• Home
  • Articles
    • Front Page
    • General Interest
    • Special Interests
    • Snippets
    • Mayoral Notes
    • Letters to the Editor
  • Our Community
    • Our People
    • Question of the Week
    • Jobs in the Central West
    • Be Seen
    • What’s On
  • Special Interests
    • Women In Business
    • Rural Round Up
    • My Place
    • Health & Wellbeing
    • Loving Local Living
    • Just a Short Drive
    • Real Estate
  • Sports
    • Bowls
    • Cricket
    • Equestrian
    • Footy Tips
    • Golf
    • Netball
    • Rugby League
    • Rugby Union
    • Soccer
    • Touch Football
  • Classifieds
  • Competitions
  • Contact Us
    • Contact Page
    • Advertise with us
    • Testimonials
    • Submit an Article
    • Subscribe to the Parkes Phoenix

Parkes Phoenix

Honouring Our Vietnam Veterans

August 15, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Veterans and community members celebrating the 50th anniversary of Long Tan at the Vietnam War Memorial in Parkes in 2016.

Each year on 18th August we commemo­rate Vietnam Veterans’ Day and remember the service of some 60,000 Australians across Army, Navy and Air Force. It is a day to remember the service and sacrifice of those who served in the Vietnam War and their loved ones.

Commemorated every year on the anni­versary of the Battle of Long Tan, one of the largest engagements by Australian forces during the war. An ‘encounter’ battle where 18 Australians were killed and a further 24 wounded.

Vietnam Veterans Day provides the space to remember all those who fought and reflect on the impact of their service.

Originating as Long Tan Day, following the raising of a cross by the men of 6RAR on August 18th, 1969, at the site of the bat­tle, this day now marks not only the com­mitment of D Company, 6RAR, in their de­fence of the Task Force Base at Nui Dat in 1966, but for the service and support of all Vietnam veterans.

With the official keeper of Australia’s war record, the Australian War Memorial, making the dates for the war as 1962 to 1975, the length of the war and the impact on those who served and their families is profoundly felt, both emotionally and physi­cally.

We are proud to thank veterans and their families for their service, this years service will take place this Sunday 18th August and the President and Members of the Parkes RSL Sub Branch wish to extend an invita­tion to all serving and ex-service men and women and to all the people of Parkes to participate in and support Vietnam Veter­ans Day which will be held at the Vietnam Memorial, Anzac Drive, Parkes to the com­memorative Service commencing at 11am.

The event is being co-sponsored by the Parkes Shire Council.

Consultation On $40 Million Dollar Central West Housing Program Wraps Up

August 15, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Over 300 residents from across the Central West region have participated in commu­nity engagement sessions, facilitated by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, which were held across the Parkes, Forbes, Lachlan and Cabonne Shires over three weeks, giving residents the opportunity to view flood risk information, hear about proposed measures to make their homes more flood resilient and talk directly with flood experts about how new flood maps were developed.

Residents were encouraged to share their feedback on the proposed approach for the Program, with many supporting measures that will help them minimise future flood damage to their property.

Support services, including Legal Aid, Red Cross, Lifeline and Catholic Care, were also on hand to help residents navigate the more complex challenges many still face.

The Central West’s Resilient Homes Pro­gram aims to build stronger, safer commu­nities with measures that help households most at risk from future floods.

Proposed measures include grants for a range of resilience measures, such as raising and retrofitting, home rebuilds and home relocations and a voluntary scheme to buy back properties in the highest flood risk zones.

Member for Orange Phil Donato said “Nothing will ever undo the damage caused by the 2022 floods, but we can make sure that we’re better prepared for future disas­ters. Community information sessions are one way we can empower residents to have a say about a program that will have a pro­found effect on their future.”

Parenting Survey Reveals Overwhelming Concern For Kids

August 15, 2024 By Roxane Manley

This National Bullying No Way Week (12th-16th August), Triple P is reminding the community to help children stay safer online and stop cyberbullying before it impacts children.

Carol Markie-Dadds, Triple P International Country Director, high­lighted the urgency of this issue, noting Triple P’s largest-ever sur­vey of parents and carers found 8 out of 10 parents are concerned about keeping children safe from online dangers like cyberbullying.

“Bullying, whether it’s online through text or social media, or in person, has a significant impact on children’s emotional and physi­cal health, and puts children at greater risk of mental health con­cerns, like anxiety or depression,” Ms Markie-Dadds said.

Delivery of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program to parents and carers of children in Australia is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Par­ents and carers can access free, online parenting support 24/7 at triplep-parenting.net.au

Phil Donato Visits The Hars Parkes Aviation Museum

August 8, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Member for Orange Mr Phil Donato MP pictured being led on a tour of the HARS Aviation Museum in Parkes.

The HARS Parkes Aviation Museum wel­comed Member for Orange Mr Phil Donato MP last Thursday to see museum progress and to view plans to construct a world class aviation museum in the central west.

Mr Donato said about his visit “Last week I made a return visit to this unique tourist attraction. Mike De La Hunty and his volun­teer crew do an amazing job with the wide display of aircraft, aviation artifacts and memorabilia.”

The collection of aircraft and aviation related items continues to grow and with plans to house the aircraft in a purpose built structure to protect them from the elements, and ensure the aircraft be preserved for fu­ture generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Of particular interest to Mr Donato was the participation of Parkes High School stu­dents, who for the past 8 years have un­dertaken a full range of activities that will assist them in their eventual move into the workforce. Over the years the students have participated in the reassembly of air­craft, preparation for painting, mechanical work, carpentry and general upkeep of the museum.

The museum is looking forward to the arrival of two Bofors anti-aircraft guns that have been refurbished and will go on dis­play. The Bofors anti-aircraft gun was widely manufactured and used by Commonwealth countries during WW2. Some were built in Australia and used in Darwin, New Guinea and Tobruk.

The HARS Aviation Museum is located at Parkes airport, open Thursdays and Sun­days.

Snippets…

August 8, 2024 By Roxane Manley

There will only be one scholarship awarded so apply now.

Forbes Arts Society: The 2024 Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists is open for applications. This award opens up avenues for regional artists seeking to further their professional development, ex­hibition opportunities or deepen research with a $10,000 scholarship. Applications will close Monday 2nd September, 11.59pm. Apply now: https://regionalartsnsw.com.au/windmill-trust-scholarship-2024/

Lifeline: This Loneliness Awareness Week, Ending Loneliness Together, is sharing real stories to spark conversations about why we feel lonely and encouraging all Australians to create a culture of con­nection at home, work, school and in the community. Play your part: www.lonelines­sawarenessweek.com.au

Kerin Health: Are proud to now offer regu­lar Physiotherapy clinics in four locations across the Central West. Would you like to see a regular Kerin Health Physiotherapy clinic in your town? Let the team at Kerin Health know! For all bookings, head to their website: www.kerinhealth.com.au/book-an-appointment

1800RESPECT: Safety planning is think­ing about things you can do to be safer when living with violence or abuse. To create your own safety plan, you can get help from a trusted friend or family mem­ber. You can also use a support service like 1800RESPECT. You can learn more on our website: https://www.1800respect.org.au/help-and-support/safety-planning/checklist

Galari River Arts Forbes Inc: Indulge your taste buds with a world of flavours at our Festival! Oh So Sugar, A Taste of Greece, Trang Hue Vietnamese food and our Rotary Van will sort you out. You can even pack your own picnic. Galari River Arts Festival Forbes, 10th August at Lion’s Park, 9am till late.

Create NSW: Applications are now open for Regional Arts Touring Round 1. Funding consists of two categories: up to $60,000 for Small Tours and up to $120,000 for Large Tours, which will deliver world-class arts and cultural experiences to tens of thousands of people in every corner of NSW. Find out more https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/regional-arts-tour­ing-for-individuals/groups.

Parkes Shire Council: Council is excited to share that Stage 2 of the Kelly Reserve precinct upgrade works is progressing well. Stage 2 includes: A ninja course, An inclu­sive carouse, Toddler equipment These works are on track for a September com­pletion. To stay up to date with this project, visit: bit.ly/ParkesNinjaPark

Stage 2 of the Kelly Reserve upgrade is well underway.

John Anderson, AC, Speaking In Parkes

August 8, 2024 By Roxane Manley

A rare opportunity has presented itself to hear John Anderson, former Deputy Prime Minister, speak in Parkes. John will be speaking on the topic “Does the West Need a Spiritual Reawakening?” on Friday, 16th August from 6pm – 7.15pm at the Parkes Services Club.

Since leaving politics John is internation­ally known for his conversations with lead­ers, public figures, and thinkers around the world. With over 203 million views on You­Tube, and over 600,000 subscribers, John discusses the social, cultural and political landscape we live in today.

Are you concerned about the state of the world? Do you wonder what the future holds for your children in our western so­ciety? This event will clarify your thinking with John’s common sense, reasoning and incisive spiritual and social wisdom for the future.

These events are held in pubs/clubs as they are casual get-togethers where people buy a drink, hear an inspirational speaker, stay on for conversation and some even stay for dinner. All are welcome to this free event hosted by Holy Family Parish, Parkes.

RSVP to Lynn at 0439 934 667 lynnand­wayne@bigpond.com.

Why Is Parkes Que So Successful?

August 8, 2024 By Pam Nankivell

Enjoying time together at the Hong Loch were Dina White, Karen Ritchie, Jo Burke, Miriam Luyt, Wendy Neville, Margaret Robinson, Judy Chambers, Cathy Clarke, Janet O’Donoghue, Kay Craft, Pam Nankivell and Nancye Blatch.

 

Susan Ball made these beautiful bags which were filled by Cathy Clarke, Jeanine Bo­land, Miriam Luyt, Jill Crisp, Fran Dixon and Wendy Neville.

 

Parkes Que is a highly successful club for many reasons, not least of which is that we always seek to do our community work re­ally well, and coupled with the satisfaction from helping others, we have a lot of fun and enjoyment working and playing together.

In the last month, as well as progressing our 29th September Open Gardens arrangements, several members got together to fill some Domestic Violence kits to give to the police for the women who flee their homes, often with only the clothes on their backs.

These are greatly appreciated by the recipients, but how much better it would be if they were not necessary. We need good men and women to call out this bad behaviour, to educate boys to re­spect and treat girls as equals, not as their property, and to advise girls to leave a marriage immediately if their partner physically or mentally mistreats them. With a woman being killed every four days this year by a present or former partner, we have to change this culture fast.

On a happier note, some of us Que-ties enjoyed a delicious Chi­nese meal together, no work , just a delightful couple of hours on a Saturday to relax, chat and laugh together.

There are so many members of varying talents, skills and inter­ests that together we can achieve so much that we couldn’t do on our own. It is pressure free, but most members do quite a lot as we find that the more we put into Que, the better our lives become.

Want to know more? Find us on Facebook or call us on 0407 894 498. New members are always welcome.

By Pam Nankivell

Put Tradies Health First This August

August 8, 2024 By Roxane Manley

August is Tradie Health Month, which SafeWork NSW says is the perfect time for tradies to review and speak up about any work health and safety (WHS) concerns to ensure they can have a long and healthy career.

Young tradies need appropriate training, support and supervision. From 2017-2021, approximately 20 percent of incidents re­ported to SafeWork NSW were the result of an injury to a young worker. Just last month, a 19-year-old cabinetry apprentice fell approximately three meters in a stair void, breaking his ribs.

Construction businesses must ensure they are creating environments where workers are protected and where young tradies receive the correct training, super­vision and are empowered to speak up.

For young workers, SafeWork’s message is that if you are not sure about something, stop and check – it’s the safe way, or no way. If you see something that isn’t safe on a worksite and are worried about raising it, you can speak up anonymously using the Speak Up Save Lives app.

SafeWork has also developed a Young Worker eToolkit for employees and workers, containing tips and training materials about work safety rights and responsibilities.

Ten years ago I fell in love with a farmer who lived near Yeoval

August 8, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Ten years ago I fell in love with a farmer who lived near Yeoval. As a fresh-faced Physiotherapist, I had concerns about what this new location could mean for my career.

I remember a conversation with an elderly gentleman, “Where is Yeoval?” He asked.

“The middle of nowhere,” I quipped with an impending sense of doom. “It’s about an hour from Dubbo, Parkes, and an hour and a bit from Orange.”

His eyes crinkled into a smile, he looked at me, then slowly said, “Well that sounds to me like it’s in the middle of everywhere..”

I thought about that comment often, then a few years later I decided to start my own business. I traveled to each of the sur­rounding towns, spending one day a week in each. Working out of GP clinics, church halls and client homes, slowly building my business. I started to employ other allied health professionals in these locations, working alongside me to meet the health­care needs of these regional locations. Cuphalf-full people who loved a challenge, and grew the business, constantly coming up with ideas to deliver high quality healthcare, inspiring me with their passion and drive.

Today, Kerin Health proudly services a 800km diameter across the Central West, with outreach teams going even further to locations like Tottenham and Lake Cargel­ligo.

I wonder what would have happened if I didn’t change my perspective. If that lovely man didn’t gently remind me to seize the opportunity, not be blinded by the obstacle.

And to surround myself with people who did the same.

I don’t know where he is now. But I hope he’s smiling.

Interested in knowing more about what services we offer? Contact us today or check out our website. www.kerinhealth.com.au

Get To Know “get Glossed”

August 8, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Thomas and Aimey Ward with their two children Reggie and Josie.

Parkes locals Tom and Aimey Ward opened their business Get Glossed Detailing in June 2020 with an aim to deliver a modern detailing service to the Parkes community. “We wanted to show people that there’s a whole different level of detailing out there. Tom has always been passionate about showing people the right way to take care of their cars,” said Aimey Ward.

“Detailing is a skills-based industry, with knowledge, experience, techniques and product quality all having an impact on the overall quality of work produced and we strive to keep all these points at the highest possible standards.”

Three years ago, Get Glossed Detailing was recognised as an accredited detailer by ‘Gtechniq’ a world leader in Vehicle Protec­tion Products, gaining access to their limited use paint protection.

“In the wrong hands these products could be detrimental to some­one’s paint, they’re not something that’s available to the public. We feel very fortunate that our training and experience have allowed this highly renowned brand to become available to us,” said Aimey.

Thanks to the support of the Parkes community, the business has exceeded Tom and Aimey’s expectations, allowing them to recently start operating full-time. They offer a variety of detailing services, but are particularly passionate about paint protection and educat­ing clients about correct maintenance techniques. When Tom and Aimey aren’t detailing, they’re spending time with their two children.

Five year old Reggie says he’d love to run Get Glossed one day! You can find Get Glossed Detailing on Facebook to view their work or contact 0437 963 512 or info@getglosseddetailing.com.au

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 71
  • 72
  • 73
  • 74
  • 75
  • …
  • 452
  • Next Page »

Click here to download the recent issue (209) of The Forbes & Parkes Phoenix (2MB PDF) – 2nd October 2026

SEARCH THE PHOENIX

STAY CONNECTED

The Parkes Phoenix would like to thank you, our Facebook friends, for your continued support and readership!

Phoenix Office
7/113-127 Rankin Street, Forbes NSW 2871

Editor
0432 337 278
editor@parkesphoenix.com.au

Sales
0432 337 278
sales@parkesphoenix.com.au

View our Privacy Policy.
View our Conflict Resolution Process.
View our Ethics and Complaints Policy.
Want to advertise with us?
Information on our Community Promotions.

We are always looking for new articles of interest to the local community.

Please feel free to submit an article for possible inclusion in a future issue.

To submit an article, click here to use our online article submission form.

Subscribe

* indicates required

Copyright © 2026 · Magazine Pro Theme On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

nsw government logo

The Parkes Phoenix's Digital Diversification of Free Regional Media project is proudly funded by the NSW Government Regional Media Fund