Roxane Manley

Roxane is a true local to the Forbes and Parkes areas. Having been with the Phoenix for a number of years, she is passionate about her region and loves being involved with the local community.

What are you looking forward to most in 2023?

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Christine Lloyd: I have a baby arriving in June, so that’s exciting. I’m hoping to get straight back to work and focus on my goal of having my own business in hospitality or possibly even teaching cookery.

Thomas Simpson: This year I want to hang out with my mates as much as I can and I am also looking forward to travelling to Sydney with my brother Kurt to see Ezy-E in concert.

(L-R) Ruby Mcnally, Grace Mcgirr, Marley Spedding: Each girl agreed the most exciting thing happening this year is starting high school. Ruby and Grace will attend Parkes High School, while Marley will be attending Red Bend Catholic College.

Peak Hill Woman Denise Furner In Need Of Your Help

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Peak Hill residents, Patrick and Denise Furner in happier times.

Local Peak Hill woman, Denise Furner is in desperate need of your help. In an unfortunate twist-of-fate, both Denise and her husband Patrick are currently battling cancer.

Recently the struggle facing this local family became even more desperate when Denise suffered a bleed on her brain. She was rushed to hospital where she underwent emergency surgery to save her life.

As Denise’s family anxiously awaited the outcome of the surgery, they held onto hope and recalled her words to them that she “was not ready to go.”

Denise came through the surgery but still has a long and hard road ahead of her.

Denise’s daughter Kirsti Furner told the Forbes & Parkes Phoenix, “Mum is going to need full-time care, will be wheelchair bound, require hoist transfers and personal care assistance.”

“Through all of this, mum is still suffering from cancer and we are hoping she will be able to continue her chemotherapy,” said Kirsti.

A Go Fund Me Page has been set up to assist with ongoing medical expenses, transport and equipment that will be needed for Denise’s recovery.

“We will be forever grateful from the bottom of our hearts for any assistance. We thank you for supporting our mum,” said Kirsti.

If are able to help Denise, please visit the Go Fund Me page: Helping mum to live comfortably by Belinda Ledgard (gofundme.com)

Upgrade To Judges Towers At The Parkes Racecourse

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

NSW Nationals Candidate for Orange Tony Mileto, NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway and Parkes Jockey Club Vice President Alex Proud at the announcement of $37,000 funding to upgrade the judges towers at the Parkes Racecourse.

Some fantastic, welcomed news for Parkes Jockey Club. NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway today announced over $37,000 has been awarded to the Parkes Jockey Club to upgrade and maintain the Judges Towers at the Parkes Racecourse.

Mr Farraway said the funding, which was secured under the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, would not only ensure the towers are up to safety standards but will also improve the race day experience for the community.

“The $37,460 awarded in this grant will ensure that the Parkes Jockey Club has the means to upgrade their facilities so that they are safe and modern.

“This funding will be a welcome boost for the club as they move forward after being impacted by the floods in November.”

Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said it was important that the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government continue to provide funding to support upgrades to show grounds and facilities in local towns.

“Crown reserves provide land for sport and recreation, homes for community organisations, open space for healthy lifestyles, and protect our environment including sensitive habitat for native plants and animals,” Mr Anderson said.

Fundraising Auction To Support Eugowra Community

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE, SOLD: Just a few of the high value sporting items that have been donated to go under the hammer at the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night being held next Friday, 3rd February at The Coachman Hotel Motel in Parkes.

Local Parkes resident, Michael Dumesny is pulling out all stops in his efforts to raise funds for the flood stricken Eugowra community, which he holds dear.

Michael has spearheaded multiple fundraising efforts to support the Eugowra community following the devastating flood that destroyed the small town late last year.

Last year, in the early stages of recovery following the disaster, Michael initiated “Team Flood Relief” which raised cash donations of over $23,000. The money was used to buy goods that were directly donated to flood victims and to purchase gift cards that were passed on to the relevant government agencies to be distributed amongst the community.

Michael’s latest fundraising effort will be the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night being held next Friday, 3rd February at The Coachman Hotel in Parkes.The auction will begin at 7.30pm sharp, please arrive early.

The auction will include 14 high value donations including highly collectable rugby league items, as well as a money can’t buy experience. Carlton United Breweries have donated two giant eskies for the raffle which will be filled with beer and there will be many other items coming in over the next week in the lead up to the event.

Michael is urging people to come along to help rally to raise as much as possible for the Eugowra community. “Dust off your cheque book, up the daily limit on your card and come ready to bid. Every item will be sold on the night with no reserve prices set,” said Michael.

Local businesses have also shown their support and vouchers have been donated by Cooke Park Cafe, Parkes Leagues Club, Parkes Services Club and Cambridge Hotel, to name a few.

Michael is extremely grateful for the support of the Coachman Hotel in organising the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night.

“Tony and Terry from The Coachman Hotel have been a huge support of the event and have also donated items for the auction,” said Michael.

It is sure to be a great night out for the entire family. There will be lucky door prizes, a raffle and play equipment for the kids. The crowd will also be entertained on the night with live music by Greg Hush. Grab a meal, have a few drinks and enjoy the auction. There is accommodation available at the venue so please call Tony or Terry at The Coachman to make a booking.

Michael is encouraging people to show their support on the night by “wearing something Eugowra.” This may be a Eugowra Bowls shirt, footy guernsey or something black and gold, which are the colors of the local Eugowra Rugby League team.

“There will be many Eugowra residents and flood victims in attendance on the night, so please turn up and lets show some real fair dinkum support and have a great night.”

There is still one week until the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night and donations are still being received. If you or your business would like to donate an item or a service to be auctioned on the night, please contact Michael directly via Facebook at www.facebook.com/michael.dumesny.1

The Forbes and Parkes Phoenix will post all the action from the evening across our Phoenix socials.

It’s Back To School Time – Remember Road Safety

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The school zone in Bushman Street, Parkes, is operational all day from 8am – 4pm.

The new school year is set to resume for thousands of local students next week and Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are reminding local drivers and parents about children’s safety around schools.

Councils Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said “Road crashes account for over half of all accidental deaths among children aged 5 – 14 years old. Children are vulnerable road users. They are at risk in the traffic environment because of their size, their inability to judge speed and distance, as well as the fact that they may behave unpredictably.”

Parents and carers should;

Please make sure your children wear a seatbelt or use a child restraint when travelling in a car. Child restraint laws require children up to seven years old to be restrained in an approved child restraint. For more information visit www.childcarseats.com.au

Drop-off and pick-up your children on the school side of the road. Make sure children use the footpath-side door when getting in and out of a car – this is called the safety door.

Use a pedestrian crossing where possible and avoid being distracted by friends, mobile phones or listening to music through headphones whilst walking.

Children aged up to 10 years old should always be supervised when near traffic. Children aged up to eight years old should always hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road or walking near traffic.

Make sure your children always wear a helmet when riding a bike.

If your children catch a bus, always walk with them to the bus stop.

“Road safety around schools is everybody’s responsibility,” said Melanie.

Snippets…

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

At the Pavillion in Cooke Park for the handing over of half of the Elvis Gospel Service Donations to PACE were Alison Westcott, Neil Westcott, Andrew Taggert, Craig Bland, David Hayward, Tiffany Steel and James Leech

The Parkes Elvis Festival Celebrated Its 30th Anniversary In Style: The 30th anniversary of the Parkes Elvis Festival was celebrated with a 5-day long extravaganza from Wednesday, 4th January to Sunday, 8th January 2023.

Themed “Blue Hawaii,” in honour of Elvis Presley’s 1961 hit musical, the Festival drew in over 25,000 Elvis fans from around the world to the Parkes, which was transformed into a tropical paradise for the occasion.

“We are thrilled to have celebrated 30 years of the King at the Parkes Elvis Festival. This year’s themed ‘Blue Hawaii’ event drew in a record number of Elvis fans from around the world to our regional town,” said Festival Director Tiffany Steel.

“The Festival is an important economic driver for the region, bringing millions into the local economy and supporting local businesses.”

“Feedback from Festival guests and locals has been incredible and we’re already looking ahead to how we can deliver another stellar event for 2024,” added Tiffany.

In 2024, Parkes Elvis Festival will celebrate its 31st year with the theme Jailhouse Rock.

Regional Seniors To Save $250 As Applications For Popular Travel Card Open: Seniors across regional NSW could save $250 on the cost of travel thanks to the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s Regional Seniors Travel Card.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said applications for the latest round of the highly successful program are now open and encouraged eligible seniors to cash in on the initiative.

“We know how much seniors value this card – it can mean the difference between an extra few trips to visit grandkids, the ease of seeing friends locally or just getting to the shops or attending medical appointments,” Mr Toole said.

The $250 pre-paid Visa card can be used on fuel, taxis, electric charging stations, pre-booked NSW TrainLink regional train and coaches, helping those eligible with the cost of getting from A to B.

Eligible NSW Women Can Claim Fertility Treatment Rebate: Exciting news has been announced that women across NSW who have IVF or other assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments in private clinics can now claim a $2,000 rebate.

The cash rebate is the first of its kind in Australia and eligible women can apply for it now through their MyService NSW account or in person at a Service NSW Service Centre.

Kylie Brown beSafe Haven of Parkes was also pictured in the center holding the giant cheque which was the remaining half of the Elvis Gospel Service donations.

Forbes DSC Awarded Two World Cup Legacy Grants

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The Forbes District Soccer Club (Forbes DSC) has been awarded two grants for Infrastructure and Participation by The Hon. Alisten Henskens SC MP.

The first grant of $13,050 for Young Matildas Girls All Inclusive Programs of Excellence will develop female committee leadership, female referee training and certifications, female coaching courses, training programs, school holiday camp with W League players, and participation in pathways programs and events.

The second grant of $103,506 will facilitate Forbes DSC canteen facilities & storage infrastructure revitalisation. The grant will be supplement by an additional $100,000 from Forbes Shire Council and $3,500 from Forbes DSC. The total of $207,000 will be used for the commercial upgrade of the canteen, outfitting of the office, conversion of old changeroom into female compliant referee/changeroom, a five bay storage facility including $20,000 towards a new strength and conditioning gym.

This funding underpins our new advanced training program to be delivered on Tuesday and Thursday morning before school along with our nutrition breakfast menu for players identified to play Country NSW, NPL, Lachlan Utd & Western NSW FC in the future.

Many thanks to Phyllis Miller and Forbes Shire Council, Andrew Fearnley Football NSW, Daniel Ristic Football NSW, local school Principals and local MP Phil Donato for supporting our vision and applications for funding.

CWCU Monthly Sports Achiever

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Andy McMahon pictured holding the award that was presented to him by CWCU.

Central West Credit Union (CWCU) are pleased to announce the latest recipient of the (CWCU) Monthly Sports Achiever Award. A big congratulation goes to Andy McMahon, who is the award recipient for December, 2022

Andy is a 10-year-old Forbes Public School student who is an exceptional athlete, representing his school and community at many levels of competition. Some of his very impressive accomplishments include:

Forbes Public School Achievements

• Junior Boy Age Champion for athletics

• Lachlan District Athletics representative in 100m, 200m, senior boy relay, high jump and long jump

• Qualified as a member of the Western Cross-Country team

Forbes Little Athletics Club (FLAC) Achievements

• 10 Years Boy Age Champion

• Represented FLAC at the State Championships in 70m, 100m, long jump and high jump

Andy was also a member of the U/10 Magpies Junior Rugby League team that were Minor Premiers in the competition.

What a fantastic all round sports person and an asset for the local Forbes sporting community, we look forward to following your future sporting endeavors. Keep up the great work Andy, we are sure to be hearing more about you.

Strong Start To The 2023 Season For Parkes Golf Club

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Golf Club are coming off the back of the 2022 season with Division 2 and Division 3 wins

With the 2023 season underway, last Saturday saw 76 players contest the first round of the BWR Summer Competition. Our thanks to Brett and Cathy and the team from BWR Accountants and Advisors for their ongoing support.

Whilst the weather has turned back to our normal summer conditions the course is holding up thus far.

The leading players in this week were a few of our club stalwarts. Colleen Flynn found 44 points and some form in her golf bag. Colleen managed to finish 1 point in front of Ian Phipps, he fired a 76 off the stick. Next in was Bob Barter who managed a solid 42 points.

There were a host of players on 39 Richard Hamilton, Dub Rodgers, Robert Rea, Blake Smith, David Speakman and Mark Wright. Aaron Wilkie hitting a par round 72, with Blake Smith hitting a 75 and Andy Brownlow from Peak Hill a 76 and Michael Thomas a 79.

The Nearest The Pins this week were – on the Harvey Norman 2nd/11th won by Ian Phipps at 98cm, the Westlime 6th/15th won by Peter Picker at 352cm and the 9th/18th won by Peter Magill at 32cm. Ian picked up the prize at 150cm this week.

Ball winners were Bob Barter 42, Richard Hamilton, Rob Rea, Dub Rodgers, Mark Wright, Blake Smith, David Speakman 39, Judith Fisher, Usman Cheema, Wayne Tucker, Nick Strudwick 38.

Our first Telescope Tyres and Batteries Hankook Masters Monthly Medal was conducted on Saturday, 7th January with the daily sponsor being the Parkes Service Club.

In A Grade Robert Hey, 1 over par 73. Jack Elliott and Aaron Wilkie only 1 shot behind. Riall Harrison with a 78. Other notables shooting 78’s were Grady Magill and ex-President and Captain Mark Kelly. In the nett event Rob Hey with his 66 nett hard to reach for the A graders although Grady and Mark fired 67’s.

In B Grade James Ward hit 86 to beat Ian Hendry and brother Tony who came in with 87’s. In the nett event Dub Rodgers had a 69 nett to beat Beau Tanswell, with Nym Dziuba and Ian Phipps a stroke back.

In C Grade Peter Picker had a very good round of 87 beating Trevor Chatman by a shot and a further shot back to Finne Latu. In the nett event Peter’s 67 nett thus picking up the double. He beat in Trevor and also Finne just one stroke back.

The Griffins Leading Edge putting competition was taken out by Aaron Wilkie on 25 putts and the Wally Norman Vets Medal was won by Ian Phipps on 70 nett.

The Nearest The Pins on Saturday were; the Harvey Norman 11th by David Stevenson on 188cm, the Westlime 15th by Trevor Chatman on 295cm and the Central West Glass 18th Mark Wrightcm. The lucrative 11th hole was won by David Stevenson at 188cm this week.

Ball winners were Grady Magill, Mark Kelly 67, C.Muller, Trevor Chatman, Finne Latu 68, Mark Wright, Judy Fisher, Beau Tanswell 69.

Fresh Faces For 2023 Regional Youth Taskforce

January 27, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Poppy Starr has been selected as a representative for regional youth.

The Regional Youth Taskforce will get a brand-new look with Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin announcing 18 new young leaders from across regional NSW who will advocate for their peers and deliver positive outcomes for young people.

“This group has been selected from more than 140 applicants, and includes two young people from each of the State’s nine regions who will meet throughout the year to focus on the NSW Regional Youth Framework pillars: work readiness, wellbeing, connectivity and community,” Mr Franklin said.

Poppy Starr, Cowra local, and daughter of our very own Phoenix Group of Newspapers designer, has been selected to represent the Central West and Orana region on the Regional Youth Taskforce for 2023.

Poppy applied for the Regional Taskforce position to help advocate for rural youth on a grander scale after spending time on the Cowra Youth Council.

“I enjoy being an active member of my local community and feeling like I can make a difference,” said Poppy.

The Taskforce allows members to have their say on ways the Government can improve outcomes for young people in regional NSW and better deliver services.

When asked what her focus would be during her time on the Regional Youth Taskforce, Poppy responded, “I am passionate about regional Australia and the agricultural industry. I believe to ensure sustainable regional communities into the future it is really important to keep young people in rural areas. This includes ensuring there are opportunities for further education, employment and community engagement.”

For more information on the Regional Youth Taskforce, visit: nsw.gov.au/RegionalYouthTaskforce.

Roxane Manley

Subscribe