Articles Archives - Page 90 of 452

Northparkes Rocks Elvis With Mining Moves!

January 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Northparkes has been a proud long-time supporter and participant of the Parkes Elvis Festival.

Each year the Northparkes Street Parade is a major highlight of the festival filled with Elvis themed floats, vintage and classic cars and motorbikes all lead by the Northparkes float.

Thousands of Elvis fans turn up to watch the parade each year. Our employees and their families are invited to dress up and jump on board the Northparkes float and join in on the fun.

The Parkes Elvis Festival is one of the many events Northparkes is involved with and reflects the great community spirit in the region, making it a great place to live and work. Things have been full steam ahead onsite, with our committee working hard preparing for the 2024 festival. We can’t wait for you to see what we have in store this year with our new owners – Evolution Mining.

In December, Evolution Mining took 80 per cent ownership of Northparkes and we are excited to continue our focus on being a part of and working with our local communities together. Evolution Mining is an Australian owned company with six mining operations in total. Cowal and Northparkes in New South Wales, Mungari in Western Australia, Mt Rawdon and Ernest Henry in Queensland and Red Lake in Ontario, Canada.

Evolution is focused on continually getting better at what we do and finding new opportunities to grow. Northparkes’ vision for a Century of mining together is one of the many reasons Evolution sees so much potential for our future together – alongside the communities we work in and with everyday.

Family Business Started From Humble Beginnings

December 21, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Pictured is Joe Spackman and his wife who started their family run business from their backyard 3 and a half years ago.

Western Whitgoods and Furniture Barn of Oxley Street, Parkes, are a locally owned and operated business that strives to offer an extensive range of premium products to their customers. With both new and second-hand items available, you will always find whitegoods and furniture from respectable brands for affordable prices that accommodate your budget.

Owner Joe Spackamn was born and bred on a sheep farm in Wongalea, He moved away for a long time to QLD but has since moved back and originally started selling second hand furniture from a shed in his backyard. The business quickly upsized and they have been in the larger premises in Oxley Street for 18 months now.

Western Whitegoods and Furniture Barn are a green business. They embrace the process of making previously loved whitegoods and furniture feel brand new again so they can find a new home! Refurbishing items allows them to make a positive impact on our environment by not sending these older items to a landfill.

All of Their whitegoods are refurbished by qualified technicians to ensure that they are operating at peak condition upon your purchase. For your peace of mind, these items also come with a 30-day replacement warranty. Ask for a discount if paying with cash and 8 week laybys are also welcome with a 20% deposit.

Western Whitegoods and Furniture Barn in Parkes showcase an impressively diverse range of outstanding new and second-hand furniture for both your home and business. Featuring many budget-friendly and stylish bedroom, living room, dining room and outdoor furniture that you can browse through to find your perfect match. For a professional setting, they also have lots of premium office furniture in-store to check out. To see the full range of furniture, you can visit in person or view through the online item gallery.

Road Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility

December 21, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers, together with local police across NSW, will be targeting all road-related rules, including drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired, and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk.

The NSW Police Force will begin their holiday operation this week with double demerits coming into effect on Friday 22 nd December 2023.

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said as the holiday period is traditionally the busiest time of year on NSW roads, police maintain a highly visible presence although the key to reducing accidents lies in taking responsibility – for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user.

“The most important gift you can give this festive season is being responsible. Be the motorist who obeys the road rules and drives to the conditions, not the motorist who drives recklessly and kills someone,” Mr Toole said.

“While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. You don’t want to be the person whose irresponsible behaviour changes a life – or lives – forever.

“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast, or getting behind the wheel when tired or under the influence, there are road rules for a reason which, when followed, means everyone can arrive safely at their destination this holiday period.”

The NSW Opposition is encouraging all drivers to always have a Plan B in place before your first drink, and never drink or drug drive.

If you are getting behind the wheel – even if it’s a short trip, never drive if you’re tired, buckle up, stay under the speed limit, and put the phone away.

To help plan your trip, traffic conditions can be found at: https://www.livetraffic.com.

Steve Puts His Body On The Line For Charity

December 21, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Cunninghams IGA store manager Steven Langlois showing off his new ink

We recently caught up with Steve Langlois, the store manager at Cunningmas IGA in Parkes. This year was the local stores first time participating in Pink Up Parkes. It was not that long ago that we reported on Steve’s big head shave for the cause.

The store set two targets to reach in their efforts to raise as much money as possible for the McGrath Foundation. “The first target was $500 to get my head shaved, which i thought we might just get, but we actually reached that goal in the first couple of weeks” said Steve.

“The $1000 target was to get an IGA logo tattoo, and we reached that target with a week to go. All up we ended up raising $1800 for the McGrath Foundation.were donating $50.

“We’d like to thank all the customers that came in and donated anything from a couple of dollars to some of the guys from Pacific National who were donating $50. To Toni from Cooke Park Cafe who was donating any change she received each day.

“The fact that it was all for a good cause certainly made it fun and worth while” said Steve.

Customers are starting to ask “How will you guys top this years effort, next year?” and rumor has it that one of the ideas floating around is for all the staff to have their hair dyed pink if the set target is raised next year during the Pink Up Parkes promotion. Get your donations ready.

A Christmas Message From The Parkes Mayor

December 21, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Pictured at his desk is the current Mayor of Parkes is Neil Westcott.

“As we come to the end of 2023, we are reminded of all that has been achieved over the past 12 months, and have a chance to look forward to all that a new year has to offer.

Despite the challenges our community has faced this year, Parkes Shire Council and the broader community have had some impressive wins and have continued to show their resilience and unity.

The Parkes Shire is on the cusp of some really wonderful things, and 2024 is looking to be a year of great promise.

On behalf of myself, our Councillors, and the rest of Parkes Shire Council, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and a happy and safe New Year.”

A Christmas Message From The Hon Michael McCormack

December 21, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Thank you to our farmers, who have been harvesting to ensure we have the cleanest and greenest food on our tables, also support local businesses and buy Australian-made products where you can this Christmas.

Every year Christmas seems to come around faster and faster, with our ever-increasingly busy lives mere passengers in a greater machine.

It is difficult to slow down, particularly amongst last-minute shopping and navigating the hustle and bustle of Christmas and holiday preparations.

As I say every year, please take care if travelling on our regional roads over the holidays and, if you plan on using our beautiful waterways, please remember to be sun smart and water wise.

We owe a debt of gratitude to those who give their time to support and serve others, often having to work instead of spending time with loved ones – our health care workers, emergency service and defence force personnel, aged care and disability workers. Thank you for being exemplary, community- minded members.

Remain cognisant that, for many, this time of the year is associated with painful feelings of loneliness and loss. It is important to display compassion, understanding and, most of all, patience to all we encounter – we never can fully understand what another person is going through. To those who spend time with the homeless and less fortunate – your kindness and selflessness is always appreciated.

It is always important to remember the reason for the season – the birth of Jesus Christ. It is about spending time with family and friends – winding back and focusing on the things which really matter. Catherine, my family, my staff and I extend our best wishes to all for a happy Christmas and a safe and healthy 2024.

Snippets

December 21, 2023 By Roxane Manley

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Yoorana Gunya Family Healing Centre Aboriginal Corporation

Yoorana Gunya will be closed from Friday 22nd Dec and will reopen Monday 8th Jan 2023. For any medical emergencies during this time please call 000 or go to Forbes Hospital located on Elgin St, Forbes.

What a prosperous year it has been, thank you to our supportive community, very valued patients and great employees. Each year Yoorana Gunya grows and we are so grateful and pleased to be one of the largest medical services within our area. We have more exciting things happening next year and will continue to be more equipped for our community’s needs.

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society

Congratulations to our CAT award nominees for 2023!

Lyn Townsend, Gail Smith and Anthony Leonard – Best Original script, lyrics, music and musical arrangements for CRACKS IN THE MIRROR

The Cast (Ruth Barnes, Kimberley Ryan, Maddison Collits, Jade McGovern & Amelia Regnier) Best Ensemble in a Musical, Variety or Dance Production in CRACKS IN THE MIRROR

Aaron Kingham – Best Actor in a Leading role in a Play – as Gilbert Bodley in NOT NOW DARLING

Lyn Townsend – Best Actress in a Featured Role in a Play – as Maude Bodley in NOT NOW DARLING

Rounding off a wonderful year of theatre for Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society.

Forbes Shire Council

A very unassuming Shirley Dukes, who loves working behind the scenes volunteering for many local organisations , was presented with the 2023 Senior Citizen of the Year Award in recognition of her dedication and efforts.

“I was surprised to be nominated, but I love to do anything for my grandchildren,” she said.

“Committees should put forward names for awards such as this. There are so many who work in the background – and it is so important for people to be on committees and actively helping otherwise these things won’t keep happening. “

Do you know someone who is just as deserving as a volunteer, someone like Shirley who works tirelessly behind the scenes? Council is seeking nominations for Citizen of the Year, Junior Citizen of the Year and Senior Citizen of the Year – for application forms or more information head to our website: www.forbes.nsw. gov.au

R U OK? Day

This is your reminder that it’s normal to feel a little flat at this time of year.

If you’ve noticed this with someone you know, check in and see how they’re going.

We’ve got tips to help you start the conversation at https://bit.ly/2ZcG05n

Generocity Church Parkes

“How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” Psalm 133:1

It is such a joy to spend time together and worship our Saviour.

Local Land Services NSW

Santa’s making a list, he’s checking it twice… and this elf has not made the cut

Even though we have spotted him doing some helpful jobs, we’ve also noticed him up to no good. Unlike this elf, don’t get caught out. Instead, check out Visit NSW for some caravan and campground ideas https://brnw.ch/21wFo

Did you know that you are not allowed to camp on Travelling Stock Reserves?

Forbes North Public School 2023 In Thompson St

December 14, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Some of the new gardens at Forbes North Public School.

Forbes North has completed major beautification of our school grounds and infrastructure with our ornamental gardens and green spaces entering the Forbes Garden Society open gardens in 2024. Our school resembles a botanical garden and major landscaping projects including the centre playground at the heart of the school, the main Thomson Street entrance and gardens located in the northern playground are now all complete. The renovation of 8 classrooms is also complete with painting, carpet and furnishing added to learning spaces to ensure our students have the best facilities on offer for a 21st century primary school. The library is now fully refurbished with the addition of 40 new mobile devices supporting our students in inquiry-based learning and research while visiting and learning in lessons in the library. The recently added branding and signage proudly boasts of our ever-increasing relationship with Forbes High School.

New accessibility ramps constructed this year now see wheelchair access provided to every section of the school and artist Lakkari Pitt returns in 2024 for more First Nations cultural work near our Facey Street entrance. Two new areas are now home to extensive seating to support morning and afternoon gathering locations for our parents and community entering the school. The wellbeing practices at our school are improving and academic aspirations will continue to accelerate in 2024 with the implementation of the high potential gifted education policy and new curriculum reform agenda, supporting a range of new scholastic and sporting opportunities offered to our students, side by side with community expertise regularly providing a positive impact within our school. Our school has now produced a 2nd edition of the FNPS school magazine, to be known as Giralung Bindaya or Shooting Star, a 76-page colour record of the year that was. Our students successfully hosted the first Community Art Show and participated and performed in School Spectacular in Sydney for the first time. What a year 2024 is now going to be in Thomson Street with our anticipated enrolment of 260 students and another 40 pre-Kindergarten children engaging in Link Up to School which sees our school continue to grow and prosper

Australia to Germany – Marnie’s Update

December 14, 2023 By Roxane Manley

“Hello again everyone” from Parkes exchange student Marnie Noakes.

The school year ended. It was definitely different finishing the school year at the end of July, and starting Summer holidays! But it was very cool to experience

My host sister and I went on a week long camping trip. I like camping but dirt in my bed I don’t like. But despite that it was a cool experience! We had to come home a day early because the weather was bad. But that was also an experience! We all got escorted to a safe spot on the back of a tractor trailer by a fire fighter

We ( my host family and I) went to a petting zoo. The animals were so friendly, and the donkey was like a big dog, It loved cuddles!

I met my other host sister when she came back from a trip.

My host sisters and I baked pavlova together

We went to a family friend’s for dinner and we saw a raccoon.

Went on a 3 week holiday to Macedonia and Greece

Macedonia was so different from Germany and Australia but it was definitely amazing different

There were so many people that would go past the house we were staying at on Motorbikes, with no helmets. On the normal road

We did many things there but just 2 were going on a walk to a waterfall and we had a tour guide dog! And sewing with one of my host sisters.

We arrived in Greece on the 24th of August and our resort was a 2 minute walk from the beach. We also did many things there but just 2 were going into the city and going with the dog that lived at the resort and my host sisters to the beach every night to watch the sunset.

Thank you Parkes. Talk again soon

Snippets

December 14, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Are you curious about how this service works over Telehealth?

Kerin Health

Did you know that our amazing Speech Pathologist Felicity is also a qualified Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant?

That’s right – AND she is now offering Lactation Consultations via Telehealth

To learn more or to book in for an appointment with Felicity, contact our reception on 0437 749 746.

Parkes Elvis Festival

Back by popular demand!

The very best of Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley in a show that has three of the very best tribute acts bringing these Legends back to life. PARKES SERVICES CLUB Thursday 11th Jan 1pm

$40 + BF Grab your tickets here: bit.ly/3QVvtCY

Flannery’s Pharmacy

‘Tis the season for giving! Life Pharmacy Group proudly supports a number of Australian charities each year.

One of our chosen charities is The Cova Project. The Cova Project provides menstrual cups and menstrual health education to people who menstruate, across Africa. We do this in an effort to help bridge the 50 day school attendance gap due to menstruation.

Click the link to find out more about their amazing work and to make a donation.

https://www.thecovaproject.com/donations

Visit NSW

The Three Sisters is the ultimate POV. These iconic weathered sandstone peaks are in the Jamison Valley of the Visit Blue Mountains, and they are best seen from Echo Point lookout.

Featured in ‘Australia.com recommends – 15 Places to Say G’day in 2024’, make sure to add this to your bucket list. Have you visited the Blue Mountains recently Please plan ahead and check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for the latest park details and alerts.

Parkes Shire Council

Have you heard about Council’s exciting new project to turn our old wastewater ponds into a thriving wetlands system? Have you been involved in any of the planting events that have been held onsite in the last few years?

Council is inviting community members to complete a short survey on the Wetlands Project.

Complete the survey here: bit.ly/41iyzpw

Learn more: bit.ly/3ReQ714

Council’s Biosecurity Team is currently targeting Blue Heliotrope and Silverleaf Nightshade around the Parkes Shire. Help us protect our unique environment by reporting priority weeds to our Biosecurity Team on (02) 6861 2343.

Inland Rail

Australia’s population surges towards an estimated 40 million by 2050, the need for a robust freight network has never been more pressing.

#InlandRail is laying the tracks for a faster, more reliable and efficient, future-proofed freight network. Some of the benefits include:

Less congested roads: a 1800m double-stacked freight train carries the equivalent of 110 B-double trucks, meaning less trucks on our roads

Reduced carbon emissions: rail is 4x more fuel-efficient than road transport

Fast and reliable: rail freight travel time between Melbourne and Brisbane will be cut by almost a third

Forbes Business Chamber

Terry Bros Forbes Proud sponsors of our Christmas Promotion – The support of our fabulous local businesses is just amazing!!! Shop at participating stores, scan the QR code to enter & win a share in a $20,000 prize pool

Look for the Find it in Forbes Christmas trees for you chance to win while shopping.

Kerin Health

Parkes Elvis Festival

Flannery’s Pharmacy

Visit NSW

Parkes Shire Council

Inland Rail

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