General Interest Archives - Page 86 of 352

Danielle McDonald Is Riding High Following International Selection

August 10, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Danielle McDonald has just been selected to compete in the International Six-Day Enduro (ISDE) in Argentina.

Local Parkes girl, 16 year old Danielle McDonald has been dominating the junior girls division in Australian offroad and motocross for many years now. She has just been selected to step up to the senior category and compete in the International Six-Day Enduro (ISDE), being held from 6th- 11th November in San Jaun, Argentina.

Each year, three women from Team Australia head overseas to compete against the best women in the world. Each riders time is accumulated to score a team result, fighting for the top step on the podium.

The Team Australia women have won six world ISDE titles, they have scored multiple podiums over the years and are in a great position for 2023.

Joining Danielle McDonald in Argentina to represent Australia will be Tayla Jones and Jessica Gardiner, who have both been a part of the previous six consecutive ISDE wins.

We met up with Danielle and her dad Jason at their family property in Parkes where Jason has set up a mini motocross track for training purposes. Danielle is only 16 years old but she has already been riding motorcycles for 14 years and competing for 11 years.

“I was two years old when I first started riding, and about five years old when I started racing against the boys at our local track over at Condobolin,” said Danielle.

To say Danielle is dominating the Junior Girls competition in Australia it is no understatement; Danielle has won four Junior Girl HATTAH Titles, one of the biggest desert races in Australia. She won the MX Junior Title and has also won two Offroad Championships.

“My major goal is to get to the world stage, and hopefully win it one day,” said Danielle.

Racing motorcycles is a family affair for the McDonalds, with Danielle’s brother Dylan also a competitive rider who is currently placed second in the Australian Offroad competition.

Proud dad and number one supporter, Jason McDonald said, “She was picked up a few years ago by champion rider Jessica Gardner, and since then Danielle has gotten quicker and quicker. We’ve just returned from the Australian Junior Motocross in Darwin where Danielle won, so that means she is the Australian Junior champion.”

Danielle races with YAMAHA JGR Ballards Offroad Racing and is set to compete in the last round of the World Enduro Series, the competition that Jessica Gardner is currently placedsecond. Danielle will be competing in the last round of that competition as a taste-test to her debut on the international stage for the ISDE.

Tayla, 27 and Jess, 30, are both extremely accomplished in the sport are excited to race alongside Danielle who is the future of the sport. As a team, their goal is to represent the Australian colours to the highest standard and level in Motorcycling and showing that women in sport are powerful. The team are focussed on continuing to achieve great results and once again return to Australian soil with the perpetual ISDE women’s cup trophy.

A Go Fund Me page is currently being set up to to help get the team get to South America. Details will be published when available.

Danielle pictured out on the track doing what she loves, riding and competing.

Simulator Experience ForTrundle Students

August 10, 2023 By Roxane Manley

“Students organised in pairs were provided two experiences on the simulator,” said Ken Engsmyr of Parkes Rotary.

Students from Trundle Central School recently spent time learning about the effects of alcohol, drugs, and distractions when they experienced a driving simulator.

The effect of distraction is demonstrated by asking a driver to maintain control of a vehicle while being distracted by text messages, trying to pick up an object from the cabin floor, and taking selfies. The participant experiences how it’s difficult to maintain control of a vehicle when distracted.

After trying to drive the simulator when distracted, Trundle Central student, Harry said “It’s much harder to drive while distracted because you are not focusing on the road anymore.”

Legacy Centenary Torch Relay In Forbes

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Students at Forbes Public School cheered on, and saw the exchange of torch lighting during the Legacy Relay.

The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay 2023, presented by Defence Health arrived in Forbes, Monday 31st July, as part of its Australian journey to commemorate Legacy’s Centenary. The Forbes tour began at Lake Forbes Water Park at 11am, travelled a 2.5 kilometre route before culminating at Forbes Legacy Club for lighting of the cauldron.

Torch Bearers included Legacy beneficiaries, Legatees and Defence Personnel. The relay also featured an Australian Defence Force tri-service escort. Official Torch Bearers include Martin Cunningham, Frank Hanns, Michael Walker, Pam Bellhouse, Phyllis Miller, Diana Morris, Margaret Simmonds and Paul Findley.

Start An Exciting Career In Mining With A CMOC Northparkes Mines Apprenticeship

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

This is a four year program including on-the-job training, coaching from experienced trades people and a qualification through a Registered Training Organisation.

The Northparkes Mines Apprenticeship Program has been in place since 2005 and offers employment opportunities to a diverse selection of local people, the roles start date is in January of each year.

We currently employ eleven apprentices who are at various stages of their trades which include welding and fabrication, fitting and machining, electrical, light vehicle, mobile plant (heavy vehicle), and automotive electrical. The apprenticeships are a four-year program including on-the-job training, coaching from experienced trades people and a national trade qualification through a Registered Training Organisation.

You will get exposure to all aspects of mining throughout your time onsite and have the opportunity to specialise in an area of your choice in your fourth year.

In addition, Northparkes Mines apprentices are provided with all tools required to complete their trade, free accommodation while attending TAFE, and extra tutor support for TAFE courses if needed.

Northparkes Mines is very proud of the success of the Apprentice Program since it’s introduction which has provided a trade pathway for locals into the mining industry.

Our program combines theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on experience in the mining industry.

With Northparkes Mines apprenticeship completion rates sitting at 82% and 30% of those still currently working at CMOC Northparkes in both trade and leadership roles, the apprenticeship provide a great opportunity for career progression and longevity.

To view our current 2024 Apprenticeship vacancies and to apply, visit our website at www.northparkes.com/work-with-us/make-your-mark

Spicer Oval Amenities And Clubhouse “A Place To Call Home”

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Pictured moments before the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the opening of the new Clubhouse Facilities at Spicer Oval are from L-R is Central West Rugby chief executive officer Jarrod Simpson, Parkes Boars Clubman Allan Ryan, Parkes Mayor Ken Kieth OAM, Hon Michael McCormack MP, Mr Phil Donato MP, Allan Gersbach President of Parkes Shire Sports Council and The president of the Parkes Rugby Club Kevin Oliver

The Parkes Shire Council and Parkes Rugby, among other state, federal and local delegates, were on hand to officially open the new Spicer Oval amenities and clubhouse facility on Saturday the 29th of July.

The project received $900,000 from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program as well as $1,628,081 from the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions program Round 7. Parkes Boars contributed $27,000 and local sporting grants were secured for $8,000, with the project totalling $2,677,000.

This facility gives Parkes Rugby a home ground facility for the first time in 12 years. Rugby has had no amenities building, no clubhouse and no lights to train under for more than a decade and thanks to a number of grants, they now have these facilities to support current and future users.The four changerooms also enables the club to adequately support female rugby players, a growing sport across the globe.

Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Ken Keith OAM, is thrilled with the new facility. “It is my pleasure to congratulate the Parkes Rugby Union Club on the realisation of their long-held dream of a club house and home base at Spicer Oval.

“I would like to acknowledge the Australian Government’s contribution through the LRCI Program and the State Government’s grant contribution through the Resources for Regions which have made this possible. Council is proud to support this project which will also benefit the cricket fraternity,” he added.

Allan Ryan of the Parkes Boars commented, “The club will now be able to host competition games with a clubhouse and facilities that we can be proud of. The club will be able to decorate the building with colour and memorabilia to celebrate the current and past history. The new facility boosts the club future with the facilities to host functions and tournaments.”

We spoke to Parkes Boars Rugby Club President Kevin Oliver and he said “It is an excellent facility, and it’s good to have somewhere to call home again”.

Boars first grade captain Ben Ryan, who has his own personal cheer squad, being his beautiful wife and children and parents, went on to say “It has been a long time coming and it is an incredible change for the club. We’ve got some great shelter now, it’s really made a big difference to the quality of life for the families coming down to the grounds.”

Standing at 48m x 15m in size, it hosts four changerooms, a function room and kitchen as well as room for 300 seats under cover to watch matches of both rugby and cricket. The facility is supported by a new car park as well as new lighting, most of which has been grant funded.

This project is proudly joint-funded by the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program, Round 7 of the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions program, Parkes Boars Rugby Union Club and Parkes Shire Council.

A magnificent aerial view of the brand new clubhouse facilities at Spicer Oval in Parkes.

Successful Heavy Vehicle Breakfast Forum

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Ron Finemore shared his company’s experience with Seeing Machines’ Driver Monitoring System.

Heavy vehicle safety was in the spotlight recently at a breakfast forum hosted by Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils. The Council’s Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, says the forum has become a regular fixture since its inception in 2012.

Presenters were from NHVR, Transport for NSW, Ron Finemore Transport, National Transport Commission and NSW Police.

“Thank you to all the guest speakers who made the forum informative and thought provoking for participants. And thank you to everyone who attended,” said Melanie.

“A special mention to Ron Finemore who so generously shared his company’s experience with Seeing Machines’ Driver Monitoring System. The effective use of this technology will profoundly reduce the frequency of fatigue and distraction events while driving.

“There were lots of questions and engagement with all of the speakers – especially around access, rest areas, work diaries and fatigue rules.

“Since the forum, I have received lots of requests about how to order the free Fresnel lenses from Transport for NSW. A Fresnel lens is a thin plastic lens attached to the passenger side window on a heavy vehicle. It gives the driver a wide-angle view as they look through the lens. The driver can see in their blind spot and notice other road users who may otherwise have been hidden,” Melanie said.

NSW transport operators can order free lenses at https://shout.finsbury.com.au/ustore/67/Home with stock code: 45097620. Please note eligibility criteria applies.

The forum was recorded and the videos of each session can be viewed online.The links are as follows:

• Session One: Heavy Vehicle Access: https://youtu.be/BPtpwu50ICI

• Session Two: Driver Fatigue: https://youtu.be/J3z0IBABknQ

• Session Three: Legislation, Enforcement &; Road Safety: https://youtu.be/liSvqtHM5Y8

Ron Finemore Transport Case Study: https://youtu.be/aMNr6jCuPd8

Sounds Of Country On Lake Forbes

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Rising stars of Australian country music – and the new backing band for Lee Kernaghan – Hurricane Fall is the headlining act at Sundown Sounds

Forbes’ inaugural Sundown Sounds will take place at the picturesque Lions Park on 5th August, with music starting at 5:45pm.

Hurricane Fall, a high energy country rock band will be joined by the amazing Katie Jayne and band, and the town’s very own Gracey Denham-Jones.

Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said “This is an exciting and free event we are hosting on the lake at Lions Park, the perfect setting to dine at one of our amazing food vans, BYO esky and attempt the bucking bull with friends and family,” Mayor Miller said.

“I am looking forward to pulling on the boots for an evening of good food, good music and great times with old and new friends.”

For those wishing to do their homework before the event, check out Council’s Facebook event to listen to the Sundown Sounds Spotify Playlist.

Sundown Sounds is a free community event that has been funded by the NSW Government.

“We thank the government for their support to help our precious regional communities stay connected and build new connections. These connections are so important when we are faced with so many challenges in our livelihoods, grab your mates, grab your esky and join us by the lake for what is sure to be an epic evening of live music” said Mayor Miller.

All ages are welcome. Tickets are free, but essential and are available at www.123tix.com.au/events/37984/forbes-sundown-sound

3 Million Loaves And 2 Million Tins Of Milo – All In A Year’s Work For Our Grain Farmers

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Sweeping paddocks of grain crops are a familiar sight across much of regional Australia, but how many stop to think that those crops end up in their sandwich or breakfast bowl?

In fact, the average Aussie wheat farmer produces enough grain to make 3 million loaves of bread and 2 million tins of Milo.

In the final week of a crusade to better connect consumers with where their food comes from – and to value that food – the NFF-led campaign under the Australians Farmers platform aims to connect those dots.

NFF President Fiona Simson, hoped the Australian Farmers campaign had opened people’s eyes to the work farmers invested into growing food sustainably.

“This week we’re putting the spotlight on a household staple – bread. It’s main ingredient, wheat, is also a staple in the farming world,” she said.

Australia produces 23 million tonnes of wheat each year. This is used in bread, pasta, pizza dough, cake, instant noodles, dumpling skins and even animal feed.

Bread is one of the most wasted foods in Australia, bread is too precious to waste, store it properly and learn what to do if it goes stale

Help Save Little Lives By Getting Silly For A Serious Cause

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

This month marks the 35th annual Red Nose Day, on Friday 11th August, with Australians encouraged to get on board to stop little lives being cut short and help grieving families get the support they need.

The first Red Nose Day, held in 1988, paved the way for today’s landscape of national charity fundraising days, urging Australians to wear a red nose and get “silly for a serious cause.”

35 years later, Red Nose Day is still a much-loved and iconic national fundraising event, with thousands of people taking part in Red Nose Day activities across the country each year.

Despite having reduced SIDS by 80% and investing more than $18 million into lifesaving research, Red Nose’s work is far from over. 3,000 babies and young children still die suddenly from stillbirth, SUDI and other causes each year, and it is estimated that 1 in 4 pregnancies ends in miscarriage.

Red Nose Australia CEO, Keren Ludski, encourages everyone to show their support by buying merchandise, registering to hold a fundraising event or making a donation.

“From the beginning, Australians have embraced the silliness and seriousness of Red Nose Day to help stop little lives being cut devastatingly short,” Keren said.

“Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Red Nose Day is an opportunity for every Australian to offer their support to grieving families and prevent more little lives from being lost.”

Every dollar raised on Red Nose Day will directly fund around-the-clock support services for grief-stricken families as well as education programs for new parents to help keep their babies safe.

Donate now at rednoseday.org.au/donate

Time To Celebrate Our Caring Superheroes

August 3, 2023 By Roxane Manley

All Australians, Aged care providers, residents and families are invited to join the Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) and say a giant ‘thanks for caring’ to our dedicated and compassionate aged care staff to mark Aged Care Employee Day on Mondayth August.

This will be the fifth time we have celebrated our thousands of aged care workers with Aged Care Employee Day (ACED).

ACCPA CEO Tom Symondson said workers in aged care had gone above and beyond the call of duty in this past year and continue to face immense challenges in providing care and support for older Australians.

“As we approach Aged Care Employee Day on Monday, we want to keep in mind the almighty effort put in by aged care workers and encourage the public to take a moment and say, ‘thank you for caring’,” Mr Symondson said.

“They all deserve our thanks for their professionalism, their warmth, and their enthusiasm to help older Australians live comfortably.”

ACCPA congratulates our aged care heroes for their dedication, compassion and their hard work and we encourage the public to give them the recognition they so handsomely deserve.

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