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Parkes Phoenix

Dougie Michalk Fundraiser For Parkes Branch Of Canassist

April 3, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Doug Michalk is pictured on the left, celebrating with supporters after the big chop.

Hundreds of generous individuals gath­ered at The Cambridge Hotel in Parkes on 8 March to support the Parkes Branch of CanAssist, which provides financial aid to those battling cancer in the community.

The fundraising event was organised by local hero Dougie Michalk and his band of helpers. Dougie had his iconic dreadlocks cut-off in front of the cheering crowd, sym­bolising his commitment to helping others during their most challenging times. Doug said, “[He had] been growing his dreads for over five years and he was inspired to do something to make a difference.”

In addition to the dramatic hair chop, Dougie also organised an exciting auction of 20 items donated by local businesses.

Raising an incredible $14,140 on the night.

The Parkes Branch of Can Assist was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from both local residents and businesses.

“The generosity shown by the people of Parkes and our incredible business com­munity has been absolutely heartwarming,” said a Can Assist spokesperson.

“This event will have a lasting impact on the lives of those in our community who need it most. We can’t thank everyone enough for their support.”

The event was a true reflection of what can be accomplished when a community comes together for a common cause, and the people of Parkes should be incredibly proud of their collective generosity.

Can Assist is a vital community-based organisation that provides practical, finan­cial, and emotional support to people living with cancer, with branches all throughout New South Wales. The Parkes branch is committed to assisting local families facing cancer and the associated costs of treat­ment and care.

Well done Doug and well done Parkes!

Need Planning Approval For Your Next Project?

April 3, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Town Planner Eliza Noakes can help with your next development project.

If you’ve ever required planning approval for a development pro­ject, you know it is not always smooth sailing. Whether it’s zoning issues, confusing planning rules and regulations, or delays in ap­provals, getting the green light for a project can be overwhelming.

That’s where Acre Town Planning can help.

With over 36 years combined experience, Acre Town planning is skilled at cutting through the red tape, making the process sim­pler and faster. Acre has become a trusted name in navigating the complexities of town planning for projects ranging from residential developments to large-scale commercial and industrial develop­ments. After five years operating in southern NSW, Acre has re­cently expanded into central west NSW appointing Parkes local, Eliza Noakes to provide planning consultancy services to develop­ers and landowners in the region.

Eliza served as the Manager of Development and Planning at Forbes Shire Council, managing an array of complex develop­ment applications and strategic planning projects. From significant greenfield subdivisions to childcare centres, rural and manufactur­ing industries, as well as various rezonings and strategic planning projects, Eliza has a proven track record of delivering thoughtful and efficient solutions that support community growth and sustain­ability.

Acre’s reputation for excellence is built on a strong commitment to understanding each project’s unique needs and objectives.

Their comprehensive services include:

• Preparation of Development Applications

• NSW planning portal assistance

• Due diligence advice for new property purchases

• Planning Proposals and rezonings

• General planning advice

Acre’s extensive planning knowledge ensures that all Council re­quirements are met,ensuring a smooth and streamlined approval process. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about how to move for­ward with your development plans, contact Acre Town Planning to discuss how they can assist with planning approvals on your next development project. Phone Eliza on 0447 314 359, email admin@acretp.com.au or visit www.acretp.com.au

Learn Something New This Saturday At Homegrown Parkes

March 27, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Register to attend one of the workshops on 29 March at Cooke Park to win.

Register to attend one of the workshops at Homegrown Parkes this weekend, and you will go into the running to win some won­derful prizes from local Homegrown Parkes businesses.

Chef Jack Brown will be providing a work­shop in the Cooke Park Pavilion from 11am.

Jack is an Indigenous Chef trained in tra­ditional French cuisine, who is redefining Australian cuisine by embracing native in­gredients.

Kath Whitchurch will be providing a pop­ular workshop on Sourdough Making at 12.30pm in Cooke Park Pavilion.

The day concludes with the final Pavilion Workshop at 2.00pm, with talented land­scape designer Elizabeth Briton, sharing her knowledge of local plant species and design concepts.

Clancy The Bee Man will provide informal workshops on the lawn in front of the Pavil­ion. He will be providing two formal presen­tations at 10.30am and 1.00pm.

There will also be a free, live reptile display throughout the day, with two formal presen­tations by Andrew at 11am and 1.30pm.

Funding has been granted to Parkes Shire Council under the Open Streets Pro­gram, funded by Transport for NSW to sup­port this event, in addition to support from Central West Lachlan Landcare and volun­teers from Parkes Community Arts.

Chef Jack Brown is providing a workshop at Homegrown Parkes with the support of Landcare NSW.

For further information, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org or follow the Homegrown Parkes Facebook page.

Working Sheep Dogs On Show At 2025 Parkes Yard Dog Trial

March 27, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Come and watch the excitement over two fun days.

The Parkes Yard Dog Trial is set to be an exciting and action-packed weekend on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June at the Parkes Show­ground. This thrilling competition showcases the remarkable skills of working dogs and their handlers as they move the sheep through a series of tasks.

The Parkes Yard Dog Trial warmly invites the general public to attend this fantastic event. Entry is open to everyone, making it a perfect outing for families, dog enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the excitement of yard dog trials firsthand. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of yard dog trials or a first-time spectator, this event is designed to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages.

There will be a coffee van and BBQ available on both days.

If you are interested in trialling your dog, or would like to get in­volved and help on the weekend, please contact Bernard Dwyer on 0428 653 233. The entry forms for the trials are available by email­ing admin@dwyercontracting.com.au

PSC Explore Future Options For Trundle Abba Festival

March 27, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Important update on the future of the Trundle ABBA Festival.

Parkes Shire Council recognises the Trun­dle ABBA Festival as a much-loved event that has brought joy to the community, at­tracted visitors from across Australia, and provided a significant boost to local busi­nesses, tourism, and hospitality. However, due to increasing financial constraints and many competing essential service areas, Council is unable to continue funding the Trundle ABBA Festival in its current form.

This decision follows a two-year funding trial after the event’s cancellation in 2022 due to significant inclement weather. De­spite this, Council is eager to see the event continue, and is currently exploring all pos­sible funding opportunities, including grant funding, to support the festival’s future.

Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Neil Westcott, acknowledged the difficulty of the decision while expressing appreciation for the Trun­dle community’s willingness to collaborate on potential solutions. “We are saddened to make this decision about an event that brings so much joy to the community and visitors who travel from near and far to at­tend,” said Cr Westcott.

“Last night, I met with the Trundle Com­munity alongside my fellow Councillors, and we are grateful for their cooperation and openness to exploring alternative op­tions.”

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to eve­ryone who has played a part in making this festival a success, including organisers, volunteers, sponsors, performers, and at­tendees. Your passion and dedication have created something truly special, and we deeply appreciate your efforts,” he added.

Looking ahead, Council is hopeful the festival can return in some form, whether through grant-funded Council support or as a community-led event backed by the Events Financial Assistance Program.

Council will continue working closely with the Trundle District Progress Association to explore all viable options and determine the best path forward.

Funding Awarded To Local Shooting Facilities

March 27, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Shooting organisations in the Orange electorate have shared in almost $800,000 NSW Government funding after grants were awarded in the Safe Shooting Program.

The organisations were among 25 Statewide to receive grants of $10,000 – $50,000 for projects that improve storage, safety and security at shooting facilities, as well as purchase new equipment.

The Program also invests in projects which incorporate inclusive design to improve environmental sustainability and increase use of shooting facilities.

Another key objective of the Program is increasing participation in shooting by removing barriers for women and girls, people with disability, First Nations peoples, people from culturally and linguis­tically diverse communities, and LGBTQIA+ people.

Member for Orange Phil Donato MP said “I’m a massive sup­porter of all our shooting sports, many of which are deeply rooted in our nation’s history.

“I congratulate both the Parkes Pistol Club and the Eugowra Ri­fle Club on respectively receiving $18,000 and $21,000 in grants funding, which will enhance club equipment and infrastructure to help ensure the ongoing growth and success of shooting sports here in the Orange electorate,” Mr Donato said.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said, “This funding will play a role in supporting the next generation of Olympians and ensure Australia’s success at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.”

For information on the Safe Shooting Program and the list of grant recipients, visit: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/safe-shooting-program

Parkes Energy Recovery To Create Opportunities

March 27, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Neil Westcott, further outlined Council’s position on the proposed facility. “We are pleased to see progress on this important project and support the principle of the Parkes Energy Recovery facility, as part of a sustainable waste management solution for the future”.

On Tuesday 18 March, Councillors and the Council’s Executive Management Team met with representatives from Parkes Energy Recovery, a consortium led by Tribe Infra­structure Group, to discuss their proposed Parkes Energy Recovery facility in the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (Parkes Precinct).

Parkes Energy Recovery (PER) will lever­age proven technology from global leader, Kanadevia Inova, to turn waste into electric­ity, which will power homes, businesses and industries across NSW. The proposed facili­ty will divert an estimated 600,000 tonnes of waste per annum from landfill and generate at least 60 megawatts of energy – enough to power 80,000 homes per year.

The anticipated capital investment is $1.5 billion, making this the largest single invest­ment in the history of Parkes.

Parkes Energy Recovery is a group of companies led by Tribe Infrastructure Group (Tribe) and including Tadweer Group, HiQ Group (HiQ) and Kanadevia Inova (KVI).

They have been selected by the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation (RGDC) who are delivering the Parkes Pre­cinct, after a market process to identify a developer which included scrutinising the consortium and the technology offered.

The consortium will now begin the pro­cess of wide community engagement and the planning and environmental approvals process for the facility that it will design, fund, own and operate on land leased from RGDC. This will include rigorous planning and environmental approvals with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). Parkes Energy Re­covery will produce technical studies as part of its development approval, ensuring any technology adheres to high standards for human and ecosystem health.

Council encourages residents to partici­pate in upcoming community engagement opportunities led by Parkes Energy Recov­ery. For information on the proposed facil­ity, visit www.parkesenergy.com.au email info@parkesenergy.com.au or call 02 8405 7915.

Parkes M&D Society Presents Mamma Mia

March 20, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The majority of the Mamma Mia cast at a recent rehearsal.

Tickets have gone on sale for the eagerly anticipated production of Mamma Mia and by all accounts, this is going to be another hit for Parkes M&D Society.

The show is led by two powerhouse voices, Kimberley Ryan playing Donna and Maddi Collits in the role of Sophie, but that’s not the only talent on stage.

Cue Shev Brown as the irrepressible Tan­ya, Cath Welsh as the zany Rosie, Parkes Mayor Neil Westcott playing Architect Sam, Greg Ballantyne as the intrepid traveller, Bill, Aaron Kingham as Headbanger Harry and Matt Prow returns to the Parkes stage to play Sophie’s love interest, Sky.

Supporting the lead cast is Gracie Townsend playing Ali and newcomers, Thomas Glastonbury as Pepper, Loki Ramsay as Eddie, and Annabella Brown as Lisa.

Backed by an immensely talented band led by Anthony Leonard and an all singing and dancing ensemble second to none, Mamma Mia promises to be something very special.

Many have seen Mamma Mia in pro­fessional theatres, but this production will have a few surprises in store for audiences – a point of difference for the Parkes pro­duction. Audiences will feel like they are right there on the Greek island of Kalokairi.

Mamma Mia opens on 3 May and runs until 25 May. Tickets can be purchased on­line at www.parkesmandd.com.au or you can purchase them from box office at the theatre on any Sunday between 10.30am – 12pm. Don’t miss out – tickets are selling fast!

Don’t Miss Homegrown Parkes Next Saturday

March 20, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The Parkes Potters at the last Homegrown Parkes event.

Homegrown Parkes is back for 2025, pro­viding an opportunity for visitors and locals to fill their Saturday in Parkes with plenty of good food and local produce next Sat­urday, 29 March between 9am and 2pm in Cooke Park.

Homegrown Parkes provides an oppor­tunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill and products with the community.

Demonstrations will again be one of the highlights of the 2025 events, highlighting processes for using locally produced food and products, with the aim of encouraging locals to grow produce in their own back­yard.

The Homegrown Parkes Committee con­sists of members of Central West Lachlan Landcare, Parkes Community Arts and Parkes Shire Council.

If you are interested in joining the Home­grown Parkes events, make sure you fol­low their social media, check out their website: centralwestlachlanlandcare.org/get-involved/homegrown-parkes/ or con­tact Marg Applebee on 0418 611 053 or via email homegrownparkes@gmail.com The Homegrown Parkes spring event will be held on Saturday, 11 October.

Perfectly Imperfect Takes Center Stage At Parkes Uniting Church

March 20, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Get ready to be inspired as the immensely talented Julee-anne Bell and acclaimed pianist Melissa Buchholz join forces to pre­sent Perfectly Imperfect, a captivating musical experience at the Parkes Uniting Church. Scheduled for Wednesday, 26 March at 7pm, this show promises to leave audiences buzzing long after the final note. There is also a community vocal workshop from 4pm5:30pm open to anyone who loves to sing.

Julee-anne Bell, who soared to fame as a standout contestant on The Voice Australia in 2021, captured hearts nationwide with her stunning vocals and magnetic personality. Despite being blind since birth, Julee-anne’s extraordinary talent and unwavering de­termination to break down barriers have inspired countless indi­viduals from all walks of life. Joining her on this incredible journey is the illustrious Melissa Buchholz, a professional pianist with over 35 years of experience. Melissa’s musical prowess has taken her from Australia to stages around the globe, where she has accom­panied some of the world’s top artists.

Perfectly Imperfect is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of resilience, talent, and the power of music to unite us all. Expect an evening filled with unforgettable melodies and heartfelt sto­ries that resonate on a deeply personal level. Audiences will find themselves transported through Julee-anne’s powerful voice and Melissa’s masterful piano, forging a connection that is as real as it is relevant.

Everyone’s welcome to join us at the Parkes Uniting Church and witness the magic of Perfectly Imperfect. Mark your calendars for Tuesday 26th of March at 7pm. Tickets are available now at https://www.trybooking.com/CYTPZ

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