Articles Archives - Page 382 of 436

Expanding Horizons on Harmony Day

March 23, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

Middleton Public School students were tak- en on a virtual safari for the school’s annual Harmony Day event on Tuesday.

Harmony Day is an opportunity to explore some of the cultural backgrounds from their school community. Each year Mid- dleton focuses on a different family’s experience to provide the students with a rich understanding of another culture. Last year they examined Tonga, and this year they explored South Africa.

South African-born students Liam and Ryan Snyman generously brought their parents to speak to the school. Their mother, Linda Snyman, gave an engaging presentation about their native South Africa, highlighting some of the unique elements of their country and culture. Her presentation introduced the students to beaded crafts, traditional African dance, and of course the wildlife.

Students were amazed to learn that South Africa has 11 official languages, and that traffic lights are known as robots, or that textas are called kokis. Students were also intrigued by South African foods, such as mieliepap – a maize meal porridge, and biltong – salted and dried meat that is similar to jerky. They even got to sample South African sausage. At the end the students participated in a traditional African gum- boot dance, which was rather appropriate with the storms outside.

By Raen Fraser

A Pulled Calf Is A Muscle Tear

March 23, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

The calf muscles are commonly injured in sports that involve quick acceleration, de-celeration or sudden changes in direction.

Many people describe a sudden sensation of being struck on the back of the leg. A calf muscle tear is often referred to as a strain or a pulled muscle.

The calf comprises of two large muscles, gastrocnemius and soleus. They both join to form the Achilles tendon, which inserts into the heel bone. The gastrocnemius also helps to bend the knee and together they contract to point the toes.

Tears to the calf muscle can range from a small partial tear with little pain and minimal loss of function to a complete rupture, which may require surgery. Recovery time and re- turn to sport depends upon the severity of the injury.

The immediate treatment for all calf injuries consists of the RICE protocol – rest, ice compression and elevation.

The No HARM protocol should also be applied – no heat, no alcohol, no running and no massage. This is aimed at reduc- ing bleeding and secondary tissue dam- age within the muscle. If you are unable to walk without a limp, the use of a heel raise or wearing shoes with a small heel will decrease pain without further stressing the muscle. A compression bandage or wearing SKINS over the injured area helps limit bleeding and swelling.

As pain decreases gentle exercise and stretching can begin in addition to treatment recommended by your friendly sports physio. It is important not to ignore a calf strain as return to activity too soon could make the injury worse.

For the fitness of you.

Linda Reilly

PCYC Cares For Kids

March 23, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

The PCYC in Parkes offers after school care and vacation care for children from Kindergarten to Year 6.

With the school holidays just around the corner, it is important to book a place as only 45 children can be accommodated per day.

With Maddye Potts as co-ordinator vacation care will run from 10th to 14th April; 17th to 21st April and 24th and 25th April. A full program filled with lots of different activities, including physical play, craft, cooking, drama, science, creative play, movies, electronics and of course Easter crafts has been drawn up. An excursion day to the Western Plains Zoo is planned for Wednesday, 19th April, and the next day kids will make their own cornflake chicken nuggets and sweet potato chips lunch.

The PCYC provides morning tea, while each child brings lunch and afternoon tea.

After school care is run five days a week from 3 to 6pm for Kindergarten to Year 6 students. They do similar activities as in holiday care, but also do homework twice a week to help take stress off parents. There are openings available in after school care.

Both programs are flexible to allow kids to come as needed. Contact the PCYC on 6862 3825 to book a place or to get an in- formation pack on cost.

Mayoral Notes

March 23, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

I would firstly like to thank our wonderful local State Emergency Service members for their work responding to all the emer- gency calls during the flash flooding earlier this week. The Parkes area experienced a greater than one in one hundred year rain- fall event on Monday evening, resulting in flooding in parts of the town. A big thank you also to Council’s roads crew for working around the clock, directing traffic around those flooded areas.

Residents are encouraged to share their rainfall data with Council to allow our Infra- structure Department to identify problem areas throughout the town. Upload your flash flood photos, rain gauge readings and location via Council’s website.

With more wet weather on its way, I urge all motorists to exercise extreme caution when travelling. Please avoid walking or driving through flood waters, it may be deeper and faster flowing than anticipated and/or the road may have suffered extensive damage hidden beneath the water. Keep an eye on Council’s website and Facebook page for road closure updates.

The wet weather means the pool season is coming to an end, with Parkes Pool host- ing its Last Summer Splash Pool Party tomorrow.

Council hosted a number of community workshops this week for the development of a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP). The DAIP is an action plan aimed at removing barriers and making practical changes so that people with disability can enjoy the services and facilities provided by Council. Residents are encouraged to complete the DAIP survey via parkes.nsw. gov.au

Enjoy your weekend.

Yours Faithfully, Cr Ken Keith OAM Mayor of Parkes Shire

Holiday Road Trip

March 23, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

World-first Service To Ensure Safety And Performance

With the school holidays to start in two weeks’ time and Easter a week later, you might be planning a trip somewhere. Before you leave, it is vital to ensure your vehicle/ trailer/caravan combination is road worthy and safe.

Failure to abide by the towing regulations, including maximum loads, may result in a fine, or in the case of an accident, refusal of the insurance claim, and the possibility of further legal action.

At Tuned Suspension in Parkes, an agent for Pedders Suspension, you can get a tow and load assessment for $75. This world- first and comprehensive service is designed for those who tow or carry loads to better understand the effects of weight on their vehicle relevant to their individual driving scenarios.

The end result of the assessment will provide your vehicle weight relevant to the likely driving scenarios that you will face.

There are two main parts to the assessment, namely a brake, steering and sus- pension check and weight matrix.

The first check is to assess the general health of the vehicles brake, steering and suspension systems, which are the most safety-critical systems especially under the stress of additional weight from loads, tow- ing and accessories. The check includes the following:

Under car inspection of the vehicle’s entire steering and suspension system and other related undercar components.

Shock absorber test – as shock absorbers and suspension deteriorate over thou- sands of kilometres, it is often the case that a vehicle’s safety is gradually com- promised via increased braking distances, unstable cornering and various stability concerns.

Brake pad and rotor inspection will check and report on the wear and operating condition of these components.

A comprehensive written report will show the current status of all vital suspension and steering systems.

The Weight Matrix component of the as- sessment refers to knowing your weight now and looking at your weight in the fu- ture based on your towing and load carrying scenarios.

Pedders outlets have a test lane or scales to weigh both the front and rear of a vehicle. The results of this vehicle weight form the basis of the first as-weighed scenario.

As part of the initial weighing of the vehicle your current loads and accessories will be listed as the basis of the as weighed scenario 1.

Where relevant, the ball weight of caravans or trailers will be assessed as this is an integral part of some weight scenarios.

Armed with your vehicle’s current weight and expected weights from future scenari- os the weight matrix software program and report will provide key pieces of information for each different scenario.

The Pedders expert will be able to tailor a solution to ensure greater levels of safety and performance for your vehicle.

A Memorable Event: Remembering Oradour

March 16, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

The magic of books is their ability to transport the reader to another time and place, and that magic spilled from the page at the launch of Beth Thomas’s debut novel on Saturday. More than 60 people arrived at the Little Theatre for the literary event, but once they stepped inside they were treated to a touch of France. From the artfully curated props in the foyer, to the canapes and costumed servers, the book launch was an immersive experience.

Remember Oradour Souviens-Toi is a historical novel that tells the gripping story of a village in war-torn France. It was officially launched by Councillor Barbara Newton, whose speech wove quotes from acclaimed authors amongst her own adulations for the compelling work, ending with an Isobel Allende quote: “write what should not be forgotten”.

But the launch was more than simply words on paper. Liz Matthews sang a trio of French songs which were dispersed throughout the proceedings. The audience was also presented with two staged scenes from the book, with actors breathing life into emotionally charged passages – the entire theatre jumped with the crack of gunshot!

But a book launch wouldn’t be complete without a word from the author. Beth shared her many thanks, a few anecdotes, and some words of encouragement for aspiring authors. Her journey to becoming an author began where an unforgettable holiday ended. “Always take care to notice the gifts strewn in your path,” she said.

By Raen Fraser

Celebrating Women

March 16, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

Two hundred Parkes women packed the Parkes Services Club on Sunday for an afternoon of good food, good company and good entertainment. The ever-popular Quota International Women’s Day lunch celebrated Women in
Arts this year. Artists Maralyn Nash, Jo Laurie and Rosalie Burns inspired the audience sharing their personal stories, passion and art. Jo turned every table into a red thread circle to allow everyone to share what they were grateful for.

Barbara Newton mesmerised the audience with two beautiful songs and Monica Lea got everyone relaxed with a yoga demonstration. Some Quota members braved the catwalk to model beautiful outfits from The Red Chandelier.
As Quotarians are known for their service to deaf, hard-of-hearing, and speech-impaired individuals and disadvantaged women and children, President Raelene Rout highlighted some of the Parkes projects.

She said members were involved with the breakfast program at Parkes Public School, the Parkes group initiated the making of domestic violence emergency packs, and they were part of the Days for Girls international project making sanitary kits for girls to help them stay in school.

Quota has also raised funds to supply 15 classroom audio systems to schools in the shire over three years with two more on order.

You Get Shaving, Parkes

March 16, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

Do something for a good cause this Sunday afternoon with your family or friends and join the World’s Greatest Shave event at the Parkes Services Club. Parkes residents are invited to join the rest of the country to help beat blood cancer by taking part in one of Australia’s biggest fundraising events: the World’s Greatest Shave at the Parkes Services Club will kick off from 4pm.

The country duo from Cootamundra, Country Keys and Strings will be in charge of entertainment to make it a true festive event. There will be hair colouring and the Sunday Sweepstakes will also be drawn. Two residents have already signed up to do the big shave: June Edwards will lose her locks in memory of her late husband, John. She lost him six months ago to cancer and she did not think twice about signing up. June hopes to raise $1,000 for the cause and has already received a lot of support from family, friends and even strangers.

The Parkes Services Club President Terry Knowles is also putting his hair on the line. The rights to make the first cut will be auctioned to the highest bidder on the day. He has banned all sheep shears and cut throat razors from the club for the day though… and he has signed up his great-niece, an apprentice at Janice Cassidy Hair Salon to complete the job.

Kara Timmins from Hair by Kara Jane will also be ready with her clippers to do any other volunteers’ hair. Anyone else is welcome to join in the shaving frenzy, or if that is too much to ask, hair colouring is another option that will be available on the day, for children too. Get your classmates, your friends or your family to join in and make it a fun
team effort.

You may have a personal connection to cancer as so many of us do, or you would simply like to take part to have fun and raise money for a good cause. When you sign up and raise money for the World’s Greatest Shave you can make
a difference by giving families facing blood cancer the emotional and practical support they need. You will also fund vital research that will help more people survive blood cancers like lymphoma, leukaemia and myeloma, while improving their quality of life.

Every day another 35 people will be diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma. The money raised will provide emotional and practical support to families and fund vital research. A total of $560 can give a regional family a free place to stay close to treatment in the city for one week!

Recognition Meant For A Mentor

March 16, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

A commitment to mentoring staff was recognised last week when Parkes Shire Council’s Director Infrastructure was honoured by the Australian Water Association (AWA). Andrew Francis received the Kamal Fernando Mentoring Award at the AWA NSW branch awards held in Sydney last Friday.

The award recognises individuals who have displayed outstanding passion and commitment to mentoring water industry professionals in acquiring the skill and resources needed to succeed as a professional. Parkes Shire Mayor, Councillor Ken Keith OAM said: “Andrew successfully delivered our Lake Endeavour Dam upgrade project which was highly commended for project management by Engineers Australia.

Similarly our $70 million Parkes Water and Sewage Treatment Plant builders were procured through a series of early tenderer involvement workshops, again showing innovation and ability to get results through people. Andrew also chairs the CENTROC Water Utilities Alliance, which has achieved some great regional results. His dedication,
innovation and regional participation in the water industry is to be commended.” Parkes Shire Council’s General Manager Kent Boyd said: “Andrew’s expertise is a tremendous asset to not only his department, but the entire Council workforce as a respected advisor, mentor and sounding board.”

Snippets…

March 16, 2017 By Maggi Barnard

Free Cuppa: The seventh phase of the multi-award winning Free Cuppa for the Driver scheme was recently launched in Dubbo and will run until Wednesday, 31st May. Fatigue is one of the biggest killers on NSW roads – contributing to 72 fatal crashes over the last 12 months. The Free Cuppa scheme allows drivers, who have travelled more than 100km from the address on their driver’s licence, to qualify for a free cup of tea or coffee. More than
5,700 free cuppas have been given away from 185 participating businesses in 161 cities, towns and villages since its inception in 2010. The scheme is expanding to include seven more council areas. Drivers can use the Free Cuppa for the Driver app to find participating businesses.

Bush Telegraph: Keep the wheels rolling – free community information night on Tuesday, 21st March at the Tullamore Bolwing Club and Wednesday, 22nd March at Tottenham Bowling Club with barbeque dinner at 6:30pm followed by two speakers: Fran Rowe, rural financial counselor – funding following disasters; and Steve Matthews from Riverina Bluebells – taking care of yourself and what to look out for with family and friends. RSVP Helen or Sally on 6892 5003 (Tullamore) and Heather Jones on 6892 403 (Tottenham).

Phoenix distribution: The Parkes Phoenix is available in Trundle, Tullamore, Tottenham and Bogan Gate every Friday. Pick up a free copy at the Trundle Newsagency, Casho’s Café in Tullamore, Foodworks and the Post Office in Tottenham, and the Railway Hotel in Bogan Gate.

Australia’s first celebrities: Before they became celebrated Australian icons, the koala and waratah left early colonists almost star struck by their unique appearance! A new travelling display will be opening at Parkes Library from 27th March to 7th April telling the story of how the koala and the waratah were first depicted over 200 years ago, and how they have evolved over time to become national icons. According to curator Sarah Morley, early colonists found it difficult to draw the koala. It evolved over time and in 1933 Dorothy Wall brought the koala to life with her cheeky little character called Blinky Bill. By the 1960s it was used by Qantas to promote Australian tourism. The waratah has had a similarly fascinating journey that helped establish an Australian national identity and give NSW its state flower.

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