkes.
The day started o a bit slowly as the impending weather and the speculation that there would be some decent rainfall kept golfers away early.
As the day opened up to a good gol ng day, we man aged to get 67 players in the competition and some social visitors from the Blue Moun tains out as well for a hit in the west.
Playing in an unfamiliar later spot, Wayne Tucker got among the points and hauled in 40 of them and while the eld tried to reel it in the score couldn’t be bettered.
Wayne started out slower than he wanted to with an 18 point front nine but man aged to get owing on the back with a 22 point bag, a 4 over o the stick, to seal the win.
There was a group chasing that included Blake Parker hitting a 37/35 split as a warm up for the club champs next week, turning that score into 38 points and claiming 2nd on a countback.
Melissa Russell from Manilla, down for the Parkes Women’s Open, also tore up the course with a 41/38 split again getting the 38 points in.
Robert ‘Baron’ Cheney also dined out in the conditions that suited his game
James Leonard at 30cm, the Westlime 11th by Craig Matthews at 75cm, the Gulf Western Oil 17th by Luke Clyne at 265cm. The lucrative money hole was won by Luke Clyne at 265cm.
Ball winners were Melissa Russel, Rob Cheney 38, Mark Kelly 37, Phil Smith, Nick Strudwick, Luke Clyne 36.
On Sunday the club hosted the Bridgestone Mining Solutions Australia Parkes Ladies
sistent 42/43 split. Best performed Parkes golfer was Kristine Smith who red a 93 to nish fourth in the event. In the net event Heather Davidson from Forbes had a 73 net and Leone Stevenson from PGC was runner-up on a countback on 76, a good score on the day.
In the B Grade Scratch, with handicaps of 23-28, our winner was Cath Kelly from
PGC with a 99 followed in by Julie Fairley from Canowindra as runner up on 101.
A very good outcome for Cath who is on the course each week strengthening that le handed swing to the point where she had a hole in one on the par 3 11th.
This story will be told many times into the future and no doubt it will grow to be a par 4 by next year.
In the net event Cath’s cart partner Colleen Flynn won the event with a good 73 net, 5 ahead of West Wyalong golfer Deborah Tulloch.
Colleen and Cath will be the nosiest on course next week as they relay their deeds to anyone who will listen.
In C Grade, handicap 29+ which was in a stableford format, the winner was Haylie Lemon from West Wyalong with 37 points just beating home Lisa Cobb from Dun-
tryleague on 36, with Sue Holman from PGC on 35 and Patsie Christie from PGC on 33 pts.
Next week is commencement of the Men’s and Ladies Club Championships.
Thanks to all our sponsors for supporting the club’s prestigious event for members.
VETERANS GOLF
By JOHN DWYER
Forbes players again showed their liking for their home track when they dominated at last week’s twintowns veterans golf competition.
Leading the way was Forbes president Peter Barnes who accumulated a tidy 39 points for the 18 holes to shade team mate Niel Duncan by a point.
Ken Sanderson continued the Forbes roller-coaster winning the A grade nearest-to-pin on the 18th, while John Fowler got Parkes on the board taking the B grade prize on the ninth hole.
The ball sweep went to 32 points with winners (all Forbes unless stated) as follows: 36 - Bruce Chandler; 34 - Frank Hanns, John Fowler (P) and Nym Dziuba (P); 33 - Ken Sanderson, Don McKeowen, Alf Davies and Alan Rees; 32 - Barry Parker, Ted Morgan and Ken Walton.
Popular Forbes player Frank Hanns celebrated his 80th birthday on the day, while club stalwart Alan Rees blew out 73 candles last Sunday.
This week Parkes will host the twin-towns.
Thirty-two players faced the starter - 18 from Forbes and nine from Parkes - with the locals easy winners of the twin-towns shield 214 points to 180.
Parkes Golf Club hosted the Parkes Ladies Open on Saturday and a great autumn day saw 63 players from 12 clubs contesting.
PHOTOS: Parkes Golf Club
Teams battle it out for final glory SPORT
SENIOR TOUCH FOOTBALL GRAND FINALS
Parkes Touch Association has had another successful season of senior touch football competition. The grand nals of senior competitions were held on 12 and 13 March supported by a large crowd of spectators who supported the many senior teams.
The Mixed A grade competition saw Tiddas claim the grand nal win with Chad Porter named the player of the match.
Tap and Go claimed the Mixed B grade title and saw Dave Robinson awarded player of the match.
The Mixed C grade grand nal most valuable player was Ben Ryan with Touch Ups winning the competition.
Senior Women’s competition saw the 16s girls Parkes Puma side claim the competition win and Lily Gosper was named player of the match.
Men’s A grade was won by Medlyn Homes and Men’s B grade was won by Tune Squad.
Jimmy Clyburn was player of the match for A grade and Jay Wright was named player of the match for B grade.
Senior touch football competitions will recommence in October for a new season of competition.
Danielle’s
Danielle McDonald has had her rst podium nish racing full time in America in the Grand National Cross Country Series (GNCC).
Round four at Camp Coker in South Carolina saw Danielle take out third place in the WXC class.
“Absolutely stoked to put my AmPro Racing Yamaha machine on the box this weekend and get my rst GNCC podium,” Danielle wrote on her social media.
“Felt so good to be back up there dicing it with the girls, lots of fun battles all race.
“I pulled the holeshot and was able to lead for a little while un-
first GNCC podium in America
til arm pump got the better of me but I am extremely happy with my riding, I have come a long way since last round.”
Danielle is currently sitting 11th on the WXC championship ladder a er not being able to compete in rounds one and two due to still recovering from her ACL reconstruction.
She managed to place 10th in round three at Talladega, Alabama a er nearly ve months o the bike.
Danielle’s next race will be 12 to 14 April at the The Old Gray, Tennessee for round ve.
“Let’s keep the ball rolling for next round,” Danielle said.
Danielle McDonald racing in round 4 of the Grand National Cross Country Series at Camp Coker.
PHOTOS: AmPro Racing Facebook page (Mack Faint)
Year of development for Cobras side
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Parkes Cobras will run out onto the eld for their rst game in the 2025 Western Premier League competition this Saturday against defending premiers, Bathurst 75.
The Cobras have been prepar ing for the season with eight weeks of preseason training and coach Wayne Osbourne said there has been a really good number of play ers every week giving the Cobras the opportunity to build up to the start of the season.
The 2025 Parkes Cobras team will see a change on the card with some regular players taking a step back this year and junior players stepping up.
“We’re pretty excited about the prospect of showcasing some of the homegrown juniors that we have been able to develop ourselves over the last couple of years,” Wayne said.
“With any new players they bring a lot of enthusiasm and that’s been on display during preseason training with the young guys who have everything to prove and are really enthusiastic about getting out there and playing.”
Wayne says this enthusiasm and desire to get better every week will be the team’s strength this year.
Wayne’s goal as a coach is to develop the younger players into a better version of themselves by supporting them along the way in their journey to being competitive premiere league players later in the season.
Alongside Wayne, Cameron
Kopp will be leading the side on eld in his role as captain.
“Cameron is a foundation member of Cobras and he’s been there along the journey the whole time,”
“He’s a very experienced player, very respected within the premier league fraternity, well regarded within Parkes and District Football and all the juniors look up to Cam-
Unfortunately Cameron will be away for the Cobras rst match of the season but they will be lead by a very capable Joel Cowling.
Looking towards Saturday’s game Wayne said it is a tough way to start the season up against defending premiers on their home turf.
“The 75 have been a very strong side for a long time now having great depths of players in their own junior development.
“We know it’s going to be a really tough task coming up against a team of such quality but again our guys are enthusiastic about playing top local football so they really don’t care who they are playing against, they just want to go out there and play to the best of their ability.”
The following weekend the Cobras will be o to Dubbo against Dubbo Macquarie who are also a very strong team in the competition.
“The rst two weeks are going to be quite testing but hopefully as a unit we stick together and play well and we will develop into a stronger group of players.”
Looking back on last season Wayne said they were very fortunate that some of their junior players were really shining towards the end of the season.
Harry Budd, Hayden Lamond and Frasier Beaton will be some junior to watch out for.
“Harry picked up some awards for his e orts, Hayden was our best and fairest winner last year and Frasier was another guy who has really shined out at preseason training.”
The Cobras will be focusing on bringing this momentum of their junior players into the new season.
“It’s a year of development, we’ll probably struggle against some of the stronger clubs but the guys we’ve got playing are really keen to develop into footballers, so hopefully that’s something we can achieve together,” Wayne added.
Parkes Sporting Shooters news
SSAA
By BRIAN DRABSCH
Last Sunday saw seven 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
• John Davis 280.26, 249.21, 529.47.
• Steve Mitchell 280.25, 250.16, 530.41.
• Brian Drabsch 276.23, 249.18, 525.41.
• Bev Drabsch 262.04 for 25 metres only.
FIELD RIFLES
• Alan Briton 276.17, 247.20, 523.37.
• Wally Rudenko 276.18, 237.11, 513.29.
And one shot for practice only.
The figure given after the decimal point is the number of central bullseyes shot.
Our next shoot is at 10am Sunday, 6 April.
FootyNRL TIPPING
Hayden Lamond is one of the junior players on the Parkes Cobras who will be one to watch this season. PHOTO: File
Trio among best in country
PARKES SHIRE ATHLETES TO COMPETE IN SEVEN EVENTS BETWEEN THEM AT TITLES
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Three of talented athletes are headed to Perth this week to compete in the 2025 Australian Athletics Championships.
From 4 to 13 April at the Western Australia Athletics Stadium some of the best track and eld athletes in the country from 13 to 20 years old will be competing.
Among them will be local Parkes and Trundle athletes Toby Morgan, Vashti Williams and Ryker Moore, who represent Parkes Little Athletics Toby will be competing in multiple events including 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m at the championships.
This young athlete is looking forward to meeting up with friends and having the opportunity to break his 100m National record.
“I hope to run the 100m without my shoe falling o which is what happened to me at Nationals last year and I’d also love to bring home a medal,” Toby said.
Toby has been preparing for Nationals by training at the track in Parkes, at home on his farm and with his javelin coach in Trundle.
“I also watch videos to try and learn better techniques and how to run faster.”
This season, Toby broke the 100m record and set the Australian javelin record for his para classication at the NSW State Championships in Sydney in March.
Among these achievements this season Toby is also proud that he has quali ed for the national titles and has been selected into the NSW Squad for the Australian Little Athletics Championships in Adelaide which will be held later this month.
Toby is one of two para U13 athletes who will be representing NSW in Adelaide.
His favourite events to compete in are the 800m and 100m with his biggest inspiration being 16-yearold 200m and 100m runner Gout
wearing the NSW uniform,” Vashti said.
Vashti has prepared for Nationals by training with Mr Leonard in Trundle a er school.
“I may not always be training for javelin but I am working on other areas of myself for my throwing.”
Through the Western Region Academy of Sport (WRAS), Vashti is also training once a week at the gym at the Parkes PCYC.
“Doing tness training helps with my strength to throw a javelin.”
Vashti’s major achievement this
season was placing third at School State where she threw a PB, placing third at All Schools throwing another PB and recently placing fourth at NSW Junior Champion-
“These have all led up to my proudest achievement all season which is qualifying for the 2025 Australian Junior Champion-
“This season has really opened my mind that I can achieve high if I believe so.”
Heading to Nationals, Vashti looks up to Olympian Javelin thrower Cameron
“I have had the opportunity to be coached by Cameron and really loved his personality, along with what an amazing thrower he is.
“I also had the chance to see McEntyre compete in the Sydney Track Classic which was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me,” Vashti
Ryker Moore will also be competing in his favourite event at nationals this year which is the 400m sprint.
“I’m looking forward to competing in my event as I really enjoy athletics,” Ryker said.
At the championships Ryker hopes to improve his PB as he has been training three times a week in Parkes or Dubbo and also trains for core strength.
For this season Ryker is proud of himself for qualifying for All Schools Nationals in Brisbane last year and the Australian Athletics Championships this year.
The talented Parkes athlete admires a lot of athletes in athletics at the moment.
“There are a lot of people getting amazing results in Australia at the moment in athletics,” Ryker added.
We wish Toby, Vashti and Ryker all the best in Perth and can’t wait to hear all about their experience.
Bar, Canteen and TAB Coverage Enjoy Harness Racing at its best
PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB
Vashti Williams will compete in jwwavelin at the Australian Athletics Championships.
