General Interest Archives - Page 83 of 342

Parkes Boars Player Of The Week – Michael Watt

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Michael Watt

Known as: Mick.

Where were you born: Orange.

What year were you born: 1995.

When and where did you play your first game of rugby: Canowindra Pythons, Canowindra 2013.

When did you come to Parkes: 2021.

What position do you play: 10/15 Fullback or Fylhalf.

Your go to food before a game: Coffee.

Interests outside of rugby: Beers with family and mates.

Where do you work: Carpenter/civil earthworks.

Married/in a relationship/single: In a relationship.

Kids: No.

What is it about rugby that keeps you playing: The team.

The team describes Mick as one of the hardest working players. Captain of 2nd grade and usually benches for 1st grade each week.

New Legislation To Benefit Early Childhood Educators

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The Independent Education Union of Australia NSW/ACT Branch, which represents early childhood education and care (ECEC) teachers in NSW and the ACT, is lodging an application before the Fair Work Commission to allow supported bargaining for an enterprise agreement with a block of long day care employers in NSW.

From 6th June, the Secure Work Better Jobs Act reforms make it easier for unions to bargain for enterprise agreements with groups of employers. The IEU, along with the United Workers Union (UWU), which represents ECEC educators in NSW, and the Australian Education Union (AEU), which represents ECEC teachers in Victoria, are jointly lodging the application.

A group of over 20 ECEC employers in NSW has agreed to be part of the application. As it is supported bargaining, the funding body, which is the Federal Government in this case, will also be a party to discussions. Mark Northam, Secretary of the Independent Education Union of Australia NSW/ACT Branch, said the new legislation paved the way to address long-term inequity in the ECEC sector.

“The ECEC sector plays a crucial role in the education of our young citizens, and improved recognition of their value and professionalism is long overdue,” Northam said. “However, four-year university trained ECEC teachers in some long day care centres are only paid modern award rates.

“This means they could be earning $30,000 a year less than school teachers with the same qualifications.”

The 60 employers participating in this application nationally want to pursue an enterprise agreement under the new supported bargaining stream.

The Community Of Unity Tour – Restoring The Heart Of A Nation

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The Community Of Unity Tour will be at the Parkes Services Club in the Starlight Room at 6pm on Wednesday 21st June.

Australia has been through some tough times during the past four years. Various natural disasters including fire and floods combined with changes to government policies has resulted in some Australians feeling disillusioned and cynical of the institutions they once trusted.

As a Qantas pilot, Captain Graham Hood had an extensive career spanning 50 years. He made an agonising decision to resign when he chose not to accept corporate mandates imposed on his industry.

Graham and his wife Michelle have chosen to stand up and be a voice in a world they perceive is tearing itself apart.

“We can just ignore the plight of our nation or stand up and do something constructive to restore this once great land,” Graham said.

Graham has spoken to hundreds of thousands of people at public events and reached a global audience via his podcast, called Club Grubbery, with friend John Larter. John Larter was a paramedic for 25 years, who was terminated for refusing to accept a mandate he disagreed with.

Together, they reach hundreds of thousands every week, sharing their views. “This hasn’t been an easy journey” says Graham. “In recent months we have been drawing attention to the many injured by this armoury of government and corporate policies.”

Graham and Michelle come across many heartbreaking stories as they tour our country in their efforts to bring communities together.

In the past year they have visited 180 communities and spoken at gatherings of hundreds of people. A man of faith, Graham has baptised almost 200 people in various locations who he claims are seeking a simple faith to help them navigate the perplexities of the ‘new normal’.

Parkes residents can hear this couple speak at a free event on Wednesday, 21st June at 6pm, in the Stalight Room of the Parkes Services Club.

2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award National Finalists

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Glenmore entrepreneur Nikki Davey is the co-founder of Grown Not Flown. Nikki has a vision to see her local cut flower industry bloom, using her skills in business and digital product development to support small-scale growers. She was awarded for her work in creating a digital platform that supports the slow flower movement by connecting flower consumers with local and sustainable producers.

Seven remarkable women have been recognised for their contribution to Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses and communities by being named national finalists of the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

Each of the seven female leaders will receive a $15,000 Westpac grant to help boost, expand or elevate their work, with the National Winner awarded an additional $20,000 Westpac grant and National Runner Up, an additional $15,000.

AgriFutures Australia Managing Director, John Harvey says he’s impressed with the breadth of innovative projects that were submitted.

“2023 is an exciting year for the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award with our seven national finalists an outstanding representation of the impact that female-led initiatives are having within their industries and communities,” said Me Harvey.

The 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award National Finalists are:

• SA – Ali Paulett

• NT – Eileen Breen

• QLD – Emma Gibbons

• TAS – Melissa Duniam

• NSW/ACT – Michelle Leonard

• WA – Michelle Moriarty

• VIC – Nikki Davey

The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award has a significant profile, growing in prestige and popularity and is recognised as a program of influence among parliamentarians, industry, media and Award Alumni.

For more information about the Awards, head to: www.agrifutures.com.au/rwa

There Is So Much Happening At Neighbourhood Central

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Approximately 30 people enjoyed a delicious morning tea catered by Companions Thru Cancer and staff at Neighbour-hood Central.

Staff and volunteers from the Neighbourhood Central Parkes office, recently joined forces with members from Companions Thru Cancer to stage a Biggest Morning Tea event. Organisers were thrilled to raise over $600 of vital funds for the Cancer Council.

These funds will enable the Cancer Council to support people impacted by cancer when they need it most, speak out on behalf of the community on cancer issues, empower people to reduce their cancer risk, and find new ways to better detect and treat cancer.

Companions Thru Cancer has been providing informal support networks, built around a variety of social outings, since its formation in 2001. While Neighbourhood Central, in conjunction with Parkes Community Health, have been providing a Volunteer Palliative Care Service since 2013.

Along with Can Assist and local health services, both Companions Thru Cancer and Neighbourhood Central provide valuable support and assistance to people living in Parkes and the surrounding area.

Neighbourhood Central also recently held a Parkes Palliative Care Seminar. The day provided an opportunity to reflect on the important work volunteers and health professionals do, and on how they can maintain perspective in their work.

Beaté Steller, an accredited Mental Health Social Worker and training consultant specialising in End of Life related care and aged care, together with Carly Fisher, a Registered Psychologist and business consultant, facilitated interactive presentations that engaged volunteers and health professionals in practical activities that promote reflection and growth in their role.

The day was thoroughly enjoyed by all participants. Thanks to sponsors Northparkes Community Investment Program, Goldfields Masonic Lodge, Palliative Care NSW, Comfort Inn Bushmans and Parkes Shire Council for their generous support and assistance. And a huge thank you to Tony Fisher and the Parkes Palliative Care volunteers for organising the event.

The Neighbourhood Central Palliative Care Volunteer Service recently organised and hosted a regional seminar for volunteers and health care workers. The theme was “The Cost Of Caring – Under the Umbrella of Palliative Care”.

Don’t Miss The Social Event Of The Year

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Who will win the coveted Coradgery Cup in 2023? Pictured is last years winner Neon Moon with jockey Tony Cavallo. Inset: Local band Foxxy Cleopatra will once again be entertaining the crowds this Saturday.

It is once again that time of year, and all the elements are coming together for the premier event of the Parkes social calendar. The Parkes Coradgery and Diggers Picnic Races will be held this Saturday 10th June. So, dust off your fascinators and race gear and be sure to get involved in this great local event.

Fashions on the Field is one of the highlights of the day offering an array of prizes and prestige to the glamourous colts and fillies. The Fashions on the Field categories this year will once again include: Elegant Lady, Stylish Man, Millinery and Best Dressed couple.

The spectator area is looking great and the track is in top notch condition for the day’s five-race program. The renovated grandstand and covered bookies rink complete the excellent facilities for punters and a relaxed environment offers something for everyone, making this venue one of the best in the Central West.

The June long weekend has long since become a ‘back to Parkes’ weekend, with many residents opening their homes to friends and relatives who return to Parkes to celebrate for the weekend.

The event attracts visitors from all over the state, as well as from interstate.

There will be food on offer from the Quota ladies, who are back in the saddle driving the canteen in the newly renovated grandstand space. There will also be full bar facilities on course.

Several commercial and private marquees will be providing food and alcohol, so gather your friends and join a group for an afternoon of fun and entertainment.

Much loved local band, Foxxy Cleopatra, has been invited to perform on the day to provide entertainment for all to enjoy.

Organise a group and head along for a great day out. Gates open at 11.30am and entry is $20 for adults, under 16 years are free. Get your tickets before the event from123tix or at the gate on the day.

Boys To The Bush Striving To Fund 100 Days Of MENtoring

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The donation drive kicks off today, 9th June and aims to provide kids from the most challenging backgrounds with role models to help them build resilience, develop self-belonging, and implement practical life changes.

In 2017, school teachers Adam DeMamiel, Richard Leahy, and Tim Sanson stepped out of the classroom, deciding there were more important lessons to be taught in their community.

The trio formed Boys to the Bush, a charity committed to curbing the growing cohort of disengaged young males in regional Australia through camps and MENtoring programs.

Now located in seven regional communities, including Forbes, Boys to the Bush are launching an online donation drive to raise money to fund 100 days of free MENtoring across its sites.

The donation drive starts on 6th June and aims to provide kids from the most challenging backgrounds with role models to help them build resilience, develop self-belonging, and implement practical life changes.

Adam DeMamiel, CEO and Co-Founder of Boys to the Bush said, “Boys to the Bush has worked with over 6,000 kids, and the support of our communities has been pivotal to the positive outcomes reached by the youth.”

“We are launching 100 days of MENtoring to ensure access to such a life changing program is in reach of the kids that desperately need it. Any contribution is much appreciated and will go directly to the youth that need it most,” said Adam.

Boys to the Bush is a not-for-profit, community-based charity, and donations to the 100 days of MENtoring campaign are fully tax deductible. To donate, go to https://boystothebush.org.au/donate

The Voice – Why The Hon Michael McCormack MP Voted No

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

When the vote to change the Constitution goes before the people of Australia later this year, everyone will have the opportunity to individually have their say by way of a vote.

I remain deeply concerned about what the Voice will do to our country and the way in which we are governed.

Ultimately, The Nationals believe adding another layer of bureaucracy in Canberra will not genuinely close the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

The Nationals want to address the serious issues affecting Indigenous Australians by delivering frontline, evidence-based and place-based solutions which will help lift Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people out of poverty – by stimulating economic participation, generating jobs and eliminating domestic and family violence.

We believe the bureaucracy should leave Canberra and visit communities around regional and rural town halls and campfires – instead of bureaucracy coming to Canberra.

Labor still has not made clear who will be elected to the Voice, how candidates will be chosen and what difference it will make to Indigenous people’s lives.

Everyone will have the chance to have their say via the ballot box.

A European Birthday For Marnie

June 2, 2023 By Marnie

Marnie is captured enjoying a fun filled trip around Europe.

It’s Marnie here again, with an update of month four. Oh my goodness, time is flying so fast. They say time flies when you’re having fun, and I can say that is definitely true. As per my past updates, I have experienced so many amazing things, but here are just some of them.

Firstly, I celebrated my first birthday abroad. It was so cool having a birthday in another country and I had an amazing day filled with amazing people.

I only returned from a tour around Europe a week ago. It was with all the people in Germany from other countries who are doing a Rotary exchange like me and was fantastic.

We saw endless amounts of famous and just great things. Including the leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa Italy, the United Nations in Vienna Austria and the Colosseum in Rome Italy. That’s just to name threen of the numerous things we did and saw.

We travelled around Europe by bus and went to six different countries, including Italy, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and the Czech Republic.

Even though I had a great trip, I was very happy to see my host family and Bella (their cat) when I arrived home.

Since returning, I have been back at school for four days. It was so good to see all my friends again. I am now back into my normal German routine after having an amazing three weeks travelling around Europe.

Bye for now Parkes! I will write to you all again in another months time.

Marnie

Farewell To Forbes Betta Home Living After 21 Years

June 2, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Head along and score yourself a bargain as Forbes Better Home Living prepares to close its doors.

After 21 years of serving the local community, Forbes Betta Home Living are closing their doors for the final time on Friday, 9th June. With an impending retirement near, owners Ian and Mandy Westcott have decided to close the business.

Family owned and operated, Ian and Mandy Westcott are the second generation in their family to run the Forbes store. For the past 21 years, the Forbes store has been a one-stop shop, helping the local community find the right appliances and furniture for their home, with the store stocking a huge range of Kitchen, Laundry, Small Appliances, IT products and Bedding.

To mark its closure, the team at Forbes Betta Home Living are offering the community mark-downs and reductions across a range of home appliances and consumer electrical goods. For a limited time until the final operating date of Friday 9th June, Forbes Betta Home Living are offering bargains including:

• Up to 25% off Fridges
• Up to 30% off Washing Machines
• Up to 50% off Small Appliances
• Up to 30% off Floorcare
• Up to 20% off Dishwashers

The Forbes Betta Home Living Closing Down Sale will run until Friday 9th June 2023, while stocks last.

Despite the closure of the Forbes store, Parkes Betta Home Living will continue to service the Forbes local community, which is only a 25-minute drive north of the Forbes location. Customers can still receive amazing service, deals, and exceptional local advice on all your fridge and freezer, kitchen and cooking appliances, air conditioning, furniture, bedding, TV and audio requirements.

Parkes Betta Home Living are located at 11 Saleyards Road Parkes and you can contact them on 6862 2237. Opening hours may vary, please call or check the Betta website for more information.

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