THE strain of having a shortage of doctors on communities like Parkes is reaching our youngest residents.
One such young person is Oscar Hendry from Red Bend Catholic College who chose to highlight the issue in a short film competition, the 2024 Parli-Flicks Short Film Award organised through NSW Parliamentary Education and Engagement.
And to the 13-year-old’s surprise he won Best Regional Entry.
This exciting competition challenged students from Year 5 to 12 across NSW to craft a one-minute short film exploring a thought-provoking question: If
you were a Member of Parliament, what law would you pass and how would you implement it?
Oscar’s video highlighted the doctor shortage in regional NSW and proposed incentives for doctors practicing in towns with a population of less than 20,000.
“It’s a really important issue in country towns like Parkes and the shortage is putting pressure on our health services, health workers and our community,” he said.
“I wanted to bring it to the attention of politicians in the hope that more could be done to support the doctors and health workers that we have here now and to attract more to work in our town and others like ours.
“A healthy community is so
important.”
Oscar was keen to give the competition a go after his mum Kelly spotted it online.
“I thought it sounded pretty interesting, it was during the July school holidays and I thought it would be a good thing to keep busy and try something new,” he said.
“First I discussed and brainstormed some ideas around the theme of the film and what its message was going to be. I then worked on building a script and workshopping the words and determining characters.
“I quite enjoy watching Jimmy Rees videos where he plays multiple characters and wanted to try and do something similar.
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ICAC report is back
‘There will be no investigation’
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) will not be investigating Parkes Shire Council, the Council Chambers has heard.
On September 20 Council self-reported allegations of corrupt behaviour by Parkes Council a er those allegations were made public via a social media blog by Cr Glenn Wilson during the 2024 Local Government elections.
The ICAC report was tabled at Council’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, which included General Manager Kent Boyd’s referral letter, a letter of acknowledgement from ICAC and ICAC’s assessment.
ICAC advised Council on November 12, “We have determined that we will not be investigating the issues raised, having regard to the advice and information provided by Council which does not support a likelihood that corrupt conduct might have occurred”. ICAC added in their response, “and given that certain allegations have already been considered by the Commission in relation to Council’s previous section 11 report.”
Upon tabling the report prepared by Mr Boyd, Mayor Neil Westcott read, “It should be noted that Council has previously self-referred the
swimming pool tender allegations to the ICAC, following allegations of corruption made by one of the unsuccessful tenderers”.
“Comprehensive information was provided to the ICAC at that time,” the report said. “There is a duty to report allegations of corruption. The higher risk is not reporting, where a duty is required.”
Cr Wilson requested a moment to respond to the report, claiming that Council “only reported one item, not various items”.
He believed the example provided wasn’t a “claim of corruption” but instead one of poor management.
“The letter clearly pointed to the blog and that was one example,” Mr Boyd said.
Mr Boyd’s letter listed Cr Wilson’s blog URL address and provided one example of “multiple allegations”.
“I can’t provide any more information than that. All the information is on the blog, was referred to ICAC,” Mr Boyd said.
“ICAC had the link. They had the chance to look at it, they had the chance to review it.
“This is their response.”
Councillors agreed to receive and note the report, and to note the ICAC self-referred allegation of corrupt conduct is now concluded.
Oscar Hendry (13) with mum Kelly and Orange MP Phil Donato.
What’s on in and around Parkes
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 and 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 award-winning 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
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 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.
Regardless of how old your child was or when we lost them, Christmas is the most difficult time. Everyone is welcome to join from 5:30pm at Lions Park.
Candles will be lit and poems will be read at 6pm. BYO nibbles and drinks and stay for a chat.
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.
Santa has very generously offered Parkes RFS Headquarters his time during his busy period. Parkes RFS will be escorting him around town in their fire truck. He is very excited to meet the children of Parkes, say hi
TRUNDLE TESTICLE FESTIVAL
Thursday, December 26
It’s time to look after the blokes! It’s time for the Testicle Test as in cricket, as Trundle hosts a festival and a Super 8s cricket competition on Boxing Day, December 26 at Berryman Oval. Grab a team for a bit of fun in the sun while they raise money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. From 2pm until late, barbecue and bar available.
Lexi nominated for CAT Award
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
PARKES Musical and Dramatic Society is excited to announce one of their young actresses has been nominated for a Canberra Area Theatre Award.
Lexi Herden played Annie in Parkes M and D’s production of Annie the Musical earlier this year.
Her outstanding performance in this production saw her nominated for Best Youth Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical.
This was Lexi’s first production outside of school and her first lead role so she was thrilled to hear the good news.
“It’s pretty special because
I wasn’t expecting to get it, it means a lot,” Lexi said.
Director of Annie the Musical and President of Parkes M and D, Lyn Townsend, was also excited to hear the news.
“It is so well deserved, Lexi is a star of the future there’s no doubt about that and she’s put in such a great performance in Annie and really pulled the whole production together,” Ms Townsend said.
“For her to get this nomination is just a reward for the effort she puts in, she’s a fantastic performer but she’s also an absolutely beautiful young lady. I’m so happy for her.”
In Lexi’s category she has been nominated alongside
junior actresses from Wagga Wagga, Canberra, Wollongong and Bathurst.
Lexi started taking performing seriously in Year 6when she played Scuttle in the Parkes Christian Schools production of The Little Mermaid.
Before this she had participated in a few little school productions but this production really set it in motiwon for the young actress.
“I love everything about performing, the thrill of just working towards and having a goal, meeting new people and learning new skills.”
Now in Year 9, Lexi recalls her greatest achievement so far in her performing jour-
Oscar highlights important issue and wins best regional film for it
■ From page 1
“I decided to feature a politician and needed a second character who brought a very different personality to the film. I landed on an elderly lady who was upset about the doctor shortage, and asked questions of the politician.”
Oscar called it Medicos for Mildred and played both characters when they were speaking on film, his younger sister Gloria stepped in as an extra when he needed it.
“I needed a body double for the long shots, so I recruited my little sister to dress as the granny when both actors were onscreen together,” Oscar said.
Once filming was finished, he edited it all on his laptop.
“I was part of Aurora College in years 5 and 6 via my primary school Parkes East. In Aurora, we learned a lot of tech skills including film editing which we used to present our STEM projects in our online classes,” Oscar said.
“It has been a handy skill to have.”
If you’d like to watch Oscar’s short film, you can do so by visiting education.parliament. nsw.gov.au/parli-flicks-short-film-award2024-finalists/ and scrolling down.
“It was challenging to get the script and important messages in under a minute,” he said.
“ When I was editing, I had to cut a lot of the shots between speaking out and speed some footage up.
“But one minute was a strict criteria for the competition. I had to really think about what was important enough to keep in and what could be cut.”
Five entries were shortlisted in the categories of Best Regional, Best Metropolitan, Best Primary (Years 5 and 6), Best Junior Second-
ary (Years 7 to 9), and Best Senior Secondary (Years 10 to 12).
Finalists attended an awards night at NSW Parliament in Sydney on November 13, where the winners were announced and presented a medal.
“I felt proud that my video was chosen and that my ideas were heard by the politicians in the room. It has been a great experience,” Oscar said.
While they were there, students were given a tour of Parliament House and were able to attend a debate in the Legislative Assembly, and meet with Member for Orange Philip Do nato to chat about the process of parliament.
“I found it really fun to come up with the ideas, storyboard the characters and scenes, and edit it all,” he said.
“I hadn’t watched it for a few months since entering, so it was funny seeing it on the big screen at Parliament House at the finals and how it all came together.
“Both the lower and upper house were sit ting while we were there and we got to sit in the gallery and watch.
“It was very interesting to see how laws are made and the types of things that Parliament debate, for example parking fines.
“It was good to meet the other finalists from around NSW who were all very nice.”
As for whether Oscar might consider a future in politics, he said he’s still young and interested in lots of things.
“But it does seem like a very interesting world and where you can have a positive impact for your community.”
Red Bend said they are proud of not only Oscar’s filmmaking talent, but also his passion for shaping the future.
Oscar would like to thank Red Bend for its
support during his trip to Sydney and representing the school, and to NSW Parliament for running the competition.
“It was a really great opportunity for me and to encourage youth to understand politics, and processes and I hope they continue it,” he said.
“Everyone was very enthusiastic and kind.
“Thanks also to Mr Donato for his time and interest, and thanks to my mum for taking me to Sydney - it was really nice to spend that time together and do some fun things.”
Man allegedly attempts to rob service station with a knife
A MAN has been arrested and charged following an attempted armed robbery at a service station in Parkes on Saturday night.
Police allege a 23-year-old male from Parkes attempted to rob a service station in Clarinda Street at 6.43pm while armed with a knife.
The attempted robbery was disrupted by another customer entering the business. The offender was arrested a short time later at a house in Russell Street in Parkes and placed under arrest. He was charged with attempted armed robbery with an offensive weapon and larceny, and was refused bail to appear before Parkes Local Court on December 5.
Meanwhile there’s been an alleged serious assault in Peak Hill.
About 7.20pm on Saturday, police were called to Caswell Street, Peak Hill, following reports of an assault.
Officers attached to the Central West Police District attended and were told two men – one allegedly armed with an axehad a physical altercation, before both left the scene.
Following inquiries, about 8.20pm the same night, police attended a home on Derrinbong Street, Peak Hill, and arrested a 24-year-old man. He was taken to Parkes Police Station and charged with intent commit indictable offence, affray and common assault. He was refused bail and appeared before Parramatta Local Court on Sunday.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing. Anyone with information or CCTV footage in relation to the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
meeting Member for Orange Phil Donato at NSW Parliament House in Sydney and learning more about politics. PHOTO: Supplied
Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society’s Lexi Herden has been nominated for a CAT Award for her role as Annie.
PHOTO: Ruth Crowley
Updated kitchen space for Parkes High
By BRENDAN MCCOOL
HOSPITALITY
students
and staff at Parkes High School have celebrated the opening of their new kitchen space on Friday, November 23.
Food tech and hospitality teacher Kylie Jones said the replacement of the building had been underway for quite a few years, and the original building hadn’t been renovated for many years.
Mrs Jones said the school was fortunate enough to get a grant which helped them undertake renovation works, which includes modern efficient cooking stations, a larger butler’s kitchen and laundry, as
well as an accessible cooking station which is designed to cater for students with disabilities.
Mrs Jones said the new kitchen area is terrific and the students are excited to come and work in there.
The newly refurbished kitchen was open for classes since term 4 of this year.
Mrs Jones said the project was managed by Terry Job, who had a lot to do with the engineers and design of the kitchen, along with the input of kitchen hand Lea Oram.
Project Manager Terry Job said the idea that they could build this came around three years ago and they had a lot of staff input, particularly staff who
would be using the facilities, about how they could see it as a utility within the school which was also student friendly.
Works began on the building itself around 15 months ago, Mr Job said, with them having to practically remove the old building.
“There are very few fittings in here at all from the old building, the old kitchen, this is all new and fit for purpose,” he said.
Mr Job said the old building was no longer fit for purpose and they designed the new kitchen to today’s standards.
“We’re very, very happy that we’ve got to this stage,” he said.
CONSTRUCTION ON NORTHERN CONNECTION OF BYPASS BEGINS
THE construction of the northern connection of the Parkes Bypass will begin on Friday.
Transport for NSW is advising motorists that there will be changed traffic conditions just north on the Newell Highway in Parkes from Friday, November 29.
Traffic on the highway, north of Bogan Road, will be switched onto a short section of the new highway, under stop/slow conditions.
Work hours will be 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 6pm on Saturdays, and the road will reopen to
two-way traffic at night.
The works are expected to take three days, weather permitting, Transport for NSW says.
Intermittent stopping and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place during work hours and may add an additional five minutes to travel times.
Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience.
For the latest traffic information, visit livetraffic.com, download the Live Traffic app or call the Transport Management Centre on 132 701.
www.hghmotorgroup.com.au/specials
ABOVE LEFT - The new kitchen area has several state of the art kitchen bays, including an accessible kitchen bay. INSET - Terry Job and Jennifer Wickham cut the ribbon at the official opening of the new kitchen block. ABOVE RIGHT - A brand new extended butler’s pantry.
PHOTO: Brendan McCool
the new kitchen bays.
PHOTO: Brendan McCool
PHOTO: Christine Little
Community Newsletter
WHAT’S ON
COUNTRY SOUNDS
Council is thrilled to announce who will be rocking the stage at Country Sounds, returning to Cooke Park Pavilion on Saturday 22 February 2025.
• Robbie Mortimer
• Tyla Rodrigues
• Baeden Faint
• Gracey Jones
Mark your calendars and gather your friends for a night of amazing music and good vibes. Stay tuned for more updates.
HAVE YOUR SAY
DRAFT FLOOD STUDY REPORTS
Council is inviting community feedback on two draft flood study reports currently on public exhibition until 5pm Thursday 28 November 2024.
1. Cookamidgera Draft Flood Study Report
2. Bogan Gate and Gunningbland Draft Flood Study Report
Other flood studies currently underway include East Parkes (Goobang Creek) Flood Study, Parkes Town Flood Study and Trundle Flood Study. All submissions must be in writing using the online form, in person at Council’s Administration Centre or mailed to The General Manager, Parkes Shire Council, PO Box 337, Parkes NSW 2870. For more information, visit Council’s website.
WHAT’S ON
CHRISTMAS PARADE AND CARNIVAL
Get ready to sleigh the holiday season because the Christmas Parade & Carnival is happening on Friday 6 December! It’s not too late to jump on board as a market stall or join the parade - just email parkesactionclub@gmail.com
We can’t wait to see you there!
PARKES ELVIS FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS
We’re excited to invite volunteers to join us in delivering the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival! This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to gain hands-on experience in the events industry, meet new people and give back to the community. To become part of our festival family, visit: bit.ly/ElvisVolunteer2025 or scan the QR code.
AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS NOMINATIONS
Don’t forget nominations for the 2025 Australia Day Awards are still open!
The three award categories include:
• Community Awards
• Cultural Awards
• Sporting Awards
We encourage everyone to nominate deserving individuals and groups who have made a positive impact on our community.
Nominations close Friday 6 December 2024 at 5pm. For more information and to submit a nomination, visit Council’s website.
NOTICE OF PLANNING PROPOSAL FOR 109 WOODWARD STREET PARKES
Notice is hereby given that Parkes Shire Council has received Planning Proposal Application No: PP2024/0001 from Daniel Stephen Mansley to rezone Lot 329 DP 750152 from R5 Large Lot Residential to R1 General Residential.
Plans and supporting documentation can be viewed on Council’s website until 30 November 2024. Any interested person may make a written submission to the Parkes Shire Council, PO Box 337, Parkes NSW 2870 with respect to the planning proposal. For more information, visit the ‘Your Say’ section on Council’s website.
WHAT’S ON AT THE LIBRARY
CROP SWAP IN THE LIBRARY
Join us in the Parkes Library Courtyard on Saturday 7 December from 10am for Crop Swap.
Bring your excess homegrown produce, seeds, and plants to swap with fellow gardening enthusiasts!
INDYREADS SUMMER BOOK CLUB
The Indyreads Summer Book Club is back! This year’s pick is Smoke by Michael Brissenden—a gripping crime thriller that will keep you guessing until the final page. Download the Indyreads app and join readers across NSW in enjoying this thrilling read until 13 February 2025.
Stay tuned for an exciting online author talk with Michael Brissenden in February!
WHAT’S ON AT THE LIBRARY
CHRISTMAS FLICKS
Get into the holiday spirit with a special Christmas-themed movie night at Parkes Library, Friday 20 December, 6pm! Dress in your most festive outfit and join us for a fun, free event.
Bookings are essential as seating is limited. Call 6861 2309 to secure your spot!
LIBRARY CLOSURE
Parkes Library will be closed for the holiday break from Saturday, 21 December 2024, and will reopen on Thursday, 2 January 2025. Be sure to visit us beforehand to stock up on your holiday reading—and remember, our online library is always open!
Teacher 5 January 2025 Design Engineer Transport 19 January 2025
For further information on these positions and to apply, please visit: bit.ly/ParkesShireCareers
PARKES ELVIS FESTIVAL
The Mini has always been an iconic car
By JEFF McCLURG
The Mini has been and always will be one of those iconic cars that everyone recognises, and possibly the holy grail of those would be the Cooper S, the performance spec model which saw the Mini take steps into competitive motor racing.
Troy Deaman from Trundle has recently had his Cooper S on the road after purchasing it in April 2023.
“I’ve always had a soft spot for Mini’s after my first car at age 11 was a Mini,” said Troy.
“Dad was a motor mechanic and had a red one in his 20s that he ‘warmed up’ a lot (and blew up a lot),” he laughed.
“So when he and I bought this one it was like a trip down memory lane. He’d been a bit down since losing mum a few years ago so this really got him inspired again.”
Troy’s Mini is a 1970 Mk 2 Cooper S that was originally sold new in Sydney. It had spent all its life there and on the north coast before he became only the 4th owner and brought it out west.
“It was restored by the previous owner to its original GTO green and aside from the white roof and the mags, this is how it would have looked on the showroom floor,” he said.
The matching numbers 1275 cc block is still under the bonnet although just like his dad, there’s been some work done – bored out to 1330 cc, lumpy cam, higher compression and police spec 1 ½ inch twin carbs.
That’s right; for those who don’t quite remember, the NSW Police drove Mini’s for a time. Some might also remember their racing success too with the crowning glory being the outright winner in 1966 at
Mount Panorama where the Mini’s filled the top 9 places ahead of V8 Valiants and the like.
For Troy, he’s just out to enjoy his Mini now. As a fairly new member of the Central West Car Club in
Parkes he recently had it on display at the Show ‘n Shine at Pioneer Oval in October.
The club meets regularly at Parkes Leagues Club on the first Wednesday of each month where
members enjoy a meal, a drink and some good conversation. There’s also a monthly street meet at the outdoor Coles carpark on the Friday night following the meeting and regular club runs throughout
the year. The club always welcomes new members and more information can be found on the Central West Car Club website at www.centralwestcarclub.com
New bridges and causeways for flood-hit areas
Parkes is one of four flood-hit communities in the state’s Central West to soon have access to new bridges, upgraded roads and a more resilient transport network to better prepare for future natural disasters.
The Albanese and Minns Governments’ $32 million Regional Transport Resilience Fund (RTRF) is supporting Parkes, Forbes, Lachlan and Cabonne councils to repair and upgrade road and transport infrastructure damaged by the 2022 floods.
The cost of the RTRF package is
shared between both governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
These four councils experienced the worst of the 2022 floods which saw road and transport infrastructure sustain unprecedented damage in a disaster that affected a geographical area stretching about 11,000 kilometres.
The RTRF package is part of a $100 million Central West Recovery and Resilience Package.
Parkes Shire Council will receive $5.65 million for two new bridges and the installation of
new culverts and causeways.
A new bridge has been planned for The Bogan Way between Trundle and Parkes and one for the Middle Trundle Road.
New culverts and causeways will be constructed at various locations on Middle Trundle Road and an additional $1.08 million has been set aside for new concrete causeways that are part of council’s causeway improvement program.
Forbes Shire Council has been allocated $11.4 million for various culverts and road upgrades across the council area including $5.43
million to upgrade four culverts and upgrade pavement.
While Lachlan Shire Council will receive just over $4.8 million and Cabonne $7.45 million for various work to better flood-proof the area.
“Communities in Central West NSW were hit hard by flooding in 2022, and both levels of government are working together to help them recover from and prepare for future events,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said.
“We know that there is more work to be done, and we are com-
in Parkes
mitted to supporting Central Western communities to recover and rebuild for the long term.”
NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said they have made investing in recovery efforts in the Central West a priority and that these works will help reduce future costs of repairs to roads damaged by natural disasters.
NSW Independent Member for Orange Phil Donato added, “Our communities are resilient, and this funding will go a long way to ensuring their road and transport infrastructure is too”.
Troy Deaman from Trundle has recently had his Cooper S on the road after purchasing it in April 2023.
PHOTO: Supplied
Eugowra’s scientists of future design flood warning system
A GROUP of Eugowra primary school students has developed a flood sensor that will alert residents to rising waters.
Students at St Josephs Eugowra have worked with community members and engineers - and grappled with ultrasonic sensors, Microbits and programming to develop their prototype - which they’re presenting this week to a national Catholic schools competition in Brisbane.
The STEM MAD competition is Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics challenging students to Make A Difference - and that’s something these students are determined to do after losing their school in the flood event that devastated their community on November 14, 2022.
Senior students Olivia, Belle, Sam and Zac have been charged with presenting the project, in a video you can watch on the school’s Facebook page.
“Nobody knew how much water was coming because the existing devices had been damaged and all communications were lost,” Belle explains in the project video.
“We wanted to create a simple warning system that would withstand extreme currents, and water depths, that could alert people to
rising floodwaters.”
Their work began with a look at past floods: how big they were and how people were warned.
“We surveyed the residents to answer some of our questions relating to flood history and created a timeline of all of our information,” Olivia said.
“We also drew graphs to show the differences in flood heights across the years.”
One of the things they learned was that the extreme wet conditions of 2022 had saturated the ground even before the se-
vere storm of November 13, leading to the tragic events of the next morning.
Students looked at the catchment area, which gave them a good idea of the volume of water that flowed into Mandagery Creek, then toured town to look at historic flood heights in different locations.
The group visited a property with a flood warning device before grouping up to share their ideas, come up with a design and identify the materials needed to make it.
“We all wanted to use sensors to set off the alarm, so
ABOVE - Students work on a prototype that uses an ultrasonic sensor to set off an alarm about rising water
LEFT - Belle, Olivia, Zac and Sam present their school’s flood warning prototype to a national competition this week. PHOTOS: Supplied
heights, with solar panels added to make it more sustainable.
“Our system can help people evacuate early during floods and could be used in other flood-prone areas,” the students said.
“The materials are inexpensive and simple to put together, so it can be manufactured simply.
“An app could be created to send a signal to a phone if people are away.”
The importance of the project is close to home for the students presenting it.
“They lost every single thing you can think of,” Mrs Eppelstun said.
“I think they can see a real purpose for this, this isn’t something we’re just doing for fun.”
we need to learn how to program the Microbit,” the students said.
“We decided to make a water turbine and a tilting alarm, but the prototypes were not successful, so we had to make changes to try and improve the result.”
Principal Cathy Eppelstun said students had worked closely with the Science and Technology consultant for the Bathurst Diocese Catholic Education Office to develop their project, from concept through to the prototype that finally delivered the result they wanted.
Engineers working Eugowra’s flood recovery committee also shared their expertise: the Rhelm team learned about the students’ work through Mrs Eppelstun at one of the regular meetings and immediately offered to come to the school.
By this stage students had developed two prototypes, which hadn’t been successful: Rhelm suggested either an ultrasonic sensor or laser, and these worked better.
The final design uses an ultrasonic sensor to measure water levels and sound an alarm at different
How they’ve grasped the technology has been one incredible aspect of the whole project, the other has been the understanding they have come to about how extreme the event of 2022 was when looking at Eugowra’s historic floods.
“It’s been, for all staff, parents and children, part of the healing process,” Mrs Eppelstun said.
Students are back in their rebuilt classrooms this year but the work continues on the school, with the staffroom, staff toilets and library on the list for repair next year.
Hear the latest on Parkes Special Activation Precinct
FOR those interested in hearing about the progress of the Parkes Special Activation Precinct and what’s ahead, another gathering has been organised.
Regional Growth NSW and Development Corporation (RGDC) is hosting a special business and community event to discuss the major project taking place in the towns west. Organisers said this is an exciting opportunity to reflect on the progress they’ve made over the past year, share what’s in store for the future, and engage
with key representatives from RGDC and across the community and business sectors.
The event will take place on Tuesday, December 3 from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Cooke Park Pavilion in Parkes.
Light refreshments will be provided.
During the event, attendees will have the chance to:
Hear updates on the Parkes Special Activation Precinct, including key milestones and future initiatives
Share your thoughts, ideas,
and feedback in an open forum with community and business leaders
Network with fellow professionals and key stakeholders.
RGDC said this event will be a valuable opportunity to connect with others, discuss local challenges and opportunities, and collaborate on shaping the future of the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.
If you have any questions, please email activationprecincts@dpird.com.au.
We have a range of special offers available to health fund members:
• 50% off a full second pair of glasses
• No gap glasses*
• $50 extra Above your Health Fund Rebate Entitlement
• Receive 30% OFF disposable contract lenses if ordering 12-month supply
End of Year Trading Hours
Tuesday 24th December 2024 - Close 12pm Tuesday 2nd January 2025 - Open 9am
Willow one of 25 recognised
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
YEAR six student at Holy Family School, Willow Culhane, entered a poem into this year’s NAIDOC Week Schools Initiative poem writing competition as part of her English lesson.
Her poem ‘My Voice, My Culture’ was one of 25 awarded across the state with a NAIDOC Medal of Excellence.
“My poem, ‘My Voice, My Culture’ is about how understanding your culture or someone else’s culture can be very empowering,” Willow said.
When people read Willow’s poem she wants them to think about how they can change their actions to help embrace diverse cultures in their community.
“I want them to think about their own culture and other cultures they might be aware of and what it brings to the community.
“It is very important that the younger generation understands culture because if they don’t understand their own culture we will lose a large amount of cultural information over the next few years.”
NAIDOC to Willow is about everyone being accepted no matter where they are from or who they are.
“The annual NAIDOC Week celebrations remind me of indigenous Australian culture and the achievements of our first peoples throughout history.”
The NAIDOC Week School Initia-
What is your favourite subject?
English
In your free time, what do you like to do?
Dance or play tackle footy
What is your favourite food?
Chicken Pad Thai
What do you like most about our school?
My friends and all the activities organised by the school.
What are your strengths?
Dance and football
tive poem writing competition was open to students in years three to six and all students in Willow’s class entered a piece of writing into the competition.
“I was surprised, I wasn’t expecting to receive one of the awards,” Willow added.
There are always lots of smiling faces at the Parkes Christmas parade and carnival - here are some local children with Santa Kevin Dumesny at last year’s event.
By PARKES ACTION CLUB
ON Friday, December 6 the streets of Parkes will come alive with the annual Parkes Action Club Parade and Carnival.
Markets in Cooke park will be operating by 5:30pm and the Parade will start at 6pm.
Students from local schools will be involved and Santa will be sure to put in an appearance.
There is a $100 prize for the best represented school and $100 for the best float.
The market stalls will feature food, local products,
What is your favourite subject?
Mathematics
In your free time, what do you like to do?
Ride my bike
What is your favourite food?
Spaghetti bolognese
What do you like most about our school?
The teachers
What are your strengths?
Staying power in running and mentally working through challenges.
handicrafts, clothing and much more.
There will be activities for the children with Carnival rides and photo opportunities with Santa Claus.
The stage will have the Parkes Town band, performances by local dance groups and finishing of the night with music by the Fijian Musicians.
This is an opportunity to celebrate community spirit leading into the festive season and share a great night out with friends and family.
What would you like to be when you grow up ? An engineer
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Willow Culhane with her NAIDOC Medal of Excellence. PHOTO: Supplied
Levi McIntyre is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love and Trust) and for always being helpful and honest.
Emmerson Kaden is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love and Trust) and for always being thoughtful and responsible.
What would you like to be when you grow up ? Events manager
Christian School’s class of 2024 final week
YEAR 12 students at the Parkes Christian School had one last week of school full of laughter and fun as they wrapped up 13 years of schooling.
Their last week started with dressing up in their old primary school uniforms for the day on the Monday and in the afternoon they took part in the 7th annual Amazing Race.
Students competed all sorts of weird and wonderful activities and challenges such as group hugs with someone from their year group who left early, secret handshake with Mr Westcott, eat the hottest thing you can find, perform PCS the Musical on a stage, gift a bunch of flowers to a stranger, shaving cream a sibling, square dance in Subway, signature from a local legend and much more.
Students enjoyed their first day of their last week and ended the day with an amazing dinner back at the school.
Tuesday saw students dressing up as teachers which had many of the primary students confused as some of the likenesses were incredible.
During the day the students also participated in a car wash for staff to raise money for their end of year gift.
On Wednesday the year 12 students made the trip to Dubbo testing out their skills in escape rooms.
The Midnight Disco was held on Thursday night as students farewelled year 12 by dancing the night away.
Mitchell Unger was crowned prom king with Abi Heard crowned prom queen.
The final day of the last week began with a fantastic BBQ breakfast with families before year 12 had their final assembly.
There was laughter and tears, a quiz show, videos, musical items and heartfelt messages.
HSC exams are now down with results to be released on December 18.
Email
Phone: 02 6862 2253
Website: pottsgroup.com.au
Xavier McDonald, Marcus Moss, Thomas Fredericks, Jesse Cartwright, Mitchell Unger, Isobelle Moss, Matilda Wilson, Georgina Greenland, Lily McCormick, Hannah Lynn and Abigail Heard.
Bethany, Gordon, Marcus and Amanda Moss. Katrina Harris and Abigail Heard.
Catholic Debutante Ball 2024
THE 2024 Holy Family Parkes Debutante Ball was held on Saturday, October 26 at the Parkes Leagues Club.
Thirteen young ladies made their debut and were presented to Matron of the Ball, Beverly Berger and Father Barry Dwyer.
The debutantes and partners made an enterance into the Leagues Club arriving in vintage cars and entering the building on a red carpet.
The night was filled with good food, entertainment and beautiful decorations.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Father Barry Dwyer with Matron of the Ball Beverly Berger. Stella Neville with Kai Airey.
Josie Heraghty with Carlos Williams.
Matayah Guy with Eli Constable.
Jemima Grosvenor with Kaze Read.
Kylan Hurd with Jim Tod.
Naomi Dunn with Harrison Kennedy.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Finale, Festival Stakes Day and Country Finals Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: We Bought A Zoo. (2011) Matt Damon. 10.05 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021) 12.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Drive Safe. New. 12.30 Our State On A Plate. 1.00 My Way. 1.30 GolfBarons. 2.00 Golf. Australian Open. Third round. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Christmas On The Farm. (2021) Poppy Montgomery. 9.20 MOVIE: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed And Fabulous. (2005) Sandra Bullock, Regina King. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Buy To Build. Final. 1.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 Planet Shapers. 3.30 My Market Kitchen. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. Return. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 Bondi Rescue.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 1.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 2.00 I Escaped To The Country. 3.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Finale, Festival Stakes Day and Country Finals Raceday. 6.00 Horse Racing. Winterbottom Stakes Day. 9.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Boating. Circuit Boats Drivers C’ship. Windsor Spectacular. Replay. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Grand Final. North Melbourne v Brisbane. 9.30 AFL Women’s Grand Final Post-Game. 10.30 Late Programs.
Long Lost Family. Final. 4.00 Restoration Australia. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Grand Designs Australia. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now? New. 8.00 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. New.
The Surgery Ship. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Highland Vet. 4.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 McDonald And Dodds. 10.30 Great Scenic Railway Journeys. 11.15 The Highland
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Jabba’s Movies. 11.00 Bringing Sexy Back. 12.35 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.35 Aust Got Talent. 2.50 Blow Up. 4.25 Declassified: The Royal Scandals. 5.25 MOVIE: Storm Boy. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Little Women. (2019) 10.15 MOVIE: Tully. (2018) 12.20 Late Programs.
4.00 Building Giants. 5.00 Duck Dynasty. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The Transporter. (2002) 10.30 MOVIE: Transporter 2. (2005) 12.20 Late Programs. 6.00
Big Cuz. 5.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.25 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.30 MOVIE: A Boy Called Christmas. (2021) 9.05 Fresh Off The Boat.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. 11.30 Blow Up. 1.05 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 2.35 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 3.35 The Voice. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 9.30 Law & Order. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 MOVIE: Contraband Spain. (1955) 12.45 MOVIE: Follow That Dream. (1962) 3.00 MOVIE: Beachhead. (1954) 5.00 Golf. Australian Open. Third round. 7.00 MOVIE: Spartacus. (1960) 10.50 MOVIE: The Return Of A Man Called Horse. (1976) 1.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Pooches At Play. 12.30 Cook With Luke. 1.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 1.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 2.00 Farm To Fork. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Melbourne United v Sydney Kings. 4.30 Luxury Escapes.
9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 60 Minutes. 8.00 A Remarkable Place To Die. 10.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries. Return. 12.00 The First 48. 1.00 Drive TV. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Getaway. 11.00 MOVIE: The Titfield Thunderbolt. (1953) 12.50 MOVIE: Laughter In Paradise. (1951) 2.50 MOVIE: The Kentuckian. (1955) 5.00 Golf. Australian Open. Final round. 6.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Dr No. (1962) 10.45 Chicago Med. 11.45 Late Programs.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An old health problem recurs, but quick attention soon puts everything right. Meanwhile, plans for the upcoming holidays might need to be changed. Stay flexible!
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A project you started earlier this year
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 What is a Native American’s hut called (6)
7 Which military staff officer assists the commanding officer (8)
8 Name another term for tin plate (6)
9 What is a ship, abandoned at sea (8)
10 What do we call a person who fishes for pleasure (6)
11 Name another term for a firebug (8)
14 To be rich, is to be what (8)
18 Name a lustrous, hard, brittle metallic element (6)
19 What is a national memorial to those killed in war (8)
21 Who has a special skill in a particular field (6)
22 What is a cake topping of nuts, sugar, spices, etc (8)
23 What is a fixed periodical payment for work (6)
DOWN
1 Name a former goldmining centre in southern Victoria, north of Morwell (8)
2 What is an alternative term for acacia (6)
3 Name a narcotic, shortstemmed European herb (8)
4 To be partly opened, is to be what (4)
5 Name a former premier of the Soviet Union, Joseph ... (6)
6 What are light meals called (6)
12 Which bags are used for carrying schoolbooks (8)
13 Which fabric is used for wall hanging (8)
15 What is a religious celebration (6)
E-QUATIONS
16 What do we call a plunderer (6)
Letters
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To drive, is to do what (6)
20 What is a vaulted semicircular recess in a building (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 JAPONIC
(a) Indo-European in language
(b) Glossy black
(c) Japanese
2 LEVANTER
(a) A strong easterly wind in the Mediterranean region
(b) A hare in its first year
(c) A huge sea monster
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Anaesthetic liquid (5)
Common pastry dish (3)
Evade a thrust (5)
Groom (5)
Headware (3)
Hearing range (7)
Male offspring (3)
Seed of flax plant (7) Slopes (5) You are (coll) (3)
Increasing on-farm biodiversity
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
CENTRAL West Lachlan
Landcare welcomed Josh Frappell and Kate Nixon to deliver two workshops in Parkes and Forbes on October 3 and 4.
These two workshops with the theme of increasing onfarm biodiversity, were part of a series of workshops across the Central West.
These events are possible thanks to the shared work of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT) and Landcare NSW under the Private Land Conservation Matters project.
firm, focused on ecosystem regeneration.
Their passion is landscape rehabilitation, regenerative agriculture, soil health and environmental stewardship which they implement through various regenerative practices.
Kate Nixon gave a local perspective on landscape management and transforming your outdoor spaces.
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.
MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE
Yarding 1428 (up 382)
Numbers lifted by 382 for a yarding of 1428 cattle.
Quality was good with heavy prime grown cattle and cows well supplied, along with the regular supply of feeder weights.
Most of the regular buyers were present.
Prime yearling steers sold dearer ranging from 304c to 343c, while prime yearling heifers were up to 15c cheaper, 255c to 332c/kg.
Feeder steers held firm, 300c to 358c, and feeder heifers were down 6c, 260c to 314c/kg.
Prime grown steers eased 5c, 255c to 347c, and heavy prime grown heifers dropped 15c, 255c to 328c/kg.
Cows held firm, 2 and 3 scores sold from 199c to
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.
Josh Frappel spoke on ways to increase biodiversity, whilst also improving soil health and profitability.
Josh runs The Regenera-
tive and has experience in erosion control, river and creek restoration, landscape and farm planning, regenerative agriculture, carbon farming, weed and pest management and biodiversity offset management.
The Regenerative is an environmental consultancy
Importantly, one concept works in with the other to increase biodiversity and to make our spaces wonderful places to live and work.
A local, Kate has recently started her own business Macrocarpa Landscapes, and shared her knowledge and insights into designing sustainable gardens using native plants that can be used and enjoyed by the whole family.
We will also be joined by a representative from our partner, the Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT). At the Parkes workshop, we had the opportunity to look at plantings that had been undertaken in stages to form corridors working in and around stock, which can sometimes provide a challenge when undertaking planting projects. In Forbes we were fortunate to look at a different type of landscape, heading to Duncan’s Retreat after a stormy morning.
It was good to be able inspect the work that one person can do over many years on their own property.
268c, and heavy prime cows, 266c to 285c/kg.
Heavy bulls sold sold to 307c/kg.
TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE
Yarding 24,050 (up 4100)
There was a lift in lambs numbers but only 3000 new season lambs were penned.
There was an influx of shorn lambs, mostly heavy trade and heavy weights.
There weren’t many Merino lambs or new season lambs that were fresh but there were a few pens of heavy trade in very good condition.
There was a good mix of weights with plenty of trade and heavy weights and again extra heavy lambs were limited.
The market sold to a stronger trend. New season trade
weights reached $214/head and heavy weights $244/ head and most range from 780c to 840c with the neat -
est lambs out to 880c/kg. Shorn trade lambs were $17 dearer selling from $166 to $218/head
and averaged 850c/kg.
The heavy weights averaged $8 to $14 stronger and ranged from $200 to $285/
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org
head or 860c to 895c/kg. Lambs over 30kg sold from $263 to $297/head and were Dorper lambs that topped the sale.
Merino hoggets lifted $8 to $10 selling from $125 to $178/ head or 650c/kg on average. Mutton numbers lifted and demand was strong with prices lifting $10 on medium weights and $15 to $20 on heavy mutton.
Medium weight ewes sold from $73 to $105 and heavy crossbred ewes $125 to $167/ head.
Heavy merino ewes reached $168 and wethers $170/head.
Most ranged between 400c and 450c/kg.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
Shorn trade lambs were $17 dearer selling from $166 to $218/head and averaged 850c/kg. The heavy weights averaged $8 to $14
Kate Nixon and Josh Frappell delivered two workshops in Parkes and Forbes during October. PHOTO: Supplied
and operated poultry business located in the Central West of NSW. We take pride in our commitment to excellence and our dedicated team.
We are seeking an experienced and reliable
HC Driver to join our team based out of Cudal.
Key Details:
• Hours: Monday to Friday, with some weekend work available.
• Work Type: Tipper work, Manual truck
• Truck & Dog Experience: Preferred but not essential. Training provided.
• Responsibilities:
• Transport feed efficiently and on schedule.
• Maintain accurate logs and adhere to road safety regulations.
• Ensure vehicle cleanliness and perform basic maintenance.
• Reversing into loading docks and driving heavy vehicles safely.
• Strong communication skills.
• Willingness to undergo a drug and alcohol test.
• Requirements:
• Valid HC licence.
• 2+ years’ experience in a similar driving role is preferred
• Fitness to Drive medical and Fatigue Management Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience with logbooks
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility with varying start times.
• Commitment to safety and a strong work ethic.
If you have the experience or are eager to learn, we want to hear from you! Apply now for an immediate start.
Note: Due to quarantine procedures, successful applicants must not have live poultry or pigs at their residence.
Jones Brothers is an equal opportunity employer. Contact: Stephen 0414 717 861 / 02 9679 2922 Email: eggboys@jbff.com.au
The Carrington to host exciting exhibitions
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Two photography exhibitions will be featured in the rustic atmosphere of The Carrington in Peak Hill this summer.
Arts Out West’s travelling photography exhibition ‘Behind the Lens’ will be exhibited alongside a local exhibition ‘Peak in Focus’.
‘Behind the Lens’ features 10 Media Associate’s personal photo collections and will be on exhibition for two weeks in the Carrington.
The exhibition was previously on display in Forbes and Bathurst.
‘Peak in Focus’ will feature local photographers from Peak Hill and will be on exhibition until February 5, 2025.
You can expect to see the works of local photographers including Cli George, Dave Laming, Ruth Simmons, Annette and Ellie Parker, Marg Edwards, Judi Unger, Nathan Leach, Betty Zdan, Julie Westcott and Elizabeth Luke.
The exhibitions have been coordinated with photographer, Peak Hill local and Arts OutWest Media Associate, Judi Unger.
“A Big Thanks to Arts OutWest for bringing the ‘Behind the Lens’ to the Peak Hill Carrington to share this exhibition and to help promote the Carrington as an exhibition venue. Also, thanks to our local photographers for taking part in the ‘Peak in Focus’ exhibition to help support and promote Arts
OutWest, our town and the Carrington,” Judi Unger said.
“The committee is really excited about hosting this photography exhibition and also working in collaboration with Arts OutsWest. This will promote The Carrington as a space for any type of cultural or creative activity.”
The opening launch for this exhibition will be held on Wednesday, December 4 at 5pm and will run until Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
Entry is $10 on opening night and then entry will be free for the rest of the exhibition.
A fundraising ra e will be held in conjunction of the launch with the winner receiving one nights accommodation for two people at The Buchanan.
Kindly donated by Stephen Lindsay, The Buchanan is a grand Victorian style mansion Airbnb located in Parkes.
A lucky door prize will also be running for the entirety of the exhibition with the lucky winner receiving a glass mosaic Picasso hand made and designed by Susan Maddison.
To run the exhibition the Carrington has been lucky enough to receive generous sponsorship from Alkane Resources Ltd who also support the Peak Hill Community Hub.
The Carrington will be open every weekend from 10am to 4pm during the exhibition and other selected weekdays which are yet to be con rmed.
The Carrington Hotel in Peak Hill.
OutWest ‘Behind the Lens’ photography exhibition. PHOTOS: Supplied
Parkes Sharks Swimming Carnival
The 2024 Parkes sharks Carnival was a great success, with 11 clubs and over 190 participants on the day.
A highlight of the day was the Dash for Cash, where the top seven boys and top 7 girls raced for a cash prize.
Both winners were from Kinross Wolaroi School.
Parkes Sharks Swimming Club said it was an awesome day of racing, partying and friendships with some amazing results across the board for these dedicated little swimmers.
Well done everyone.
Parkes’ Lily Phillips shows o her backstroke launch style.
LEFT - Timmy Longhurst. ABOVE - Nina
Isabelle Rollin.
Girls Backstroke launch into the pool.
Boys backstroke.
Blake Price.
Barbara Weaver and Meet Director Tracy Longhurst.
LEFT - Calli Ashcro , Liliani Latu and Chloe Swindle ran the announcement desk.
RIGHT - Girls Backstroke ready to enter the water.
Seven Parkes athletes named in state teams
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
After four massive weekends in Goulburn for Indoor Hockey State Championships there has been seven Parkes athletes named in NSW representative teams.
Another nine have been named as shadows.
In September the Open Women’s Indoor State Championships were played with Parkes competing in division one against Orange, Illawarra South Coast, Metro South West and Newcastle.
Meg and Emmie Searl and Eloisa Purtell were named in
the under 21 state team and were also named as shadows in the Open Women’s Blues State team along with Parkes representative Lara Watts named in the team.
In October Parkes fielded a side to compete in the Open Men’s Indoor State Championships.
The team competed in division one and placed fifth coming up against Illawarra South Coast, Nepean, Metro South West and Manning Valley.
Sam Carr was named in the under 21 men’s state team with Tom Searl and Declan
Daley named as shadows for the team.
Taylor Dolbel and David Reid were named as shadows in the opens team.
Meg Emmie, Eloisa and Sam will represent NSW at the Under 21 National Indoor Championships from December 19 to 22 in Canberra.
Lara will also play in Canberra at the Opens National Indoor Championships from December 14 to 18.
The Under 18 Boys Indoor State Championships were played from November 15 to 17.
The Parkes boys were up
against some strong teams in division one including Newcastle, North West Sydney, Manning Valley and Central Coast.
The boys finished third in their pool and sixth overall.
Toby Collins and Flynn Thompson were named in the state team and team manager, Jordan Grosvenor was named as the Under 18 Boys Indoor State team manager. James Robinson was also named as a shadow for the team.
Toby and Flynn will now compete in the 2025 Under 18 National Championships
in Canberra from January 6 to 10.
Parkes Hockey acknowledged the incredible spirit the team showed.
The Under 18 Girls Indoor State Championships was held last weekend with the Parkes girls competing in division two.
The Parkes team was up against Orange, Bathurst, Southern Highlands, Nepean and Hockey Coffs Coast.
Parkes Hockey commented that the team certainly put pressure on their opponents and made them work hard.
Elly Thornburry was
Cowling edges in on podium finish
By PETER BRISTOL
Saturday’s Results
Last Saturday was the Bill Burke sponsored Stableford, with 80 players up and about.
Bill is a living treasure and although not seen as much on the fairways these days his presence is much appreciated and his spon sorship of his yearly event is a sort after prize.
The winner of the event was Tim Cowling compiling a solid 41 points.
Playing off a 15 handicap off the whites tees, Tim had 7 pars and a couple of birdies with 3 doubles the only thing spoiling his day out.
Tim was chased home by 3 players who couldn’t quite get past the magical 40 point barrier and were hung up on 39.
John Dwyer recording his best 18 hole score since ringing the changes to the put ter and going to the ‘claw’, Michael Dellaca at last finding the correct pencil to get the good score and David Hodges who is obviously just starting to find his rhythm since getting all the Drummond gear onboard.
John had a 50/41 split so could have romped it in had the front nine been a bit kinder. Michael 6 pars and 3 doubles for a 44/43 split so he is banging on the door for the top podium finish, whilst David was consistent on both sides and just needs to shave a few errant shots off to be in the running.
There were 5 players on 38 points, so it is getting pretty competitive now the course ‘run’ is starting to have some effect and the greens are more responsive. Once again, we had a number of visitors attending to test themselves on our layout.
The Nearest The Pins on Saturday were –
The Idlerite 1st by Michael Dellaca at 430cm, Griffins Leading Edge by P Hockridge at 120cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Troy Thompson at 120cm, the Harvey Norman 11th by Phil Smith at 286cm, the 17th by John Fowler at 141cm. The winner of the lucky 17th this week was John Fowler at 141cm.
Ball winners were John Dwyer, David Hodges, Michael Dellaca 39, Andrew Bament 38, Aaron Wilkie, Joe Davies, Scott Kirkman, Trevor Chatman 37 on c/b.
In the Men’s A Grade Matchplay Championships, John Green and Jake Thompson faced off in a sched uled 36 hole playoff on Saturday.
John jumped out of the gates with 3 straight pars which Jake couldn’t match to be 3 down after 3 holes and the score remained that way until the change over after 9 holes.
Jake then settled into a great rhythm and won 5 of the last 8 holes on the back 9 to be leading by 2 at the halfway mark.
Jake was putting well and this helped him extend his lead to 5 after 29 holes.
John did peg one back it was a lit tle too late and Jake won the event 4 and 3.
Jake’s short game was dominant throughout the day, and this was a big feather in his cap defeating one of the ultra-competitive and compe tent golfers at PGC.
Well done to both players.
named as a shadow for the NSW indoor side.
This weekend in Orange the Under 16 Girls and Boys Indoor State Championships will be played and the following weekend the Under 14 Girls and Boys Indoor State Championships will also be played in orange.
Next year the Masters Womens Indoor State Championships will be played in Goulburn from January 31 to February 2.
The last indoor state Championships will be played in Wollongong during February with the Masters Men.
Strong winds make it challenging for competitors
By Brian Drabsch
Last Sunday saw 8 shooters attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex on the Back Trundle Road and shoot at standard targets at both 25 and 50 metres for a collective score of 500 points and again there was a strong westerly wind blowing which affected everyone's score at 50 metres.
TARGET RIFLES: 25m, 50m, TOTAL
• John Davis - 250,244, 494
• Brian Drabsch - 248, 246, 494
• Paul Hocking - 249, 242, 491
• Steve Mitchell - 249, 240, 489
• Jeff Charlton - 250 for 25m only FIELD RIFLES
• Ron Cunningham - 250, 245, 495
• Brett Cowling - 247, 241, 488
• Alan Britton - 242, 243, 486 With no ammo dealers left on Parkes shooters have to travel afar to try and get good supplies which is almost impossible at the moment. Anyone who is seeking to get their shooters license, our club have two people who can do your testing. Just ring Brian on 6862 1969 for an appointment. Our next shoot is at 10am Sunday 1/12/24.
Williams in Hockey One finals series with NSW Pride
Mariah Williams’ Hockey One campaign continues as NSW Pride advance into the Hockey One finals series.
NSW Pride Women currently sit third on the ladder after much need wins against Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra. The team’s 3-0 win over Canberra in Goulburn last weekend secured NSW with a finals position.
NSW Pride, including Mariah will be playing in the semi finals this Saturday in Hobart against Brisbane Blaze.
Back: Chloe Carty, Madeline Blackstock, Elise Orr, Emma Robertson, Meg Turner, Lily Collins and Amy Thornburry. Front: Elly Thornburry, Holly Duncan, Sienna Collins, Savannah Haymen and Molly Orr.
Parkes’ open men’s indoor team.
Steve Bricknell of Goulburn showed his power at the Parkes Golf Club this month.
Caleb Hanrahan taking part in the Parkes golf competition.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Jay Quince, Flynn Thompson, Alex Chambers, Archie Daley, Lachlan Plummer. Nick McPherson, Jordan Grosvenor, Zanda and Jett Johnstone. Front: Toby Collins, Samuel Quince, James Robinson and Henry Rice.
Parkes major singles a thrill for spectators
Parkes Bowling and Sports Club
By Col Miller
What a week of bowls, the Major Singles is now well underway and some very good games being played which have been great to watch.
To start the bowls rolling Brian Hampton and Tony Riordan took to the green.
This was a very tight and interesting game.
Tony started stronger and by the 10th end was in front 9 to 4 but by the 19th the score was 15 all, then 19 all and Brian managed to gain the lead when it mattered to win 25 to 22. The next game Gary McPhee played Daryl McKellar.
The game was even to start and was 7 all on the 8th end but from then Daryl kept the pressure on to run out winner 25 to 17.
Friday afternoon a few players decided to play their Major Singles matches and they brought in a good crowd to watch. Mark Fitzalan and Matt Parker started the evening.
Mark started the game in a strong position.
Matt tried everything putting down some very good bowls, but
Mark just read the situation a little better and won the game 25 to 10.
Second game of the afternoon Peter McPhee and Jock Townsend to battled it out.
Both players started well, and the score was 7 all at the 8th end but from then on Peter put the foot down to win the game 25 to 17.
The last game of the evening was between Brett Frame and Michael Simpson.
Brett took off to a flying start leading 12 to 4 in the 9th end.
Michael who never gives in fought back to be only down 3 shots in 19th end.
Brett kept his game going to win the game 25 to 17. On Saturday afternoon we had another three games of Major Singles completed.
Rink 16 Daryl McKellar drew Brett Frame.
It was a tight game and in the 8th end Daryl was only down 2 shots, but he could not get off the number 6 for the next 6 ends which allowed Brett to take the lead 20 to 6.
Daryl came back winning 9 of the next 13 ends but Brett had built up too much of a lead win-
ning 25 to 17.
On rink 18 Dave Reilly and Brian Townsend were 10 all on the 10th end, Dave then scored 7 shots in the next 2 ends to take the lead.
Brian fought back and in 23 end was only 2 shots down 21 to 23 then Dave won the next end to win the game 25 to 21.
Well done to Brian teaching himself to bowl left hand with a bowling arm.
In the last game of the Major Singles on the weekend Steve Turner played a solid game to take the win over Peter McPhee 25 to 19.
Social bowls on Thursday 18 players turned up.
Rink 16 Ron Hornery, Phil Moran and Warren Bevan had a win over Col Woods, Bob Freeman and Geoff Smith 22 to 17.
Rink 17 Ray Jones and Geoff Freeman had a solid win over Graham Davis and John Corcoran 26 to 18.
Rink 19 Al Affleck and Col Mudie and a 1 shot win over John Ward and Tony Riordan 16 to 15.
Rink 20 Mark Glasheen and Steve Ryan had a 4-shot win over Mike Valentine and Col Hayward 16 to 12.
Social bowls on Saturday we had 16 bowlers play as many of the other players were involved in the Major Singles games.
Rink 9 a triples game involving Ron Hornery, Martin Tighe and Mick Simpson against Alec Bateson, Bob Freeman and Mike Valentine had to finish early due to a player falling but lucky no medical assistance required.
Rink 11 Col Woods, Mark Glasheen and Steve Ryan battled out an 18 all draw against Therese Glasheen, Jo Simpson and John Ward.
Rink 12 Phil Moran and Col Hayward had a win over Ray Jones and Col Mudie 22 to 16.
On Sunday we held our Eddie McPhee day and what a great day it turned out to be.
The greens were over full with friends and bowlers getting together to remember and celebrate Eddie’s life.
Some tears, much talk and just a beautiful day.
A special thankyou to the sponsors, volunteers, greenkeepers and bar staff who made the day. With out you all it would not have been possible.
That’s all folks for this week see you at the bowlie.
Forbes claim win in Coles/Miller Shield for 2024
By John Dwyer
Perfect conditions from weather to the course greeted 58 veteran golfers to Forbes last Thursday for the last of the Lachlan Valley monthly competitions for 2024.
While all was in place for low scoring it was not necessarily the case with only a couple playing below their handicaps and the ball sweep going as low as 31 points.
In A grade it became a case of playing partners from the host club fighting out top honors with Kim Herbert getting the nod on a count-back over Alf Davies after both posted 37 points.
Tear-away winner in B grade was Brad Dunk (no relation to Billy) from Cowra with 43 points from Forbes’ Adam Andrews - who looked good for a long time until the last cards were submitted - the runner-up with 39 points.
Nearest-to-pins - Ninth holes winners were A grade Barry Parker (Fbs) and B grade John Dwyer (Pks), while the Parkes pairing of Richard Hamilton (A) and John Fowler (B) took the honors at the 18th.
Ladies winner was Leanne Young, one of three who traveled from Grenfell and Cowra for the day.
Interesting to note it was Forbes’ Fearless Frank Hanns who claimed the shot thinking he was the player, not the marker.
Forbes won the Coles/Miller Shield (best three individual scores) with 113 points from Parkes 96, West Wyalong 93, Grenfell 92 and Condobolin 89. Forbes also led the number of representatives with 18, Parkes 15, West Wyalong 8, Condobolin 6, Cowra and Grenfell 5. There was one visitor.
The locals continued their dominance by being commanding winners of the Coles/Miller Shield for 2024 with 1095 points from Parkes 981, Condobolin 956, West Wyalong 868 and Grenfell 786.
Ball sweep went to 31 points and the winners (Forbes and Parkes only) were: 37 points - Steve Edwards (F); 36 - Barry Shine and Jeff Haley (F); 34 - Frank Hanns (F); 33 - Dale Stait (P), Ken Sanderson and Barry Parker (F); 32 - Peter Grayson and Bruce Chandler (F), John Dwyer (P); 31 - Lex Hodges (P).
Twin-towns vets returns this week at Forbes - noms from 8.30am for a 9am shot-gun start.
Thursday will also see the AGM of the host club.
The following week Parkes will host the last scheduled twin-towns comp for 2024 and coincides with the annual Christmas luncheon and drinks.
For those interested rounds are scheduled for Forbes (Dec 12) and Parkes (Dec 19).
Female bowlers battle the heat and each other in minor pairs
By Lea Orr
Plenty of brightly wrapped gifts around the Christmas tree today as the Christmasthemed Trading Table was happening!
Thanks everyone for participating and thank you Rhona and the team for decorating our club ready to celebrate!
Ground Control donned their Santa hats to gift us yet another perfect green to play on. We really appreciate the efforts of every volunteer all through the year – greens, gardens, lawns, trees – it all takes time and effort! Thank you!
Congrats go to Carol Reed and Ann Tracy for winning their Minor Pairs match against the twins, Nat and Naomi, last Saturday. Great game by all reports! It was a scorcher of a morning for the Minor Pairs match between Fran Dixon/Kay Craft and Annie Smith/Lil Thompson today. Fran and Kay led throughout with some sparkling bowls, but Annie and Lil kept them in their sights with positive defensive play. At the final end, with heat stroke threatening all players, the mischievous elf ran amok with the pink and
peach bowls, giving the jack a wide berth, and gifting the match to Lil and Annie. Congratulations to you all for entering and having a go at the Club Minors!
Team Smith play Team Reed in the final next Tuesday! This will be a jolly good tussle to decide who bags the title!
Fab to see Michelle McPhee along for another game as she teamed up with Ann T and Marja in an even matchup against Valmai, Lynn & Sue White. That rink looked like a box of smarties had spilt all around the jack, such a mix of colours!
The candy canes prize went to Team White by just 2 points!
Robyn and Lea played consistently and totted up an impassable lead on rink 17 versus Lorraine and Rose, who couldn’t buy a winner! We called time before anyone wilted!
Lucky Maureen M won the biggest denomination in the 100’s club. Betsy was surprised to hear her name called out for the raffle, with Rose 2nd. Big thanks to Maureen, Lorraine and Lea for sponsoring. Rink 19 did not win the jackpot draw, which climbs to $120!
Everyone was keen to get on with the Trading Table gift-giving! Hands were flying up everywhere to claim a winner, until we got to Liz and Joanie. Well, I guess it was exhausting sitting inside in the aircon with your feet up! Only two weeks until our Christmas Bowls Day and shared Chrissy lunch! The list of items for the spread has grown steadily and looks delicious! Dec 10 is the date!
To play social bowls next Tuesday, December 3, call the club, 6862 1446, between 9–9.30, play at 10.
Cindy Frame bowls for Parkes during the zone finals.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
What a summer for Maddy
And it has only just begun
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
What a summer it’s been for Parkes cricketer Maddy Spence and it’s only just the start.
As the 18-year-old gears up to represent the NSW Country Team at the Under 19s National Championships, her next major competition, the all-rounder has already completed three rep duties.
She was in Co s Harbour from September 29 to October 1 for the Under 19s McDonald’s Female Country Championships.
All up she scored 75 runs - becoming equal third highest run scorer, took one wicket and had one catch.
She was part of a combined Western/Riverina team that nished second overall.
Just over two weeks later Maddy headed to Goulburn, on October 19 and 20 for the Plan B Regional Bash.
Individually she scored 26 runs, claimed two wickets and a catch; while for Western, they won their pool and will play Newcastle in a grand nal at the SCG at 10am on December 17.
The Western men’s team also won this tournament, making it the rst time Western will have both their men’s and women’s teams in the grand nal with both playing Newcastle.
And just last week Maddy returned home from the Australian Women’s Indigenous training camp that was held in Melbourne from November 18 to 22.
For nationals, she will y to Sydney on Friday for a training camp before the team ies to Perth where the championships hit-o on December 2.
It’s certainly a busy schedule for someone who’s also travelling to Sydney in between to play for the Bankstown Sports Women’s Cricket Club - this her second season - and holding a job with Parkes Shire Council.
This season, Maddy decided to step down to play second grade for a bit more of an opportunity which paid o with her scoring 85 runs against a Campbelltown/Camden side a few weeks ago.
With all of her representative duties it has meant she’s missed quite a few weeks playing in Sydney.
“Playing in Sydney and for a women’s team is amazing, because you get that challenge of playing with females who try and outsmart you,” Maddy said.
“The travel is very hard on my family and I but it’s something I have to do to see how far
I can really take my cricket.”
A big highlight for Maddy this year has been winning the National Indigenous Cricket Championship against Queensland in the grand nal in February.
NSW reclaimed the women’s division title in Alice Springs.
There’s been so many highs for the teenager and learning curves of late that she’s just taking it all in her stride.
“I actually don’t know what my most challenging moment is yet,” Maddy admitted.
“Every little bump is a learning experience.
“With all my comps coming up I’m just
looking to prove myself to everyone that I deserve to be here and I’m not going to let the pressure get to me.”
Maddy said she’s also looking forward to improving her game and getting into good form to go back to Bankstown, with the aim of “just hitting the ground running from the start”.
“I think also with the comps coming up it’s an amazing way to make long-lasting friendships with girls from all over the state,” she said.
“That is the big take-away from it all.” Maddy and her family are very grateful for
council’s support in allowing her the time-o from work and opportunity to represent her hometown and her state.
LEFT - Parkes cricketer Maddy Spence has been busy travelling the country this year representing her region and state.
ABOVE - Maddy Spence (front, second from right) with the Plan B Regional Bash team in Goulburn in October.
BELOW - Maddy Spence with Clodagh Ryall and Carys Underwood, both from
