It’s the news drivers who frequent Condobolin Road have been waiting for - the main thoroughfare is scheduled to reopen today after four months of constructing the Condobolin Road roundabout, a key feature of the Parkes Bypass project.
The opening was delayed by two days due to poor weather over the past week.
From Thursday traffic will be able to use the new roundabout to travel east-west between Condobolin and Parkes, and out to Bogan Gate, Trundle and Tullamore.
However, access to and use of the new bypass via the roundabout will not be available until the project is complete next year, Transport for NSW says.
Night work took place last night, between 6pm and 7am, to complete the road surfacing and line marking required to open the new roundabout.
And this isn’t the only exciting next step in the progress of the Parkes Bypass.
Transport for NSW advises motorists there is also changed traffic conditions on Hartigan Avenue.
From 7am on Friday, the Hartigan Avenue extension will be fully open and drivers will be able to travel under the new bridge over the rail line to access Condobolin Road.
This opening had also been delayed due to recent poor weather.
A spokesperson for Transport for NSW said to ensure the safety of their crews, these traffic changes will be in place from Friday:
• Brolgan Road near Essential Energy will remain closed.
• Brolgan Road access will be via the new Hartigan Avenue extension.
• Link Road will be closed.
• The oversize overmass (OSOM) route will be via extended Hartigan Avenue.
• Access to Billy Mac Place will be via Hartigan Avenue.
To allow sealing, line marking and barrier installation, one night of work will take place along Billy Mac Place, Hartigan Avenue and associated intersections from 6pm to 7am on Thursday, weather permitting.
Traffic will be stopped at times to assist with this work.
Westlime Road remains closed between Brolgan Road and Condobolin Road as construction of the Parkes Bypass alignment continues.
“Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while this important work is carried out,” the spokesperson said.
The $287.2 million Parkes Bypass project will feature five key intersections and two new bridges, including the one over Hartigan Avenue and the rail corridor, and a second over the bypass on Victoria Street.
Preliminary work has seen the construction of the bridge ends and in October two giant cranes were mobilised to the bypass site to lift six girders into place at each of the bridges.
Each of the 60-tonne girders were hoisted high in the air and lowered into place on the bridge supports.
These girders that were installed near the northern end of the bridge add to the 30 girders lifted into place in October last year.
On November 5 the process was repeated to lift six more girders into place for the new Victoria Street bridge.
What’s on in and around Parkes
JAC CLARK ART EXHIBITION
November 15 -30
In the Coventry Room at the Parkes Shire Library an exciting art exhibition is on display, featuring a collection of works by Parkes artist Jac Clark. Her works focus on colour, style and shapes. The exhibition will run until Saturday, November 30 and is free for all to see. Check out the photos from opening night on page eight.
KNIT AND KNATTER
Thursday, November 21
Calling all knitting enthusiasts and crochet lovers! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, Craft Corner would love to welcome you to join their warm and welcoming group at Craft Corner Parkes in Clarinda Street. Please bring a gold coin donation for morning tea.
THE PIANO MAN PRESENTS
Saturday, November 23
For one night only, join the Little Theatre, Parkes, where some of the regions finest musicians will come together to put on a fantastic evening of music, and to raise money for local Mental Health awareness charities. Tickets are now available via https://37819787740.sales.ticketsearch.com/ sales/sales
NORTHPARKES MEMORIAL SERVICE
Sunday, November 24
This year will mark 25 years since the tragic airblast that claimed the lives of four miners at Northparkes Mines. A memorial service will be held to remember those who tragically lost their lives in the incident. The service will begin at 3pm at Cooke Park Pavillion. To attend RSVP to Nat Simpson, natalie. simpson@evolutionmining.com
FRIDAY FLICKS
Friday, November 29
Get ready for a unique twist at this month’s Friday Flicks! Parkes Library is putting the power in your hands, vote for the film you want to watch on their free online streaming platform, BeamaFilm. Will it be the gripping murder mystery “Agatha and the Truth of Murder”? The heartwarming comedy “Sometimes Always Never”? Or the awardwinning Australian film “The Tracker”? Visit the Parkes Library for an evening of fun and cast your vote!
CHRISTMAS BINGO
Sunday, December 1
Trundle Royal Far West will be hosting a Christmas bingo at the Trundle Golf Club. Doors open at 9:30am for a 10am start. Lunch is available for $10.
PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION AT THE CARRINGTON
Wednesday, December 4
The Carrington Peak Hill will host the opening launch for two photography exhibitions: ‘Peak in Focus’ and ‘Behind the Lens’. ‘Peak in Focus’ will feature local photographers showcasing a body of work on their selected photography genre. Arts Outwest
will present their travelling exhibition ‘Behind the Lens’ with photography from their Media Associates. The event will take place at The Carrington, which has a rustic, eclectic interior and a wide veranda overlooking the main street. The opening Launch on Wednesday, December 4 will begin at 5pm all welcome, $10 entry with raffle and door prizes. The exhibition will be on display until Wednesday, February 5 and is free entry.
ST PATRICK’S SCHOOL TRUNDLE MUSICAL
Thursday, December 5
St Patrick’s Parish School Trundle invites you to attend their upcoming musical “Once Upon a Time”. A rock fable involving all their favourite nursery rhyme characters. There will be two showing times, at 12pm and 7pm at the Trundle War Memorial Hall.
CHRISTMAS PARADE AND FESTIVAL
Friday, December 6
Senior Journalist
The Parkes Action Club Christmas parade and carnival sees schools, community groups and local businesses decorate floats for the annual parade at 6pm. Following the parade a range of market stalls will be set up in Cooke Park allowing you to get some Christmas shopping done from local businesses. If you would like to be part of the parade or set up a stall email parkesactionclub@gmail.com or contact their facebook page by Sunday, November 17.
TRUNDLE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Friday, December 6
Trundle Christmas shopping night is coming up. From 3pm see all your favourite market stalls and get your Christmas goodies along the way at Trundle Hotel.
CROP SWAP
Saturday, December 7
Is your garden bursting at the seams with oranges and lemons? Then you need to join
The Parkes Champion-Post welcomes your thoughts and feedback on issues in the Parkes community. If you have a story lead or prepared article and photographs you’d like published contact the senior journalist Renee Powell on 0448 238 023. A new Parkes Champion-Post office is planned to open in Clarinda Street in the coming months.
Parkes Crop Swap with your excess spring goodies for the final crop swap for 2024. Trade your goodies for a variety of fresh produce brought in by fellow garden enthusiasts. This event will be held in the courtyard of Parkes Shire Library from 10am.
CAROLS IN THE PARK
Sunday, December 8
Beginning at 6:30pm, Carols in the Park sets the scene with local acts performing their favourite Christmas carols and songs on the Cooke Park stage. As the sun goes down, watch as the awe and wonder of the season lights up the park.
THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS
Sunday, December 8
Compassionate Friends Candle Lighting night to acknowledge children who aren’t here to share Christmas with us. From 5:30pm at Lions Park. Candles will be lit and poems will be read at 6pm.
Nurses feel ‘worthless’ as they continue to fight for fair pay
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
‘IMAGINE a future without nurses.’
That’s what the Lachlan Health Service Parkes Branch of the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association (NSWNMA) is asking the community to do as they continue to fight for fair pay for our nurses and midwives.
NSWNMA members from Parkes and around the state went on strike for 24 hours on November 13 over the NSW Government’s unwillingness to negotiate a fair and equitable wage deal.
After rallying outside Parkes Hospital for two hours, Parkes Branch president Tracy Boney said they are feeling overworked, disrespected and worthless.
Nurses are calling on the state government “to do better”, by tackling the interstate and gender-driven wage disparity that has left NSW nurses and midwives the lowest paid in the country.
“We want the community to be aware of the fact that we are struggling to keep nurses,” Tracy said.
“They are leaving by the hundreds to work in other states.
“Why are we so underpaid?”
NSWNMA General Secretary Shaye Candish said “once again, the NSW government has snubbed nurses and midwives”.
“Teachers, paramedics and
now police have all received historic, once-in-a-generation pay rises. The decision to give police more than double the offer for nurses, speaks volumes,” she said.
“The government cannot continue to ignore the reality that NSW’s healthcare system is crumbling due to severe understaffing and unfair wages.
“Our nurses and midwives are at breaking point and are crying out for help; they can’t work in these conditions any longer.
“By neglecting nurses, they are neglecting the health and safety of every single person in this state.”
Tracy said they were given a three per cent increase.
“Which is something like $1.48 more,” she said.
“They don’t understand what nurses are dealing with... And we dealt with Covid.
“It’s fallen on deaf ears.”
According to the 2024 NSWNMA survey, eight out of 10 nurses and midwives are considering moving interstate in the next five years.
“We’re calling on the government and the premier to find the money to pay us properly so we don’t lose more,” Tracy said.
“Every so many years, and it is years, we get our back up.
“We’re sick of hearing ‘we can’t afford it’, NSW will fall even further behind.”
Minister for Health and
Regional Health Ryan Park said the Association had previously agreed to cease industrial action contingent on the government paying nurses and midwives an interim increase while work towards a final settlement remained on foot, in order to shield patient care from impacts arising from industrial action.
“I am disappointed the Association has walked away from this commitment to the Industrial Relations Commission and the community,” he said.
But Tracy said they did honour that agreement during the four weeks of negotiations.
“We did do that, for a month, and they didn’t come to the table, they didn’t want to give us more than three per cent,” she said.
“We don’t ever take industrial action lightly.”
Tracy said Parkes Health Service had life-preserving staffing during the 24-hour strike and the hospital was fully manned.
“We shouldn’t have to consider escalating industrial action but the government continues to ignore our pleas for help,” she said.
“We always strive for high quality care and we do the best we can, but we can’t give the extra care we want to give.”
Town mourns Bernie’s loss as accused faces court
PARKES is mourning the loss of a local identity, allegedly murdered on the weekend.
Bernie Peri, 75, was found dead in his Parkes home on Sunday afternoon.
Marshall Karaitiana, 28, is facing a charge of murder and was on Wednesday refused bail.
Police arrested Karaitiana on Tuesday evening in Tullamore.
Mr Peri was a regular performer in the Elvis Festival since its inception in 1993, with Parkes Shire councillor Ken McGrath describing locals as devastated by his death.
“He came to the festival and we just got on like a house on fire, he made such a big contribution,” he told AAP.
“He loved his music and really dedicated himself to it ... it’s such a shame he died the way he did.”
Mr Peri moved to Australia from New Zealand and lived in Parkes for more than 15 years, Cr McGrath said.
“He was a top bloke - the sort of bloke you couldn’t have an argument with,” he said.
“He’d get on with anyone ... if you asked him to do anything for you, he’d do it.”
Many friends have turned to social media to pay tribute to Mr Peri and share fond memories of their dear friend.
“You truly are the most hard working, kind hearted, calm and caring person I have met in my life,” one close friend wrote.
“You truly brought so much fun, light and love... Nothing will ever be the same without you. We will continue to dance and sing to your music for the rest of our lives.”
Others described him as a true gentleman and a beautiful man.
Representatives of the Royal Hotel, which
Mr Peri frequented, were too upset to offer comment when asked last week.
On its Facebook page, pub management described him as a “beloved friend”.
“In memoriam to one of our beloved patrons and entertainers Bernie Peri ... we hope to see you here to celebrate his life and share some stories among his family and friends,” the pub post said.
Karaitiana faced Lake Cargelligo Local Court on Wednesday to answer his single charge of murder. He did not apply for bail and it was formally refused.
Association Parkes branch member
Jo Garside calls on the community to imagine a future without nurses.
Parkes nurses and midwives went on strike for 24 hours on November 13, rallying outside Parkes Hospital that morning. PHOTOS: Supplied
NSW Nurses and Midwives Association Lachlan Health Service Parkes Branch president Tracy Boney.
Holy Family at Eco Days
Central West Lachlan Landcare celebrated Eco Day with schools from around the Parkes and Forbes Shires and Eugowra.
More than 300 year five students came together to learn more about the environment, land use and how they can make a difference as they grow and contribute in our communities.
Central West Lachlan Landcare, in partnership with Parkes Shire Council, also hosted a Kinder Enviro morning where kindergarten students from around the Parkes Shire came togehter at Kelly Reserve.
Over 150 kindergarten students participated in educational activities to learn more about looking after our waterways.
Check out the Holy Family students who took part in the fun days.
ELLIE GERSBACH IS OUR STAR OF THE WEEK
Ellie Gersbach is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love and Trust) and for always being kind and studious.
What is your favourite subject?
Mathematics
In your free time, what do you like to do?
Draw
What is your favourite food?
Ice cream
What do you like most about our school?
The playground
What are your strengths?
POPPY LAWRYK IS OUR STAR OF THE WEEK
Poppy Lawryk is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love and Trust) and for always being kind and hard-working.
What is your favourite subject?
Mathematics In your free time, what do you like to do?
Play sport
What is your favourite food?
Butter chicken
What do you like most about our school?
The oval
What are your strengths? League
What would you like to be when you grow up
RIGHT: Holy Family kindergarten students were emus. LEFT: Marg Applebee with Holy Family kindergarten students.
Stanley Drooger, Allie O’Brien, Mia Malherbe.
Max Hackett, Stanley Drooger, Bentley Murray. PHOTOS: Supplied Elizabeth Toomey.
Bella Allen.
Minaga Ralalage.
Over $6k raised for Children’s Centre
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Trundle Children’s Centre director Sarah Kilby has a big vision to turn what was once an unused storage shed at the back of the centre into a fun and inclusive multipurpose room that will have a big impact on local Trundle families.
The vision has already been set into motion with a $3000 grant from Northparkes Evolution Mining to paint the room and a $3000 grant from the Government Inclusion Support Funding allowing the Centre to also compete flooring in the room.
To fill the room with equipment the Centre has recently hosted a barbecue at the famous Trundle Pink Night and a golf day at the Trundle Golf Club.
“From the Pink Night BBQ we raised $3414 just from running the barbecue and the golf day was a huge success and we made $3338,” Mrs Kilby said.
“The golf day was a big success with 52 golfers registered and playing on the day in a three person ambrose. In the afternoon it was a family fun afternoon with a jumping castle, face painting and craft activities out on the golf course here in Trundle, it was a great afternoon.”
The money they have raised so far will go towards equipment to furnish the room and provide occupational therapy equipment.
“We are looking to get a sensory swing and other things like that so we’ve got
another area for high needs children but all of the children as well.
“The room gives us another teaching space, we will also use it for staff and committee meetings and also for visiting professionals such as speech therapists and OT’s for hearing tests.”
Trundle Children’s Centre is big on early intervention as they try and get as many specialists as they can to visit Trundle.
“It’s hard to get people in to speech therapists or OT’s so we do have Marathon
Hearing come and visit us once a year to do tests and we have a visiting speech therapist from Keirin Physio that comes out once a week and works with some of the children.
“Project Sprouts, a local charity, comes out and helps us do ages and stages screenings a couple times a year and through Project Sprouts we’ve got an OT visiting the Centre on Friday to help us out for half a day, so they are a great charity.
“It will be great to have the space and ability to host spe-
cialists that come to town for early intervention as country kids sometimes miss out with access to early intervention programs so we are trying to encourage people to come out as much as possible.”
Prior to this space the Centre did not have a dedicated area where specialists could set up as they had to sit out in the classroom with everyone else.
Now Mrs Kilby is excited that specialists will now have a designated area in Trundle to come to.
The Trundle Children’s
Centre is a not-for-profit community preschool providing long day care and preschool.
“The numbers are great at the moment. From 2023 to now the number of preschools we’ve got enrolled has quadrupled.
“We also have a 0-3 years room which is pretty full most of the time as well,” Mrs Kilby said.
The Children’s Centre is not done raising money to make this space the best it can be for their students as tickets can still be purchased
for the Trundle
There are ten big prizes up for grabs including a BBQ donated by Bunnings, a truck and dog load of road base donated by C and M Civil Earthworks, photography vouchers and a range of other amazing prizes. Tickets are $2 each and can be brought at the Centre, the local food stall and the newsagency. Winners will be drawn on Thursday, December 14 at the Trundle Children’s Centre’s Christmas Party.
Record breaking Trundle Pink Night raises over $39k
The community has come together this year and raised an impressive $39,530 at Trundle’s ninth annual Pink Night.
It puts this incredible annual fundraiser on track to raise more than $200,000 for women’s cancer by the end of next year.
Local business woman and cancer survivor Carolyn Keep has been the main driving force behind this growing event and was excited to reveal the record breaking amount recently on the Trundle Pink Night facebook page.
A large amount of the donations
were raised by the shaving of Brendon Keep’s beloved dreadlocks, this raising $10,230 on its own.
One family generously supported the event and bid $5500 for a Queensland luxury resort holiday and a bid of $500 was made on a State of Origin jersey signed by Rabbitoh’s great Jack Wighton.
The event was attended by an estimated 900 people and Ms Keep said it was the best ‘Pink Night’ yet.
For the 10th year of the amazing event there are already some big plans in progress to make Pink Night 2025 the biggest year yet.
Children’s Centre Monster Raffle.
Jimmy Simmons, Evie Flavel, Azalea Schaefer, Julia Simmons, Laicey Zerafa, Lilith Horkings and Matilda Watt in front of all the amazing raffle prizes.
There was a huge crowd at this year’s trundle Pink Night. PHOTOS: David Ellery
Trundle Children’s Centre students and staff love the tractor in the playground made by Rick’s Timberworks.
Pink Night organiser Carolyn Keep comforts guest speaker Erin O’Leary during her emotional speech at Trundle.
Car club gives back to community
By JEFF MCCLURG
Each October the Central West Car Club hosts their annual Charity Show ‘n Shine in Parkes.
The community event brings together car and bike enthusiasts to show off their vehicles while providing a fun day out for the general public and raising funds for charity.
At the recent monthly Friday night street meet in Parkes, club president Rodney Barnes made the presentations.
The Parkes branch of Can
“This year sadly the weather wasn’t on our side and the numbers were significantly down,” said CWCC spokesman Jeff McClurg. “So despite an enjoyable day our profits were down. We did however come away with $4500 for our chosen charities which we decided to share three ways.”
Assist received $2500. Can Assist support cancer sufferers and their families in various ways and president Pat Bailey was extremely grateful for the donation, reinforcing that all their funds remain local for those in need.
Secondly, the Black Dog Institute (who couldn’t attend on the night) received $1000. Their representative, Tex Quigg from Young was very appreciative of the support towards their national sui-
cide prevention campaign.
The Black Dog Institute were represented at the recent Show ‘n Shine in Parkes and car show organiser Jo Hemming reported back with great feedback from locals who had reached out for support on the day and previously.
The final worthy recipient was Parkes local squash player Henry Kross who received a cheque for $1000 to support his endeavour to reach the
world stage for his sport.
At age 14, Henry is currently ranked no. 1 in Australia and no. 10 in the world following recent success at the Australian Junior Squash Championships.
His goal is to get to the British Junior Open this year in Birmingham and he is raising funds for he and his father (his coach) to get there in December.
Humble about his success but driven to aim higher,
Henry has been collecting bottles and cans amongst other fund raising so the CWCC thought him a worthy recipient.
If you’d like to help Henry achieve his dream, or if any of these charities have struck a chord with you then fee free to enquire and make contact with them or get in touch with me , Jeff McClurg at www.centralwestcarclub. com and I can steer you in the right direction.
Jeff McClurg (CWCC), Henry Kross and Rodney Barnes (President CWCC).
Jeff McClurg (CWCC), Pat Bailey, Winifred and Neville Campisi (all from Parkes Can Assist) and Rodney Barnes (President CWCC).
PHOTOS: Supplied
Hailstorm cuts damaging path as storms lash shire
Storms have lashed Parkes Shire in the past week, with hail causing serious damage to crops in one storm and high winds in another.
Hailstones larger than golf balls fell in a storm that cut around the south and east of Parkes on Wednesday afternoon, November 13.
The airport only recorded 4.2mm of rain for the afternoon, but the temperature dropped from 28 degrees at 1pm to 18 degrees by 2pm and the storm was certainly patchy.
Photos contributed from around town show hail from pea-sized to the size of a 10-cent coin in different areas - the largest a handful and photographed 5-10km out the Henry Parkes Way to the east.
It’s slashed canola crops that were ready to harvest, the Department of Primary Industries confirmed.
Growers in a 15km strip have reported damage to crops - with hundreds of acres affected.
They describe a storm that lasted only minutes but caused significant damage to crops that were ready for harvest.
The storm cell looked to cut a path from the Tichborne silos south of Parkes, to the east, starting with pea-sized and slightly larger hail but developing larger stones as it went.
The follow up storm on Sunday afternoon has only added to the damage.
Winds gusting up to 93km/hr were recorded at Parkes airport about 5pm on Sunday as the storm blew in, bringing lashings of rain
with it. The airport recorded 22mm of rain by 5.50pm.
But reports on Facebook community pages indicated the storm hit between Parkes and Yeoval hard, with numerous trees and tree limbs across the Wellington Road on Sunday afternoon.
Lifeline funding to extend PTSD support service
Lifeline Central West has been supported with additional funding to ensure people living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the central west have access to vital mental health support.
Lifeline Central West is the representative body of Western PTSD Support and will use the funding to:
- recruit qualified and local clinical facilitators, reducing the need and cost to bring Sydney-based facilitators up to the community
- establish a second support group, designed as a peer-led programme connecting lived-experience volunteers to the group
- promote the new group to the wider healthcare community
- expand the service to a broader geography and increase the number of meetings held
Western PTSD Support aims to improve local mental health outcomes and ensure timely access to mental health and social supports services for people living with PTSD in the region.
“Lifeline is a long established and highly respected mental health support service here in the Central West, and this additional funding will enhance their capability of delivering a professionally led PTSD-specific service,” Member for Orange Phil Donato said.
“A locally based service will provide locals with greater ease of access and encourage participation in PTSD services.”
Lifeline Central West CEO Stephanie Robinson said it is so important that Lifeline have the resources to meet the needs of the community throughout their vast footprint.
In a crisis, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14
PARKES 92 Shallow Lead Road
• approx . 4.25ha
• Zoned large lot residential
• Approx. 8 kms on the North West side of town, via sealed road
• Fully fenced
• Elevated block with rural views
• Set amongst other prestigious semi-rural properties
• Ideal building site or recreational / hobby block
The storm cut a damaging swathe from the north to the east of Parkes on Wednesday, November 13. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
RIGHT: These large hailstones fell on properties east of Parkes on the Orange Road. PHOTO: Virginia Duffill
All the smiling faces from Jac Clark’s opening night
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
Parkes residents had the opportunity to step into the colourful world of contemporary artist and graphic designer and local girl Jac Clark on Friday night.
The Parkes Coventry Room hosted the official opening among a large and curious crowd, who explored the unique showcase of large and masked portraits that focus on colour, style, and shapes.The artworks created by Ms Clark, who was there in person, are dated from 2018 until the present day.
Up to 100 people attended with Cultural, Education and Library Services manager Kerryn Jones saying guests felt like they had been transported.
“It was such a good night,” she said.
“It was just the best vibe on the night, Jac was thrilled.”
The feedback so far has come from all angles, enthusiasts describing the exhibition and Ms Clark’s talent as “absolutely phenomenal, stunning and inspiring”.
“Your talent is beyond belief,” one attendee wrote.
“Your ability to capture a different mood through colour and shapes is just divine,” another said.
It’s been 12 years since her last solo exhibition and this beautiful collection is on display locally for all to see until November 30.
One piece that is on display, titled Alyssa - a portrait of Parkes singer and musician Alyssa Miller - took Ms Clark just over eight months to complete, working on it almost daily.
“The longest time I’ve spent on any of my works,” Ms Clark said.
It includes nearly 250,000 individual pixels, 256 dots per 5cm. Ms Clark loves working with colour, experimenting with new palettes, shapes and textures, and creating art with an unique and distinctive style.
Jane Slaven, Sarah Smith and Eliza Creith were among the 100 people to attend the opening night of Jac Clark’s Art Exhibition.
Steve Jolly, and Shevaun and Greg Brown had a great night on Friday night.
Tiffany Steel with Bec Miller at the official opening in the Coventry Room.
Jac Clark shared some words at the official opening of her exhibition on Friday night.
Cr Doug Pout and Courtney Pout were spotted on opening night of the Jac Clark Art Exhibition.
Angie, Mary and Stanley Drooger came out to see Jac Clark’s art exhibition.
Chloe Allen, Samantha Lydford and Julie Herring all smiles on opening night.
Katie Shambrook with Sarah and Ben Terry at the opening.
Kelly Hendry, Cathy Treasure holding Anna Williams, Ruth and Gary Crowley, and Katrina Dwyer enjoyed opening night of the Jac Clark’s Art Exhibition in the Coventry Room.
Helen and Jac Clark with Jac’s portrait of her daughter Jazzy. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Developing life skills with class V1
By BRITTANY RUDD
Parkes High School Special Education V1 Class have been participating in Community Access excursions to Woolworths and the Roasted Kombi fortnightly since the beginning of the school year.
This program is designed to help students develop important life skills by creating shopping lists, identifying prices, budgeting, purchasing and ordering.
Students develop a shopping list based on a recipe they are going to cook and purchase the items at Woolworths.
The students then prepare and cook their recipe during school lessons.
After visiting the supermarket, the students head to The Roasted Kombi to enjoy a milkshake, hot chocolate or ice cream.
Students are responsible for ordering their own meals and using their own funds to pay for their meals.
Students have opportunities to interact with the local community and develop confidence, engaging with the outside world.
This is a positive experience for students to develop important life skills.
Community consultation on the draft Water Sharing Plan for the Lachlan Unregulated River Water Sources 2025
The NSW Government has developed the draft Water Sharing Plan for the Lachlan Unregulated River Water Sources 2025.
The draft plan and supporting documentation are available for viewing on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website from Monday 11 November to Friday 20 December 2024.
Join us at one of the information sessions listed below to learn more about:
• the draft plan
• how to make a submission.
4 DecemberCowra Bowling and Recreation Club 27 Vaux Street, Cowra NSW 2794
From 18 November to 13 December 2024 staff from the department will also be available for 30 minute booked phone interviews. , including how to make a submission, register and book a call please visit: water.nsw.gov.au/lachlan-water-sharing-plan or email water.enquiries@dpie.nsw.gov.au
Submissions close at 11.59 pm on Friday 20 December 2024.
Melinda McKeowen, Vanessa Dunn, Shamus Podetti and Kaiden Lord outside the Roasted Kombi in Parkes.
Shamus Podetti, Melinda McKeowen, Kaiden Lord and Vanessa Dunn before their shopping.
Melinda McKeowen at the Roasted Kombi.
Vanessa Dunn, Katie Cornelissen, Kaiden Lord, Shamus Podetti in Woolworths.
PHOTOS: Brittany Rudd
Exciting year ahead for Parkes M and D
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society has had a successful 12 months of grants and productions.
The most recent and exciting grant for the Society was received from the NSW Government of a value of $70,000.
Parkes M and D president, Lyn Townsend expressed how excited the Society was to be successful in the grant as last year they applied for the same grant but just missed out.
“We were pretty stocked to get it and very happy to get it the second time around,” Ms Townsend said.
The Society will use the money to upgrade their microphone system.
“We need to upgrade our microphone system, at the moment we are on analog microphones which restricts us as to how many we can use whereas digital we can fit more on the frequency plus they are much better quality.
“Obviously it’s time for an upgrade so it’s a lot of money for us to try and find, so for us to get a grant with that
amount of money, it means that we can replace them all pretty much at once rather then trying to do it over a period of so many years.”
The upgrade of the microphone system will improve the sound of future productions for the society and will allow the society to use their money to improve other areas of production.
This State Government grant is the third successful grant for the society in the last 12 months.
“We are on a bit of a run with grants, we’ve been very lucky and successful in the applications and it has allowed us to invest a lot of money into improvements in the theatre and for our shows,” Ms Townsend said.
The society received $14,000 from the Community Builders grant and a $5000 volunteers grant from the local member.
The society has recently been producing sell-out productions with their recent production being their first pantomime in the last 20 years.
“Cinderella and the Crystal Slipper had audience in-
volvement and particularly appealed to the children so it made it a popular family show,” Ms Townsend said.
“It was Ruth Barnes’ first time directing and she did a fantastic job, she will certainly be a director of the future, it was a very successful production.”
If you missed out on being a part of the fabulous
Cinderella production, don’t worry as there is less than two weeks until auditions for Mamma Mia.
Now is your time to register for auditions especially for mature and young men ranging in age from 18 to 30.
“Mamma Mia is a big show, it’s fun, it’s a well known production and we’ve got big plans for Mamma Mia once
we cast. It will be a great start to next year.”
Check out the Parkes M and D Facebook page for the audition pack and how to reregister.
The society is also planning a junior production for the middle of next year and the production of Little Shop of Horrors in October.
“After Annie we’ve got
some fantastic junior talent that we need to foster and keep involved so we’re trying to commit to do something for the juniors each year,” Ms Townsend added.
Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society are taking the theatre stage by storm and are looking forward to a very exciting 2025.
Water sharing plan out for comment now
The draft Lachlan Unregulated River water sharing plan is now on public display, and the NSW Government is inviting the community to have its say.
The draft plan sets out the rules for water sharing among water users and the environment across the region for the next decade, and includes setting limits on how much water can be taken, protecting resources for the environment, basic landholder rights and cultural needs along with providing secure, legal and tradeable water access rights.
It also sets out how much, where and when water can be taken by licence holders.
Giselle Howard, NSW Executive Director of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, says water sharing plans are vital tools for managing our state’s water resources.
“We want to hear your feedback on the draft plan now so we can continue to manage the region’s water fairly and sustainably over the next 10 years,” Ms Howard said.
“We want a plan that works well for the Lachlan region, which means continuing to protect basic landholder rights, cultural needs and water for the environment, as well as setting limits on how much water can be
taken to help ensure our rivers, aquifers and waterways remain healthy and resilient for the next generations.”
Community members are urged to read the draft plan and make a submission before public exhibition ends
on December 20.
The Department of Climate
We’ll be holding a webinar on 28 November from 2pm to 3pm, where the community can learn more, ask questions and provide feedback.
Face-to-face drop-in sessions will be held in Crookwell on 3 December between 10am and 12pm and in Cowra on 4 December between 10am and 12pm.
Online one-on-one sessions with a water planner are also available in the week commencing 18 November.
The draft includes proposed changes to simplify the plan, make it clearer and easier for water users to understand and comply with the requirements.
In some areas, we have proposed changes to water access and trading rules. Other changes include additional protections for spe-
cific wetlands in the region. We want to hear the community’s views on these changes and will carefully consider all feedback before finalising the draft plan ahead of it going into effect on 1 July 2025.
Plans are in place for 10 years and are audited after the first five years to ensure it is working effectively and appropriately.
To register for a session and to make a submission, visit: https://water.nsw.gov. au/lachlan-water-sharingplan
“This is about making sure everyone gets their fair share while also protecting the long-term health of our water resources and the vibrant ecosystems that rely on them,” Ms Howard said.
“Submissions are open until 20 December, and we invite everyone to have their say.”
Phone: 02 6862 2253
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
The draft Lachlan Unregulated River water sharing plan is now on public display. PHOTO: File
It’s the 74th National Cherry Festival
The 74th annual National Cherry Festival will be held in the Cherry Capital of Young from Friday November 30, 2024 to Sunday December 2, 2024.
The town will be alive with plenty of entertainment, fun, competitions, displays, exhibitions and more throughout the weekend.
With plenty of orchards opening their doors as well as art and photographic exhibitions there is plenty to take in throughout the area over the three days.
Events for the 74th National Cherry Festival will kick off from 5pm on the Main Stage at Anderson Park on Lovell Street with live entertainment on the main stage.
Easy Goin’, The Kirks and Birdee will keep the crowds entertained ahead of the National Cherry Festival Fireworks display at 9pm.
This year the National Cherry Festival once again offers a program packed full of fun events.
Marvel at the fireworks, enjoy the street parade, sing along with the live music, and get ready to shop at the many quality market stalls and local businesses and for the thrill seekers, amuse yourself on the rides in carnival alley.
There is lots to see and do as the Cherry Capital comes alive for the annual event.
Get ready for the explosion of colour and excitement that comes from the National Cherry Festival with the event promising not just a good time, but unforgettable moments that you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Will the record for the longest Pip Spit be shattered this year?
Who’s stepping up to claim the title of the 2024 Cherry Pie Eating Champion?
These important questions need to be answered!
So come dive headfirst into the festivity and make memories that will be reminisced about for years to come.
The countdown to action is on, and we’re eagerly awaiting the arrival to ignite the festivities and get the party started.
Sing your heart out, groove to the beats of live music, be awestruck by the dazzling fireworks, become a part of
the colourful parade and for those who are curious about cherries why not try your hand at cherry picking.
Or, if ‘do it yourself’ is not for you, then enjoy the freshly picked cherries available at our orchard stalls.
After all of the action on Saturday, don’t event think about hitting the snooze button or you will miss the Big Breakfast on Sunday morning in Anderson Park.
Share laughter and stories with the charismatic bush po-
ets, and witness the talent of the working kelpies.
The 2024 National Cherry Festival is more than an event - it’s an experience waiting for you to join the festivities, and be part of something special.
Your presence will be the cherry on top of an already amazing celebration.
See you there!
Pack up the family for a road trip to Young, in the heart of the beautiful Hilltops Region, and head for the National Cherry Festival.
Festive Treats Have Arrived
LEMON TARTS & MINCE PIES
- Friday 6.00am - 6.00pm
6.00am - 3.00pm
Welcome to Young, the cherry at the heart of the beautiful Hilltops Region, where we roll out the red carpet on the first weekend of December for our favourite event, the National Cherry Festival.
This year the National Cherry Festival is bigger and brighter, as we offer a program packed full of fun events.
Who can eat a cherry pie in the shortest possible time?
Who can spit a cherry seed the furthest distance?
You can marvel at the fireworks and the street parade, dance or sing along with live music, browse the many unique market stalls, exhibitions and local performers, and for the thrill seeker, amuse yourself on the rides in the fabulous Carnival Alley. Take a leisurely stroll around out amazing town to explore our local retailers and eateries and
enjoy a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences - you’ll be impressed by what we have to offer.
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful visitors and our valued community.
We can’t wait to celebrate the 74th National Cherry Festival with you all - let the festivities begin!
NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
While you are in town, why not go exploring?
Shuttle buses available for the 2024 Festival
There are a number of special transport arrangements for the National Cherry Festival. There will be a continuous courtesy bus looping between the Caravan Park, Showground, Old Library in Lynch Street, New Library and Carrington Park.
Thanks to Young Community Transport there will be a shuttle service between Boorowa and Young on Saturday November 30.
For times and bookings contact Young Community Transport. 133 Main Street, Young NSW 2594 | 02 63821518 | enquiries@youngboorowa. cccsl.org.au | youngcommunitytransport.org. au.
Get into the festive spirit and enjoy all that Young has to offer during the National Cherry Festival!
Stroll through our charming streets and discover local treasures, cosy coffee shops, bustling pubs and clubs.
Don’t miss the chance to visit our cherry orchards, where you can pick the freshest cherries straight from the trees - it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Take a break and unwind at one of our local wineries, where you can sip on award winning Hilltops Region wines.
And if you’d rather stay close to the heart of the festival, drop into the Visitor Information Centre at Anderson Park.
You’ll find a fantastic selection of local produce, local wines, and unique souvenirs.
DRIVE IN ORCHARDS
3494 Moppity Road Young NSW 2594 0433 245 134
WILLAYOUNG ORCHARD
191 Willawong Street Young NSW 2594 0427 102 169 02 6384 3289
TYRONE ORCHARDS
561 Wickham Lane Young NSW 2594 0438 825 136
STONY CREEK ORCHARDS 633 Spring Creek Road
Young NSW 2594 0438 987 933
BALLINACLASH ORCHARD AND CELLAR DOOR
4321-4335 Olympic Highway Young NSW 2594 0418 271 770
When living in your own home is no longer an option, you’re most welcome to make our home yours and live in safety and comfort.
We’ll arrange the services important to you
Every resident is unique. We’ll work with you to create a personal care plan for your exact needs. Those needs will be met by our team of carers, lifestyle officers, spiritual and wellbeing coordinators, registered nurses, and any specialists needed.
Dedicated to quality care
You will be treated with kindness, dignity and respect. We are dedicated to providing the best care possible to give residents their best life.
We’re for people, not for profit
Southern Cross Care has supported older people in NSW and the ACT for over 50 years. As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re solely focused on providing the best care we can.
Visit our home with a tour
We’ll be happy to arrange for a tour, please ask when you call.
FRIDAY 29 NOVEMBER
FESTIVAL SCHEDULE
SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER
SUNDAY 1 DECEMBER
What’s on during Cherry Season
YOUNG SOCIETY OF ARTISTS INC CHERRY HARVEST EXHIBTION | HILLTOPS PORCELAIN ART GROUP | BURRANGONG GALLERY
November 2 - December 14
Official opening November 2, 11am
Old Railway Building/Young Visitor Information Centre
Anderson Park, Lovell Street, Young
CHERRY FESTIVAL VETERANS GOLFERS ‘WEEK OF GOLF’
November 18 - November 22
Details and entry form on Young Golf Club website
www.younggolfclub.com.au
Pro Shop 02 6382 1543
CHERRY FESTIVAL BOWLS CARNIVAL
Young Sporties Bowling Club
November 20-21 Women’s Triples
November 23-24 Mixed Pairs
November 26-28 Mens Triples
Phone 02 6382 1112
HILLTOPS COMMUNITY HUB TWILIGHT MARKETS
November 28, 2024 2pm-8pm Gold coin entry
Uniting Church Grounds, 82 Lynch Street (Cnr Cloete and Lynch Streets), Young Hilltops Community Hub 02 6382 6328
NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL YOUNG AND REGION FARMERS MARKET
Saturday November 30 and Sunday December 1
Anderson Park, Lovell Street, Young Bev 0491 150 940
Uniting Church Grounds, 82 Lynch Street (cnr Cloete and Lynch Streets), Young 02 6382 1519
THE SIR GEORGE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
The Sir George Riverside Drive, Jugiong Leonie 0411 155 024
ALLIED GRAIN SYSTEMS CHERRY FESTIVAL CUP
Two person Ambrose Young Golf Club 02 6382 1543 younggolfclub@gmail.com Barry Hazlegrove 02 6382 3704
New Cherry Twirl Competition starts in 2024
This year, we’re adding an exciting new element to our beloved National Cherry Festival.
Over the past few years, the National Cherry Festival Committee has been thrilled to see so many bright and delightful cherry-themed outfits popping up throughout the festival.
So we thought, why not turn it into a fun competition?
It’s the perfect chance to show off your best cherry-inspired outfit for kids aged 0-10 years.
Entry is free on Saturday, November 30 at 2.30pm on the main stage, with fantastic prizes up for grabs for the best-dressed cherry themed girl and boy in two categories, 0-4 years and 5-10 years age groups. The committee can’t wait to see all the adorable, creative outfits this year!
Our first Cherry Queen: Jean Thackeray
YOUNG WITNESS DECEMBER 6, 2013: PETER Thackeray was out of town when he heard the news.
Boarding at Barker College on Sydney’s North Shore, the Young native and his classmates had been let loose for the day and like so many in their early teens, his mates and he chose to spend their spare time in the dark, drinking pop and watching films.
They were settling in at Wynyard Newsreel Theatre on George Street, watching news of some country-fair outback, when a familiar face flicked onto the screen.
“That’s my sister!” Pete shouted, leaping to his feet. “That’s my sister!”
It was 1949 and Pete’s older sister, Joan, then 19, had been crowned queen of the first National Cherry Festival.
“She was in the parade,” Pete said, thinking back from the present day.
“On the back of a float of some kind.”
The camera remained on Joan, atop her royal stage, the sights and sounds ahead of her out of frame.
The Witness reported residents dressed as cherry pickers, dead royals and one as a man-sized, ‘well fed baby’.
There was a police float at the top of the parade, a brass band ‘looking smart in their new uniforms and a float for ‘the Grand United Order of Oddfellows.’
Trailing Joan were the Sports and Commerce Queens, then a Christmas float with a roguish, young Santa on board.
If Joan didn’t see Ross Goodman, dressed red, white and fat, then Ross almost certainly saw Joan.
In little longer than a year, Young’s first ‘Rural’ (later ‘Cherry’) Queen would marry that Santa, beginning a life long companionship that would see them face fire, hardship, divorce and old age together.
Born on May 14, 1930, Joan Makepeace Thackeray grew up on ‘Wootoona’, the family sheep station north of Young.
The eldest of three children, with two younger brothers, Joan lived much o her early life boarding at the Presbyterian Ladies College in Goulburn.
Peter Thackeray, born five
years after his sister, remembers those early years away from home.
“I always though I’d been sent to boarding school just to get out of their hair,” he said.
“They always had parties out on the farm and the kids were in the way. And I’ve never forgiven them for that.”
An intelligent young woman with a love of reading, Joan wanted to go to Sydney and study architecture.
But her father, happy to have her home after years lived away, was not willing to support her.
Diane Goodman, her eldest daughter remembers a talk she had with her mother about the time.
“Don’t you ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do something you really want to,” Joan said to Diane, then a girl in the first stages of woman-hood.
“And don’t ever let a man.”
Instead, Joan was to stay near home, settle down, start a family. And with Ross Goodman, she did.
The pair married on March
17, 1951, with families Goodman and Thackeray drinking and dancing in a great marquee by the house at “Wootoona’.
Pete, then 16, remembers the party - and the marriage’s rocky beginnings.
“So everybody’s having a great time when we discover Ross has disappeared,” he said.
“He’d got drunk, went walkabout and was heading towards town.
“When they found out she blew a fuse.”
Ross was outgoing, four years older than Joan and, like many men of his generation, a veteran of World War II.
He wrote home of ‘square miles of battleships’, ‘hundreds of planes’ and was one of the first Australian sailors to see the atomic ruins of the atomic bomb at Nagasaki.
Once home, Ross got a job at Hammond and Hanlon’s department store in Young. And in 1956, he took this experience and his wife’s needle skills to Leura, in the Blue Mountains, where the family opened a men’s wear business on the main street.
Bushfires blazed through Leura the following year, gutting the family’s home, shop and savings.
The family struggled on for a year, but hard times forced Ross and Joan to Lake Illawara in 1959, and then they moved to Wollongong in 1967.
As the kids grew older, moved out and made their lives, the couple divorced but kept close contact.
Once retired, Joan kept herself busy, gardening, reading and attending classes at the Workers Educational Association Centre in Wollongong.
“She did every course under the sun at WEA,” Diane said.
“She was just constantly reading and doing.”
But as time slipped by, so did memories of the recent past.
“It was really tough,” Pete said.
“I’d go and see her two and three times during the day, and she’s say, ‘Hello Peter, I haven’t seen you for years.”
Despite the divorce, Ross lived with and cared for Joan in her final years.
“He couldn’t have done more,” Pete said.
“He just devoted that last bit of his life to her.”
Due to ongoing ill health, Joan passed away in Wollongong Hospital on February 1, 2008. Ross followed four months after her.
7 days a week during the cherry season. Open 8.30am-5pm Short drive off the highway rewarded with export quality cherries and a lovely views as our orchard is on a higher aspect.
633 Spring Creek Rd Young
more info: Call 0438 987 933
Joan Makepeace Thackeray was Young’s first ever Cherry Queen in 1949.
Salvos launch Christmas Toy Appeal
The Salvation Army Forbes and Parkes is again organising Christmas toys for families in need.
This year the Salvation Army will be partnering with Khub in Forbes again as they host the 37th ‘K-Mart Wishing Tree Appeal’.
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the Australian Community the Appeal has collected more than 14 million gifts since it began in 1987, with an average of 300,000 gifts donated annually.
Khub launched their Christmas Toy Appeal on Tuesday, November 12.
Brand new toys and gifts – unwrapped – can be donated at Khub Forbes or at the Forbes and Parkes Family Stores.
Whilst there is a need across all age groups, the Salvos see a particularly strong need for gifts among tweens and teenagers. Please consider buying a gift for all ages, including teenagers.
Christmas is the busiest time of the year for the Salvos.
This year we expect the need to be the most significant we have seen due to the increasing rise in cost-of-living expenses.
Our role is to ensure everyone experiences a little cheer at Christmas, irrespective of their circumstances.
Families can register for gifts for children in their care at the Salvos Stores.
Application forms must be in by
Friday, November 29.
Families will be contacted and given a day and time slot, in December, to come to the Family Stores to collect their gifts.
“Thanks Khub, and the generous public of this area for your support again this year,” Parkes and Forbes Corps leaders Wendy Broome said. During the Christmas period last
year, thanks to the generosity of the Australian public, The Salvation Army nationally:
• Received over 330,000 gifts and toys for families who might otherwise have gone without,
• Provided over 184,000 meals to those experiencing homelessness,
• And provided more than 92,000 bed nights for families in need of accommodation during the festive season.
Trundle Testicle Festival this Boxing Day
GET YOUR CRICKET TEAMS TOGETHER TO SUPPORT MEN’S CANCERS
Trundle is known for its iconic main street and its sense of community, and we are at it again.
The Trundle Testicle Festival is back again this Boxing Day at Berryman Oval, Trundle from 2pm.
Wear blue, bring a team and help us give prostate cancer the finger (and all men’s cancers).
We will have a bar and BBQ and raffle while we play super 8s cricket where it’s all about being together, and we won’t be playing for sheep stations- It’s Boxing Day backyard cricket to help blokes out.
Hunter Rawson will be playing after the cricket.
While we know cancer strikes in more places than testicles, we thought it might get men talking.
Breast cancer has done a fabulous job raising awareness and funds by talking about breasts.
Men don’t seem to like to talk about their bits, but they are just as important and tragically many men are diagnosed with these cancers.
Did you know in Australia, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men?
More than 3,700 men die of prostate cancer in Australia every year and more men die of prostate cancer than women die of breast cancer.
Have you got the balls to help?
We are seeking donations of items suitable to raffle and auction for our fundraiser.
We would love blue items, bloke items, boy items, any items.
Donations of any type are welcome, goods, services, time and talent.
Let’s have a ball giving Prostate Cancer the finger, the ball’s in your court!
Grace Horan, Tracy Little, Annabelle Cole, Jess Storm, Taylah Mackinnon, Katherine Omally from Khub Forbes and Wendy Broome Salvos Parkes and Forbes Corps Leader.
PHOTO: Madeline Blackstock
See you at Berryman Oval this Boxing Day in blue raising money for men’s cancers!
PHOTO: Supplied
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 The Larkins At Christmas.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III. 8.40 MOVIE: U.S. Marshals. (1998) Tommy Lee Jones, Wesley Snipes, Robert Downey Jr. 11.20 Inside Beverly Hills. 12.15 Tipping Point. 1.05 Helloworld. 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Golf. Australian PGA Championship. Second round. 5.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 5.30
Auction
Antiques
Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Buffy The Vampire Slayer. 3.00 Modern Family. 3.45 Bondi Vet. 4.45 Australia’s Got Talent. 6.00 MOVIE: Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse. (2018) 8.30 MOVIE: Phenomenon. (1996) John Travolta, Kyra Sedgwick, Forest Whitaker. 11.00 MOVIE: The Empty Man. (2020) 1.55 Late Programs.
6.30 Antiques Roadshow.
8.30
9.30
3.20
Cricket: The Lunch Break. 4.00 Cricket. First Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Afternoon session. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. First Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session. 9.00 MOVIE: 65. (2023) Adam Driver, Ariana Greenblatt. 11.00 MOVIE: Tears Of The Sun. (2003) 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 10.00 Harry’s Practice. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Horse Racing. Cranbourne Cup Day, The Gong Raceday and Tattersall’s Classic Raceday. 6.00 Horse Racing. From Western Australia. 9.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 12.30 Impossible Builds. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 On Tour. 2.00 Rides Down Under. 3.00 North Melbourne v Port Adelaide. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Test: Tea Break. 6.20 First Test. Aust v India. Late afternoon. 7.00 Brisbane Lions v Adelaide. 9.15 MOVIE: Miami Vice. (2006) 11.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Getaway. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Golf. Australian PGA Championship. Third round. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: The Wizard Of Oz. (1939) Judy Garland, Ray Bolger. 9.35 MOVIE: Hairspray. (2007) Nikki Blonsky, Zac Efron, John Travolta. 11.45
MOVIE: The Sun Is Also A Star. (2019) 1.30 Getaway. 2.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Sean’s Kitchen. 11.55 Bringing Sexy Back. 1.10 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 2.25 Australia’s Got Talent. 3.40 Dancing With The Stars: All Stars. 5.25 MOVIE: Spies In Disguise. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: The Bounty Hunter. (2010) Gerard Butler. 9.50 MOVIE: Palm Beach. (2019) Bryan Brown. 11.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 The Weekly Kick-Off. 10.30 Shark Tank. 11.30 Dessert Masters. 12.30 Buy To Build. Final. 1.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.30 The Dog Down Under. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. Return. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Cook
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A long-sought workplace change could be happening soon. Consider reworking your ideas and preparing a presentation just in case. Meanwhile, a personal relationship takes a new turn.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your persuasiveness doesn’t really start to kick in until midweek. By then, you can count on having more supporters in your camp, including some who you doubted would ever join you.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your workload is still high, but good news! You should start to see the daylight by the week’s end. Reserve the weekend for fun and games with friends and loved ones. You deserve it!
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Regardless of how frustrating things are, keep that “Crab” under control. A cutting comment you might think is apt right now will leave others hurting for a long time to come.
60 Minutes. 8.00 A Remarkable Place To Die. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 See No Evil. 11.30 The First 48. 12.20 World’s Greatest Natural Icons. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.45 Farmer Wants A Wife. 11.15 Behave Yourself. 12.20 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.30 Home And Away. 3.50 To Be Advised. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Law & Order. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 MOVIE: Two Way Stretch. (1960) 12.50 MOVIE: Golden Ivory. (1954) 2.40 MOVIE: Comanche. (1956) 4.30 MOVIE: The Hallelujah Trail. (1965) 7.30 MOVIE: The Vow. (2012) Rachel McAdams. 9.35 MOVIE: The Five Year Engagement. (2012) Jason Segel. 12.00 Late Programs.
Morning Programs. 12.00 Dessert Masters. 1.00 Healthy Homes. 1.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 2.00 Pooches At Play. 2.30 The Yes Experiment. 3.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 3.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Luxury Escapes. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Sunday Project. 7.00 Dessert
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 The Baron. 11.30 Getaway. 12.00 MOVIE: Where No Vultures Fly. (1951) 2.20 MOVIE: Invitation To A Gunfighter. (1964) 4.20 MOVIE: Sitting Bull. (1954) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Day Of The Jackal. (1973) Edward Fox, Michael Lonsdale, Cyril Cusack. 11.30 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Be more sensitive to the emotions of loved ones who might feel left out while you’re stalking a new opportunity. Be sure to make it up to them this weekend. A nice surprise could be waiting.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) The gregarious Virgo rarely has a problem making new friends. But repairing frayed relationships doesn’t come easily. Still, if it’s what you want to do, you’ll find a way. Good luck!
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A misunderstanding with a partner or spouse needs to be worked out before it turns into something really nasty. Forget about your pride for now and make the first healing move.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Communication dominates the week. Work out any misunderstandings with coworkers. Also, get back in touch with old friends and those family members you rarely see.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) As busy as your week is, make time for someone who feels shut out of your life. Your act of kindness could later prove to be more significant than you might have realized.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Congratulations! Your busy workweek leads to some very satisfying results. Sports and sporting events are high on your weekend activities aspect. Enjoy them with family and friends.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your generosity of spirit reaches out once again to someone who needs reassurance. There might be problems, but keeping this line of communication open eventually pays off.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You are among the truth-seekers in the universe, so don’t be surprised to find yourself caught up in a new pursuit of facts to counter what you believe is an insidious exercise in lying.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 To be bold or intrepid, is to be what (6)
7 To be reluctant to give, is to do what (8)
8 Name the short, thick inner digits of the human hands (6)
9 What is a deep cleft in the ice of a glacier (8)
11 When one walks laboriously, one does what (7)
13 Which blue mineral is a gem of moderate value (7)
15 Name an earlier Australian painter and sculptor, George Washington ... (7)
17 To be the least rapid, is to be the what (7)
20 Which device controls the amount of fuel being fed to an engine (8)
23 What is a chest in which to stow things (6)
24 Which portable shade is used for protection from rain (8)
25 What is a young swan called (6) DOWN
1 Which term describes an inheritor (4)
2 To be more courageous, is to be what (6)
3 What are bookmakers’ prices known as (4)
4 To discourage from acting, is to do what (5)
Letters
5 What are boxing matches split into (6)
6 To be imposing in appearance, is to be what (5)
9 Which devices are used for fastening objects together (6)
10 What is surreptitious procedure (7)
12 Name an agricultural implement for mowing grass, etc (6)
14 To rouse from sleep, is to do what (6)
E-QUATIONS
16 Who is the head male servant of a household (6)
18 To be extremely foolish, is to be what (coll) (5)
19 To walk pompously, is to walk how (5)
21 Name a red variety of corundum, highly prized as a gem (4)
22 To which plant group does the fleur-de-lis belong (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 HACHURE
(a) A chopping block (b) A hill-shading line on a map (c) An American tree allied to the elm
2 IATRICAL
(a) Related to medicine or physicians (b) Satirical in verse (c) Of Spain and Portugal
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:
Cotton twill fabric (5)
Fuel-carrying transports (7)
Indian stringed instrument (5)
Prefix: grandfather’s father (5)
Quote: “to ... is human” (3)
Sleeveless garment (4,3)
Soiled wool piece (3)
Category (5)
US: auto fuel (3)
Witty remark (3)
Seedy Encounters workshops impress all
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
We are fortunate to welcome Nathan Emery and Laura Watts from the Botanic Gardens of Sydney to provide workshops in Parkes and Forbes last month.
Nathan, a Research Scientist, is the Manager of the Seedbank and Conservation Collections for the Botanic Gardens of Sydney.
His colleague, Laura Watts, works as the Collections Development Coordinator.
They are both based at Mount Annan.
Nathan and Laura discussed seed collecting strategies such as preserving genetic diversity, how to collect seeds, process collections, and seed germination strategies.
There was also an opportunity to check out some of the tools of the trade that are used in the field for seed collecting.
The Botanic Gardens of Sydney conducts seedbanking as a core activity, with the statewide conservation seed program having operated for over 20 years.
With around 13,000 collections and 5,200
species the seed collection is the largest of its type in Australia and provides the essential seed collections which forms the ‘heart’ of conservation and restoration activities and outcomes.
Attendees had the opportunity to take home tubestock for plantings.
Parkes attendees undertook a field walk to look at the diversity of native plantings that we have surrounding the town.
In Forbes, the workshop was held at the Forbes Riverside Garden and this was an opportunity to also walk through the tree plantings that are adjacent to the Garden that are native, but not necessarily local species.
There was overwhelming support for a return visit to the Central West from the Botanic Gardens team, hopefully with an opportunity to undertake some collection.
These events are possible thanks to the
shared work of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust and Landcare NSW under the Private Land Conservation Matters project.
Protecting biodiversity on private lands also plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, improving land productivity, and enhancing water quality, all of which directly benefit both the landowners and the broader community.
Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) is Stage 2 of Landcare NSW’s partnership program with the BCT, building on the success and lessons learned from the 2020-22 Project, including increased awareness of the BCT’s roles and responsibilities amongst the Landcare community.
If you are interested in being part of future events and projects, please make sure that you register to receive our newsletter that will provide information on upcoming events.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram.
Lamb numbers continue to fall but quality remains
MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE
Yarding 1046 (down 166)
Numbers dropped by 166 for a yarding of 1046 cattle.
Quality was good with feeder weights the best supplied and good supply’s of heavy prime grown cattle along with limited numbers of cows.
All the regular buyers were present.
Prime yearling steers gained 2c, selling from 300c to to 345c, while prime yearling heifers lifted 15c, 250c to 338c/kg.
Feeder steers were firm to slightly cheaper selling from 288c to 360c, and feeder heifers were 10c cheaper, 243c to 320c/kg.
Prime grown steers were down 5c, 250c to 347c, while prime grown heifers were firm to dearer, 250c to 338c/ kg.
Cows fell 20c, 2 and 3
scores sold from 180c to 268c, and heavy prime cows, 267c to 277c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to 290c/kg.
TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE
Yarding 19,950 (down 5500)
Lamb number continue to fall but the quality was good with good numbers of shorn new season lambs which covered most of the trade and heavy weights. There were a few woolly new season lambs and most were very dry in the skin. There were a few run of trade Merinos. The crossbreds were stronger but Merinos were softer.
New season store lambs reached $169/head for an estimated 23kg while the slightly fresher trade lambs were firm to $6 dearer on limited numbers and ranged from
$162 to $184/head.
Heavy weights reached $238/head or 825c/kg.
Shorn trade lambs ranged from $166 to $208/head with the woolly lambs averaging around 780c and the shorn lambs 860c/kg.
Heavy weights sold from $200 to $250/head or 850c/kg for the shorn lambs.
Extra heavy weights reached $266/head and heavy Aussie white ewe lambs reached $245/head.
Trade Merinos were
cheaper selling from $123 to $158/head to average around 600c/kg.
Mutton numbers eased and the quality was a little more mixed.
Prices were stronger lifting $4 to $5/head.
Medium weight ewes sold from $56 to $110 and heavy crossbred ewes reached $127 while heavy Merino ewes reached $149/head.
Most ranged from 340c to 400c/kg.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
FRIDAY’S PIG SALE
A much larger yarding of sows saw firm prices on last sale.
Boars improved 20c to 30c a kg, there was no bacon yarded today and pork numbers where similar to last fortnight.
An extra buyer saw prices improve dramatically by $80 to $90 per head.
Sucker numbers improved as did quality with prices lifting $60 to $70 per head.
FROMVC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
Lamb number continue to fall but the quality was good with good numbers of shorn new season lambs which covered most of the trade and heavy weights. PHOTO: File
Parkes Seedy Encounters workshop.
PHOTO: Supplied
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Students shine at state titles
ATHLETICS
Eighteen primary school students from around the Parkes Shire recently competed in Sydney at the NSWPSSA Athletics.
Parkes Public School student Huxley Guess had an outstanding carnival earning himself many personal bests.
Huxley competed in the multiclass 800m, 100m, shotput, discus and long jump events.
From his results in these events a calculation is applied to determine his results in his classification.
In Huxley’s classification the young athlete placed first in 100m earning himself a eight second PB, first in long jump where he secured another PB of 12cm, second in 800m, third in discus and fourth in shotput with a massive pb of 26cm.
His fellow school mate Lewis Todd competed in high jump where he secured a jump of 1.25m placing 33rd in the state.
Parkes East Public School student Toby Morgan also competed at NSWPSSA Athletics.
Toby competed in 800m, 200m, 100m, discus, shot put and long jump multiclass events.
Toby placed first in 100m and discus and second in 800m, 200m, shot put and long jump in his classification.
St Patrick’s Parish School Trundle also came away from the carnival with some great results.
Students from St Patrick’s who competed at Sydney included, Isabella Skipworth, Lucus Skipworth, Bridgette Stephenson, Lili Stephenson, Kaleb Stephenson and Alexis Gaut.
Isabella competed in discus where she saw an amazing result placing ninth.
She also competed in shot put placing 15th and 100m placing 21st.
Bridgette, Lili, Kaleb and Alexis competed in the small school relay achieving an outstanding result of sixth place.
Middleton Public School sent two students away to state athletics who both competed in high jump.
Marcus Skinner competed in 12 years high jump earning himself tenth in the state.
Emily Wild competed in 11 years high jump trying her very best after putting a lot of practice and dedication into the sport.
Holy Family Parish School Parkes had five students travel to Sydney to compete.
Seth King competed in 8-10 years discus and Nate Calabro competed in 800m and 1500m.
Nate also competed in the junior relay with fellow class mates Arlo Cassidy, Hayden Jones and Jack Burt.
Trundle Central School also had Aphellia Robson and Harley Corney competing in 11 years discus.
Both Trundle students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and will continue to develop their skills in athletics.
Marcus Skinner from Middleton Public School placed 10th in high jump.
Isabella and Lucas Skipworth.
Kaleb Stephenson, Bridgette Stephenson, Lili Stephenson and Alexis Gaut.
Isabella Skipworth, Kaleb Stephenson, Lili Stephenson, Alexis Gaut, Bridgette Stephenson and Lucas Skipworth. PHOTOS: Supplied
Lewis Todd, Parkes Public School.
Huxley Guess, Parkes Public School.
Toby Morgan from Parkes East Public School competed in 800m, 200m, 100m, discus, shot put and long jump.
Holy Family had a junior relay team compete at state athletics with Nate Calabro, Arlo Cassidy, Hayden Jones and Jack Burt.
Nate Calabro represented Polding and Holy Family in the junior 800m and junior 1500m.
Seth King represented Polding and Holy Family in years 8 to 10 discus.
Emily Wild competed in high jump at state athletics.
Competitive weekend on greens at the Mid West regional finals
PARKES BOWLING AND SPORTS CLUB
By COL MILLER
Well, what a weekend of bowls, the Prestige Triples were held with 20 teams taking to the greens.
The weekend was proudly sponsored by DKW Road Pilots and the Parkes Services Club and a big thank you to these sponsors.
On Saturday three games were played in very warm conditions and at the end of each game the leader board changed making a great day of competition. Sunday started with strong, gusty winds and threating clouds making bowling conditions very taxing and it was going to be the teams that handled the conditions better that would come out on top.
The team of Tony Bright, Ray Griffith and Junior Thorne were winners for the weekend with five wins, margin of 62.
Second was Gary McPhee, Steve Turner and Mark Glasheen with five wins, margin of 27.
Third was Matt Parker, Warwick Parker and Andrew Trottman with four wins, margin of 35.
Fourth was Nathan Reynolds, Dave Reilly and Daryl McKellar four wins, margin of 35. We must thank the organising committee, greenkeepers and volunteers without these people the weekend would not have run as smoothly as it did.
On the Sunday Dave Reilly and Brett Frame played in the Mid-West Sectional Finals at the Railway club against Wallerawang but was beaten in the trying windy conditions, well done to get this far.
On Thursday we had a small group play social bowls.
Rink 16 Ray Jones, Bob Freeman and Ian Simpson has a solid win over Bernie Mitchell, Al Affleck and John Ward 33 to 14.
Rink 18 Geoff Smith, John Corcoran and Graham Davis came home against Col Hayward, John Wright and Col Mudie 21 to 19.
Rink 19 Steve Ryan and Warren Bevan had a win over Mike Valentine and Tony Riordan 18 to 14.
The Eddie McPhee day is on this Sunday 24 with a full two greens of teams, it should be a great day to remember a great man.
On Friday night the club badge draw is $2400, and you must be in the club to win. The lucky rink starts at $150 this week.
The Christmas raffle is also underway so get your lucky tickets.
PB AND SC WOMEN’S BOWLS
By LEA ORR
News around the Club is that Liz is feeling well-heeled, and Mark, one of our Ground Control gurus, is not!
Tony, Baldy and Buddy are keeping it rolling however – sorry, bad pun!
The girls wish you well - and we’re pleased to see some of our recent patients returning to the greens.
Biggest news – Team Frame, Marja I, Brenda D & Cherie are off to State playoffs! Congrats on winning the Mid-West Region Senior Triples at the weekend!
Marja ably subbed for Liz who will be back on board by March.
The first round of the Minor Pairs today was a nail-biter of a match.
Janice MacMahon and Lynn Ryan built a good lead, but Lil Thompson and Annie Smith found their range and gradually drew closer.
At the penultimate end, they scored a 3 to pass their opponents, then added another nail on the final end to take this one, 15 – 13. Congrats to the newcomers, Lil and Annie. What a positive experience!
Good luck to Carol R and Ann T and Nat and Naomi, playing their match at the weekend.
Next week, Round Two: Kay C/Fran D versus Lil T/Ann S. Uniforms please, ladies!
In social games, Gwenda/Valmai/Carol won all but five of the ends when they met Narelle/Joan/Kay.
Lucky winners, Team Reed, 20 – 7.
Robyn Morgan played her socks off after a lengthy break from the greens!
In a game of scroungers, she was able to score 50 points, the scores of Lorraine and Lea added together! Enough said!
Rob continued her winning form in the 100’s club, along with regular lucksters, Gwenda, Mez, Maureen S, Rhona and Nell.
Don’t forget – next week, Tuesday, November 26, is Christmas theme Trading Table! Bring a gift to the value of $10 (or thereabouts)! Wear Christmas mufti (if you’re not playing a match!)
Everyone welcome to join in!
Our Christmas Party shared lunch is on December 10. Non-players please join us!
To play social bowls next Tuesday, November 26 (Trading Table day), call the club, 68621446, between 9 – 9.30, with play to begin at 10 am.
RAILWAY BOWLS
By PAUL LEWIN
Hello Bowlers
Mid West Region Finals
The Mid West Region Triples and Pairs were played on the weekend with only the one team coming from our club.
Ben McNaughton, Jim Daley and Phil Bar-
nard who unfortunately lost to a strong Dubbo City side.
We congratulate them on getting this far.
Social Bowls
A nice 24 players enjoyed Social Bowls on Wednesday, November 13.
Winners were Mike Valentine, Rob Hill and Myra Townsend winning 15+11.
Runners Up were Dave Johnson, John Corcoran and Kev Hynds winning 13+9.
Third place went to Alan Curteis, Wally Grant and Danielle Thompson winning 13+6. Marble 18 came out and the Margins were 6, 6, 9 & 11.
The Jackpot this week is $496.00.
Social Bowls on Saturday, November 16 saw only eight players.
Winners were Dave Speakman and Geoff Leonard winning 15+12.
Runners Up were Gene Rapp and Neil Stronach winning 13+10.
Power Play Pairs
The always enjoyable Parkes Services Club Power Play Pairs our Thursday evening Barefoot Twilight Bowls Comp was on Thursday, November 14.
On top we have the High Rollers Benny Mac, Juicy Daley and Dave Littlewood.
It’s not too late to join in, we will be playing again Thursday at 6pm.
Club Championships
In the Minor Pairs Bill Dodd and Greg Howlett played Marianne and Warren Wat-
son. Bill and Greg led 5-3 after 5 ends and 8-6 after 8 ends.
Marianne and Warren got back to 9 all after 11 ends and took the lead 14-9 after 13 ends. Marianne and Warren led 20-12 after 16 ends before Billy and Greg lifted to get back to 23 all after 21 ends.
Bill and Greg stayed strong winning the extra end and the game 24-23.
In the Club Triples we had Clive Stibbard, Stevie Torrens and Paul Townsend play Phil Barnard, Jim Daley and Ben McNaughton. Team B Mac led 9-1 after 7 ends.
Team Townsend led 10-9 after 12 ends, 10 all after 13 ends, 14 all after 19 ends and 16 all after 22 ends
It was 17 all after 24 ends and team B Mac picked up a single to win 18-17 in a tight close game.
This week we have Social Bowls on Wednesday, November 20 at 1pm.
The Parkes Services Club’s Power Play Pairs on Thursday, November 21 at 6pm and Social Bowls on Saturday, November 23 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 at 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 generally use this time as practice.
We have some experienced bowlers that are always happy to play with and help new learning bowlers.
We have our Thursday Evening Barefoot Twilight Bowls going now, that is a great way to start and learn the game.
Please feel free to call in to the club at anytime to have a chat.
Punters Club
The Quickshine Punters Club has finished for 2024. Keep an eye out for the new comp coming up soon.
AGM
Notice has been given for the AGM on Saturday, November 30 at 10am.
Nomination sheets are on the board in the club for those interested. Nominations close Sunday, November 25 at 5pm.
In the Club on Friday, November 22 we have Happy Hour 5-7pm, Meat Tray Raffles, Badge Draw ($50.00), Joker Draw ($2,450.00) and the Bistro serving up their amazing meals from 6pm.
See you at the Railway! Toot Toot!
By BRIAN DRABSCH
Last Sunday saw 7 shooters Attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex on the Back Trundle Road and shot under Gail force westerly winds, and shot at fox targets at both 25 and 50 meters for a collective score of 530.83. The figure given after the decimal point is the number of central bullseyes shot.
And one shot for practice turning up a new combination and working what brand of ammo suits his rifle.
To the layman who thinks all ammo shoots the same couldn’t be further from the fact and good ammo is very hard to find at the moment.
Our next shoot is at 10am Sunday 24/11/24 where it will be standard target at both ranges.
Greg Howlett, National Umpire measures Victor Brook of Dubbo’s bowl, watched by Phil Barnard. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
The team of Gary McPhee, Steve Turner and Mark Glasheen claimed second in the Prestige Triples. PHOTO: Supplied
The team of Tony Bright, Ray Griffith and Junior Thorne won the Prestige Triples weekend. PHOTO: Supplied
‘Absolute bunch of champions’
Lachlan under 12s are our western region women’s rugby league premiers after undefeated season
“An absolute bunch of champions” - that’s how coach Adam Maynard described Lachlan District’s Under 12s who won their Western Women’s Rugby League premiership on Saturday
Young players from Forbes, Parkes and Condobolin had an early start to get to Bathurst in time for kick off against the home team, the Panorama Platypi, and the grand final contest was a tough one.
But the side couldn’t be beaten through the Spring competition and they held firm, despite being down at half time, for a 10-8 victory in
the decider.
“It was pretty tough, pretty close,” Maynard said.
“It pretty much came down to us getting one of the conversions.”
Jinxxi Piggot’s kick proved the difference for Lachlan, who had been untouchable throughout the season.
This side has come a long way in a short time, 11 of the squad learning to tackle only in the weeks leading up to this competition.
It’s a side loaded with sport and athletic talent: representative touch football and soccer players, State Athletics runners, and even a few State rugby nines com-
Lachlan District Rugby League’s Under 12s and Under 16s celebrating premiership victories.
petitors, but there were a number making their debut into tackle rugby league.
“At the start of the season we started off very slowly,
teaching them on their knees how to tackle,” Maynard said.
“Slowly we went to standing up walk throughs, then jog-throughs, then we took
Star soccer juniors set for tour of Philippines
A team of talented regional soccer juniors is headed to the Philippines for an incredible tour - on and off field.
Locally-based coach Doug Mckenzie is bringing together the group of girls aged 12 to 15 from regional NSW and Canberra, and they’ll fly out later this month to train and play in some of the country’s key stadiums and against its rising stars.
Forbes’ Josie Mckenzie, Lily Browne and Katie Schulze, with Parkes’ Bella Batt and Young’s Ruby Schofield, are among the exciting local talents taking the tour.
Lilly, Katie and Bella compete with Forbes’ Under 17s and ladies sides through the soccer season.
Ruby is goalkeeper for Canberra Croatia’s Under 14s and Under 15s teams
and Josie has now been selected for the senior women’s squad in the Canberra competition, playing with Gungahlin United Reserve. She will trial for the Cambodian national team in January. Their experience begins with the chance to train at the Rizal national stadium and an indoor stadium before beginning their travel and taking on teams from Beach Hut FC and high school teams.
They’ll face teams from Clark Academy - in the 26,000 seat Clark International Stadium where the South Sea Pacific Games were held.
There’ll be some incredible travel and cultural experiences as they travel to the volcanic region of Tagaytay, and into the mountains to visit Clark Academy’s coach-
ing and life academy.
A four-wheel-driving tour will take them to Pinnang hot springs, but there’s also time to visit the Mall of Asia and other major shopping centres.
The team includes Taylor Brayshaw from the Yass area, who plays for Canberra Croatia and her teammate Isabelle Cain with sister Paige.
Promising Dubbo talent Zoe Reys, Alyssia Laing from Tahmoor who plays for Nepean, as well as Orange representatives Zoe and Claudia Jones with Emma Dowsett (Blayney).
Although geographically scattered, the girls had the opportunity for a warm up game against Orange last month and secured a comfortable win, there’s one more scheduled before they fly out.
it up to full speed and they killed it.”
Their spirit and willingness to learn paid off
“They’re such a great bunch of girls,” Maynard said.
“I’ve coached a lot of football and girls are so easy to coach ... unless I just got lucky with this bunch of girls because they were pretty determined and switched on.
“They were very passionate and determined bunch of girls.”
The Condobolin players in particular have shown their dedication travelling for training - and adding an hour of travel time to every match
as well.
The crew around them was second to none, with Maynard’s son Brock bringing all he’s learned through clinics at Red Bend into play as well.
“Stevie Jackson, Jess Ashcroft, Brock Maynard, Matt Corliss - we wouldn’t have got to where we did without them,” Maynard said. It’s been a fantastic season for all associated with this group.
“They’re an absolute bunch of champions, the best group of girls,” Maynard said.
“And the friends that they’ve made now ... it’s been great in all aspects for all the girls.”
Bristol leads the way in twin towns golf competition
The sun was shining and the scores were hot when five players posted 40 points or better at last week’s twin-towns veterans golf competition played at Parkes.
Leading the way was Parkes veterans president Peter Bristol who put together a well compiled 42 points for the 18 holes to finish a stroke better than Forbes’ Ken Walton who survived a count-back from John Creith (Parkes) and Wauchope visitor John Keiley.
The two players on 40 points were Tom Delmenico from Parkes and Alex MacKinnon from the visiting team.
A big field of 40 players - including six visitors - contested the event which saw Parkes win to twin-towns shield with 233 points to Forbes’ 198. Nearest-to-pins went to Forbes’ Alf Davies and Kath Kelly from Parkes on the fourth hole and Bede Tooth from Forbes on the par three 11th hole.
Tenterfield visitor Brett Adams won the encouragement award with 25 points.
The ball sweep went to 36 points and winners were: 41 points - John Creith (P); 40 - Tom Delmenico (P) and Alex MacKinnon (F); 38 - Andrew Grierson (F); 37 - Tony Hendry, John Fowler and Dale Stait (P); 36 -Lindsay Elliott and Rob Staples (P) and Barry Parker and Ken Sanderson (F).
This week Forbes will host the final Lachlan Valley Veterans 18-hole competition for the year. Nominations will be taken from 9am for a 10am start.
PARKES GOLF CLUB NEWS
By PETER BRISTOL
Saturday’s Results
Saturday was the Butta Beef Butchery Short Course Championship for ‘24. The Butta Beef team have a great association with the PGC and we thank them for their ongoing support of our golfers and club.
The Short Course event was reignited by Denis Howard a few years back and is an event that is enjoyed by all, as the men play off the ladies tees and the ladies off the yellow tees. It changes the hole perspectives and lowers everyone’s handicap for the day.
Seventy-five starters teed it up for a great day on the course.
The scratch division for the men was won by Aaron Wilkie. Aaron was expected to be well in contention at the end but his 72 was only two better than his grandfather Ian Phipps, who has again found the elixir of golf and is playing brilliantly.
The short course requires the short shot finesse that Ian is renowned for. Obviously, Aaron’s power game meant there were a number of par 4s that were drivable with less than driver and the par 5s were a mid to short iron for the second shot.
Jack Matthews and Peter Amor, only needed a bit more luck on the day to be top of the heap with both recording 76s. Club Pro, Zac Kelly,
went around in a 2 under 70.
In the ladies scratch Anita Medcalf rose to the top with her new club fitting obviously helping out.
A solid 89 was only one better than Cath Kelly, who is racing back to her best form and ready for the summer run on the course. Not to be left out of the argument was Frankie Cock who was further shot back.
In the men’s net event Ian Phipps was in the mix again taking out top dog prize but only after a countback from the cagey veteran Rod Luyt. Rod is happy the warmer weather is upon us as the course lends a hand with a bit more run, he then only has to get the putts to drop to be competitive.
Phil Smith was returning after an illness break and looks to back in form with a 70, the same score as recently crowned B Grade Match Play champion Mitch Cambourn. Tony Hendry, starting to see the end of the lost golfers tunnel was a stroke back with snake wrangler David Hodges and also Luke Clyne getting an honourable mention alongside Peter Amor.
In the ladies net event Frankie Cock took the top podium spot with a good 72, one stroke in front of Cath Kelly and Melissa Matthews. A very tight run thing with Frankie relieved to get there in the end.
The Nearest The Pins on Saturday were –The Idlerite 1st by Melissa Matthews at 135cm, Griffins Leading Edge by Bernie King at 208cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Matt Clarke at 77cm, the Harvey Norman 11th by Bernie King at 119cm, the 17th by Jack Matthews at 195cm. The winner of the lucky 17th this week was Jack Matthews at 195cm.
Ball winners were Rod Luyt 68, Mitch Cambourn, Phil Smith, Tony Hendry, David Hodges, Luke Clyne 70, Cathy Kelly, Mel Matthews 73. In the Men’s Matchplay Championships, Scott Winter has been crowned the C grade winner and Mitch Cambourn the B Grade Champion for 2024. John Green and Jake Thompson to playoff over 36 holes for the A Grade title.
Saturday’s event is an 18 hole stableford with perfect conditions both course and weather wise.
LACHLAN District has taken out two premierships in the 2024 Western Women’s Rugby League competition.
A mighty effort in the last 10 minutes of Saturday’s grand final saw our 16s clinch a hard-fought win over Orange’s Vipers, while the Under 12s finished their season undefeated when they held out a determined Panorama Platypi side (their story inside).
There was just 10 minutes left in Saturday’s Under 16s decider and Lachlan were two points down when they lost a player to the sin bin, but they were never going to give up on their goal.
“The girls lifted enormously, they went to another level and we eventually got a try with about three or four minutes left, kicked a goal to go up to 16-12,” coach Nick Jones said.
They then lifted their defensive efforts to hold Orange out to the final whistle.
It was a thrilling finale to the season for a side that always had all the promise, but had a slow start to the season.
“We lost our first two games, but really put it together from there and went undefeated for the rest of the season - capped off obviously by a great win Saturday,” Jones said.
Saturday’s final was a tough contest in warm conditions in Bathurst, with Orange opening the scoring.
Lachlan responded through Joan Carolan, and Ruby Jones added the extras to give Lachlan the advantage.
But it was Orange who led into the half time break with another try putting them up 8-6.
Knowing the size and strength of the Vipers, it was a scenario Jones and his team had prepared for.
“That’s what we spoke about before the game: if we just stayed positive and held the ball and hung in there and hung in there, our fitness
and determination would bring us over the top,” the coach said.
And they did, Lachlan holding the premiership trophy high in just their second year in the competition.
Player of the match honours were awarded to Grace MacGregor, who’s been a star throughout the short season.
“She’s a great player and a great kid,” Jones said, acknowledging the huge amount of work the representative has been doing travelling to Sydney for pre-season training with the Bulldgos under 17s.
“A great effort by her, she’s our captain as well and she’s a great leader - an inspiration to the other girls.”
MacGregor was one of a number of players who brought rugby league experience to the Lachlan District club when it formed in 2023.
There was some outstanding performances in Saturday’s grand final
including from hooker Joan Carolan and front rowers Meg Mahon and Jocelyn Folau.
Ruby Jones’ successful kicking proved the difference in points with three tries apiece for the contest.
But the coach was pleased with the entire squad.
“It’s tough to say any one player - across the board they all did what they had to do,” Jones said.
“It was definitely a team effort that’s for sure.”
It’s an exciting time for women’s rugby league and this Spring competition a great opportunity for the region’s talent, but you have to be impressed at Lachlan winning two premierships in their second season.
“To bring Forbes, Parkes and Condobolin to form a team - we still wouldn’t match the numbers that Orange and Bathurst and Dubbo have to draw from
It’s great to compete let alone to win,” Jones said.
“Every season more girls give it a go, the game’s just going from strength to strength I think.”
The fans were certainly out in force on Saturday to show their support - Lachlan’s 12s first to take the field and staying to support the older team.
“When we lifted, the crowd lifted, and the vibe was just awesome,” Jones said of the final minutes of play. “From a player point of view I know that that really helped them.”
Parkes Harness Racing Club will race again this coming Friday night 22 November 2024, there are 8 races scheduled with the first race to start at 6.25pm, gates will open to the public at 5.30pm with free entry for all patrons.
The Lachlan District WRL side are Western Women’s Rugby League Under 16s winners.
