Maggi Barnard

When you think about how much we use our hands especially when playing ball sports, it’s not hard to understand why hand and finger injuries are so common. Most of these injuries heal spontaneously, which is why they are often neglected by athletes. Many people don’t seek help until it is too late for effective treatment however an early, accurate diagnosis to identify potentially serious injuries can prevent long term functional impairment and deformity.

Knowledge of the mechanism of injury or how the injury happened can also help with an accurate diagnosis. A punching injury often results in a fracture to one of the metacarpal bones, commonly the base of the fifth metacarpal. A direct blow to the point of the finger often causes a dislocation or sprain of one of the finger joints. Sometimes the finger flexor tendon can pull a plug of bone off its attachment causing an avulsion fracture.

This most commonly involves the ring finger and occurs when a player grabs an opponents clothing during a tackle.
As a general rule of thumb, if there is any deformity present, either with the hand open or closed, persistent swelling or any of the hand or finger joints don’t move as they should, it is important to have the injury checked out by a professional. Some fractures may require surgery, some immobilisation or splinting. Sprains or dislocations may require swelling management with ice or an oedema glove and exercises to prevent loss of range of motion.

An early diagnosis and appropriate management can prevent a lifetime of deformity and loss of function.

For the fitness of you,
Linda Reilly

A new Advanced Water Recycling Facility in Parkes will produce high-quality recycled water for irrigation purposes and reduce commercial demand for potable water and is phase one of a three-phase Wastewater Treatment Plant and Recycled Water Scheme development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Mr McCormack said the project gave the region greater water security into the future. “Water is the lifeblood of our regional towns and cities and the Advanced Water Recycling Facility will ensure Parkes can thrive into the future.

Not only will it leave more water available for domestic use, it will also provide a water source that is drought-resistant.”

Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the project represented a major investment in local jobs and the region’s economic future.

“This project will deliver substantial benefits to the Parkes community, supporting 61 jobs during construction,” Dr McVeigh said. “The facility reduces the need to pump water 25 kilometres from Lake Endeavour Dam, and 30 kilometres from the Lachlan River and Lachlan Borefields, saving money and providing substantial energy savings for the Parkes community.”

“The Advanced Water Recycling Facility creates an entirely new water source for the town, allowing us to maintain our parks and sporting grounds year-round,” said Deputy Mayor of Parkes Shire Council Barbara Newton.

“We would like to thank the Australian Government for partnering with Parkes Shire Council to make the Advanced Water Recycling Facility possible. This will provide water security and build community capacity, positioning Parkes well into the future.”

Climate Smart Innovation
Climate Smart Innovation for the Central West is a conference being held in Cowra on 18th and 19th April exploring the future of agricultural practices. The conference will showcase the latest in the region’s agricultural, environmental and conservation projects. It will promote new and sustainable production methods for land production and environmental stakeholders in the Central West.

Major speakers at the conference include Mick Callan of Central West Councils Environment & Waterways Alliance who will speak about Environmental Protection Projects in the region. Mick is the current winner of the Jo Ross Memorial Award for his contributions to the environment of the Bathurst Region for implementing projects such as “Racing to Save the Mount Panorama Woodlands” and “Protecting and Connecting Bathurst Copper Butterfly Habitat”.

Dr Paul Gibson-Roy, the Lead Scientist for Greening Australia will be speaking about “Bringing native biodiversity back into rural and urban landscapes”, which will touch on both ecology and amenity and the techniques used. Paul will speak about how native species are not only used to reduce soil or water surface loss but are also useful in farming systems for fodder or for their integrated pest management attributes.

A visit to one of the country’s leading dairy, “Moxey Farms”, will also feature. See how the farm of 6,000 cows manages innovative technology to run sustainably, including a tour of their new bio-digester which is turning farm waste into fertiliser.

Kristy Good, the Splash Program Coordinator for Sydney Water will be running a workshop on “Living Waterways Framework”, providing participants with the skills to identify, design and promote solutions for water sensitive urban design strategies.

For more information and to register, contact Cowra Council on 02 6340 2040 or go to www.cowracouncil.com.au

Re’lish Home And Living
Re’lish Home and Living is a home décor boutique in Cowra. The store offers a range of homewares, gifts and associated products, including locally sourced produce. Re’lish Home and Living was nominated in the Cowra Business Awards for 2018, as a business that is integral to Cowra, provides an exemplary product and/or service, and continues to leave a legacy of very happy customers through sound, efficient and ethical business performance.

As Mother’s Day is coming up soon, the store has stocked a range of items including Glasshouse Candles, as well as inspirational books, notecard sets, jewellery, and scarves. Brands include Gingerlilly Australia, Cadelle Leather, Najo, Swarovski, Ruby Star Traders, and Tea Tonic. Drop in any time between 9.30am to 5.30pm, at 9A, 95-109 Kendal St, Cowra.

Cowra Tourism Centre
Cowra is a town steeped in rich history and culture, from the beautiful rolling hills of the Cowra Japanese Garden to the solemn site of the great POW Breakout, history and culture are an integral part of what makes Cowra beautifully unique.

With friendly locals, exquisite local wine and produce, a great range of accommodation options and so much more, Cowra truly is the great escape, a town that is just begging to be explored.

For history buffs, a visit to Cowra’s POW Campsite, War Cemeteries, and famous POW Hologram at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre are a must! Ring Australia’s World Peace Bell located just outside the Cowra Council Chambers and take a walk around Cowra’s tranquil Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre.

There is a little something for everyone in Cowra, with plenty of events on throughout the year including the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival, the Cowra Christmas Street Festival, the Cowra Wine Show and so much more! A full list of events is available at the Visit Cowra website at www.visitcowra.com.au/events. For further information on Cowra contact the Cowra Visitor Information Centre at 02 6342 4333 or email info@cowratourism.com.au.

Japanese Gardens
The Japanese Gardens are a significant cultural, architectural and historical feature of Cowra and the Central West region. Ken Nakajima designed the Kaiushiki (strolling) garden to embody the entire landscape of Japan, where every bend takes the visitor on a voyage of discovery: the striking hill representing Mt Fuji; manicured hedges cascading across the garden like rolling hills; streams flowing like rivers; and ponds glistening like inland lakes and the sea – ponder a moment or feed the koi. Special features of the garden include: a Bonsho bell; traditional Tatami room; an authentic open air Tea House; Bonsai House; Giftshop and Café.

Friends of the Garden are treated to a range of benefits including: 12 months unlimited entry for member/s plus one guest; free entry to special events; 5% discount in gift shop; discounted group rate for additional guests; and will also receive the quarterly newsletter. Individual Pass – $50 (incl GST), Family Pass – $60 (incl GST).

Hippity Hop
Hippity Hop Kids is a family owned Boutique and online store located in Cowra. This unique store attracts many people from near and far, offering special children’s items – not only clothing, but also a range of accessories, toys and fabulous decor items for their rooms.

The owners take pride in personally selected products and friendly service, and hope to make your life a little easier by being able to shop for all of your favourite brands in the one spot.