The Parkes Phoenix Issue 46

www.parkesphoenix.com.au

YOUR LOCAL WEEKLY WEATHER

Live Local, Love Local, Support Local

Friday 20 January 2017

ISSUE 46

GOING ON HOLIDAYS?

ELVIS ROAD... Elvii on a pedestrian crossing in Parkes is just one of the ironically iconic images of this year’s recordbreaking 25th Elvis Festival.

Viva Parkes, Viva Elvis Fans, Viva Enjoyment A record-breaking 25,000 fans came from all over the world to celebrate 25 years of the Parkes Elvis Festival last week.

The many highlights of the five days of non-stop entertainment and events include a personal message of congratulations from Priscilla Presley read out at the special anniversary gala dinner.

The town throbbed with the sounds of Elvis’ songs and the heatwave’s cicadas competing for audio dominance, while in the streets the tsunami of rhinestoned jumpsuits, feathered showgirls, casino paraphernalia, hot rods, vintage cars and neon lights grew instantly with the arrival of 400 fans on the Elvis Express with more creative versions of the theme from the 1964 Viva Las Vegas film.

“In the 25 years since it began, Parkes Elvis Festival has grown to become a bucket

list event for many people in Australia and around the world. We’ve had an incredible five days of hip-swiveling action and turned Central West NSW into its own version of Las Vegas,” said Festival Director Cathy Treasure.

The Elvis-themed tsunami was bursting with colour and fun as it washed down Clarinda street on Saturday morning to the delight of 16,000 people lining the main street. There were Elvii and Priscillas galore of all ages and sizes on Elvis-themed floats, in vintage cars, on motorcycles, in walking groups and marching bands.

In 2018 Parkes Elvis Festival will celebrate its 26th year with the theme ‘68 Comeback’.

By Maggi Barnard (see results of competitions and other highlights on p.12)

Let Roylance’s Auto One help you with all your storage needs

6852 2411

Newell Highway Forbes

CUNNINGHAM’S 362 Clarinda Street Parkes 6862 2522 Monday to Saturday 6.30am-7.30pm Sunday 7am-7pm

AUSTRALIA DAY 2017 in the Parkes Shire

Join us on January 26 to celebrate our community and culture.

For all the details on what’s happening across the Parkes region on Australia Day, visit www.visitparkes.com.au

www.visitparkes.com.au

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

Page 2 Friday 20 January 2017

locally first!

THUMBS UP...

THUMBS DOWN phone l (02) 6344 1846 email l editor@parkesphoenix.com.au or sales@parkesphoenix.com.au web l www.parkesphoenix.com.au Postal Address PO Box 251 Canowindra NSW 2804 Editorial Maggi Barnard | Editor | 0403 080 085 editor@parkesphoenix.com.au Raen Fraser | Reporter | 0404 464 106 raenfraser@gmail.com Advertising Sylvie Maloney | Sales | 0490 517 590 sales@parkesphoenix.com.au Advertising Deadline Tuesday 4pm if you require design Wednesday 3pm for pre-designed ads Editorial Deadline | Wednesday 10am

MAYORAL NOTES Wow, what a week! We welcomed a recordbreaking 25,000 visitors for the 2017 Parkes Elvis Festival. The 25th anniversary saw fans travel from all across Australia and the world to enjoy the 120 events. Preliminary results indicate approximately $15 million was injected into the local economy over the five days - a huge boost not only for Parkes, but the entire region. It is due to the hard work and dedication from our volunteers, Council staff and sponsors without whom the festival would not be possible. I would like to thank our wonderful community for putting on the friendly charm and country hospitality - something that Parkes is now renowned for.

Congratulations are extended to Pauline van der Merwe from Parkes who is the lucky winner of the Shop Parkes + Win campaign.

Pauline entered the draw after shopping at Byrnes Clothing. She has won a trip to Las Vegas valued at $4,000. Thank you to our wonderful businesses who participated in the campaign.

Next week we will welcome media personality Susie Elelman as our Australia Day Ambassador. Susie will present the Citizenship Awards during the official ceremonies at Parkes and Peak Hill. There will be events in Parkes, Bogan Gate, Peak Hill, Trundle

FREE community newspaper published every Friday

Please sign up on our website to receive the Phoenix via email each week.

and Tullamore and I encourage everyone to join the celebrations. For information about Australia Day Shire, visit www.visitparkes. com.au.

Parkes Shire residents are encouraged to meet and greet our newly elected Member for Orange, Philip Donato at a barbeque today in Cooke Park between 12 and 3pm.

Local sporting groups and educational institutes are reminded that applications for the Northparkes Sports Grants close 31st January. For more information visit www. parkes.nsw.gov.au.

Yours Faithfully, Cr Ken Keith OAM Mayor of Parkes Shire

THUMBS UP

To the Parkes businesses making

an effort to dress up their shop windows and staff members putting on Elvis gear for the festival.

THUMBS UP

To the Parkes Elvis Festival

cooling stations, the fans and sprays provided a welcome relief from Friday’s scorching heat!

THUMBS DOWN To people leaving animals in paddocks with no shade or shelter in extreme heat.

THUMBS UP To all the volunteers who helped make the 25th Parkes Elvis Festival the best yet!

THUMBS DOWN

To the ranger from Parkes Shire

Council for not taking action after a complaint of a dog barking in a flat. Despite coming out, nothing has been done and the barking continues.

THUMBS UP

To everyone who got into the spirit

and dressed up for Elvis. It was great to see so many creative costumes.

THUMBS UP To all the businesses in town putting out water dishes for dogs on hot days.

Malicious or defamatory submissions will not be accepted. The opinions and views or readers submitting Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down are not necessarily the views of the staff and management of the Forbes Phoenix. To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down, a full name and contact details must be provided, with the name to be published beneath the the words submitted.

Submissions without this will not be published. Please email to editor@forbesphoenix.com. au or mail us at PO Box 251 Canowindra NSW 2804.

FORBES WEEKLY MARKET REPORT FORBES CATTLE SALE 16/01/2017 Prime yearling steers up to 440 kg Prime yearling heifers up to 440kgs Feeder steers Heavy Steers over 500kgs Heavy steers over 600 kilos Heavy Heifers over 500kg Cows - 2 score Cows - 3 score Heavy Bulls

395.0c to 341.0c 270.0c to 342.0c 295.0c to 370.0c 290.0c to 316.6c NQ 250.0c to 313.2c 223.0c to 237.0c 236.0c to 247.0c to 265.0c

DRAW

I Luv Local Mobile App

CATTLE SALE MONDAY 23RD JANUARY POSITION 2 SHEEP SALE TUESDAY 24TH JANUARY POSITION 7

FORBES SHEEP AND LAMB SALE 17/01/2017 Light lambs

$105.00 to $120.00

Trade weights (18 to 23 kilos)

$119.00 to $152.00

Heavy lambs ( 23 to 26 kilos)

$150.00 to $170.00

Extra heavy lambs (26kilos+)

$165.00 to $209.00

Trade weight merino lambs(18-22kilos)

$110.00 to $129.00

Hoggets

$ 82.00 to $139.00

Always on Always present

online and mobile advertising powered by ADONnews 242 Clarinda Street PARKES NSW 2870 Phone: 6862 2362

Call Roie now to find out more 02 6344 1846

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

SNIPPETS...

locally first!

Friday 20 January 2017 Page 3

QUESTION of the week

What did you love about the Parkes Elvis Festival?

One of the large demonstration kites that will be flying at the Northparkes Oval on Australia Day.

Kite invasion: Parkes will be invaded by kites on Australia Day! The Northparkes Oval will be the place to be for avid and first time kite flyers from 8am on Thursday, 26th January. There will be large demonstration kites and plenty of room to fly your own kite. Kites will be on sale too. There will be a sausage sizzle and drinks. The cost of the day is an Australia Day smile, so bring the family and enjoy the morning before it gets too hot. The wind has been ordered so if nothing else, come up and see the oversized kites!

Ian Thomas: Sydney: It is my first time at the festival and it is really good. The big group of Priscillas in the parade were something. I want to come back next year with my big Harley Davidson and take part in the parade.

Rupert King: New Zealand: It is my first time here and I took part in the busking competition as well as the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest. The parade was just wonderful– so very, very awesome. It is hard to pick a favourite. I will definitely be back next year. I love the nostalgia.

Earlier deadline: The Parkes Phoenix deadline for next week’s paper is Tuesday, 24th January at 3pm for all content because of the Australia Day public holiday.

Shop Parkes + Win: The winner, drawn by Mayor Ken Keith on Wednesday, is Pauline van der Merwe of Parkes. She is the lucky winner of a trip to fabulous Las Vegas, valued at $4,000. Congratulations Pauline!

Elvis Festival photos: Go to The Parkes Phoenix Facebook page for tons of photos taken over the five days. There are plenty of local faces in between the 25,000 visitors.

Dawn Dunning, Gail Pickles and Ailsa Grant: sisters from Newcastle and Kiama: This has been fantastic, but we’re all absolutely exhausted.

The Gospel Service was the stand-out event. It’s so hard to do that well, and it was just superb. We came two years ago, and if we’re still alive next year we’ll definitely come again. We’ll have to start planning our outfits.

Garry and Trisha Packham: Ballina NSW: This is our first year. We love the music, obviously. The festival is just so well organised - there’s so much good food, and the atmosphere is great. We’ve been married 46 years. We’ve always wanted to go to Las Vegas to renew our vows there for our 40th anniversary but life just got in the way, so it was wonderful to do it in Parkes.

Alfred Vas: Denistone NSW (aka The Raja or Bollywood Elvis): I had a blast, it was extraordinary, just so full of love and peace. Parkes was so welcoming. It’s great to see everyone just getting out and having fun. This is not just the best Elvis festival in the world, it’s the best in the Universe!

I’ve been to the festival six times, but this is my first time dressing up. I’m definitely coming back next year - it’s become a part of me now.

Andy Swinfield: Gold Coast QLD:This was our first time at the festival. It exceeded our expectations. The train was a bonus, it really made the trip. The Ultimate Elvis was a highlight - those guys were fantastic, and I’ve also loved seeing the Mayor getting into it. I’m not a very big Elvis fan, but have become a bit of a convert. we’ve already booked in for next year!

Page 4 Friday 20 January 2017

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

locally first!

Susie Elelman Is Australia Day Ambassador

Left: Parkes couple Kim and Lorraine Chambers declare their enduring love at the Renewal of Vows ceremony.

Right: Phil and Gail Voss (aka El-Voss) renewed their vows after 50 years of marriage

‘I Can’t Help Falling In Love’ (Again)…

Las Vegas is infamous for eloping couples, where fools rush in to be married by an Elvis, but the Parkes Renewal of Vows has a more romantic take on this tradition.

On Sunday 39 couples declared their undying love at the popular ceremony before wedding celebrant Andrew ‘Elvis’ Appleby, and a massive public audience. Tribute artist Jake Rowley serenaded the loving couples, and they cut a wedding cake crafted

by Kath Swansbra.

Parkes couple Lorraine and Kim Chambers were the only local couple to renew their vows this year. They have five children, and nine grandchildren, and are celebrating their 40th Anniversary. They were married in 1977, the year Elvis left the building, so Elvis is very special to them.

They also wanted to share the special moment with their dear friends Colleen and Peter Blair-Hickman, who are celebrating 24 years of marriage this year. This is the

second renewal of vows for the Blair-Hickmans; who were the first couple to renew their vows at the Parkes Elvis festival 11 years ago.

Phil and Gail Voss came all the way from Perth, and renewed their vows as a celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary.

Hearts were all a-flutter when Phil greeted his wife on bended knee. The trip was a gift from their daughter and son-in-law for Phil’s 70th birthday, and included seats on the Elvis Express. Phil is an Elvis Tribute Artist, performing in nursing homes and retirement villages in WA. “The dementia patients’ eyes just light up when they see him in costume,” Gail said. “They just love it.” This year was the couple’s first time at the festival and they were blown away. “I never met Elvis in the flesh,” Phil said, “but this week I got as close as I was ever going to get.”

By Raen Fraser

Media personality Susie Elelman is Parkes Shire Council’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2017. “We are honoured to have Susie attend our special Australia Day activities across the Shire, as well as present the Citizenship Awards,” said Parkes Shire Mayor, Cnr Ken Keith OAM. “Australia Day is an opportunity for our community to come together in the spirit of friendship and harmony, showcasing the unique and diverse culture that makes us Australian.”

Susie’s media career has spanned four decades and currently she can be seen in a weekly editorial segment on Seven’s The Morning Show. She also forms part of the Sydney 2GB Talkback Team. While she is most renowned for her work in the media, Susie is also an award-winning, best-selling author - voted Australia’s Most Dynamic Author in 2006 for her first book Half My Size.

Susie’s the first and only woman ever to voice The Ode in RSL and Services Clubs Australia-wide. In the 2015 Susie was awarded an AM - becoming a Member of the Order of Australia for her services to charity, the not-for-profit sector and media.

Everyone is encouraged to join the celebrations across the Parkes Shire. Activities are being planned for Parkes, Bogan Gate, Peak Hill, Trundle and Tullamore. For information visit www.visitparkes.com.au.

O’Brien Authorised Dealer

Specialists in Mining, Agriculture, Commercial and Industrial equipment.

Replace all windscreens including front and side.

Lifetime Guarantee on all work.

Call us for your free quote today!

Ph: 6862 5188

339 CLARINDA ST PARKES

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

locally first!

Friday 20 January 2017 Page 5

Lucky Local Wins Big In Viva Las Parkes Parkes Newsagency really embraced the Viva Las Vegas theme, selling the winning ticket in the Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw last Tuesday – just one day before the launch of the Parkes Elvis Festival.

The winning ticket scooped the first prize of $200,000.

It’s a hat-trick for Parkes Newsagency, which has sold a trifecta of winning tickets over the past year. The winning streak started in December 2015 when they sold a first prize winning ticket in the Super Jackpot worth $100,000. Then last July one lucky customer won $8.8 million scoring the entire Super jackpot prize!

Parkes Newsagency owners Greg and Christene Nash were delighted to have sold yet another winning ticket to a local customer. “We’re feeling extremely lucky lately!” Greg exclaimed. “We’ve been here for about nine years, but we’d only had one significant win about six years ago,” he said. “So it’s been amazing to have sold three in the past year.”

The latest winner – who wishes to remain anonymous – was ‘all shook up’ by the win. “Now I can finally complete a few little jobs and renovate my home. And I suppose I can no longer say I’m unlucky,” she said.

Parkes Newsagency had another visit from lady luck. The staff are (L-R) Toby Nash, Chloe Stone, Mia Cummins, Christine Nash and Greg Nash.

Start The School Year On A Positive Note

While your kids might be worried or excited about new friends and teachers, mums have to be organised, create routines and support children. Here are some tips.

• Easy lunch boxes: get healthy lunchbox ideas and plan accordingly.

• Washing: look at tips to make your washing crease-free to save time on ironing.

• Organised mornings: this is the key to starting the day happy and prepared.

• Keep time: Explaining time, routines and showing children how to read the time will give them the power to keep themselves organised.

• Breakfast: Kids as young as four or five can get a bowl of cold cereal, and the older ones can learn to safely use the toaster or microwave.

• Labels: Label all your child’s belongings. Encourage your child to dress themselves so they can manage taking jumpers or coats on and off at school. Explain the concept of lost property, so they know how to find lost items.

284 Clarinda St, Parkes

(02) 6862 2296

OPEN 7 DAYS

Mon - Fri 8.30am - 6pm • Sat 8.30am - 2pm • Sun 10am - 1pm

Ready to go Back to School?

Parkes Pharmacy stocks a range of items to combat headlice, worms, headaches, skin irritations and much more!

Come see us for all your back to school needs!

Shop 6 Metroplaza, 279-283 Clarinda St Parkes 2870 Phone 02 6862 2411 Fax 02 6862 2603

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

Page 6 Friday 20 January 2017

locally first!

Living and Lifestyle Keeping Resolutions Is Achievable

PULSE GYM ABN: 55053177592

Let us help you achieve your goals and understand your body

• fresh and clean environment

• airconditioning and onsite parking • open 7 days 6am-10pm

9A CLARKE ST PARKES P: 0410 679 424

New Catalogue out now

137 - 141 Clarinda St, Parkes

P: 6862 4002

E: haysgifts@bigpond.com

If you love food, here’s a little guide to shaping up, minus the dieting.

• Make friends with food: Banish the word diet and think healthy, moderate eating!

• Make your own food: Know your ingredients and influence what ends up on your plate.

• Focus on the experience: If you enjoy what you eat, you’re less likely to fall into the restrict and binge cycle.

• Reinvent your favourite naughty dishes: If you like ice cream, try making it with coconut milk and stevia instead.

• Keep it social: Get your friends involved in a healthy feast with a bring a dish date. Food is here to be enjoyed.

If you are struggling to stick to your resolutions – look at these tips to stay strong in the face of tempting cupcakes, pricey shoes, and hitting the snooze button instead of the gym.

• Make one change at a time: You have limited willpower, that is why multiple resolutions aren’t likely to work.

• Break it up: The better you are at making small changes, the easier it will be to keep going.

• Lift your Spirits: Watch funny movies, or do anything that puts you in a good mood — it helps when willpower starts wearing down.

• Have some OJ: a glass of orange juice or lemonade can replenish your self-control. The brain relies almost exclusively on glucose for energy— artificially sweetened drinks won’t deliver the jolt.

• Outwit your inner rebel: Give your willpower some wiggle room, avoid making 100% resolutions. Instead, set restrictions like “I’ll have sweets only when I’m in a restaurant.”

• Crank up your greatest hits: Write down things you’re proud of, right down to ‘I get out of bed when I don’t want to.’ It’ll remind you how much willpower you really have.

• Up your senses: Draw on the strength of images - put up a photo of a thinner you on the fridge, or a picture of a Caribbean beach in your wallet near your credit cards to remind yourself of the holiday you’re saving for.

Greenparkes

(From WebMD and other internet sources)

Garden Centre ‘Life begins the day you plant a garden’

Hot tips for Summer Heatwave Management

Come visit Greenparkes Garden Centre for a range of wetting agents.

Also available, comprehensive range of insect, fruit fly and fungicide controls.

33-35 Forbes Road, Parkes Ph 02 6862 4191

Order the meat for your Australia Day BBQ

Peak Hill Butchery 74 Caswell st • 6869 1425

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

locally first!

Friday 20 January 2017 Page 7

Elvis’ Mystery Train’ Is Now A Party Train As a local I have heard lots of stories about the Elvis Express or party train. Arriving at Central Station, camera and strong coffee in hand I was overwhelmed to see the masses of people to watch the performances and take photos of the outfits. “This is the best day of the year,” one UK photographer said to me. I was swept up in the vibe of music, costumes and everyone ready to board.

Once on the train I met people from all around the world and I sang along with the Elvis tribute artists. Everyone was happy to pose for photos. I even received hugs from some friendly travellers after offering them some local advice on places to eat and visit.

Time ticked away as I watched the conga line travel through the carriages, the performer’s passion and speaking with diehard Elvis fans. I even found myself shoeless standing on a chair bopping along while trying to take photos.

As the train pulled into the Parkes station my excitement built. Being around so many Elvis fans had rubbed off. During the rest of the weekend, I was approached many more times by people from the train saying hello. It was an overwhelming experience which far outweighed my expectations!

By Sylvie Maloney

THE ELVIS VIBE… Passengers on the Elvis Express get into the swing of things for the Parkes Elvis Festival.

. . . s g n i n Happe

PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB Featuring

Yabbie Races with the Golden Yabbie Final and prizes for the winning Yabbies

There is always something on at the Parkes Services Club! Whether you love Elvis, Bingo, Poker or simply winning prizes, there is something for everyone! Visit the website parkesservicesclub.com.au to stay informed on what is on at the club, or follow them on Facebook.

Thursday 26th January

Australia Day Meeting 8 Races starting at 6pm including the Keith Thompson Memorial & the Joe Dumesny Memorial.

FREE jumping castle and face painting for the kids

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

Page 8 Friday 20 January 2017

locally first!

TOPICALTrivia

Do you know your Aussie stuff?

The longest official place name in Australia is Mamungkukumpurangkuntjunya Hill. What state is it in?

HOW TO GET RID OF A SPLINTER Method 1: Mix 1 tsp baking soda with 1 tsp water and place on splinter. Cover with a band aid.

Leave for 24 hours and remove splinter with tweezers.

a) NSW b) South Australia c) Western Australia Answer is at bottom of page 10.

Method 2: Soak area in vinegar for 30 minutes. Splinter will rise to the surface for easy removal.

Method 3: Place craft glue over the splinter, let dry, and remove the opposite way the splinter entered the skin.

AUSSIE,Aussie, Aussie BEST AUSTRALIA DAY BBQ BURGERS

CAUGHTOut! WHO IS HE? Senator Sam Dastyari jokes with Mayor Ken Keith in front of his Elvis portrait at the Elvis Photographic Exhibition last week.

Ingredients 1 kg beef mince 1 egg 1 1/2 tbs honey and soy marinade 1 tbs tomato sauce 1 onion chopped 1 tsp all purpose seasoning 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 3 garlic clove crushed Method 1. Combine all ingredients and form into pattie.

2. Cook on BBQ or fry on the stove.

#livelocallovelocalsupportlocal Telstra Store Young 141 Boorowa Street Young 02 store 6382parkes 2900 telstra | 290 clarinda st | 02 6862 6200

As you probably know, NBN fibre is coming to Parkes.

At the Telstra shop Parkes we’re here to answer all your questions. Pop in for a chat and one of our team of local experts will answer all of your questions.

Telstra Store Young

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

OUR Gal

LITTLE Black Book

Ann Steel

Eagle Eye Termite & Pest Control Termite Control & Monitoring General Pests Ventilation Solutions Bird and Rodent Proofing Gutter & Leaf Pest Guard installed

Cumnock NSW

Craig & Billy Kramer

Lic 4558 since 1998

0447 002 193

Mick O’Donoghue Mick O’Donoghue OWNER OPERATOR OWNER OPERATOR

Ph: 02 6862 5770 Mob: 0452 186 752 Ph: 02 6862 5770 Mob: 0452 186 752 02 6862 5790 7Fax: Clarke St, Parkes Fax: 02 6862 5790

Email: inlinepanel@hotmail.com Email: inlinepanel@hotmail.com

Specialising in all insurance jobs, private repairs, plastic welding and fibreglass work.

1300 BUGMAN

locally first!

How long have you lived in Parkes and what do you like about living here? I’ve been here for most of my life, except for a few years during my childhood when I was in Sydney, so I think I’m just about a local. I like the lifestyle and the people. It’s a great place to raise kids.

Where do you work and what do you enjoy about your work? I’m retired now, but before that I ran Gracelands for 25 years. I now belong to Quota. We do a lot of hard work, but have a lot of fun doing it.

Elvis also keeps me busy.

What do you do to unwind after work or on weekends? We’re very involved with vintage cars and bikes, and we spend a lot of time going to shows and rallies. I also like entertaining friends and family, and still love cooking. Mosaics was also something I did to unwind, I’d spend one night cutting, and another night gluing.

What are you really good at? I’m not really good at anything, but I’ll have a go at most things.

If you could have a super power, what would it be? To learn how to sleep! When my first baby was three months old we didn’t sleep much because of a milk allergy. My doctor said you only need two good hours of sleep to survive and I’ve been working on that theory ever since!

Help me Bugman!!!

Mobile: 0419 126 465

paul@bugman.com.au | Lic No: 1714

Friday 20 January 2017 Page 9

WHAT’S ON @ The Library Pop-Up Storytime!

Storytime “pop-upped” at the Metro Plaza in 2014. In 2017 it is going to “pop-up” in Cooke Park! Come along to bid farewell to the holidays and celebrate the new year ahead with stories, music, rhymes and lots of fun for the whole family.

Tuesday, 24th January 10.30am - 11.30am.

Cooke Park, under the shade shelter.

Snacks will be provided. Please bring your picnic blanket and don’t forget to wear a hat and sunscreen!

Australia Day Exhibition

To help celebrate Australia Day the Parkes Men’s Shed is holding an Australiana themed art exhibition. Artworks from local student and adult artists, as well as regional artists will be on display. Admission by gold coin donation.

Wednesday, 25th January: Opening night 7 to 9.30pm Thursday, 26th January 12 to 4pm Friday, 27th January 10am - 4pm

Regular Storytime and Rhyme Time 2017

Rhyme Time Returns Tuesday, 14th February at 10.15am and Friday, 17th February at 11.00am.

Learn action rhymes and songs, which will help your child’s pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. Ideal for babies and toddlers from birth to three years.

(Older children most welcome).

Storytime Returns Wednesday, 15th February at 10.30am. A fun session of stories, action rhymes, songs and play, which will assist in building your child’s early literacy skills, social skills, language and social skills. Ideal for children three to five years. (Younger children most welcome).

CLASSIFIEDS Patios, Cladding, Rooms, Carports (BL83737C) As on TV. Phone 6341 3122 www.pictonbros.com.au

JOBS IN THE CENTRAL WEST Are you looking at HIRING? Why not advertise on our Jobs in the Central West Facebook Page NOW Email sarah.maynard@inxcess.com.au

PARKES PHYSIOPHERAPY Linda Reilly APA Titled Sports Physiotherapist 25 Clarinda Street Parkes Phone: 6862 5005 AGISTMENT WANTED Long term Agistment wanted for Cattle.

Call 0439 029 204.

THINKING OF MOVING? Want to do it yourself, then Call Potts Removalists Now for Self-Move Truck Hire on 6862 2253. Good rates available

Discover + Learn + Connect Parkes Shire Library ph: 6861 2309 Bogan Street Peak Hill Library ph:6869 1078 Caswell Street Trundle Library ph: 6892 1569 Forbes Street Tullamore Library ph: 6892 5115 Carey Street library@parkes.nsw.gov.au www.parkes.nsw.gov.au www.twitter.com/parkeslibrary

Page 10 Friday 20 January 2017

BE Seen

GOLDEN GIRLS... The Parkes Shire Council’s staff worked tirelessly and could be seen at every event making sure it runs smoothly, answering questions from fans and keeping people happy. They could not be missed in their golden outfits in the crowd welcoming the Elvis Express.

They are l - r Anna Charlton, Emily Brotherton, Katrina Dwyer, Beth Link, Jodi McIntyre and Natalie Caldwell.

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

locally first!

WHAT’S On

20 Jan

Meet the newly elected Member for Orange, Philip Donato at Cooke Park from 12 to 3pm. Philip is hosting a barbeque lunch where you can voice your ideas, opinions and concerns.

20-21 Jan

Free Aboriginal Bicycle Safety Program today at Parkes PCYC, 36/38 Pearce St, Friday 20 January from 9am - 12pm and tomorrow at the Peak Hill Multipurpose Tennis Court, Boori St from 9am - 12pm. It is a fun, interactive experience teaching kids to ride safely. Bring your own bike – a mechanic will service your bike. Free Indigenous designed helmet for each participant. For more information contact Logan Dolbel on 6861 2364.

25 Jan

Opening of Art of Australia Day and wine tasting at the Parkes Shire Coventry Room at 7pm. Tickets $15 available at the Coffee Pot in Clarinda Street.

The show is also open on 26th and 27th for a gold coin donation.

26 Jan

Kite Festival at the Northparkes Oval from 8 to 11am. You can decorate your kite with Australian imagery, or shape a kite like the Parkes Dish! The festival is open to all ages. Kites will be on sale.

26 Jan

Parkes Shire Australia Day celebrations include Community Walk & BBQ Breakfast, Official Ceremony and Awards in Cooke Park and Pool Party.

26 Jan

Harness Racing event from 5pm at the Showgrounds with eight races featuring the Keith Thompson and Joe Dumesny Memorials. Also on the day the famous yabbie races with prizes, face painting and jumping castle for the kids.

31 Jan

Arthritis Support Group starts the year with Morning Tea at 10am at Pink Orchid Cafe, Bushman Street. All Welcome.

28 Feb

Arthritis Support Group Education from 10am to 12 pm at Assemblies of God Hall, Rees Ave. Speaker is Pam Simonds from Neighbourhood Central.

All people living with Arthritis and their friends/carers are welcome. Cost: Gold Coin donation. For information contact Sandra 6863 4904.

Topical Trivia answer: b) South Australia Children in Parkes love dressing up for Elvis. These brothers were at the station to welcome the Elvis Express.

They are (L-R) Ahston, Campbell, Tomas and Xavier Scally.

Miss Priscilla, Jackie Batt managed to look cool and beautiful at the Dish when the heat wave struck last Friday.

She is with the two international feature artists Pete Storm from the UK (left) and Jake Rowley from the US.

INFORMATION Age WIRELESS SOUND

There’s no better feeling than going wireless. And with the removal of the headphone jack from phones, there’s no better time than now to switch over to a Bluetooth headset. Whether you use your headphones to exercise or for music and TV, sprout have you covered with their new Bluetooth range. The Harmonic Elite Series gives Active Noise Cancelling, NFC, and superb sound quality for videos, music and games. While the Stride series has everything the active person needs. Water proof to 1 meter, Y design and curve-fit for comfort. For more information, chat with the team at Leading Edge Computers.

Fine dining with fresh fish, chicken and a range of steaks and toppings to make your mouth water.

You are invited to join us for a meal in our restaurant.

Bookings Essential 10-16 Bogan St, Parkes NSW 2870 Phone 6862 3000

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

locally first!

Friday 20 January 2017 Page 11

FINANCIAL matters

Now Hiring!

Amanda Turnbull after winning the main race at the Parkes Harness Racing Club Elvis event.

Harness Racing For The King

Elvis might have been a race car driver in Viva Las Vegas, but last Wednesday the Parkes Harness Racing Club Elvis event drew a crowd of almost 700 people all dressed up in their best Elvis costumes.

“We are very pleased with the attendance,” said Tony Dumesny, Secretary of the club.

The event featured eight races with the feature race the TAB.com.au Elvis Series Final. The race was won by Amanda Turnbull on Greengold, a horse she has trained.

Amanda won four races on the night with her cousins Nathan and Emma Turnbull winning two and one respectively. Emma drove a local horse trained in Forbes and owned in Trundle. Bernie Hewitt from Bathurst took out the other race on the night.

There was great live entertainment by Rick Charles as Elvis, and spectators came dressed in their Elvis best. The photo booth proved very popular. Linda Taylor from Parkes was the winner of the lucky gate

SPECIAL

FREE treatment with any colour service.

Shop 2/364 Clarinda St Parkes phone 6862 3301 GOLDWELL • DE LORENZO

prize - a travel voucher valued at $4,000.

Many people attended for the first time, even though they had been coming to Parkes for many years to attend the Festival.

The Parkes Harness Racing Club New Year’s Eve meet was also well attended with eight races on the program, and great fireworks at the end.

The next race meeting will be on Australia Day on 26th January with an eightrace program from 6pm. The feature race is the Joe Dumesny Memorial Race with prize money of $3,500 and a trophy valued at $500. The Keith Thompson Memorial race will also take place. One of the main attractions of the day is the famous yabby races for the kids held in conjunction with Parkes Shire Council with many prizes to be won. There will also be a jumping castle and face painting for the kids.

By Cheryl Newsom

Stork News

If you have had a baby or become proud grandparents, then send us a photo with all of the details to go into our Stork News Email us at... editor@parkesphoenix.com.au

Small businesses are faced with many legal obligations when hiring staff.

A prospective employer needs to check that the employee is legally allowed to work in Australia, if they are not an Australian Citizen, then further checks must be performed.

Under the Fair Work Act 2009 (the act), each employee must be given a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement. This statement lists the ten minimum workplace entitlements under the National Employment Standards and outlines an employee’s rights under the act.

Most employees pay rates are covered by an industry/occupation-based modern award. The correct award and employee grade must be determined to ensure employees receive their correct entitlements, including superannuation.

It is compulsory to supply all employees with a payslip no later than one day after payday. There are a number of items that must be recorded on a payslip.

Records relating to employee wages, leave, superannuation, termination and hours of work must be held for at least seven years.

Employers must be registered to withhold tax from employees’ wages, different rates apply to different employees. Shearers and horticultural workers, actors and entertainers, and foreign residents all have different withholding rates to normal employees.

Each state has its own WorkCover regulator. Besides providing a safe place for employees to work, the employer is required to take out worker’s compensation insurance.

In NSW if you pay wages of more than $7,500 per annum this is compulsory.

This information is general in nature and not comprehensive, it does not take into account each employer’s individual situation.

Employers should consider obtaining their own appropriate professional advice.

By Samantha Bennett

Peter Woods & Associates

Chartered Accountants ABN: 48 164 433 626

86 Currajong Street, Parkes Ph: 6862 1366 89 Caswell Street, Peak Hill Ph: 6869 1361

Page 12 Friday 20 January 2017

Vivian Cronin, Graham Gardiner, Elizabeth Bromhead and Mort Hansen aboard their Elvis Express.

Winners: • 2017 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest was won by Brendon Chase from New Zealand, followed by Sean Spiteri from Sydney and Matt Birse from Adelaide in third. Brendon will travel to Memphis, USA, to represent Parkes at the Contest Semi -Final during Elvis Week in August.

• The 2017 Miss Priscilla, Face of the Festival, was awarded to Jackie Batt of Parkes.

Star of Parkes Shire: The Parkes Shire Council presented Bob and Ann Steel with the Star of Parkes Shire in recognition of their dedication and the sacrifices they made to initiate and grow the Parkes Elvis Festival. A Binary star in the Orion Belt will be known as the Bob Steel and Anne Steel Star.

Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Parkes...shop

Poets’ Breakfast: The Poets’ Breakfast has become a legend of its own. More than 200 poetry lovers shared breakfast and some laughs at the Parkes Bowling and Sports Club. The MC was Barry “Elvis” Green, who entertained the rather crowded crowd with Elvis songs,. The competition was fierce - and funny. Parkes’ Amy Butler won the Best Novice Poet for her poem ‘The Elvis Train’ – a jaunty verse about the Elvis Express featuring Mayor Ken Keith.

Jane Ferrari’s hilarious poem ‘Hooked Up In Parkes’ took out both the Open Contender and People’s Choice awards.

Outback Elvis: Around 60 people rocked up to the Parkes Shire Library for the launch of the Outback Elvis book. Authors, John Connell and Chris Gibson - both academics and well-seasoned festival fans - compiled a collection of anecdotes and personal stories that detail the evolution of the festival from its humble beginnings to the event that has quite literally put Parkes on the international map. Parkes Shire Librarian Shelly Buckle said it had been her dream to launch a book during the Elvis Festival.

Miniature Elvis Express: A group of repeat festival-goers from Sydney loved the Elvis Express so much that they made their own.

Vivian Cronin, Graham Gardiner, Elizabeth

Bromhead and Mort Hansen kept the party going when they disembarked for the Elvis Festival. The novice train engineers scavenged an old box from a stall holder, and decorated it to recreate the Elvis Express, which they drove in the street parade. They eventually departed the train in Cooke Park, but various other Elvis revellers caught the cardboard train over the weekend, with one group riding it up and down Clarinda Street, before it was finally derailed.

Paolo Tonioni, Tatiana Ghisellini and Alessandro Tonioni (9) came all the way from Italy for the Elvis Festival. They were at the station last Thursday to welcome the Elvis Express.

Providing high quality education and care for children from birth to 6 years!

Victoria Street Children’s Centre A: 97 Victoria Street, Parkes P: 6863 5511 E: victoriastreet@nurtureone.com.au /NurtureOneChildCare

locally first!

www.nurtureone.com.au