Articles Archives - Page 151 of 452

CDS Bowled Over By Donation

July 22, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Parkes Services Club President Dorothy Charlton and General Manager Mike Phillips with members of the Currajong Disability Services bowling team.

Playing ten pin bowling every month against several other regional towns means a lot to clients of Currajong Disability Services (CDS).

The Parkes Services Club has stepped up again for the sixth year running to sponsor the transport of about 30 players to get to Orange once per month to play in a post school options bowling league.

“The $5,000 donation enables the players from Parkes, Forbes, Peak Hill and Condobolin to all travel together in a bus,” said Doug Pout from CDS. “Competing and socialising with their peers in the region means the world to them.”

Parkes Service Club General Manager Mike Phillips said the board was very passionate about helping the team to go to Orange every month.

First Languages Talk In Parkes

July 22, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

The launch of the Wiradjuri Ngurambang Exhibition at Parkes Library & Cultural Centre will include a talk by two prominent guests to make for a very interesting and informative event.

Beau Williams and Bruce Pascoe will be at the centre on Tuesday, 26th July from 6-7:30pm for the First Languages Australia talk. Beau Williams is the CEO of FirstLanguages Australia, an organisation that works to maintain and strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages across Australia.

Bruce Pascoe will be discussing his award-winning book, Dark Emu, which offers an alternative perspective of Australia’s First Nations, a history that for many Australians has been largely silenced.

Over the past 250 years significant environmental and cultural knowledge of Australia’s First Nations people has been lost or has become fragmented, including many of the languages that were spoken across Australia. More recently, there has been lots of work undertaken to preserve and revive First Nations languages, knowledge and culture.

In the Parkes Shire many schools are teaching the Wiradjuri language to children.

“We are honoured to be hosting such esteemed guests as part of this First Languages Australia talk,” said Manager Cultural, Education & Library Services Kerryn Jones said. “Both Beau and Bruce have such a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with the community.”

This is a free event, but bookings are required as places are limited. Visit Parkes Shire Council’s website or Facebook page, or contact the Parkes Library on 6861 2309. The Wiradjuri Ngurambang Exhibition is a permanent display, located in the Parkes Library & Cultural Centre.

Prostate Cancer Now Most Common Cancer In Australia

July 22, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Prostate cancer diagnosis has reached a crisis point. It is now the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia, overtaking breast cancer as the country’s leading cause of cancer.

To make matters worse, testing guidelines are based on outdated data and are likely contributing to the deaths of an increasing number of men. New data by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates 24,217 Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, compared to 20,640 women diagnosed with breast cancer. That’s a 34% increase on the previous year.

This news confirms that prostate cancer is among the most significant challenges facing men’s health in Australia, and simply cannot be ignored any longer by policy makers and practitioners who do not realise the significant toll the disease takes on our lives.

Prostate cancer accounts for more hospitalisations than any other type of cancer in the country. This data provides further justification for an urgent review of the nation’s Clinical Guidelines for PSA testing, which measures prostate-specific antigen levels in the bloodstream. Existing guidelines are now six years old and based on outdated data. We hold grave fears they are putting men’s lives at risk, with 66 men diagnosed every day and more than 3,500 men expected to die from prostate cancer this year – a toll we can avoid if the disease is diagnosed early.

Nationally, we have seen a fourfold increase in the proportion of men waiting for more than a year for a prostatectomy, with nearly 1 in 10 patients waiting 12 months or longer in areas where incidence and referrals are higher, as in NSW.

Investing now in the restoration of services and staff is urgently needed to ensure safe, timely, and effective care. Without immediate action Australia will be confronted by an increase in excess avoidable deaths from prostate cancer.

A review of the Clinical Guidelines for PSA testing is urgently needed to ensure we triage patients appropriately and diagnose prostate cancers before they spread outside the prostate. The consequences if we don’t could be catastrophic for thousands of men at risk of being bottlenecked in a health system that is not coping with the service pressures of the post-COVID period.

More broadly, this is a call to action for all Australians. Over the past 26 years the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) has played an important role in vastly expanding our efforts on all fronts of research, awareness, and support. You can expect us to act on this news with great resolve, in concert with Prostate Cancer Support Groups Australia wide.

By Professor Jeff Dunn AO
(chief of mission and head of research at the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia)

The Parkes Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at Parkes Neighbourhood Central at 7pm. Contact Michael on 0408 975 643.

Calling All Farmers – Unite In Forbes For Agribusiness Today Forum 2022

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

This year’s Agribusiness Today Forum on 4th August at the Forbes Golf and Sportsman’s Hotel is one Farmers in the Central West should not miss.

Members of the Central West agribusiness community are set to get together in Forbes for Agribusiness Today Forum 2022, with the Forbes Golf and Sportsman’s Hotel set to host the major event on Thursday, 4th August.

The theme for the 2022 forum is ‘Mixed Farming Enterprises – Adapting to a Changing Climate’.

For more than 25 years the Agribusiness Today Forum has brought together expert speakers to give an insight into domestic and international market trends, the opportunities for improving productivity and sustainability, and increasing market growth.

The forum is expected to attract over 100 delegates to Forbes who will be addressed by high calibre speakers including representatives from Rabobank, Department of Primary Industries, Endeavour Meats, HE Silos, Lachlan Commodities, Select Carbon, Future Feed, Charles Sturt University, AgStar Projects, AWI Sheep Connect NSW, The University of Melbourne and NBN Co.

Regional Development Australia Central West (RDA Central West) CEO, Wayne Sunderland said this year’s event is one not to miss.

“The Agribusiness Today Forum is a fantastic platform to highlight the agriculture sector and the developing research and new innovations driving the industry,” said Mr Sunderland.

“The industry is constantly evolving, especially regarding technology, sustainable farming practices and climate change adaptation. This year the forum will focus on adapting to the changes we are facing when it comes to climate and I’m looking forward to hearing the speakers discuss this important topic.

“It’s fantastic to see the Agribusiness Today Forum back for 2022 after two years of postponement due to Covid and we are also excited to announce the forum will be hosted by ABC Central West rural reporter, Hugh Hogan.”

To learn more about the event and to purchase tickets, visit the Agribusiness Today Forum website at www.agribusinesstodayforum.com. The $50 ticket price covers entry to hear from 13 expert speakers as well as morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.

Masonic Lodge Helps Palliative Care Volunteers

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

At the handing over of the donation last week were (L-R) Eric Barras, Denise Field, Tim Keith, Ray Knights, Stephen Hall, Chris Duffy, Garry Phipps, Kaye Lindsay, Bob Steel, Maria Buchanan, Kim Sheridan and Dianne Scott.

The important work carried out by palliative care volunteers in Parkes will be amplified thanks to a generous donation made by members of the Goldfields Masonic Lodge.

The Neighbourhood Central Palliative Care Volunteer Service last week received a $4,490 donation from the Goldfields Lodge 40 raised from local fundraising and the Masonicare InterACTION Grants.

Masonicare is the charitable arm of the United Grand Lodge of NSW and the ACT, which is the governing body for Freemasonry in NSW and the ACT.

“We are very happy to be able to help the locals,” said Eric Barrass of the Goldfields Lodge. “That is what we are all about.”

Neighbourhood Central Executive Officer Dianne Scott said the Palliative Care Volunteer Service had been running for the past ten years and was a very valuable service for the community.

The competence of volunteers is extremely important. Training also aims to enhance access for volunteers to support palliative care patients and their carers and families in terms of physical, functional, emotional, psychological, social and spiritual care in the end-of-life period.

“Our carefully selected palliative care volunteers are active and important members of our Parkes and Forbes Shire communities,” said Dianne. “They provide a range of support at no cost to help patients and their carers and families at a difficult time. This includes practical assistance and respite for carers, or companionship to support a person to pass away at home if that is their wish.”

Marc’s Images Among Top 101 In The World!

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

GREAT ACHIEVEMENT… Two portrait studies of Parkes photographer Marc Payne have made it into the top 101 photographs in the world. The photos are of Parkes local Bill Bourke (left) and the Peak Hill artist Scott ‘Sauce’ Towney.

A Parkes photographer is one of only a handful of Australians to be named finalists in the prestigious International Portrait Photographer of the Year competition.

Of the 618 entries received, two photos of Marc Payne made it to the top 101 portrait photographs in the world, while a third image missed it by one per cent of getting through.

The two images were of Parkes local Bill Bourke and the artist Scott ‘Sauce’ Towney from Peak Hill.

“It is a privilege to know my work can match the best in the world,” said Marc.

His two images will be published with all the other finalists in the International Portrait Photographer of The Year annual book. The highly respected Australian Photography Magazine and the top selling Capture Magazine also published Marc’s photos with the other Australian finalists. They are Mariana Zilbershteyn, Mark Chamberlain and Kris Anderson. Karen Waller won the Portrait Story category.

Marc entered the same competition last year with the purpose of getting feedback on his work and never expected to make it to the top 101 photographs in the world. He was named a finalist for his image of Dustin Howarth, a friend and artist.

“Photography is like a drug to me,” said Marc. “I’m addicted to it, and take photos every day. I’m now on the hunt for five subjects for next year’s competition.”

Marc has also entered the international landscape photography competition Epson Panorama Awards and the David Malin Awards, Australia’s most prestigious astrophotography competition.

By Maggi Barnard

Heavy Vehicle Breakfast A Success

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

IMAGE SOURCE: Facebook

More than 60 delegates from across the region attended the Central West NSW Heavy Vehicle Breakfast Forum recently.

The event, hosted by Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils, was essential in providing opportunities to share information, network and discuss local issues.

The Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor said: “Freight is important – everything we consume comes off the back of a truck, and safety in that sector is vital.”

The forum was attended by local transport companies, truck drivers and farmers along with various associations and government agencies.

“There were a lot of questions about rest areas, local access and the cost savings that are offered by PBS vehicles,” Melanie said.

Snippets…

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Peak Hill celebrated the elders in the community for NAIDOC week with a morning tea at the Carrington Hotel. A performance by the Dyagang Boys and the Koori dance group was a special highlight for the Elders.

New Venue For Parkes Community Choir: The Parkes Community Choir is changing its practice venue to the Parkes Public School Hall. Access is via Hill Street. The Parkes Community Choir will begin Term 3 on Thursday, 21st July from 7pm until 8:30pm. Term 3 will run for eight weeks. This is a free, fun activity and everyone is welcome. You do not need to be able to sing, you just need to love to sing.

Does your organisation need funding? Forbes Shire Council’s Community Funding Program is open for applications until midnight on Sunday, 31st July. Eligible organisations can apply for up to $5,000 as cash or in-kind support (or a combo). For more information and to view and complete the application form head to the SmartyGrants portal at https://forbesshire.smartygrants.com.au/

Nominate A Tradie – Forbes & Parkes: Remember to nominate your favourite tradie in our exciting Tradie of the Month competitions running in Forbes and Parkes, sponsored by Gunn’s Menswear and Totally Work Wear respectively. Readers can nominate a tradie, male or female, to go into the draw and the winner each month will win a prize. Simply drop into Gunn’s Menswear or Totally Work Wear to nominate a tradie, or send us an email at editor@forbesphoenix.com.au or editor@parkesphoenix.com.au. The closing date for this month is Friday, 29th July.

Record Apprentice Intake: A record number of new apprenticeships and trainees will be hired to work on vital road and transport infrastructure in the regions. Applications are now open for 135 placements – an 80% increase on last year. Opportunities will be available across 10 disciplines, including civil construction, bridge construction, painting and blasting, electrical, heavy diesel mechanic, business administration, project management and three new programs in marketing and communications, finance and safety, environment and quality. Applications close midnight 7th August. For more information: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/apprentice-trainees

RSPCA Cupcake Day: RSPCA NSW is encouraging supporters to sign up and host a Cupcake Day event at home, school, or work, on any day in August. Over 100,000 animals turn to the RSPCA looking for help, every year. RSPCA Cupcake Day is the chance raise funds to fight animal cruelty. Signing up is a piece of cake, head to www.rspcacupcakeday.com.au and start baking for a pawsome cause.

Indigenous Basketball Australia held a free basketball session for school students in Forbes last week as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations organised by the Forbes Youth Action Team. Participants were able to hone their skills and learn from the best in the state. (Photo: FYAT)

Parkes Rotary Club Wins Three Awards

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

New District Governor Geraldine Rurenga (left) with Parkes Rotary Club President Robert Shore and President of Canberra Rotary Sandra Turner at the awards night.

It was a night of many awards for the Parkes Rotary Club at the recent District 9705 Changeover held in Mittagong with the Parkes president taking out Area Rotarian and District Rotarian of the Year.

The main award of the night was the presentation of the District Rotarian of the Year. Parkes Rotary Club President Robert Shore was recognised for his hard work in promoting the club, attracting new members, getting grants for projects and contributing to district and international projects. Robert also started the Parkes Rotary YouTube channel, and produced a successful three-monthly speaker program bringing speakers from all over Australia to Parkes.

Robert received the Area Rotarian of the Year for the work done by the club. Parkes not only attracted 10 new members this year, but contributed to the community by purchasing a driver simulator, conducted mental health first aid courses, and held an Australia Day community dinner.

“The awards really recognise the hard work and the support which comes from the Rotary Club of Parkes,” said Robert who felt “humbled and embarrassed” by the awards. He said Parkes was a terrific club.

The third award for Parkes on the night went to Robert and Rotary club member Ian Freestone. They received the first of four District Awards for excellence in Public Image and Communications for the Parkes Rotary YouTube Channel. The channel was started nine months ago and the 36 episodes have been viewed over 9,000 times. The episodes focus on Rotary projects and topics of general interest. The six episode series of six migrants from different parts of the world who now live in Parkes was particularly popular. It was done as part of the Australia Day celebrations in Parkes.

District 9705 includes nearly 2,000 Rotarians in 87 clubs, and the Changeover sees a new District President inducted and awards presented to clubs and individuals for their contribution during the year.

Rotary Life Members

July 15, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

The Parkes Rotary Club awarded life membership for the first time to John Pizarro, Arnold Byrne and Bill White. The three stalwarts have each been with the club for over 50 years.

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