General Interest Archives - Page 169 of 352

Parkes Show Cancelled Again!

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

For the second year in a row the annual Parkes Show had to be cancelled because of COVID-19.

The Parkes PA&H Association Inc announced the cancellation of this year’s show on Wednesday after the committee made to the difficult decision at a meeting on Monday following the “unacceptable degree of risk to the community currently posed by the COVID situation in the east of our state”.

“Following the cancellation of the 2020 Parkes Show, the committee had high hopes for a spectacular 140th celebration and show, but it has become increasingly apparent in recent days that there is no guarantee that the show would be able to proceed in the first instance and certainly no way of knowing the conditions and limitations that may yet be imposed,” the committee said in its press release.

Show president Peter Unger said: “I feel for the community of Parkes, another event cancelled. I believe there was great anticipation for the 2021 Parkes Show to help bring some normality back.”

The 2021 Parkes Showgirl competition is still set to go ahead with the judging and dinner planned for Saturday, 14th August at the Parkes Services Club.

Young women aged 18-25 are encouraged to enter the competition for the chance to gain training, win great prizes, and represent Parkes at the Zone Judging in Condobolin for the chance to move forward to the Sydney Royal Easter Showgirl Competition.

Rebekah Auld, Parkes 2019 Showgirl highly recommends the experience. “It’s a great way to meet people, as well as to proudly represent Parkes.”

For entry forms and dinner tickets, contact Liz at the Parkes Show Office on 6862 2580.

‘He Who Plants A Garden, Plants Happiness’

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

Three of Parkes Shire’s leading artists designed and produced artefacts for Lindy’s Garden. They are (L-R) Elsie Mahon, Deb Jones and Pol Cruz. On the right is Bill Jayet and his daughter Hannah Farrant-Jayet. His son Drew and other family members could not attend because of the COVID lockdown in Sydney.

The garden will offer a space to rekindle happy memories; a place to visit, reflect and remember.

Miss Lindy’s Garden was officially unveiled at the Parkes Early Childhood Centre (PECC) earlier this month in memory of the centre’s beloved director Lindy Farrant who passed away last year.

“We are here to celebrate an amazing garden space that has been created as a living memorial for our much-loved Miss Lindy,” said PECC’s Director Colette Genet-Marks.

“Lindy adored enchanting natural landscapes and artistic and colourful spaces. This garden is a melding of all these elements, with a child-like sense of fun.

“It will remind us of the power that can come from the planting of a small seed and the joy of watching that seed grow and blossom.

“Like adoring the beauty that a garden can bring to the world, Lindy celebrated the beauty of the people around her. She made people feel valued and heard, and we will always treasure the love and guidance that Lindy shared with her community,” said Colette.

“What Lindy has sown in our community; we will all continue to reap. Although Lindy cannot personally experience this garden, I truly believe in spirit Lindy will always be amongst us, continuing to support, guide, treasure and celebrate all that we are and all that we do.”

Lindy’s husband Bill Jayet said one of the last things he and Lindy did together during last year’s COVID lockdown, prior to her condition deteriorating, was to create a new garden at the front of their home.

“So, it was fitting that this beautiful space at PECC be dedicated as a garden to Lindy with all its quirky art bits and pieces by our three talented artists Deb Jones, Elsie Mahon and Pol Cruz.

“These three artists were all friends of Lindy’s: a friendship that especially flourished throughout a memorable couple of
decades of art and craft exhibitions that not only raised tens of thousands of dollars for PECC but also became one of the great social events of the Parkes calendar.

“Elsie, Deb and Pol – you really are treasures – again your artistic skills have come to the fore.

“We are absolutely delighted with what you have created and produced. Our heartfelt thanks go to all who were responsible
for making Lindy’s Garden a reality,” said Bill.

Bill Jayet with Colette Genet-Marks in Lindy’s Garden. Lindy would have turned 65 on Sunday – the garden has 65 flower plants. (Photos: Julie Brown)

Students Make Memories In Canberra

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

Some of the Parkes Christian School students at the Australian War Memorial.

The Canberra excursion is a highlight for many students in their school career as 45 students from Parkes Christian School (PCS) experienced at the end of term 2.

The Year 5 and 6 students enjoyed three days of carefully planned educational and fun experiences to help foster a genuine interest in the history and culture of Australia.

From visiting the National Museum of Australia, the Royal Australian Mint, various embassies to exploring the old and new Parliament Houses, the students collected many stories to retell at home.

They were fortunate to complete their tour of the House of Representatives during a spirited debate over a bill and witnessed a call to vote. Local Member of Parliament for the Riverina Michael McCormack took time to meet the students and commented on the ‘really interesting questions from a great group of youngsters’.

The PCS students also visited the Telstra Tower, Australian War Memorial, Questa-con for some hands-on science and technology activities and participated in fun activities at night including ten-pin bowling and laser tag.

The teachers who accompanied the group were Matthew Denmead and Jackie Berry, who organised the excursion, while Shannon McCutcheon and Glen Westcott joined in and entertained everyone!

COVID Causes Confusion In Central West

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

A rapid response by the Western NSW Local Health District ensured a testing clinic was up and running within hours of being notified of an active case travelling through the district and the community responded by getting tested in droves. (Photo: WNSWLHD)

Although COVID stories have dominated the headlines of late, it did not help to soften the blow of the news on Sunday that a positive truck driver had done some deliveries in Parkes last week.

The Central West’s COVID free bubble had burst and instantly worries and concerns were on the increase as people anxiously watched the situation develop every day. Long lines formed at the drive through testing clinic, which was set up in a matter of hours and had been running all week.

Parkes Shire Mayor Cr Ken Keith OAM said a big thank you to the community for their quick response to get tested, and encouraged the community to continue getting tested.

On Monday Parkes Shire Council and many other workplaces and businesses closed their offices and services in response to the situation.

Good news on Tuesday for Parkes was that none of the close contacts had tested positive, but there was a positive case in Blayney who had been in contact with the truck driver. This resulted in a seven-day lockdown announced for Orange, Blayney and Cabonne from midnight on Tuesday, and several exposure sites added to the list in Orange. Everyone in these areas must stay at home unless it is for an essential reason.

This meant that many people who had visited the venues, had to get tested and self isolate.

Western NSW Local Health District (WN-SWLHD) is encouraging everyone to continue to remain vigilant. “COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities. If you have any symptoms please go and get a COVID-19 test.”

Community members with questions or concerns about COVID-19, including testing and vaccination, can contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. Information on COVID-19 vaccinations can be found at www.health.gov.au. Anyone with symptoms related to COVID-19 should get tested and self-isolate until they receive their results.

Greater Human Connection On The Tennis Court

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

Louise Pleming and Brian Turton of the Rally4Ever program, which has started in Parkes offered by Helen Magill every Thursday.

Esteemed Australian tennis coach and former professional player Louise Pleming has created an organisation to help disadvantaged Australians enjoy physical activity and greater human connection.

The story of how she connected with a homeless man three years ago that led to the establishment of Rally4Ever was recently featured on Australian Story on ABC TV.

Local tennis coach Helen Magill has brought the program to Parkes and the first free session took place yesterday.

“We are reaching out to at-risk groups and to those who are feeling ‘stuck’, looking for connection and an avenue to better mental and physical health,” said Louise. “We are not mental health professionals, nor do we claim to be, but we have seen the benefits of exercise, movement and connection on mental health.”

Rally4Ever has developed an ongoing tennis program that aims to bring people together on court. Each session ends with a short, guided interaction that builds camaraderie and connection and is designed to retrain the brain to think positively and focus on ways to move forward.

“What we are doing can change lives,” said Louise. “I know that because I’ve seen it happen. Three years ago, I was approached by a homeless man when I was volunteering at an inner-city soup kitchen. Brian Turton recognised me as a former professional tennis player and Grand Slam commentator and asked if I would play a game of tennis with him.

“We’re now firm friends and our weekly hit-out has led to so many positive changes in his life – he’s in housing, interacts more positively with everyone and has just earned his own coaching accreditation.”

The program runs every Thursday at the Parkes Tennis Club, Victoria Street from 1 – 2pm. To join in a fun and free session of tennis email helenmagill@bigpond.com or call 0407 253 888.

Grand Pavilion Completed

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

The $4.2 million multipurpose centre constructed in Cooke Park was recently completed and will be known as the Cooke Park Pavilion.

The imposing pavilion, which will be the central focal point of the Parkes Elvis Festival, is set to be officially opened once COVID regulations are lifted. The new facility includes an events stage, multipurpose room (80 seat capacity) behind the stage with kitchen facilities, flexiroom, store room, and male, female and accessible toilets.

The project is proudly co-funded by the Australian Government through the Building Better Regions Fund and Parkes Shire Council.

Local Artist Contributes To Exciting Projects

July 23, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

Sean James Cassidy (left) at Sydney Props Company in Marrickville with Kate Richards from Western Sydney Univer-sity and Miguel Valenzuela of the University of Technology.

Local artist Sean James Cassidy’s skills have recently been in high demand and he contributed to a variety of art projects.

Late last year Sean was invited to assist on an exciting collaboration between the National Trust and the University of Western Sydney. The concept was to create a video exploring the comparison of indigenous and western views of the stars and their use in navigation.

Images of historical tools, a transit telescope, chronometer and a sideral-time regulator clock were used, incorporating a 3D expanding view to enable all components to be seen.

Intertwined was the creative input by the Jannawi Dance Clan, with choreographer Peta Strahan developing an original work, Kurrobori. This work interprets elements of the Dharug creation story of Kurrobori, who comes from the “Spirit Land which exists in the Morning Star” (Venus).

Sean was involved in the filming of the dance group at Sydney Props Specialists warehouse and photographing the navigation tools at the Powerhouse Museum. This exhibition is showing at Old Government House, Parramatta Park until October.

Sean at the southern tip of South Bruny Island, Tasmania.

Tasmania was Sean’s next destination where he was invited by the Donelly Family Trust. Sean and Charlie Donelly had become friends when both were at the University of The Philippines. Sean’s brief in Tasmania was to study and research Bruny Island in order to paint a landscape of the family’s property there. As Bruny Island continues to be developed, particularly by the food and wine industries, the Donelly family wanted to capture the relatively untouched qualities that Bruny Island still possesses.

Sean found beaches scattered with driftwood, worn and sculptured by their journeys and the amazing sight of living trees with exposed roots calcified white, glowing in a muted light. Sean’s plan is to produce a series of paintings based on his Tasmanian experience.

“Flourish” was the title of the recent exhibition created by students of the Diploma of Graphic Design at Hornsby TAFE. The TAFE holds regular showcases of students work to encourage interaction with the wider design and creative industries. Jennifer Young is the course teacher and invited Sean to sit on the exhibition panel which provides direct feedback and career advice to students. Sean was selected as an industry guest due to his background in both design and creative arts as well as his strong focus on community arts projects.

Jennifer Young said the TAFE system provided an opportunity for students to progress from Certificate Ill in Design Fundamentals, to Certificate IV and on to diplomas and advanced diplomas of Graphic Design, which could in turn lead to further study through universities.

Sean has many plans for the future including community projects, solo and group exhibitions and the exploration of audio-visual and interactive projects.

By Kerrie Peden

Healthy Kids Bus Stop A Great Success

July 16, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

A total of 87 local children made use of the Healthy Kids Bus Stop service that came to Parkes recently.

The service offers free developmental screening and health check-ups for children aged two to six in a friendly ‘one stop shop’ setting with access to a variety of health disciplines and professionals.

Over the five days, 243 screeners in child health checks, hearing, oral health, speech and language development and fine and gross motor skill development were carried out on the children. Out of the 87 children screened, 85 required referrals in one or more areas, including 57 for dental, 40 for occupational therapy, 32 for speech therapy and 22 for hearing.

One of the parents at the Bus Stop said: “Awesome program. So grateful they come to Parkes to make it easier for country kids to receive services”.

Aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of children through the early detection of lifestyle risk factors, delayed development and/or illness, this award-winning program was delivered through a collaborative partnership. Royal Far West and Project Sprouts worked in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities supported by Neighbourhood Central, ARTC Inland Rail, CMOC Northparkes and Parkes Shire Council.

Parkes East Public School, Trundle Children’s Centre and Peak Hill Preschool generously hosted the Bus Stop, and other key partners included local preschools, schools, councils and community service organisations. The program is a collaborative exercise to benefit young children within the community at no cost to their parents or carers.

If you’ve missed the Bus Stop and you have concerns about your children, you can contact LHD – Parkes Community Health Centre at 6861 2403.

How Much Screen Time Per Day?

July 16, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

There is strong scientific evidence excessive computer and screen use is associated with a greater risk of developing short-sightedness, as well as increased symptoms of eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder pain, due to our eyes focusing and aiming close-up for very long periods. When your child is reading from electronic devices it requires more effort and is more fatiguing than from hard copy such as books.

The Australasian College of Behavioural Optometrists (ACBO) recommends the following guidelines for screen time.

0 – 2 Years: None, with the possible exception of live video-chatting (like Skype, Facetime) with parental support, due to its potential for social development.

2 -5 Years: one hour per day or less. Programming should be age-appropriate, educational, high quality, and co-viewed, and should be discussed with the child to provide context. Excessive screen time before the age of five may cause delays in development, cognitive delays and poorer academic performance.

5 – 18 Years: 2 hours per day or less. Ideally recreational screen time should be limited. Individual screen time should be considered based on their development and needs. Children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to be, or to become myopic (short sighted), irrespective of how much near work they do, or whether their parents are myopic. Outdoor time has a significant protective effect against developing some types of myopia.

Most studies on the effects of screen time in children indicate that the odds of visual symptoms increase after two to four hours of use. Contact Eyecare Plus Parkes on 6863 5577 for all your eye care.

Letters to the Editor – Painted Silos

July 16, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

The Grenfell silos were also painted by Heesco Khosnaran to create a legacy for the town in acknowledgement for the years of loyalty received from the local community from which Grenfell Commodities has prospered.

Dear Editor,
I would like to agree with a letter submitted in Issue 267 regarding the painting of our silos. I agree, and would suggest the following themes: farming, sheep and/or cropping, Parkes Radio Telescope, culture/indigenous, Elvis, railway and mining.
Cheers Wilbur

Dear Editor,
I have suggested once before to a member of Council about having the silos painted, as we all know it would be a great drawcard to the wonderful town of Parkes. I was told that the owners were not agreeable as the silos would need ongoing maintenance of the artwork. How do other towns manage that then is my question? Also, while the artist is at it, why don’t they paint up some of the gorgeous old railway carriages at the same time and the unsightly block of town flats on the corner near McDonalds, which is one of the first things that travellers see when they get off the Elvis train. Not a good look!
Just saying…
Liz Brown

Dear Editor
I proposed three years ago to have the silos painted and a local artist and printer was really keen to paint it. The silos are owned by the department of Agriculture and they have no objections if Parkes Council has no objections
Obviously, Council would want some input to approve any artwork of that scale. We put a proposal forward to Council’s communications team, but nothing came of it.
I also proposed we do a Vivid style projection on the silos, but that went nowhere as well.
I suggest you have a friendly chat with the communications team at Parkes Council to find out why our silos have not been painted.
Regards
Conrad Mill

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