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 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Yoorana Gunya Family Healing Centre Aboriginal Corporation is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service.

Yoorana Gunya Family Healing Centre Aboriginal Corporation: A friendly reminder before the Christmas break, that the last day of 2025 is Friday 19 December. We reopen on Monday 5 January 2026. Please make sure if you require an appointment call us on 6850 1222.

Parkes Shire Council: Feedback on the Draft Central West and Orana Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan closes this Sunday, 14 December. Don’t miss your opportunity to help shape the future of transport across our region. Last chance to have your say https://bit.ly/4hOvTIi

R U OK? When someone is struggling you might be tempted to try and cheer them up. But sometimes what they really need is for you to show that it’s safe to be sad. Remember to check-in and ask how you can best support those you care about.

Forbes Youth Action Team: Free Holiday Movie. Join for a fun screening of Elf these school holidays on Monday 22 December, from 2pm – 4pm (Movie starts 2:10pm), Ages 6+, Free Zooper Doopers. Seats are free, but tickets are required – www.123tix.com.au/events/50750/christmas-movie-afternoon

Parkes Elvis Festival: The countdown is on – just 1 month to go until the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival kicks off. Get ready for unforgettable shows, iconic tribute artists, competitions, parades, and more. Don’t miss out on being part of this rockin’ celebration of The King. Grab your tickets, plan your outfits, and make your travel arrangements now – let’s make this festival the most electrifying one yet. https://www.123tix.com.au/events/parkeselvisfestival

Lifeline: If you find the holiday season challenging, you’re not alone. For many people this time can bring up a range of difficult thoughts and feelings. Explore tips and support for coping with loneliness this holiday season: ll.org.au/holidays

Forbes Flying Club: Why stay on the ground when you can take to the skies? Turn school break into a real flying adventure at Forbes Flying Club. Perfect for teens, parents or anyone who wants to fly. Holiday intro flights are now open, call 0428 343 866 to book your flight!

Georgie’s Hub – Anglican Parish of Parkes and Peak Hill: Christmas spirit is alive and well at Georgie’s Boutique. Lots of laughter and fun with our great customers. Drop in between 10am – 4pm and pick up fabulous bargains.

Georgie’s Boutique is located at 275 Clarinda St, Parkes. Drop in between now and Christmas for a bargain.

Be Seen @ Parkes Action Club Christmas Carnival

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Thanks to all those who supported the annual Parkes Action Club Parade and Carnival.

Entertainment was fantastic with the Parkes Town Band, School of Dance, Parkes Dance School and Easygoin.

Despite the heat everyone had a great time in the cool of Cooke Park.

Neighbourhood Central Celebrates Volunteers At Annual Christmas Party

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

There was plenty of smiles amongst the crowd at the Neighbourhood Central Christmas Party. Paul Hocking, Ray Brown and Jim Jennings.

Neighbourhood Central recently hosted its annual Volunteer Christmas Party which was a festive and heartfelt evening dedicated to honouring the outstanding contributions of its volunteer team.

Executive Officer Dianne Scott warmly welcomed everyone, expressing sincere gratitude for their commitment throughout the year.

She gave a special mention to the 14 new volunteers who joined in 2025, adding to the organisation’s strong team of dedicated volunteers.

Together, these volunteers achieved some remarkable milestones, they delivered over 4,000 hot meals in Parkes, supported aged clients through social groups, activities, and excursions, they assisted the reception team at Parkes, offered comfort and care to those who are lonely, socially isolated, or are in their final stages of life and provided more than 35,000 transport trips across the Central West and Riverina/Murray regions

Dianne also acknowledged the Board of Directors, who graciously volunteer their time to govern and guide the organisation.

The celebration coincided with International Volunteer Day (5 December), a global occasion to honour those who give their time and energy to make a difference.

“Each of you does exactly that,” Dianne said. “Your generosity and spirit of service strengthen our community and bring kindness and connection where it’s needed most. You are all amazing.”

Chairperson Graeme Dean, recently elected for his sixth term, also extended his thanks and appreciation to the volunteers for their unwavering support.

The evening was filled with festive cheer, laughter, and gratitude – a fitting tribute to the people who make Neighbourhood Central’s work possible.

Can you spare a little time and are keen to be a volunteer? Contact Neighbourhood Central to find out more by calling 02 6862 3757 or emailing admin@ncentral.org.au

Chris Duffy and Kittie Dwyer.

Parkes Congratulates Alan Ward On Appointment As Chair Of Skillset Board

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Shire Mayor, Councillor Neil Westcott, has extended warm congratulations to respected local businessman and former Parkes Shire Councillor and Deputy Mayor Alan Ward on his election as Chair of the Skillset Board – a prestigious leadership role within one of the region’s foremost organisations for education, training and employment.

“Alan has been a tireless advocate for our community and brings an exceptional level of business acumen to this position,” Mayor Westcott said. “His experience serving on national boards across both business and not-for-profit sectors demonstrates the depth of leadership and strategic insight he offers.”

Mr Ward served the Parkes Shire community for 13 years as a councillor, including three years as Deputy Mayor, and has continued to champion regional growth through his business interests and community involvement. His appointment as Chair of Skillset will help strengthen programs that create pathways to skills development, training and employment across the Central West.

Skillset is a not-for-profit organisation committed to empowering individuals through education, training and workforce solutions.

Parkes Shire Council is proud to have been a founding member and shareholder of Skillset, reflecting the Council’s long-standing commitment to building opportunities for the region.

“Skillset’s work is vital for our future, and having someone with Alan’s experience and passion at the helm is a tremendous asset,” Mayor Westcott said. “On behalf of Parkes Shire Council and our community, I congratulate Alan and wish him every success in this important role.”

As Christmas Draws Near, There’s A Particular Kind Of Hush

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Church lawns fill with folding chairs for carols, kids rehearse their nativity lines with tea towels on their heads, and once again we pause at the old, beautiful story of a baby born in a stable — God choosing the simple and the small to show us He is with us.

At Kerin Health, the lights are still on. The tinsel on the front desk is slightly crooked.

Someone’s brought in shortbread. The tree in the corner is looking a little droopy after a month of being “reorganised” by many toddlers – mostly my own two-year-old, a tiny interior decorator with very big opinions.

Most mornings begin the same way — a deep breath at the door, mustering energy for another day amidst the juggle of school presentation nights and Christmas parties.

We wouldn’t have it any other way. Because between the carols and the chaos, there are quieter moments. A farmer coming in straight from the paddock, hat in hand, finally making time for his sore shoulder. A Mum in thongs and a messy bun, baby on one hip, whispering that she’s not just tired, she’s overwhelmed. An older gent who “hates a fuss”, leaving his appointment standing taller, with a joke for the girls at the front desk.

These are the stories of this year. Of bodies worked hard and hearts stretched thin. Of neighbours checking in. Of country people doing what they’ve always done — showing up for each other.

Christmas, for Kerin Health, is less about perfect tables and more about full ones.

Less about having everything “sorted” and more about being together, sharing food, stories and second helpings.

Our team will be taking a break over Christmas to rest with our own families, so the clinic will be closed for appointments during that time, reopening in early January refreshed and ready for a big year ahead.

Behind the scenes, there are plans on whiteboards, new faces joining the staff, and some exciting announcements coming in the new year — more support for rural families, more women’s health and pregnancy services, more ways to care for the bodies that carry our stories.

From all of us at Kerin Health: thank you for trusting us with your aches, your tears, your hard days and your hopeful ones. We can’t wait to show you what’s next.

Be Seen @ Forbes Rotary Club Christmas Tree Festival

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Members of the Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea would like to thank the Forbes Community for once again supporting our annual Christmas Tree Festival.

Several people commented that this annual Festival is a great way to commence the Christmas Season in Forbes.

All of the money raised will be given to Havannah House Ministries. A massive thank you to everyone who go involved.

Currajong Participants Shine In Inclusive Croquet Coaching Program

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Croquet has become the highlight of the week for participants from Currajong Disability Services (CDS) thanks to a new inclusive coaching program delivered by the Parkes Croquet Club.

Around 30 participants and staff attended eight coaching sessions from May this year, quickly embracing the sport and asking for more once the program concluded.

“It has been a great success, and our participants absolutely loved it,” said Douglas Pout, Day Services Coordinator at Currajong Disability Services.

The initiative began after Parkes Croquet Club member Graeme Hunter attended a grant-writing workshop at Parkes Shire Council. The idea came to life when the club secured a Parkes Shire Sports Grant to deliver the coaching sessions and provide morning tea for Currajong participants.

“It was a privilege for our club members to run this program,” said Graeme.

“It was wonderful to see some participants showing exceptional talent and being able to play a proper game at the end of the program.”

He also praised the participants for their strong team spirit and willingness to help pack up after every session.

Currajong plans to return to the croquet courts in March next year. “Our lads and ladies are missing it already,” Douglas said.

“Participants stepped into something new with confidence and quickly connected with the members of the Parkes Croquet Club. The partnership has been positive for everyone involved, and by the end some of our crew were matching it with the more experienced players.

This has opened the door and given our participants another space where they feel welcomed and included.

“CDS is not defined by limitation. We are a group of people with different strengths, and when opportunities like this come along, our participants show exactly what they can do.”

The Parkes Elvis Festival Is Back In 2026 With A King Sized Celebration

December 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The Parkes Elvis Festival 2026 is gearing up to be one of the most exciting celebrations the town has ever seen, bringing five unforgettable days of music, energy and pure Elvis magic to Parkes, from 7–11 January. Each year, tens of thousands of fans travel from across Australia and the world to honour the King, and this year’s theme, Love Me Tender, promises a heartfelt and immersive tribute to Elvis Presley’s most iconic ballads.

Across the festival, visitors can expect a vibrant program packed with world-class concerts, street parades, competitions, workshops, family activities and late-night entertainment. From the sparkling performances of renowned tribute artists to the charming retro atmosphere that transforms the town, the experience is unlike anything else in the country. In 2026, new additions including expanded Family Fun Zone and enhanced fan experiences will give both first-timers and returning festival-goers more to explore than ever before.

The official program will be available for purchase from Elvis Central, the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, and several local retailers.

What makes the Parkes Elvis Festival truly special is its sense of community, celebration and shared nostalgia. Whether you are singing along to the classics, browsing the themed markets, or soaking up the electric energy on the famous Elvis Festival Street Parade route, you will feel part of something bigger, an annual tradition that continues to grow.

With demand increasing each year, tickets are selling fast. If you want the best seats at headline shows, exclusive experiences or accommodation close to the action, now is the perfect time to secure your place.

Do not miss the chance to start your year with five days of music, memories and pure joy. The King is calling, grab your tickets today and be part of the 2026 celebration.

https://www.123tix.com.au/events/parkeselvisfestival

Parkes Solidarity Walk: One Community, One Voice, No Incinerator

December 4, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Pictured Is Ben Stead of the Parkes Clean Future Alliance and Aunty Frances Robinson who is a Traditional Owner from Peak Hill

Wiradjuri groups from across the area are concerned about the Energy From Waste Incinerator proposed for Parkes, and are inviting everyone to join the Parkes Solidarity Walk which will take place on Saturday, 6th December.

Traditional owner Aunty Frances Robinson, working within the Aboriginal Consulting Group, together with Parkes Clean Future Alliance, said after going to a meeting about the proposed incinerator and “not seeing any Koori people present. It was obvious that no-one had engaged with the Aboriginal community as to how this will affect our culture and heritage. We have too much that we are passionate about that we need to protect not only for our ancestors but for the continuation of our culture. Impact on our medicinal plants, bush tucker, song lines, our river systems, our air quality, our food and fibre industry, our general health and well being.”

Aunty Frances said the Parkes Solidarity Walk was organised for “Everyone and anyone who is concerned about the impacts that this incinerator will have on our environment and our health. United we stand. This is not just one community group, we are many community groups, all with our own concerns, all standing together to fight this.”

Get a group of friends, family, co-workers together, you can even get creative and make a sign and come along to the Parkes Solidarity Walk. Meet at 10.30 at Sir Henry Parkes Statue and the walk will conclude at Cooke Park

Snippets…

December 4, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Pictured on The Morning Show Couch with Larry and Kylie are Elvis tribute artists Anthony Petrucci, Paul Fenech and Charlie Gaylard.

Parkes Elvis Festival: Elvis fever is starting to ramp up. The Parkes Elvis Festival celebrated all things Elvis on national TV on Tuesday, 2 December on Channel 7’s The Morning Show. Hosted by Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies, the segment featured interviews and a performance from three popular Elvis Tribute Artists Paul Fenech, Anthony Petrucci, and Charlie Gaylard. Parkes Elvis Festival tickets available here: https://www.123tix.com.au/events/parkeselvisfestival

R U OK? ‘Tis the season to remember that some of us find this time of year tough. Our free Calendar of Connection has ideas to help you reach out and lend support to friends, family and colleagues. Download now ruok.org.au/holiday.

Legal Aid NSW: The Legal Aid NSW Domestic Violence Unit is here to help. They’re a compassionate team of lawyers, case workers, mental health professionals and financial counsellors working together to support people impacted by domestic and family violence. They can help with Family law (parenting, divorce, financial matters), Child protection, ADVOs and DFV-related legal issues and Emotional and financial support If you would like more information about the services we provide, please phone 1800 979 529. Read more here: www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/my-problem-is-about/my-family-or-relationship/domestic-and-family-violence/domestic-violence-support-services/domestic-violence-unit

NSW Government: New laws make it easier to find ethical, accountable dog breeders in NSW. Breeders must have an official breeder ID number, ads must include the puppy’s microchip and breeder ID, female dogs can only have up to 5 litters (up to 3 by caesarean) in their lifetime, limits on the number of dogs per premises, breeders need enough staff to give all dogs proper care. These changes help protect animals and give everyone confidence when buying a puppy. More info: https://bit.ly/NSWDog-Welfare Apply for a breeder ID here: https://bit.ly/NSW-Breeder-ID

TAFE NSW Forbes: TAFE NSW Forbes campus are looking for expressions of interest in some new courses they are looking to offer in 2026 should they get sufficient interest. These will be short courses that will run for several weeks and may lead to further study options. The courses are: Automotive, Animal Studies and Computing for Seniors. If you would like to express your interest in any of these courses, ring the campus on 0438 565 918 or call in to the campus.

Drop into the TAFE Forbes campus and ask about courses on offer for 2026.

Roxane Manley

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