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.

Snippets…

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

NSW graziers are the driving force behind this rapidly growing industry.

NSW Government Supports Booming Goat Industry: The NSW Government is delivering the first program in Australia to accelerate the transformation of the goat meat sector from a wild harvested commodity into a long term, high value livestock sector.

Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the NSW Government will invest $1.2 million into its Going Ahead with Goats program to create a more sustainable industry.

“Australia is the largest exporter of goat meat in the world, and NSW graziers are the driving force behind this rapidly growing industry,” Mr Saunders said.

“Last financial year alone, exports generated a whopping $298 million, providing a critical income for producers in Western NSW.

The Going Ahead with Goats project will be delivered by the region’s Local Land Services staff, who will work closely with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and other stakeholders including Western NSW goat producers.

Free Fun In The Regions These School Holidays: A travelling science exhibition, adventure activities and creative workshops are among the many activities available for regional youth to enjoy during the summer school holidays, thanks to the NSW Government’s Holiday Break Program.

Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin said, “The programs on offer will provide social and recreational outlets to help regional youth become more involved in their local communities, and to show that living in a regional location is not a barrier for young people to try new things.”

To find events scheduled for Parkes and Forbes go to www.nsw.gov.au/HolidayBreak.

Kids First Aid School Program: A new study shows 81% of aussie parents think 3 year olds should be able to dial 000 to ask for help. To provide a solution, Elastoplast is running its Kids First Aid School Program for its third year straight, equipping teachers with the knowledge to teach basic first aid in schools, and empower students with the skills they require to keep themselves and each other safe. Developed with ACHPER (The Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation,) the program is useful for all aspects of life and is curriculum approved, integrating first aid knowledge into foundational, Year 1 & 2 learning structures.

Plenty Of Holiday Fun At The Parkes Radio Telescope

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

THE DISH…The Parkes Radio Telescope is located 20km north of Parkes on the Newell Highway.

The January School holidays are just around the corner, and the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope, Murriyang will be hosting Astronomy Talks each weekday at 11am from Monday, 9th January through to Friday, 27th January 2023.

There will be three different CSIRO astronomers presenting talks, providing a rare opportunity to speak with a real astronomer and ask them your space questions.

Tickets are $5 per person and can be booked online at https://parkesdishshop.com/products/school-holiday-talks, by calling the Visitors Centre on 6861 1777 or in person at the Parkes Radio Telescope Visitor’s Centre.

All ages are welcome to attend. It is an out-of-this-world school holiday activity so be sure to head along!

Whilst you are visiting, don’t forget to check out the 3D Theatre (admission applies). The half-hour show is currently showing “Expedition Earth”, “Parkes – Beyond the Barrier” and “Bigger than Big.”

While there, enjoy lunch or refreshments at the famous Dish Café. The kids can have some fun and explore the newly opened space playground just across from the café. There are also many hands-on displays to provide endless fun for all ages.

If you are visiting during the 2023 Elvis Festival, don’t miss the daily science fun shows at 1:30pm.

These free, one-hour shows un by Fizzics Education are sure to blow your mind. This outdoor event, right in front of the Dish, will be perfect for families or anyone with an enquiring mind.

The Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre will be open daily throughout the school holidays from from 8:30am – 5pm, except for Christmas day and Boxing day.

Our Gal – Roxanne Gallacher

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Roxanne Gallacher

Where were you born? I was born in Griffith Base Hospital – after a very quick drive over from Hillston.

Were you named after anyone? Not exactly. My parents had a friend whose name was Roxanne and they liked it. My middle name is the same as my mum though.

Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of? I have had many special moments and been a part of some great programs and events, but the highlight for me would be being part of the 5 person Cast Movement team for Schools Spectacular in 2018.

What historical moment stands out most in your memory? The 9/11 tragedy and Bali Bombings are two that I will never forget.

What’s the single best piece of advice you’ve ever received? You can’t give from an empty cup.

What’s the greatest risk you’ve ever taken? I think moving to Parkes actually. I came here for a temporary teaching contract in 2015 and have been here ever since.

What are the three things you would take to a deserted island? My painting gear, a hammock and a fishing rod.

If you had to spend $10,000 today, how would you spend it? I’d square off my debts and book a holiday.

When are you happiest? Curled up with a book, coffee and a bit of chocolate.

Team Flood Relief Races To Help Eugowra

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

HARNESSING SUPPORT…Pictured here is Michael Dumesny on the right and Fellow Team Flood Relief member Jack Trainor on the left.

Have you heard of “Team Flood Relief?” It is a fundraising initiative designed to help the flood affected community of Eugowra, and is being driven home by well known Parkes local and racing industry identity, Michael Dumesny.

Born and raised in Parkes, Michael started coaching rugby league in Eugowra after spending time in the town where his partner and two young daughters resided. “I ended up coaching and being on the committee for four years and absolutely loved the place, loved the people and made many good friends,” said Michael.

The horrific flash flood that hit Eugowra on 14th November took two lives, and 150 Eugowra residents had to be airlifted to safety. Michael said: “My little girls still live out there and although they were not involved in the floods physically, they basically lost everything in their lives when that little town flooded.”

“I also saw a lot of heartache from some of my very good friends. After being out there on and off for the few weeks after the major wave hit, I knew I had to help in some way.”

It all started when Michael and his good friend and fellow Parkes Harness Racing trainer/driver Brett Hutchings were throwing around a few ideas of ways to make some money through racing. One thing led to another and Team Flood Relief was formed.

Brett Hutchings has pledged a part of his driving fee and winning driving percentage right up until New Years Eve at Parkes towards the current flood situation in Eugowra and Forbes.

Michael posted the concept of Team Flood Relief and Brett’s pledge through his social media channels and it instantly received well over 100 shares. Before he knew it, people were phoning and messaging him wanting to be involved. Within four days the numbers had ballooned and there well over 60 people involved in the fundraising effort.

Team Flood Relief is made up of some of the biggest names in the racing industry across Harness Racing, Thoroughbred Racing and Greyhound Racing.

Michael considers anyone who has contributed in any way to be part of the team. He was unwilling to name the big racing identities that have supported Team Flood Relief, and appreciates each and every person who has assisted the cause, regardless of the size of their contribution.

“We will be raising money in any way we can. Whether that be through drivers, trainers and owners winning races and donating part of their winnings or through silks that have been sponsored and specially made and sponsored. Direct donations from people have been humbling and unreal,” explained Michael.

Racing is in Michael’s blood, and he has been around the industry since birth. “Our family owned ‘Ruby Vale’ stud at Alectown and most of my weekends growing up consisted of being around the horses.”

In Michael’s later years he moved to the media side of things, writing stories, working on radio and eventually ending up a race broadcaster. As far back as he can remember, racing has been an important part of his life.

We asked Michael what his message for the Eugowra community would be? Michael went on to say, “I guess my main message is that we are just hoping everyone is coping as well as they can both physically and mentally in these tough times. We have got their backs one hundred percent and will work our backsides off to make as much money as we can for that beautiful community. If we can put a small ray of light into their days that is all we are trying to achieve.”

Be Seen in Parkes

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Matt Gillogly and Corey Hedges were spotted patching turf onto the cricket wicket at Woodward Oval.

Just getting ready to take off from the rank, to pick up a waiting passenger, is Parkes Taxi’s driver Peter Giles.

Spending the afternoon having fun at the skate park was (L-R) Heath Rathbone, Mitch Davies, Riley Mackenzie and Logan Hamood.

Aaron Benson and Tammy Frame were busy fueling up their Nelson Solio’s escort vehicles ahead of a trip north to QLD.

Deano, “You Are Appreciated”

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

THANK YOU…Pictured with one of his helicopters is Dean Brus from Orange Helicopters.

Originally from the Pinnacle area south of Forbes, Dean is the Director and chief pilot at Orange Helicopters. In recent weeks he has been engaged in various roles assisting with SES flood relief activities.

Dean has assisted with relocating people and re-supplying residents in addition to the movement of equipment from pumps and boat motors to mail.

He has also aided in the important task of stock movements and fodder drops to stranded stock isolated on islands throughout the areas of Forbes, Bedgerabong, Condobolin, Louth, Wilcannia and Bourke.

“The amount of help that is needed during and after an event such as the latest floods means there is a lot of coordination from all of the services,” said Dean

“This particular operation is being co-ordinated by the SES, however they are working closely with the RFS who contribute a great deal of people power and trucks. The airbase at Parkes has been managed by a a team from New Zealand. We’ve had the ADF, the Singapore military and also a New Zealand fire fighting team here.”

“Both the Local Land Services (LLS) and Department of Primary Industries (DPI) are involved with the coordination of stock rescues. They liaise with the farmers first, then organise suitable helicopters with the correct equipment to conduct the lift and relocation. It’s very complex, but works well when all parties are working together,” said Dean. Dean also works alongside two sons Peter and Jarrod who are both qualified crewmen.

Imagine little islands surrounded by water, and on those islands are livestock stranded with no food; this is what farmers have been faced with.

If the waters are expected to rise, teams are called in and tasked with airlifting stock in cages to a safe location nearby. If the stock can’t be moved, or if water levels are not expected to rise, stock feed is dropped so they don’t starve.

Dean explained, “The LLS provide the service to get the feed to the stranded livestock, but they don’t provide the fodder, that is up to the farmer. Sometimes a farmer doesn’t have any hay and he might have some donated to him.”

Dean became a helicopter pilot after being a firefighter with NSW Fire & Rescue for 24 years, and enjoys that his job still allows him to help people.

“We build a lot of rapport with the farmers and I always wish them all the best. We’re not just there to do our jobs, there is definitely a lot of compassion there,” said Dean, who often refers to the livestock that he drops feed to as his ‘babies’.

Dean went on to say, “A complete stranger whom I have not met, nor probably will, gave us a lovely message and some home made goodies as a thank you gift. It’s nice to know that people appreciate your efforts whilst they are experiencing tough times themselves. It’s not expected, but certainly appreciated.”

Orange Helicopters own and operate four different helicopters, each with different capabilities including charter, weddings, farm inspections, fire and flood relief, joy flights and specialised training.

Keep an eye on the Forbes & Parkes Phoenix facebook pages for some footage courtesy of Orange Helicopters.

HOMEGROWN GRATITUDE…An appreciation gift left with a thank you note from a grateful stranger.

Are you preparing for a busy or quiet Christmas this year?

December 16, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Jimmy Clyburn: I am actually going to be working on Christmas eve, but then I’m pretty excited to head off to Bathurst on Christmas day.

Jade Alexander: Our family is looking forward to a nice quiet Christmas. We will be having lunch and dinner at home and just enjoying our time with each other.

Toby Collins: Fairly quiet I think. I will just be visiting family members and hanging out with cousins, maybe go for a swim if its nice and hot.

Forbes Croquet News

December 16, 2022 By Pegging Out

A splendid day had by all playing Golf Croquet

It was another nice sunny day for Golf Croquet on Tuesday, 13th December.

Big winners on the day were Noel Jolliffe 10-3 and Iren Ford 9-4. Other big winnersof the day were Bruce Field, Ray Martinand Allan Jones, Barry White and Ray Martin, May Jones, Iren Ford and Lyal Strudwick, Elvy Quirk and Mal Smith.

Close games on the day were played between:

• John Farah and Sue Jolliffe with 7, defeated Alex Todd and Tony Thomson with6.

• Lorraine Todd and John Job with 7, defeated Elvy Quirk and Sandy Hepburnwith 6.

• John Job and Mal Smith with 7, defeatedAlex Todd and Neville Spry with 6.

• John Browne and Merv Langfield with 7,defeated Elvy Quirk and Lyn Simmondswith 6.

• Allan Jones and Geoff Coles with 7, defeated Carolyn Neilsen and May Joneswith 6.

• John Cole and Marie Spry with 7, defeated Lorraine Todd and Ray Martin with 6.

• Neville Spry and Mal Smith with 8, defeated Noel Jolliffe and Rex Toole with 5.

• John Browne and Carolyn Neilsen with8, defeated Kevin Rubie and Geoff Coleswith 5.

• Merv Langfield and John Cole with 8,deafeated Fay Picker and Marie Sprywith 5.

• Kevin Rubie and John Cole 8, defeatedLorraine Todd and John Farah with 5.

• Sue Jolliffe and Fay Picker 8, defeatedSandy Hepburn and Bruce Field with 5.

• Kevin Rubie with 8, defeated Barry Whitewith 5.

• Merv Langfield with 8, defeated Iren Fordand Lyn Simmonds with 5.

• Lyn Simmonds and Vince Roberts with 8,defeated Rex Toole and Alex Todd with 5.

• John Browne and Sherly Chamberlin with 8, defeated Noel and Sue Jolliffe with 5.

• Sandy Hepburn and Tony Thomson with8, defeated Neville Spry and Fay Pickerwith 5.

By Pegging Out

Flying High With The Parkes Aero Club

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

MEET BRETT PREISIG… Look at the smile on Bretts face as he takes position in the Pilots seat of one of the Parkes Aero Clubs 2 Aeroplanes which are available for student training and private hire

Originally built in 1948, and owned by Parkes Shire Council, the clubhouse for the Parkes Aero Club is the last remaining building along with 3 hangars which were part of the RAAF training aerodrome.

Brett Preisig is the secretary of the Parkes Aero Club and a flight instructor with the Parkes Recreational Aviation Centre.

They work together as the Aero Club provides the aeroplanes and the Aviation Centre provides the instructors. “That is how we get new members to come to the club, because people want to learn to fly and that is the club’s charter, to encourage all things aviation,” said Brett.

There are currently around 35 active members but the club is always keen to welcome new members. Students range from under 15 all the way up to retirees, and once students receive their license to fly, the club have two aircraft for hire.

Brett commented that over the years there has been busy phases such as when the military parachute jumpers were in town. However, since the flooding emergency the Parkes Airport has been busier than ever.”It’s a bit like a military operation out here with all the extra fueling arrangements. The majority of the helicopters that found themselves based here are not running on regular AV gas. They are jet turbine engines and that requires jet A1 fuel and they have been bringing that in by the semi trailer load,” said Brett.

A lot of high technology and expensive aircraft have touched down at Parkes Airport to help with the floods. Bretts personal favorite was the Sikorsky Sea King helicopter.

Flying teaches a lot of discipline and precision and Brett quoted and old aviation saying, “A superior pilot with superior skills will use his superior judgment to not have to use his superior skills.”

Parkes Macgregor Sisters Are Keeping It In The Family

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Pictured left is 14 year old Grace and on the right, her 16 year old sister Elizabeth.

Rugby league has a strong following in Parkes and we are fortunate to have a very healthy junior club, with a staggering amount of talented young players. For sisters Grace and Elizabeth Magregor, rugby league runs in the family. Both girls grew up watching their brothers and cousins play rugby league, motivating them to start playing football at a young age.

Fourteen year old Grace has played for an impressive number of representative teams this year, including: Parkes U14s league tag, U14s Western Rams league tag squad, Katrina Fanning School Rugby League Cup U14s team, U14s Woodbridge Rugby League team.

When asked to pick a standout memory from this season Grace said, “My Woodbridge under 14s team was undefeated throughout the competition this year. Coming into the grand final we knew it wasn’t going to be an easy game as Dubbo Goannas were our strongest competitors throughout the year. I scored three of the four tries in the grand final and got the player of the match at the end of the game.”

At sixteen years of age, Graces older sister Elizabeth Macgregor is an extremely sought after player and was involved in the following teams this season: Parkes U17s league tag, Western Rams U16s and U18s rugby league team, Catholic School Southern Rugby League country team, the inaugural NSWCCC team.

“My under 16s Woodbridge team went better than I think we all expected heading into the competition. I don’t think any of us had much faith that we would make it to the semis let alone the grand final, but we all really improved as a team throughout the year. We made it to the grand final, but Orange was just a bit hungrier for the win,” said Elizabeth.

Both girls were awarded top try scorers in their respective age groups for the season.

Grace and Elizabeth both attribute their success to putting in the hard work, keeping fit and grasping every opportunity that presents itself.

They are both extremely grateful for their parents, who have influenced their love of the sport and have been their number one supporters, driving them to every game and ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed.

Keep a keen eye out for these two talented Parkes sisters in the years to come. Considering the success both Grace and Elizabeth are achieving at such a young age, it is not a stretch to say that we may one day see the Macgregor sisters playing in the NRLW competition.

As it stands, there is some healthy competition in the Macgregor household, as Grace is an avid Roosters supporter and older sister Elizabeth supports the three time reigning NRL Premiers, the Penrith Panthers.

Roxane Manley

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