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Parkes Phoenix

Presenting Annie The Musical

April 4, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Photo of cast after rehearsing an orphan scene last Sunday. Photo credit Ruth Crowley.

Experience the beloved story of Little Orphan Annie as brought to life by the Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society. Prepare to be enchanted by this timeless tale, offering a new generation the opportunity to embrace the essence of resilience and hope.

Annie presents a captivating musical journey, featuring an unforgettable score including classics like “It’s A Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “N.Y.C.,” the poignant “Maybe,” and the ever-optimistic anthem “Tomorrow.”

In 2005, Annie was the first non-original musical Lyn Townsend directed. 19 years on, and she is once again directing this perennial favourite. Neil Westcott is Musical Director, promising a tight, entertaining music score, with choreography by the talented Gracie Townsend

The 2024 production of Annie has a cast of 45, including 16 orphans. Lexi Herden plays the irrepressible Annie with the perfect mix of poise and spunk. Joining her is Hannah Farrant Jayet as Grace, Andrew Francis as Oliver (Daddy) Warbucks, Ruth Barnes as Miss Hannigan, Aaron Kingham as Rooster and Kimberley Ryan as Lily.

The season of Annie runs from April 20th to May 11th, with performances every Friday and Saturday night, along with Sunday matinees. Thanks to Betta Electrical Parkes, Friday night attendees have the chance to win an exciting lucky door prize! All bookings over the season go into a draw to win a 56 inch television. Join us and discover why Annie remains one of the most cherished and awarded musicals of all time. Reserve your seats now for an unforgettable evening or afternoon of entertainment.

Trundle Abba Festival Returns

April 4, 2024 By Roxane Manley

ABBA fans from all over the world are set to pack their dancing shoes, sparkly outfits and head to the worlds one and only ABBA Festival in Trundle.

The Trundle ABBA Festival is confirmed to return to Trundle on Saturday 19 October 2024. Make sure you set your alarms because tickets go on sale at 10am on Saturday 6 April 2024.

Now in its 10th year, the 2024 festival will celebrate the 50- year Anniversary of ABBA’s win at the Eurovision Song Contest on April 6, 1974, with their chart-topping hit ‘Waterloo’.

Mayor of Parkes Shire Council, Cr Neil Westcott said Parkes Shire Council is delighted to be bringing back the Trundle ABBA Festival in 2024 to mark and celebrate this milestone.

“We are pleased to be hosting the 2024 festival and look forward to showcasing and establishing Trundle as the home of the festival.

“Trundle has the unique honour of being THE Australian ABBA festival on the 50th anniversary of Waterloo and will be the centre of the ABBA universe come October. Parkes Shire Council could not be happier to be partnering with the community of Trundle on what will be an amazing festival,” added Cr Westcott.

Parkes Shire Council’s Director of Customer, Corporate Services and Economy, Anthony McGrath said “the festival provides so much value to the Parkes Shire and Trundle community, by helping boost the economic revenue and visitors to the town.”

“We encourage people to continue supporting regional events and we can’t wait to light up the streets of Trundle with music and glitter once again”, added Mr McGrath.

To re-live moments of the 2023 festival, view the official photo gallery at bit.ly/2023TAFphotos.

Held in the regional township of Trundle, in Central Western NSW, the Trundle ABBA Festival is

Australia’s only and original ABBA festival. The ABBA Festival is a day packed full of family-friendly entertainment and annually attracts thousands of ABBA fans since its inception in 2012. Tickets for the 2024 Trundle ABBA Festival will go on sale at 10am on Saturday 6 April 2024. For more information and to stay up to date with future announcements, visit www.trundleabbafestival.com.au.

Snippets

April 4, 2024 By Roxane Manley

The Disaster Risk Reduction Fund is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

Central West Lachlan Landcare Inc

A massive thank you to the Forbes Riverside Community Gardens for hosting our workshop with Graham Ross AM and the emergency services this morning.

Thanks to David Hodges from NSW RFS – Parkes Headquarters Brigade and Roc Walshaw from Forbes SES for providing information on emergency preparedness.

This workshop was possible with the support of Landcare NSW’s People Led Prevention project, empowering communities across regional NSW in developing disaster resilience and preparedness skills.

Cheney’s Electrical Contracting

We’re very excited to announce that we are the proud new owners of Parkes Decor Shoppe. We can’t wait to show you all what we have in store for the future! A very warm welcome to the Parkes Decor Shoppe team joining us here at Cheney’s Electrical.

As always, for all your electrical needs – contact Dylan on 0447 012 179

PCYC Parkes

Open Day with a FREE Membership Offer. Come down to the PCYC Open Day on April 6th between 12-2pm and score a FREE 12-month club membership (valued at $30 for seniors & $15 for juniors) Plus, get automatic entry into our draw for 5 class passes, valued at $65. We’ll also have an amazing raffle available for entry with 3 incredible prizes up for grabs:

– FREE Term of Basketball Learn to Play (valued at $125)

– FREE Term of Gymnastics Classes (valued at $155)

– FREE Term of Art Lessons with Sean (valued at $125)

Don’t miss out on this chance to join the PCYC fun

Central West Police District

Crime prevention tips. Lock it or lose it.

Thieves are opportunistic and know that people tend to leave items of value in their vehicles. We receive reports of vehicles being broken into and items stolen frequently and have created these tips to help protect your belongings:

– Don’t leave expensive tools and equipment in your vehicle.

– Keep your vehicle doors and windows up, locked and secured when leaving your vehicle unattended.

– Park in well-lit areas, especially during nighttime.

– Don’t leave anything of value visible inside your vehicle.

– Don’t hide spare keys inside or underneath your vehicle.

– Remove any documents from your vehicle which reveal where you live.

– Consider using a secure parking facility or garage when available.

– Consider investing in anti-theft devices or tracking systems for added security.

Parkes Shire Libraries

Packaging, packaging and more packaging! The Makerspace is filling up with packaging as we prepare for the launch of Waste 2 Art this Saturday at 10:00AM in the Makerspace. Everyone welcome. Call 6861 2309 for bookings. FREE event

NSW Farmers

We’re calling on the State and Federal Governments to make sure rural road repair is front and centre in their upcoming budgets.

Take a fresh photo of a badly damaged road and let us know where it is, and we’ll make sure the government knows about it

Eugowra Rural Transaction Centre

The Service NSW Mobile Service Centre is coming to Eugowra. They will be set up at 54 Nanima Street on the following – Wednesday, 17 April 2024 from 1pm- 3pm

Come down and chat to Service NSW Mobile
Service Centre on 17th of April in Eugowra.

McDonald Claims Another First

April 4, 2024 By Roxane Manley

WMX Results – Rd1. 1st Charli Cannon – 50. 2nd Tayla Thompson – 44. 3rd Danielle McDonald – 40 (Yamaha Racing).’

It was another weekend and another first for Parkes’ teenage dirt bike sensation, Danielle McDonald. With a junior career littered with national championships in off road and motocross, then a gold medal at the International Six Day Enduro (ISDE) last year not long after her sixteenth birthday, McDonald is putting together a lengthy list of achievements for her resume. 2024 has started well with success at the opening round of the Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC), she won the Women’s division on day two. She also racked up another milestone, by landing on the podium at round one of the ProMX in the Women’s class.

McDonald was nervous prior to racing getting underway as she is new to the ProMX scene. Race one saw her make a couple of mistakes as she shook off the nerves, resulting in two small crashes, yet she was able to pick herself up and fight all the way to the finish and cross the finish line in third.

Race two and she was again in the thick of the action and was in a tight battle with seasoned campaigner, Emma Milesevic, who challenged her right until the end. The pair swapped positions several times in the later stages of the race, but McDonald was able to hang on for another third place and was sent straight to the podium for third on the day.

A pattern is forming here with Danielle: Her first ProMX, her first ProMX podium. Her first senior AORC, her first podium. Her first ISDE, her first ISDE podium. Keep an eye out for the talented and determined teenager as she continues to gain experience in both the motocross and off-road paddocks.

McDonald explained “I had a great time at the ProMX round and really enjoyed the racing. It’s much bigger than I thought with so many major teams and the media presence at the race. I still have a lot to learn and there are a lot of fast girls but I’m looking forward to doing this year’s series and thankful Yamaha Australia has given me support to race it”.

50 Years Of The Parkes Antique Motor Club

March 28, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Some great Aussie Classics that were on display for Australia Day 2024 in Cooke Park, Parkes

This Easter weekend Parkes Antique Motor Club is hosting the Annual CHMC Rally and are also celebrating the clubs (PAMC) Golden Anniversary (50 years).

There will be up to 100 vehicles on display, all of which are over 30 years old, expected to participate in this event. Everyone in the community is invited to come along and enjoy a morning out exploring the world of antique cars. Free entry to the public on Saturday for the Display and Judging from 9:00am

The Parkes Antique Motor Clubs 50th anniversary and CHMC Rally are being held this weekend will be the biggest event for 2024.

The event is being held at the Parkes Racecourse on Saturday 30th March from 9am until 12pm. With free entry to the public. Registration for participating vehicles closes today, Friday the 29th of March. Judging and display will be taking place on Saturday. On Sunday there will be an Ecumenial Service (7:30am), an annual social touring run from 8:30am and a presentation dinner commencing from 6:30 for 7:00 pm. Monday a farewell breakfast will take place from 7:30am for all participants.

Upgrade Creates Accessible ‘Space’ at The Dish

March 28, 2024 By Roxane Manley

(Left to Right) – Vince Williamson, Darrin Souters, Peter Parkes, Dr John Reynolds, Matt Spittles, Mayor Neil Westcott, Phil Donato MP, Nick Marjason (CSIRO), Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee, Cr Bill Jayet, Rhonda Towney, Cr Lousie O’Leary, Melissa Schrader, Kelly Hendry, Tricia Trim (CSIRO).

Visitor areas at the CSIRO Parkes Observatory has received a major upgrade thanks to $500,000 from the NSW Government. The investment supported the installation of wheelchair accessible paths, automatic doors at the Visitor Centre and accessible and renovated bathrooms to ensure the observatory remains a major drawcard that can be enjoyed by everyone. The funding also included the construction of an inclusive space-themed playground with accessible equipment, soft fall ground cover, and sun cover. Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the accessibility upgrades to the visitor areas at the CSIRO Parkes Observatory will bring great benefits to the Central West, this project is an excellent example of what can be achieved when various levels of Government work together.

“This is now a great accessible space to host young space fans, further cementing itself as a world- class tourism destination for budding astronomers who visit the region,” Minister Moriarty said. Mayor of Parkes Shire Cr Neil Westcott said: “Increasing the accessibility to all indoor and outdoor visitor areas at the facility, and by making the Visitor Centre more mobility friendly, inclusive and family friendly, will improve the visitor experience.”

The icon of Australian science attracts over 100,000 visitors per year. The observatory is home to Murriyang, CSIRO’s Parkes radio telescope, used by astronomers from around the world to explore the universe. CSIRO Director of ATNF Operations Dr John Reynolds said “These upgrades to our Visitors Centre help us share the wonders of the Universe with all our visitors.”

Wheels Are Turning To Help Sick Kids In The Central West

March 28, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Bathurst’s most travelled race Car is all set for the 6 Hour Event and this year is supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Central West NSW.

The Spinifex Recruiting sponsored car that has covered more competition laps at Mt Panorama will line up yet again with Parkes driver Peter O’Donnell’s BMW 335i entered in the 2024 Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour over the Easter weekend.

This time around, the car will sport a striking new orange livery instead of the traditional white. The team and drivers, owner Peter O’Donnell in his tenth Bathurst enduro, Super 2 driver Matt Chahda, and car preparer Garry Mennell. The team will also be racing for Ronald McDonald House Central West NSW.

On Mount Panorama alone, the BMW 335i has lapped the circuit 3479 times in practice, qualifying and races. That is 21,615.027 kilometres or 13,431 miles. More than the distance to circumnavigate the Australian mainland which measures 17,100 kilometres.

“Ï have to pinch myself every time I get the privilege to do a Bathurst event – particularly enduro ones. Along with the enjoyment, we also like to include helping a great cause. This year we are teaming up with Ronald McDonald House Charities Central West NSW. I am in awe of the work they do and the enormous difference that they make to sick kids and their whole families.”

“To keep the family together can be extremely tough without support, which is why Ronald McDonald House offer accommodation for parents with ill or injured kids who need to travel to Orange.” Said Peter O’Donnell

The dedicated team of staff are guided by Executive Officer Rebecca Walsh. The House also relies on a committed group of volunteers who generously give their time.

“We are incredibly excited to be partnering with Peter and Spinfex Recruiting for the 2024 Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour, with all funds staying in the Central West,” said Rebecca Walsh.

So far, many local companies that have shown their support with $1000 sponsorships. They include Elders Insurance – Western Plains, Telescope Tyres, Moxey Farms, Steve Magil Earthmoving, Goodsell Machinery, Agricultural Equipment Holdings, NuPoint Management System, Kustom Car Wash, McDonalds Mudgee, McDonalds Parkes & Forbes, and Ray White Parkes. Signs-you-see have donated time and product for the stickers.

All donations go directly to RMHC Central West NSW. Peter will take to the track on Easter Sunday, 11.45am.

Snippets

March 28, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Tickets are available to purchase now via 123tix.

Amazing Forbes NSW

This iconic trio isn’t new to Frost and Fire, but they will bring an electrifying performance to our 2024 event! Let Cler, Jo & Em warm your soul on a magical winter night. Don’t miss this unforgettable local talent. Tickets are now on sale and are available exclusively via https://www.123tix.com.au/events/42630/frost-and-fire

PCYC Parkes

Introduction to Indigenous Cultural Art with Irene Ridgeway and assisted by Sean Cassidy 22nd & 23rd of April (2 day workshop) – 10 -12pm each day – $40 Irene is a local Wiradjuri Women with a wealth of knowledge. What makes this workshop even more significant for our club, all profits will go towards funding the Nations of Origin Indigenous sporting tournament. For the first time Parkes will be taking a whole bunch of children to this event in July. Come along to this workshop and enjoy learning and painting with Irene and Sean all whilst helping raise money pcycnsw.org/parkes

Open Day

Join us for the exciting PCYC Open Day on the 6th of April from 12pm to 2pm! It’s the perfect opportunity to: Explore our facilities: Check out our gymnastics facility, courts, and activity areas.

Meet the team: Chat with our friendly staff and learn about our programs.

Forbes High School P&C Association

Without a dedicated committee the significant support that Forbes High School receives from the P&C will unfortunately no longer occur, including the School canteen.

Join us at FHS on Wednesday 3rd April at 5pm for a special meeting to ensure the future of the P&C, and the contributions it provides for our amazing students.

Darcy is at home in a session with Speech Therapist Bligh, working on his C, G and F sounds using a Tractor puzzle.

2024 Sydney Royal Easter Show

March 21, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Dates for the 2024 SRES are Friday 22 March – Tuesday 2 April.

The Sydney Royal Easter Show is back. Rich in fun and family traditions – come along to the 2024 Show and find your happy place.

Whether it’s baby animals, wine tasting, or watching the best of the best compete in premier livestock competitions, the Show has something for everyone to enjoy.

Rural Students Café – Bush Tucker

Returning in 2024 with a new twist, this year’s regional and rural students from across NSW will be preparing, cooking, and serving an incredible meal crafted around native Australian bush tucker ingredients. Not only will this give showgoers the chance to have a real taste of the Australian bush, but it will also help regional areas with all proceeds going back to their schools.

Ag Discovery Pavilion

Learn more about what’s at the heart of the Show – agriculture – at the Ag Discovery Pavilion which is full of hands-on activities, interactive displays and

educational fun! This unmissable family feature will teach kids everything they need to know about food and fibre, paddock to plate and the importance of technology in agriculture.

Tickets

Tickets to the 2024 Show are strictly limited, will be sold almost exclusively online, and must be purchased for a specific day to manage crowd numbers.

Don’t miss out – the 2024 Show falls outside of the NSW school holiday period, so go online, plan ahead and buy your tickets early. www.eastershow.com.au

Snippets

March 21, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Letters of Support Needed.

A Town Like Trundle

The following is an important message from Parkes Shire Council Grants Officer Sally Chapman “Parkes Shire Council is working to prepare a large submission under some available flood recovery funding to try and mitigate the flooding of the road into Trundle. One part of the submission is social and another is economic.

If you would be able to call on your friends, family and colleagues to write letters about how being cut off from the flood affected them economically and socially. Photos and videos are also very welcome to build our case. Submissions are due in two weeks, so next week will be perfect if possible, please. Please send to my email sally.chapman@parkes.nsw.gov.au”

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society

Unfortunatley there is no local outlet selling tickets to Annie.

If you have family or friends that don’t have access to the internet, they can contact the box office manager on 0429 623 829 to reserve tickets. Please note, the box office manager works another job during business hours – please call after 5.30pm or sent a text message. The theatre box office will be open every Sunday from 7th April at 11am – 1.00pm for ticket purchases.

Forbes Family History Group

Do you have any stories or information about the Pioneer Cemetery on Sandhills Road?If so, we’d love to hear from you as we inch towards this very exciting project.

Your private message, email or comment are most welcome.

Many thanks and gratitude to Forbes Shire Council and Forbes Advocate for helping us with this project.

Parkes Shire Council

EAST STREET BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – TRAFFIC UPDATE

Council wishes to advise the access to businesses on Southern East Street is now from the May Street end, this has been temporarily modified due to the ongoing construction of the East Street Bridge.

Council crews are currently working on the southern end of East Street at the intersection of Woodward Street, where it is now closed.

Please plan your routes accordingly and exercise caution at all times

To stay up to date with the project, visit http://bit.ly/49RlcQr

R U OK?Day

Rail R U OK?Day is 18 April 2024.

We all go through life’s ups and downs. Often, the best people to spot the signs someone might be struggling are the people closest to them.

That’s why the R U OK? message is so effective in the workplace. It’s the subtle changes in someone’s behaviour that can indicate they might be going through a difficult time and in need of some extra support.

You can learn more and access the FREE #RailRUOK resources at https://bit.ly/4391jSc

Forbes Shire Council

Did you know? In NSW, the average person wastes $965 of food a year. More than a third of the average rubbish in our bins is wasted food.

– Red: General Waste – Yellow: Recycling – Green: Food and Garden Organics

Love Food Hate Waste NSW’s tips https://www.lovefoodhatewaste.nsw.gov.au/at-home/reduce-your-food-waste

How can you improve food waste in your house hold?.

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