Maggi Barnard

Maggi Barnard has been with the Parkes Phoenix since it was established in March 2016 and loves writing about her community.

Smoke, Rust & Noise!

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

The name definitely fit the bill on Saturday as visitors to the Henry Parkes Museum were greeted by rhythmic chugging of engines and puffs of smoke as they walked through the museum’s wooden doors. Smoke, Rust and Noise was the theme for the day and the 25 volunteers at the museum definitely delivered, showcasing a huge range of tractors, headers, stationery engines and even a little fully working train. “Some of these engines haven’t been
running for years!” said Bruce, a museum volunteer; “I was surprised that most of them started first time.” Visitors entered a foggy shed full of engines piping out smoke before heading across the grass to view tractors from all over the world.

“We’ve got CASE from America, Ferguson, Nuffield and Fordson are British and the Sunshine headers were made in a suburb of Melbourne” said Bruce. Before the mayhem began a much quieter men’s breakfast was held for 25 members of the Anglican Church in the morning. In the afternoon people came from all over to enjoy the spectacle, with some retired farmers arriving to view a Hanomag tractor to relive their rural working days. Visitors also tucked into a delicious barbecue under a white canopy before continuing to explore what the museum had to offer.

“It’s been such a lovely day” said Yvonne Hutton, Museum President; “Around 150 people have come through the doors and we started up more tractors today than we have in the past four years!” The next big event planned for the museum will be all about Tom Emmanuel, a classic guitarist, in June.

Wonderful Whiteboards

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

On Wednesday Parkes Stationery and Office Furniture presented a donation to Parkes Hospital to mark the end of three years of working towards supplying whiteboards throughout the new Parkes Hospital. “We’re pleased to be a local business supporting another local business” said Gregor, owner of Parkes Stationery and Office Furniture; “We are huge supporters of the buy local campaign and have supported many businesses along with community events and groups.”

130 whiteboards were supplied to building contractors who then installed them into the hospital. Pelikan Artline also donated 60 units of whiteboard starter kits, which included whiteboard markers, erasers and cleaning solution and has a retail value of over $800. Whiteboards are used primarily for meetings with staff and patients, are a great way to illustrate treatment plans and patient care boards are also often placed on whiteboards.

Gregor and Marty Sammut-Paul took over the Parkes Stationery and Office Furniture business in July, 2013 after moving to Parkes from the Glasshouse Mountains in Queensland so their daughter could grow up closer to family. In the two and a half years since Gregor and Marty have worked hard to ensure the store image, branding and presentation is dynamic and consistent. The husband and wife team work full time and employ ten full time and part time staff, one of which, Dianne Orr, won the prestigious Parkes Business Awards in 2015 for customer service.

Gregor, who is also Treasurer of the Parkes Chamber of Commerce, is pleased that his business has been able to help and provide for other in the community; “Our small business grounding has enabled us to quickly meet the needs of our local customers while being large enough to source bulk products that our customers demand. We’d like to sincerely thank Parkes and the surrounding towns for the support we have been shown.”

Parkes Sports News…

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

SOCCER
A Coaches Workshop on Skill Training and Game Training was held at Harrison Park last Thursday using an Under 14 squad. There were 10 coaches in attendance and the event ran very well. Oscar Gonzalez, the Football NSW Coach Education Manager, ran the Skill Training Workshop and demonstrated a model session on first touch. Players from the Parkes Football Club took part in the session. Earlier in the day there were 110 students from Parkes East and Middleton Public School at an AIA Vitality Mini-Roos School Gala Day plus another 25 students engaged in a training session in the afternoon with Oscar and Andrew Fearnley who is the Regional Coach and Development Manager for Western NSW. Well done to all who took part!

SPACEMEN LADIES LEAGUE TAG
All 4 Spacemen grades versed Dubbo Macquarie in Dubbo on Sunday. League tag ladies began the day at 11am with Sally Dwyer opening the scoring in the first 2 minutes. Claire Barber had perfect lines all game with 10 attempts at goal, 6 of which were successful. Sally’s second try soon followed. Nat Gardiner crossed for her first and out wide on the wing Sam Cox crossed, taking the half time score to Parkes 22 Macquarie 0. The ladies didn’t let up in the second half with hard work from Sally Dwyer, Katie Caldwell, Emma Bailey, Demi-Joyce Winter, Sami Afele and Codie Wakefield allowing Nat McAneney to score a try. Emma Bailey didn’t stop while on field and was rewarded with a try half way through the second half as was Demi- Joyce not long after. Sally scored her third try after a half field sprint to end in a fantastic final score of Parkes 52 Macquarie 0.

UNDER 18’S
Jay Slavin opened the score followed by a successful kick by James Goonrey. In what seemed like a very drawn out first third Parkes scored their second try and extras was awarded to James Goonrey to make score at first drinks Parkes 12 Macquarie 4. Hard hits by Jay Slavin, Jye Dillon and Morgan Powter with support from Zac Gordon opened the second third. Bailey Jone made a getaway but couldn’t get a try for his hard work while Aaron Wykamp scored the Spacemen’s next try. Josh Amberge crossed next then followed Ethan Richards and Jye Dillon. James Goonrey converted all but one with the final score Parkes 34 Macquarie 18.

REGGIES
Under 18’s and first graders filled the numbers gap with some players taking part in all 3 grades. Billy-Joe Frances scored the Spacemen’s first points with a conversion by James Goonrey. The only other try of the match for Parkes was from Morgan Powter with a conversion from Luke Clarke. Although the final score was Macquarie 40 Parkes 12 Parkes delivered a good ‘never give up’ attitude.

FIRST GRADE
There was a minute silence to show respect and support to Captain and Coach Denis Moran at the passing of his grandmother before the game began. Macquarie were first to put points on the board eight minutes in. the Spacemen’s first points came from Sam Dwyer with a conversion from Cameron Standen. Parkes’ second try was Cameron Standen, kicked by Luke Clarke. Macquarie had now scored 4 trys to Parkes’ 2 making the half time score Macquarie 22 Parkes 12. The second half saw a great show of sportsmanship when Cameron Standen helped carry an injured Macquarie player from the field. First, second and third points of the second half went to Macquarie extending their lead to 38- 12 but the Spacemen got a second wind with a great chase down by Sam Dwyer and a try to Ethan McKeller and Cameron Standen for the two. Luke Clarke then went over the line with Cameron againgetting
the two.

Great run from Alex Proud and with 3 minutes to go Josh Van Der Stok got a try with Standen converting. Sam Dwyer has a run away and gets it over to bring the score to Parkes 34 Macquarie 38, a worthy comeback from the Spacemen but not quite enough for the win.

EUGOWRA RIFLE CLUB
The second round of the 2016 Eugowra Rifle Club Championship commenced from 300 yards last Saturday. 13 members took advantage of the favourable conditions. In F Class, Barry Plowman and Keith Hills each scored perfect 60’s on their way to 118 out of a possible total score of 120. David Jolly returned an excellent score of 99 and 14 central bulls out of a possible 100 in Full-bore after a lengthy run of underperforming scores.
F Class (possible 120)
Barry Plowman 58.3, 60.5 – 118.8
Keith Hills 60.4, 58.3 – 118.7
Peter Harris 56.3, 59.3 – 115.6
Jim Maloy 56.1, 59.1 – 115.2
Alan Noble 58.1, 55.4 – 113.5
Garry Livingstone 57.1, 56.3 – 113.4
Alistair Kable 55.1, 57.2 – 112.3
Tony Leonard 57.4, 54.2 – 111.6
Full Bore (possible 100)
David Jolly 49.7, 50.7 – 99.14
Steve Mitchell 44.1, 47.3 – 91.4
John Bray 44.1, 37.1 – 81.2
Margot Jolly 39.0, 36.0 – 75.0
Jan Bray 45.2 one stage only

This weekend sees the club championship continue from 500 yards. Shooting will commence from 1.30pm at the Eugowra range.

Mayoral Notes…

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

I always enjoy the autumn weather within our great Shire and the crisper mornings and warm sunshine this week has been no exception. Council has a number of major projects commencing public exhibition this week and interested community members are encouraged to review and provide feedback.

As part of the approved Parkes Water Treatment Plant (WTP) project, a need for the installation of a Photovoltaic (PV, or solar) array has been identified to offset the expected energy consumption at the proposed plant. The Installation of Solar Panels Addendum 1 to the Review of Environmental Factors will be on public exhibition until Wednesday 11th May 2016.

The draft Parkes Shire Pedestrian and Cycling Strategy, which is available to view until 13th May, provides the framework for the development of pedestrian and cyclist facilities in the Parkes Shire. The vision is that Parkes will be recognised as bicycle and pedestrian friendly, with quality formed footpaths and cycleway facilities which provide safe and enjoyable experiences.

The new waste management collection system successfully commenced earlier this month and is already showing significant diversion rates of kitchen and garden organics away from landfill. The final step of introducing the new three bin waste management service is the removal of the old bins, which will happen from Tuesday April 26th throughout the Parkes Shire.

Enjoy a happy and safe school holiday period.
Yours Faithfully, Cr Ken Keith OAM
Mayor of Parkes Shire

Snippets…

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

Fundraising For Brain Cancer Walk: A local couple and their friend were hard at work on Saturday manning a stall outside Woolworths to raise money for a charity walk they will be commencing on May 9th. “The bacon and egg rolls are going like hot cakes!” said Phillip, fiancé of Anne Maree who came up with the idea of the walk; “Lots of people have just made donations without actually buying anything.” If you’d like to support Anne Maree and Phillip they are also hosting a family fun day at the Macquarie Inn in Dubbo on May 1st.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Giveaway!
Have you ever wondered how long a giraffe’s tongue is? Or how quickly a rhino can run? Don’t stay in the dark about your favourite animals, enter our competition and you could have a chance to get up close and personal with the furry, scaly and feathery friends at Taronga Zoo! To enter, simply cut out the competition form on page 11 of this paper and drop it into our office or go to www.parkesphoenix.com.au and enter online. Entries close on Wednesday 20th April.

Lest We Forget: ANZAC Day is just around the corner and though this is a day of two-up and catching up with friends it is also a day to remember the fallen. If you would like to commemorate a loved one or family member with a poppy tribute to them in next week’s edition, please call Rhi on 6344 1846.

Help For Cyclone Victimes In Fiji: A cake stall was set up outside of Parkes Stationery and Office Furniture on Saturday 2nd April to help fundraise for victims of tropical cyclone Winston in Fiji. The Parkes FijianAssociation provided entertainment whilst the P&F Committee of the Parkes Christian School and Parkes Stationery manned the stall. Many items were donated on the day including school supplies, books, toys and clothes. Parkes Stationery and Parkes Fijians Association would like to thank the generosity of people who made cakes for the stall, donated their time, purchased goods and made monetary donations. $1,300 was raised and will be fully utilised to help rebuild the school in Nasautoka Village.

Top Tradie: Travis Boland from Boland Construction was hard at work last week. Good luck Travis, you’re in for a chance of winning a $100 voucher from Totally Workwear! Do you know a top tradie who deserves a treat? Send us a Facebook message or email editor@parkesphoenix.com.au

Our Bloke – Geoff Rice

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

Geoff Rice

How long have you lived in or around Parkes? I was born and raised in Parkes and have lived in Sydney, Bathurst, Forbes and Parkes.

Where do you work? My wife Renee and I own Landmark Langlands Hanlon in Parkes and Forbes. She is my boss at home and the office!

How did you get into this line of work?
I always wanted to buy Langlands Hanlon from Leo Heraghty. He told me to get some experience and come back to
Parkes later. I did this and Renee and I purchased the business from Leo and Helen 10 years ago.

What do you enjoy about rural living?
Living and working with friends.

How do you like your coffee? Cappuccino with 2 sugars.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be? A beach, anywhere.

What do you like to do in your spare time? My daughter Clara says I work all the time.

What makes your day? Spending time with family and getting good results for our clients.

What’s your worst habit? Working and never turning the phone off.

Keep Parkes Railway Station Manned

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

Member for Orange, Andrew Gee has voiced his concern over a NSW TrainLink review currently underway, which would see the Parkes Railway Station become unattended. Mr Gee said he would be bringing both his and the community’s concerns to the urgent attention of New South Wales Transport Minister, Andrew Constance. “I was extremely disappointed to learn that NSW TrainLink is currently reviewing a proposal to revert Parkes Railway Station to become an unattended station,” Mr Gee said. “I have made urgent representations to the Minister requesting that the Parkes Station remain manned, however I would encourage any Parkes residents who share
my sentiments to contact my office so these concerns can also be passed on.

Public transport is an issue close to the hearts of people in regional communities and it is vital that we maintain our rail services, especially for those residents who rely on it. I will be sure to keep the community updated on progress on this issue.” If you would like to contact Mr Gee’s office in regards to this article, please call 6362 5199 or if you would like to have your say about the possible unmanning of Parkes Railway Station, send your views as a letter to the editor to editor@parkesphoenix.com.au or post it to our current office at 65 Gaskill Street, Canowindra.

That’s Rad!

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

Parkes School of Dance held RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) exam workshops over the weekend and Sharyn Constable kindly travelled to be the examiner. The school, which is a not for profit association, recently invested in Bluetooth, spring floors and other state of the art materials so the building qualified to hold examinations.

The Parkes School of Dance usually has small numbers in their dance classes, meaning students receive a lot more time and attention than dance schools in the city. “Many children entering the exam this year have never done it before so to be able to hold the exams here in Parkes is great because we can prepare them in the same studio” said Cathy, one of the teachers; “In different studios the space is unknown which can make students anxious and affect their performance.” Parkes School of Dance do everything from ballet to tap, “if someone came to us and said they wanted to try and class out we could do it” said Cathy. Best of all, because the school is owned by a committee, every cent is spent on the children. Sharyn Constable, who hails from Penrith, is a very experienced examiner;

“Sharyn knows how to talk to children, she breaks down complicated moves so they make sense.” If you would like to find out more pop in for a visit at 17 May Street.

For An Immense Fence – MAC Fencing

April 14, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

MAC Fencing, which is based in Parkes, is the fencing contractor of choice in the Central West. James Mackay began the business around four years ago and it has been growing progressively year on year. The initial focus of the business was on rural and commercial fencing and MAC Fencing has provided an excellent service, on time and on budget, to large properties, hobby farmers and Government Departments.

MAC Fencing has now diversified into residential fencing. They provide all the various residential fencing that their customers wish for and provide above and beyond customer service. Exactly the same as the rural fencing, the residential fencing is also completed on time and on budget. “I joined the MAC Fencing team about four months ago because of their high standards. It’s a personal business. We like to get to know our customers and ensure they are happy with the service and the product,” said Colin Boggs.

The MAC Fencing team will travel all over Central Western NSW to provide both rural, commercial and residential fences. Don’t sit on the fence, give MAC Fencing a call and find out what they can do for you!

Parkes Sport News

April 8, 2016 By Maggi Barnard

PARKES PUBLIC SCHOOL
On Tuesday the Public School netball team got ready to face off against Forbes Public School in the PSSA Knockout competition. The students have trained very hard and put in 110% effort at all times during the game. Although the team weren’t first past the post, going down 10-1, they all took away improvements to their game and actually managed to draw the second half of the game with the opposition. The school are very proud of the effort and sportsmanship the students showed and thought they were great ambassadors for Parkes Public School.

PARKES PCYC
PCYC will hold thier annual ‘time for kids’ fundraiser on the 16th April. The fundraiser will begin at 9am and end at 12pm and is located between Target and Coles. For anyone interested in raising money for a great cause please give the club a call on 6862 3825 or nominate someone to do time in a ‘mock-cell’ to raise money. The PCYC will also be having a bowls night at the Town Bowling Club beginning at 4pm until 8.30pm. Teams of four at $10 per player
and anyone wishing to watch is welcome.

PARKES EAST PUBLIC SCHOOL
Congratulations to all students who participated in the School Cross Country Carnival on Friday. Results are as follows:

5 Years Boys: 1st Cooper Kelly, 2nd Ethan Reeves, 3rd Kye Kinsella.
5 Years Girls: 1st Olivia Milligan, 2nd Daisy Larsen, 3rd Charlotte Layton.
6 Years Boys: 1st Max Murphy, 2nd Henry Kross, 3rd Matthew Goulthorpe.
6 Years Girls: 1st Quinn Kriedemann, 2nd Heidi Charlton, 3rd Ayesha Carruthers
7 Years Boys: 1st Tom Rix, 2nd Toby Thornberry, 3rd Jayden Kuun.
7 Years Girls: 1st Millie Bayliss-Cox, 2nd Lilly Gosper, 3rd Olivia Chambers.
8 Years Boys: 1st Brody Beuzeville, 2nd Harry Turner, 3rd Aksel Carroll.
8 Years Girls: 1st Daisy Dawson, 2nd Grace Dunford, 3rd Paige Reeves.
9 Years Boys: 1st Jack Milne, 2nd Alexander Chambers, 3rd Eli Constable.
9 Years Girls: 1st Abol Annai, 2nd Elly Thornberry, 3rd Chloe Murphy.
10 Years Boys: 1st Fraser Beaton, 2nd Dustin James, 3rd Charlie Dawson.
10 Years Girls: 1st Makayla Sloane, 2nd Shailey Butt, 3rd Madeline Blackstock.
11 Years Boys: (TIED) 1st Jackson Plummer & 1st Archie Rix, 3rd Braith Murray.
11 Years Girls: 1st Bria Constable, 2nd Mary Sladden, 3rd Georgia Hawken.
12/13 Years Boys: (TIED) 1st Harry Bayliss, 1st Mason Bayliss-Cox, 3rd Jasper Moore.
12/13 Years Girls: 1st Jordyn Murphy, 2nd Nia Boggs, 3rd Trudy Richardson.

A big thanks also goes to the parents and carers who were able to come along to the event, cheering on the students and assisting with the co-ordination of the event.

SOCCER
On Thursday, as part of the Football NSW Roadshow in Lachlan Association, FNSW staff Oscar Gonzalez and Andrew Fearnley were at Harrison Park in Parkes. Oscar Gonzalez (Coach Education Manager) ran a coaches workshop on skill training and game training using an under 14 squad and also ran under 9s and under 13s sessions. Details on how the sessions went will be available courtesy of Andrew in next week’s edition.

PARKES BOARS RUGBY UNION
The Boars are calling to anyone with information about a First Aid Kit that has gone missing from the container at Spicer Oval. If anyone is able to assist or knows of its whereabouts please call 0422 667 379. The First Aid Kit looks similar to the photo below.

Maggi Barnard

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