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Parkes Phoenix

Forbes Frost And Fire This Saturday

June 16, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Sneaky Sound System will be headlining this years Frost and Fire event.

Forbes Ski Dam has closed to the general public as preparations ramp up for this Saturday’s Frost and Fire winter solstice celebration.

Loads of wood are being delivered, the finishing touches are being put on the Ski Dam site, food and an exciting entertainment program is organised – all that is left now is for ticketholders to arrive, put their feet up and celebrate the long nights of winter with family and friends.

Frost and Fire boasts an impressive entertainment bill, starting with the talents of Grenfell musician Belinda Day and Forbes musical royalty Cler, Em and Jo. Indie sensation Birdee will take to the stage ahead of nationally renowned Sneaky Sound System.

Sydney Fire Dancers, Ice Queen and cultural performers Dyagang Boys Koori Dance Group will wow their audiences – and who could forget the dramatic lighting of the Frost and Fire effigy.

What has fast become one of Forbes’ masthead events, Frost and Fire is about celebrating the change in season at an affordable family friendly event. Tickets are $15 per adult with children under 18 free.

Secure your Frost and Fire tickets through 123tix.com.au. Parking at the event has sold out, so please be aware that buses will run between the Ski Dam and Town Hall and Renfree Street every 20 minutes for the duration of the event.

First fires will be lit at 4pm, and gates close at 10pm – Pack a picnic rug or chair.

National Parks Association Of NSW Lachlan Valley Branch Walks

June 16, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The National Parks Association of NSW, Lachlan Valley Branch Walks always welcome new walkers. If you are interested, following are the upcoming planned walks.

Wednesday, 21st June: Property of Clive Hawken, 1035 Cookamidgera Rd, Cookamidgera. Leader Clive and Graeme MacRaild 0474 041 082. Medium 3-4kms, some climbing. Time to be confirmed, check with Graeme the night before.

Wednesday, 19th July: Conimbla National Park. Meet 9.30am at Gooloogong Memorial Park, corner Main St (Lachlan Valley Way) and King St (Warraderry Way). Hard 6-8kms climbing, scrambling. Leaders Liz and Graeme MacRaild. Contact Liz 0455 915 989.

Wednesday 16th August: 16 Gunning Gap, Forbes. Meet 9.30am at Forbes Railway Station. Easy 4kms. Leader Peter Cannon 6866 1225.

Saturday 9th September: Goobang National Park, Bumberry Ridge Trail. Meet at Lions Park, Molong Rd Parkes 9am or at Bumberry Ridge Trail rest area 9.20am. Medium on track and off track 6 kilometres, steep sections. Leader Martin Bell 0429 346 586.

Please contact the walk leader the night before the walk if you intend to join. A $2 donation for each walker is appreciated. Walkers are reminded to bring along enough food and water for the entire day as well as suitable clothing, footwear, hat and sunscreen. A pair of good binoculars and a fold up chair for the post-walk cuppa.

Walkers are reminded to bring along enough food and water for the entire day as well as suitable clothing, footwear, hat and sunscreen. A pair of good binoculars and a fold up chair for the post-walk cuppa.

Easy: (5 to 10 kilometres) Mostly flat to slightly undulating topography. Walks are mostly on tracks or fire trails and of moderate distance. Walk suitable for those with a minimum level of fitness.

Medium: (5 to 8 kilometres) May be over moderate hills or rough terrain. May involve some off track walking. Walk may involve shorter distance overall due to rougher conditions. Suitable for an average fitness level.

Hard: (5 or more kilometres) Walk may involve hilly or mountainous terrain, rough tracks, a trackless route or an extended distance. Walk suitable for above average fitness level.

The Community Of Unity Tour – Restoring The Heart Of A Nation

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The Community Of Unity Tour will be at the Parkes Services Club in the Starlight Room at 6pm on Wednesday 21st June.

Australia has been through some tough times during the past four years. Various natural disasters including fire and floods combined with changes to government policies has resulted in some Australians feeling disillusioned and cynical of the institutions they once trusted.

As a Qantas pilot, Captain Graham Hood had an extensive career spanning 50 years. He made an agonising decision to resign when he chose not to accept corporate mandates imposed on his industry.

Graham and his wife Michelle have chosen to stand up and be a voice in a world they perceive is tearing itself apart. 

“We can just ignore the plight of our nation or stand up and do something constructive to restore this once great land,” Graham said.

Graham has spoken to hundreds of thousands of people at public events and reached a global audience via his podcast, called Club Grubbery, with friend John Larter. John Larter was a paramedic for 25 years, who was terminated for refusing to accept a mandate he disagreed with.

Together, they reach hundreds of thousands every week, sharing their views. “This hasn’t been an easy journey” says Graham. “In recent months we have been drawing attention to the many injured by this armoury of government and corporate policies.”

Graham and Michelle come across many heartbreaking stories as they tour our country in their efforts to bring communities together. 

In the past year they have visited 180 communities and spoken at gatherings of hundreds of people. A man of faith, Graham has baptised almost 200 people in various locations who he claims are seeking a simple faith to help them navigate the perplexities of the ‘new normal’. 

Parkes residents can hear this couple speak at a free event on Wednesday, 21st June at 6pm, in the Stalight Room of the Parkes Services Club. 

2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award National Finalists

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Glenmore entrepreneur Nikki Davey is the co-founder of Grown Not Flown. Nikki has a vision to see her local cut flower industry bloom, using her skills in business and digital product development to support small-scale growers. She was awarded for her work in creating a digital platform that supports the slow flower movement by connecting flower consumers with local and sustainable producers.

Seven remarkable women have been recognised for their contribution to Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses and communities by being named national finalists of the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

Each of the seven female leaders will receive a $15,000 Westpac grant to help boost, expand or elevate their work, with the National Winner awarded an additional $20,000 Westpac grant and National Runner Up, an additional $15,000.

AgriFutures Australia Managing Director, John Harvey says he’s impressed with the breadth of innovative projects that were submitted.

“2023 is an exciting year for the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award with our seven national finalists an outstanding representation of the impact that female-led initiatives are having within their industries and communities,” said Me Harvey.

The 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award National Finalists are:

• SA – Ali Paulett

• NT – Eileen Breen

• QLD – Emma Gibbons

• TAS – Melissa Duniam

• NSW/ACT – Michelle Leonard

• WA – Michelle Moriarty

• VIC – Nikki Davey

The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award has a significant profile, growing in prestige and popularity and is recognised as a program of influence among parliamentarians, industry, media and Award Alumni.

For more information about the Awards, head to: www.agrifutures.com.au/rwa

Don’t Miss The Social Event Of The Year

June 9, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Who will win the coveted Coradgery Cup in 2023? Pictured is last years winner Neon Moon with jockey Tony Cavallo. Inset: Local band Foxxy Cleopatra will once again be entertaining the crowds this Saturday.

It is once again that time of year, and all the elements are coming together for the premier event of the Parkes social calendar. The Parkes Coradgery and Diggers Picnic Races will be held this Saturday 10th June. So, dust off your fascinators and race gear and be sure to get involved in this great local event. 

Fashions on the Field is one of the highlights of the day offering an array of prizes and prestige to the glamourous colts and fillies. The Fashions on the Field categories this year will once again include: Elegant Lady, Stylish Man, Millinery and Best Dressed couple. 

The spectator area is looking great and the track is in top notch condition for the day’s five-race program. The renovated grandstand and covered bookies rink complete the excellent facilities for punters and a relaxed environment offers something for everyone, making this venue one of the best in the Central West. 

The June long weekend has long since become a ‘back to Parkes’ weekend, with many residents opening their homes to friends and relatives who return to Parkes to celebrate for the weekend. 

The event attracts visitors from all over the state, as well as from interstate. 

There will be food on offer from the Quota ladies, who are back in the saddle driving the canteen in the newly renovated grandstand space. There will also be full bar facilities on course. 

Several commercial and private marquees will be providing food and alcohol, so gather your friends and join a group for an afternoon of fun and entertainment. 

Much loved local band, Foxxy Cleopatra, has been invited to perform on the day to provide entertainment for all to enjoy. 

Organise a group and head along for a great day out. Gates open at 11.30am and entry is $20 for adults, under 16 years are free. Get your tickets before the event from123tix or at the gate on the day. 

Farewell To Forbes Betta Home Living After 21 Years

June 2, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Head along and score yourself a bargain as Forbes Better Home Living prepares to close its doors.

After 21 years of serving the local community, Forbes Betta Home Living are closing their doors for the final time on Friday, 9th June. With an impending retirement near, owners Ian and Mandy Westcott have decided to close the business.

Family owned and operated, Ian and Mandy Westcott are the second generation in their family to run the Forbes store. For the past 21 years, the Forbes store has been a one-stop shop, helping the local community find the right appliances and furniture for their home, with the store stocking a huge range of Kitchen, Laundry, Small Appliances, IT products and Bedding.

To mark its closure, the team at Forbes Betta Home Living are offering the community mark-downs and reductions across a range of home appliances and consumer electrical goods. For a limited time until the final operating date of Friday 9th June, Forbes Betta Home Living are offering bargains including:

• Up to 25% off Fridges
• Up to 30% off Washing Machines
• Up to 50% off Small Appliances
• Up to 30% off Floorcare
• Up to 20% off Dishwashers

The Forbes Betta Home Living Closing Down Sale will run until Friday 9th June 2023, while stocks last.

Despite the closure of the Forbes store, Parkes Betta Home Living will continue to service the Forbes local community, which is only a 25-minute drive north of the Forbes location. Customers can still receive amazing service, deals, and exceptional local advice on all your fridge and freezer, kitchen and cooking appliances, air conditioning, furniture, bedding, TV and audio requirements.

Parkes Betta Home Living are located at 11 Saleyards Road Parkes and you can contact them on 6862 2237. Opening hours may vary, please call or check the Betta website for more information.

What’s on @ the Parkes Shire Library & Cultural Centre

June 2, 2023 By Roxane Manley

AUTHOR TALK: HARRY TREASURE

Join us on Friday, 23rd June from 6pm-7:30pm for this night of food, wine and entertainment with Cowra farmer and author Harry Treasure, on the release of his first novel King’s Spur. This history inspired fiction novel is set in the Dargo high plains last century. Free event, book your place for what should be a great evening by phoning Parkes Library on 6861 2309.

FRIDAY FLICKS

This month our Friday Flick is a light-hearted rom-com romp through the jungle with a star-studded cast and lots of laughs along the way. FREE, limited places so call 6861 2309 to book your place. Parkes Library, Friday 26 May at 6pm.

WASTE 2 ART EXHIBITION IN THE COVENTRY ROOM

Waste 2 Art Exhibition Challenge the way you view waste this June at this years’ Waste 2 Art Exhibition in the Coventry Room. Join us on Saturday 3 June at 10:00 AM for the official opening and announcement of the local winning entries (FREE). The exhibition will be on display from 3rd June until 1st July during library opening hours. 

LEARN SOMETHING NEW IN JUNE

Little Bang Discovery Club: Each Tuesday morning (10-11:30am) for the month of June children aged 3-5years and their parent/carer are invited to join a 4-week science program with hands-on activities and one-to-one creative learning. Places are strictly limited so call 68612309 to book.

Social AUSLAN: Join us fortnightly in the Makerspace to learn social AUSLAN with Rose and Annette Jones. Saturday, 10th June and 24th June from 10am. FREE, no booking required.

Expressive Acrylics: Florals workshop. Join Karen Ritchie in this 3-hour workshop in the Marramarra Makerspace and learn how to paint florals. Saturday, 17th June 1pm – 4pm. For booking and cost enquiries contact karenritchieart@gmail.com

parkes

Third Annual Parkes Yard Dog Trial

June 2, 2023 By Roxane Manley

Locals are encouraged to register before the 10th June (no late entries).

Parkes Yard Dog Trial will be held on 18th and 19th June at the Parkes Showground and organisers are looking forward to welcoming competitors from throughout NSW and Victoria.

The trial will be run in conjunction with NSW Yard Dog Association. Competing dogs accumulate points towards end of year championships.

There will be a local section for dogs that reside within 100km radius of Parkes. The locals that competed last years had an enjoyable time trialling their dogs and were encouraged by the support from the judges and the other competitors. It would be great to see more local competitors this year.

The starting time each day is 7.30am and the public are encouraged to come along and have a look.

The event is fortunate to receive strong sponsorship support from the following businesses: Inland Petroleum, Westonfence, Quality Wool, Wakely Shearing, Tanswell Transport, Nick Williams Livestock Pregnancy Scanning, Agriwest, AA Blatch, Nutrien Ag, Dwyer Contracting, Timtrac Industries, Parkes Central Butchery and CopRice.

Parkes RFS Headquarters will be catering and coffee will also be available.

For enquiries about the event please contact Bernard Dwyer on 0428 653 233.

Get Ready To Picnic With Style

May 26, 2023 By Roxane Manley

The popular Fashions on the Field always attracts entries from far and wide. The winners from 2022 were (L-R) Baeden Wakefield (Stylish Man), Ashleigh Smith (Elegant Lady), Deb Parish (Millinery), Carmen and Ian Hatherly (Best Dressed Couple).

It is once again that time of year, and all the elements are coming together for the premier event of the Parkes social calendar. The Parkes Coradgery and Diggers Picnic Races will be held on Saturday 10th June. So, dust off your fascinators and race gear and be sure to get involved in this great local event.

Fashions on the Field is one of the highlights of the day offering an array of prizes and prestige to the glamourous colts and fillies. The Fashions on the Field categories this year will once again include: Elegant Lady, Stylish Man, Millinery and Best Dressed couple.

The spectator area is looking great and the track is in top notch condition for the day’s five-race program. The renovated grandstand and covered bookies rink complete the excellent facilities for punters and a relaxed environment offers something for everyone, making this venue one of the best in the Central West.

The June long weekend has long since become a ‘back to Parkes’ weekend, with many residents opening their homes to friends and relatives who return to Parkes to celebrate for the weekend. 

The event attracts visitors from all over the state, as well as from interstate.

There will be food on offer from the Quota ladies, who are back in the saddle driving the canteen in the newly renovated grandstand space. There will also be full bar facilities on course.

Several commercial and private marquees will be providing food and alcohol, so gather your friends and join a group for an afternoon of fun and entertainment.

Much loved local band, Foxxy Cleopatra, has been invited to perform on the day to provide entertainment for all to enjoy. 

Organise your friends, family or co-workers and head along for a great day out. Gates open at 11.30am and entry is $20 for adults, under 16 years are free. Get your tickets early from123tix.

Time To Celebrate, Parkes…. A Silver Anniversary And A National Conference

May 26, 2023 By Roxane Manley

In 1996, all Parkes school principals, preschool directors and two midwives, along with Mayor Robert Wilson, launched the community awareness-raising campaign, Birth to Kindergarten – now known as Paint the Town REaD.

The Annual Parkes Community Reading Day is one of the fun and creative strategies used to spread the word about the necessity of providing children a language-rich environment right from birth, as well as celebrating literacy. 

This year marks 25 years since the first Reading Day, and in addition, the 9th National Paint the Town REaD Conference is being held in Parkes.

What began as a local campaign has become a nationwide movement, with well over 100 communities and networks across six states.

Parkes is recognised nationally for our exceptional community reading days, and a number of conference delegates are staying an extra night to attend. This is a great opportunity to showcase the Parkes community. 

The National Paint the Town REaD Conference will be held on 6th – 7th September, the community reading day on 8th September.

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