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.

Just $25 Will Help Support Families Like Henry’s

September 18, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Henry was born prematurely in 2021 and Ronald McDonald House has been helping him ever since. He often returns to Orange for medical appointments with specialists. Henry loves visiting ‘Hen’s House’ as he calls it – a comforting place for him that has been the family’s ‘home away from home’ for over 4 years.

Henry from Parkes has been staying with Ronald McDonald House, on and off, since before he was born.

During a routine antenatal checkup in Parkes, Lou and Gary were advised to travel to Orange hospital immediately where Lou was admitted that night and Garry was luckily offered a room at Ronald McDonald House Central West, within walking distance of the Hospital.

The next day Lou was asked to stay in Orange so that their baby could continue to be monitored. Lou was 22 weeks at this stage, and Ronald McDonald House in Orange became their ‘home away from home’.After two weeks the decision was made to transfer to Newcastle’s John Hunter Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit suitable for premature babies in anticipation of Henry’s arrival.

“The staff in Orange went out of their way to assist with travel and transfer arrangements,” said Garry. This also included booking them a room at Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle. “It eases the financial pressures and the physical toll of having to be a distance away.”

Henry didn’t keep Lou and Garry waiting long once they arrived in Newcastle – he was born the next day, at 24 weeks weighing 560 grams.

To help support Henry, and kids just like him, you can enter the Ronald McDonald House Central West raffle and go in the draw to win a Hyundai Kona.

Simply buy a $25 ticket to enter and you’ll be in the draw to win, plus you’ll also be helping Ronald McDonald House support sick kids from across the Central West.All proceeds from the raffle stay in the Central West at Ronald McDonald House Central West and help support families with sick and injured children from across the region.

To learn more about Ronald McDonald House Central West and buy a ticket in the raffle to win a Hyundai Kona visit their website at www.rmchcwnsw.org.au

Jake Herring Celebrates First Win In Sports Shearing Competition

September 18, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Parkes local Jake Herring has been shearing competitively for just over a year now.

His dad used to compete, and Jake was just 7 years old when his dad first let him use the handpiece and shear. “I was 17 when I started to shear full-time, and eventually after learning to shear, I decided to compete as well,” said Jake.

Sports shearing is an Australia wide competition. To be eligible to compete nationally, shearers join the circuit and shear in competitions at agricultural shows in NSW, with the aim of earning enough points to compete for NSW against the other states.

There is generally a sports shear competition held somewhere in NSW almost fortnightly, with some of the shows also offering wool handling competitions.

Jake Herring recently scored his first blue ribbon at the Forbes Show and said, “I’ve done quite a few shows now and and I was extremely happy with the first place on the weekend as I’ve worked very hard to get there.”

“I started competing to learn more about what I’m doing in terms of shearing gear and actually shearing the sheep, but after a taste of a few second and third places, I was determined to win,” said Jake.

Jake will continue to compete individually against other shearers from around NSW, all vying for the top spot and the opportunity to compete at the national competition.

The first authenticated daily tally of sheep sheared in Australia was recorded in 1835 by Tom Merely, who sheared 30 sheep.

Over the years, shearing has evolved significantly with the introduction of mechanical shears and the establishment of shearing competitions, leading to its recognition as a sport in Australia.

Jake in action shearing.

Jack Mill And His Car “Swifty” Win Young Street Machine Of The Year

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Auto Electrician and Mechanic, Jack Mill has just won the prestigious award of Young Street Machine of the Year.

The competition was run online by “Street Machine”, Australia’s largest Automotive platform for modified vehicles, and sponsored by Hare & Forbes Machinery House.

Jack has attended the Summernats since he was a young child and loves the burnout scene. Wanting to be part of the action, Jack hatched a plan to build a little burnout car, nothing flash – but that plan soon went out the window.

“We bought the swift for $500 in a poor state. We built it in the back shed after hours and finished it just before Summernats 35, but we weren’t ready for the attention it received,” said Jack.

The Young Street Machine competition was open nationally to car enthusiasts under the age of 24 years. Entrants were required to submit photos of their vehicle, along with a story about their car and what they had done to it. The next step was to promote themselves on social media, tag Street Machine and ask people to vote.

Thousands of vehicle entries were received, with the top 16 entries moving to the finals. The final vehicles were presented at the closest Hare & Forbes Machinery House venues for a final car show, where people voted for the best entry.

Jack was thrilled to take out his category in the final, and is now gearing up to get back out on the pad of Summernats 37.

Snippets…

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Stay tuned for all the rock’n’roll details.

Parkes Elvis Festival: The Parkes Elvis Festival is excited to invite volunteers to join them in delivering the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to gain hands-on experience in the events industry, meet new people and give back to the community. To become part of the festival family, visit: bit.ly/PEFVolunteers2026

PCYC Parkes Upcoming Safer Driver Courses: The next PCYC Safer Drivers Course will be held on 20 September. The course will teach you strategies so you can drive solo with more confidence. Thanks to Parkes Leagues Club, our Parkes courses have received funding via Club Grants. You must email the club to receive a code. https://pcycdrivweeducation.org.au

Forbes Youth Action Team Forbes Show Colouring Competition: Grab your colouring sheet here: https://shorturl.at/fumeV Bring your finished masterpieces along to the Show Office by 4pm Friday 12 September. Get ready for a huge day of family fun, events, competitions, rides and entertainment right here at the Forbes Showground. Tickets are on sale now https://www.123tix.com.au/events/49535/2025-forbes-show

Garage Sale Trail: Gather your crew for the Garage Sale Trail. Parkes Shire Council is calling for expressions of interest from schools, charities, sporting clubs, community halls and other groups keen to host a group garage sale on 8-9 or 15-16 November 2025. Whether it’s a boot sale, hall sale or school oval sale, give pre-loved items a new home. Learn more at www.garagesaletrail.com.au or contact Sharyn Ware on (02) 6861 2333.

Street Dreams: Be part of the magic of Street Dreams, a free youth art workshop on Saturday 20 September, 12:30pm – 2pm at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre for ages 8-13 years. Your masterpieces will feature at Street Dreams 2025 on Saturday 27 September. Register now to secure your place: www.123tix.com.au/events/49916/free-youth-art-workshop

National Child Protection Week: With children and teenagers spending more time online, including instant messaging, social media and gaming apps, it’s important to regularly talk to your child about online safety, what they are doing and who they are talking to. This week, and every week, we urge the community to be aware of the risks, and to do your part to help prevent online child sexual exploitation. For information visit: www.napcan.org.au

Every conversation matters.

September Is Prostate Cancer Month

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality in Australia. Prostate Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men, with approximately 25,000 men diagnosed with the disease each year in Australia, September is Prostate Awareness Month and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia are encouraging men to take preventative action.

In Parkes, the Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group will be co-ordinating a number of outreach activities from 8-12 September, including an information table at Parkes Pharmacy. Community members are invited to consult with group representatives for further information.

Initial symptoms may include abdominal pain, blood in the urine, difficulty urinating or sometimes no noticeable signs. Men with a family history of cancer, especially those aged forty or even younger, are advised to consult with their doctor for appropriate testing on an annual basis. The same recommendation is made for all men aged fifty or over, as timely detection is important.

Many men are reluctant to undergo digital rectal examinations (DRE), but recent studies indicate that DRE is no longer the primary diagnostic tool, and alternative tests are available. Further information at: www.pcfa.org.au.

Be Seen @ Trundle Bush Tucker Day 2025

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Billy Boil results: 1st place Jim Lingier, 2nd place Sam Harmer and 3rd place- Blake Ridges.

All images credit: Images InstantlyBushman’s Relay results: 1st Junior Furious not Fast, 2nd Mudgee Weapons, 1st Adults Graceys, 2nd The Replacements. Thank you Luke and Georgia for coordinating this event.

Dog High-Jump results: Small Dog 1st Shane with Molly, 2nd Sarah with Rocco. Large Dog 1st Chris with Rover, 2ndMat with Alf. Rising Star Dog: Jennie with Sadie.

Dirty Gloves Nursery Invites Community To Annual Open Day

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Pictured L-R is Leanne Miles, Harper Miles, Craig Miles, Finn Miles, Casey Miles, Noah Miles, Mitch Miles.

When Casey and Mitch Miles opened Dirty Gloves Nursery in 2022, they were determined to fill a gap left behind when the local plants-for-charity nursery closed its doors. In just two short years, their passion for gardening and commitment to the community has seen their nursery blossom – today, Dirty Gloves receives truckloads of fresh plants nearly every week.

From ornamental and fruiting trees to tubestock and advanced varieties, Dirty Gloves offers something for every level of gardener. Whether you’re planting your first veggie patch or managing an established garden, the team is always on hand with friendly advice. Their range continues to grow too, now expanding into pots, garden mixes, and mulches.

But what the Miles family value most is the feedback they hear from customers.

“We love when people come back and tell us how well their plants are thriving,” Mitch says. “That’s what makes it worthwhile.”

This passion for plants and people will be on full display at the Dirty Gloves Nursery Open Day, the nursery’s flagship annual event. Held this year on Sunday the 14th, from 10am to 3pm, the day promises to be a celebration of local gardening and community spirit. More than eight local stallholders will join the fun, showcasing fresh produce and handmade goods. Families can enjoy activities for the kids, while a fundraiser BBQ in support of the Wingz4Kidz will be sizzling throughout the day.

The Open Day is the perfect chance to explore Dirty Gloves, connect with local growers, and take home something special for your garden. So, whether you are an experienced green thumb or just starting out, grab some friends and come along to 54 Corcoran Road, Parkes, or you can contact admin@dirtyglovesnursery.com.au and discover why Dirty Gloves Nursery has quickly become a much-loved part of our town.

Alectown Secures Funding For Its Landfill

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Shire Council has been successful in securing $210,400 in grant funding to introduce a transfer station on site at Alectown Landfill. Funded by the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s Landfill Consolidation and Environmental Improvements grants.

This project will see a high-risk landfill site being transformed into a modern, purpose-built transfer station at the already familiar site where recycling stream management will be maximised.

A Parkes Shire Council representative recently met with, and outlined the proposed plans to members of Alectown Community Inc, who voiced unanimous support for the proposed changes. In attendance also was the Mayor of Parkes Shire and Alectown local, Cr Neil Westcott, who said it was another step forward.

Through past engagement and feedback, the Alectown community has indicated priority for a well organised, easy-to-navigate, and efficient service moving into the future. As part of the project, targeted education will be provided to the community to highlight best practices in household recycling, including information on options available to all Shire residents at Parkes Community Recycling Centre for free hazardous waste disposal.

Preliminary designs for the transfer station have been drafted and include the provision to retain dedicated sites for metal and green waste, offering greater recycling opportunities for Alectown residents.

This project will divert approximately 160 tonne of mixed waste deposited annually, as well as supporting objectives in the Parkes Shire Waste Management Strategy and Community Strategic Plan. “Once the old site is rehabilitated, the new transfer station will give local residents the opportunity to increase recycling locally which is a wonderful outcome,” Mayor Westcott added.

Be Seen @ Forbes CWA Soup And Slice Day

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Lorraine Everest (member of Evening Branch of CWA) running and taping cords to ensure safety at the soup serving bench the day before the September Soup/Slice Kitchen.

The helping hands from Forbes Evening CWA: Robyn Miller (Vice President) and Nic Little (President).

Patrons enjoying soup and a chat at the September Soup/Slice Kitchen: Jessica and James Whalen, Rebecca Baynham and Sue-Anne Nixon.

Call Joe From Jim’s Mowing Canowindra

September 11, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Joe Costello is now servicing the local area with his Jim’s Mowing franchise.

Meet Joe Costello, who lives in beautiful Canowindra with his wife Alison. Born in Bankstown, Joe left Sydney in 1988 and moved out this way because he loves the Central West of NSW.

Joe has recently started a franchise with Jim’s Mowing in Canowindra, because after a 40 year rail career, he felt it was time to take control of his work life balance. “I’m ready to deliver the same trusted quality and professionalism that Jim’s name is known for,” said Joe.

Whether you need a simple tidy-up or a complete garden makeover, Jim’s Mowing Canowindra brings skill, care, and a passion for outdoor spaces to every job. Joe’s team works with homeowners, landlords, and businesses alike, tailoring their services to suit gardens of all sizes and styles.

You can enjoy peace of mind knowing your property is in experienced hands, with quality results that will make your outdoor areas shine year-round.

The list of services is extensive, including: lawn mowing, edging, ride‑on mowing, slashing and turf repair garden maintenance including mulching, fertilising, aeration, weed and pest control, hedge trimming, pruning, tree and shrub care, garden clean-ups, green waste removal and rubbish collection, gutter cleaning and odd jobs.

Why choose Jim’s Mowing Canowindra? Every project Joe takes on is carefully tailored to suit your personal preferences, needs, and budget.

“Our team is renowned for meticulous attention to detail, ensuring nothing is overlooked and every corner of your garden is cared for.

“With reliable scheduling and a commitment to leaving your property spotless,we’re dedicated to turning your outdoorspace into a place you’ll truly enjoy cominghome to,” said Joe.

Servicing Canowindra, Cargo, Blayney,Parkes, Forbes, Eugowra, Cudal, Manildraand all the surrounding areas. Messageor call today to get your garden looking itsbest. Call Joe on 0404 474 536 or email joseph.costello@jimsmowing.net

Roxane Manley

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