Recipe of the Week

Our Bloke – Dooley Thomson

April 4, 2019 By editor

Dooley Thomson

How long have you lived in Parkes and what do you like most about living here? I’ve lived in Parkes pretty much all my life, except for a couple of years in the Nation’s capital. Parkes is a good joint, plenty of friends and family around to get up to some shenanigans with and a great place to bring up your kids.

Where do you work or what do you do currently and what do you enjoy about it? I’ve got my own bricklaying and landscaping company called Dooley Outdoors. I have five bloody great full-time employees. We work in Parkes, Forbes and surrounds, and have a pretty awesome time at work. I prefer work to be a place where you can be yourself and not have to worry about the pressures of the outside world. We work, laugh, have fun and maybe a little dancing from time to time.

What is your favourite thing to do when you have free time? I love hanging out with my wife and kids. We have a lot of fun making videos, laughing and creating memories. I also love a beer.

What makes you proud? Seeing my three boys achieve things that they have fought for.

If you could be an animal which one would you choose, and why? A threetoed sloth, so I could just hang out all day.

What is your all-time favourite movie, song and/or book, and why? ‘Flying High’ – it’s the most corniest, funniest, stupidest movie I’ve ever seen. ‘Shirley you can’t be serious.’

Tell us about your best holiday. This may sound boring, but I’ve never had a bad one.

What is on your bucket list? To succeed more in business, make more videos. If I can make one person smile a day, I’d be a happy man. My wife and I would love to renovate houses full-time, and I want to go to Ibiza (don’t tell Bec).

What’s on @ The Library

February 28, 2019 By editor

REUSE, RECYCLE, UPCYCLE FOR WASTE TO ART
Entry is free and closes on Thursday, 28th March at 5pm

Parkes Shire Council invites the Parkes Shire community to get creative and enter the Parkes Local Sims Metal Waste To Art & Design 2019, which is a community art exhibition and competition.

This year’s theme is Baling Twine and Strapping. Artworks do not have to use the theme waste, but an additional prize will be given to an artwork featuring this form of material.

The exhibition will be open for viewing from 4 to 26 April. The winners will be announced on Thursday, 4th April at 6pm. Entry forms are available at any Parkes Shire Library, library@parkes.nsw.gov.au

SCIENCE TALK – DR JANE KACZMAREK
Thursday, 21st March 6pm Parkes Shire Library

Dr Jane, an astrophysicist at the Parkes Radio Telescope will explain how the recent multi-million-dollar upgrade to the telescope has continued to make The Dish a world leader in scientific research and detail how astrophysicists across the world use Parkes to answer some of the universe’s big questions. RSVP: 68612309 or library@parkes.nsw.gov.au

COMPUTER CLASS RECOMMENCES
Every Thursday 9am to 11am Parkes Shire Library

If you want to learn to use a computer or just some new skills come and join our computer class. You will be guided through a series of self-paced tutorials that you can also access from home.

Tuned Suspension And Mechanical…Professional Roadside Assistance When You Need It Most

April 19, 2018 By editor

Every time you have your vehicle serviced with Tuned Suspension and Mechanical you can rely on fully trained licensed technicians that care about your vehicle, in fact they treat it like one of their own. You also receive six months of free membership in the Club Evolution roadside assistance package, which includes the following benefits:
Towing: First 25km free of charge, with subsequent km charged to the registered driver.
Jumpstart: They will quickly jump start your vehicle to get you on your way.
Battery replacement: They offer a batteryvreplacement service on the spot, at the cost of the registered driver.
Flat tyre: They will change your vehicles flat tyre and replace with your serviceable spare.
Lockouts: Club Evolution covers lockout assistance up to $70.00 inc gst.
Emergency fuel: They will deliver emergency fuel to get you on your way, at the cost of the registered driver.
Emergency accommodation: Up to two nights’ accommodation will be provided (conditions apply) if you break down more than 100km from home and are unable to drive the vehicle for more than 48 hours.

With these benefits, the Club Evolution roadside assistance package may eliminate your need to outlay the extra in premiums for road side assistance.

Tuned Suspension & Mechanical also carries out logbook servicing using semi & full synthetic oils. A suspension check is complimentary with all services.

Mayoral Notes…

September 21, 2017 By editor

This week I joined residents of the Peak Hill community for the official unveiling of the new Peak Hill Community Wall art installation in the Commercial Gardens. The artworks currently showing are those by Wiradjuri artist and Peak Hill resident, Scott “Sauce” Towney. The Community Wall is an extension to the Parkes Shire public art series, developed to interchange over time and celebrate cultural and artistic diversity within the community.

Only one week to go until residents and visitors can dive into the swim season, with the Parkes Aquatic Centre opening its gates on Saturday, 30th September at 10am. Get in early and pick up a season ticket from the Poolside Café from Monday, 25th September. Council is also taking enrolments for the 2017/18 Parkes Learn to Swim program, with enrolment forms available for download via our website, www.parkes.nsw.gov.au.

Ahead of the start of the swim season, Council contractors have installed new solar lighting at the Parkes Aquatic Centre. This is good news for our early morning swimmers, as it now means they won’t have to navigate their way through the complex in the dark. The light poles have been installed either side of the pathway from the amenities building right up to the pools, significantly improving safety for pool users.

With the school holidays just around the corner, a reminder to take advantage of the colourful landscapes, fun events and iconic attractions the Parkes Shire region has to offer by getting involved in the Colour Parkes campaign. Download your Colour Pass from www.visitparkes.com.au to gain exclusive access to eleven special offers from local attractions, accommodation, cafes and shopping outlets as part of the Colour Parkes campaign. These can be redeemed from participating businesses until 31st October 2017.

Yours Faithfully,
Cr Ken Keith OAM
Mayor of Parkes Shire

Tax Talk

June 22, 2017 By editor

For Personal Tax And Business Assistance

Peter Woods and Associates have an experienced team of 11 staff, led by Mark Job and Samantha Bennett.

They are available to support you and your business, not only with tax returns and activity statements, but also the requirements of running a business, and business advice. They recognise that every business is different and will require different levels of support at different times in the business lifecycle.

Whether you need your personal tax return completed, or assistance with your business requirements, contact Peter Woods and Associates on 6862 1366.

Discover Tax Time With M D Trimmer & Co

Mark and the team are available for all your general tax and compliance needs, but they do much, much, more than that…

As your accountant, our real job is to help put you and your busi- ness on the path to success.

Prove the benefits of Xero and associated applications to in- crease controls and efficiencies with up to date, accurate, current reports, budgeting and cashflows. There are applications to cater for every business situation including the farmer, tradesmen, coffee shops, beauty salons, mechanical workshops, gym operations, retail outlets including those that require stock control, manufacturers and everyone in between.

Farm Financial Management: Figured has now partnered with two banks and have an Agworld Integration with Xero, providing a smarter way to manage farm finances online. www.figured.com

Tradesmen: Tradify nails the paperwork problem for tradies! Go to Zrilo for a demo; quote ZRP17. www.zrilo.comfreedemo/tradify

Knowledge & Experience: There are numerous brand-name tax agents that can assist you with the lodgement of a simple tax re- turn, but sometimes they simply do not have the knowledge or experience to give you the service that you deserve. Personalised, professional advice and caring consideration enters into every ser- vice provided…

Financial Planning Services: A free consultation to review your current and future needs and requirements for insurance, retire- ment, investments and mortgages – tailored to what you are com- fortable with!

Proactive Referral System: Every referral is recognised and ap- preciated as are all loyal clients, with deductions given to all new clients with discounts applied to the referring client, being 10% of the fee or $20 – $300 to which conditions apply. Quote P17 to receive this offering if you come along without a referral.

Locally owend and operated, Here for You! You know what accountants do, and yes, we do all that, but the most important thing to us is YOU, and what YOU require in the way of support and assistance, so act now, and reserve your place in the busy schedule that is Tax Time…

Arts OutWest Showcases Parkes At Annual Meeting

May 11, 2017 By editor

Parkes has been picked for the annual general meeting of the regional arts development organisation of Central NSW, Arts OutWest, this year.

Arts OutWest have teamed up with Parkes Shire Council to showcase creatives from the region some of the arts and cultural success stories, plans and infrastructure of our town.

The meeting will be held on Sunday, 28th May and start at 11.30am with a tour of the Parkes Library, hearing about the planned expansion and a viewing of the current exhibition. This will be followed by a tour of the Little Theatre and a short performance by Parkes M&D Society from their latest production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which opens tomorrow night.

The program for the day includes a free lunch in the Hart Bar at the Railway Hotel.

After lunch and the formal meeting, which will include a pictorial of Arts OutWest’s activities throughout 2016, there will be a tour of local street art and a visit to local museums.

“Everyone is welcome to come along, we’d love to see familiar faces and like- wise meet people who just want to know more about what their regional arts organisation does,” Arts OutWest executive di- rector, Tracey Callinan said.

“The formal meeting aspect of our AGMs are always short. We really use our AGM as a chance to showcase the arts and cultural scene in a particular local gov- ernment area. This year it’s Parkes’ turn” Tracey said.

“We’re even running a bus to Parkes for those who can’t make the drive out there – leaving from Bathurst and stopping in Orange on the way.”

To RSVP (for catering), or to book a seat on the bus, call Arts OutWest on 6338 4657 or email artsoutwest@csu.edu.au

The mission of Arts OutWest is to pro- mote, facilitate, educate and advocate for arts and cultural development for communities of the NSW Central West.

Time To Start Lamb Marking

May 4, 2017 By editor

It is that time of the year again where farmers in the district are busy lamb marking. Lambs should be marked between the ages of two to 12 weeks old.

The term tail docking is referred to as placing a rubber ring on the tail of the lamb and is recommended by the Code of Practice for Sheep for blowfly control.

Lambs can be restrained either by cradle or by hand. During lamb marking rings are also expanded with a special plier and placed over the scrotum, just above the testicles. The ring blocks blood circulation causing the scrotum and testicles to eventually fall off along with the tail.

Throughout lamb marking it is advised to use insecticide when necessary to further help prevent fly strike and use antiseptic to sterilize all equipment used. During lamb marking farmers often inject the lambs with 5 in 1 Vaccine for the prevention of pulp kidney, an injection of scabby mouth to help prevention from the disease, a drench to help prevent worms and an ear tag to help with identification when sold.

Lambs are marked to help with farm management and for the market. Operators for lamb marking need to be experi- enced and follow the required guidelines.

(Information source: Department of Primary Industries.)

Make Your Bathroom Dream A Reality With Glassplace

April 27, 2017 By editor

Are you building a new home, or updating your forever home or investment property? Glassplace will help make your bathroom look lavish and inviting.

In many modern bathrooms, the shower is the centrepiece. A good shower screen needs to be durable, watertight and fit the style of your bathroom.

The economical Envy Fully Framed shower screen is a first choice for rental properties, and bathrooms that need to take a little extra loving… especially from little people.

In the middle of the market, the best selling Envy Semi Frameless, is just that little more elegant. The Envy Semi Frameless will add a special touch to a well used room in your home.

Looking to have a frameless screen in your open plan bathroom? Glassplace can fit an Expanse walk in shower to your bathroom. Size and shape are all custom designed to fit your wishes. They can even help with glass shelving to add an elegant yet practical touch.

Looking to update your old mirror, or add one to a new bathroom? There are so many different styles on display in the showroom. Pop in to Glassplace and let them help you make your bathroom dream a reality today!

We Will Remember Them

April 20, 2017 By editor

Arthur Parker – Royal Australian Air Force

Arthur Parker joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1955. He served as a supply supervisor and loadmaster, and was posted to many and varied locations across Australia and overseas during his 21 years of service.

Perhaps the most dramatic was his 1966 posting to Malaysia to support the Vietnam War. He and his family found themselves in the midst of civil unrest. Penang was in total lockdown, and at one point a machine-gun was set up in their garden.

In 1974 Arthur was instrumental in providing support to the Cyclone Tracey recovery effort, which earned him a Certificate of Out- standing Service.

Paul Thomas – Australian Army

Paul Thomas joined the Australian Army in 1967 and served for six years. In 1970 he was deployed to Vietnam for 12 months, and served with 24 other soldiers from Parkes. He said overall the Vietnamese people were good to Australians. “They didn’t want to be in the war as much as we didn’t want to be there,” he said.

“It made me realise how lucky we are in Australia. Their living standards were so much lower.”

Paul said that despite the hardships of the war, being there was less challenging than coming home. Many soldiers returned at a time when Vietnam veterans were widely despised.

Karl Martin – Royal Australian Navy

Karl Martin spent 15 years in the Navy, serving in the first Gulf War. Karl served on three ships; the HMAS Success – a replen- ishment ship, the HMAS Sydney- a guided missile frigate, and the HMAS Swan- a de- stroyer escort.

Karl was deployed to the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, which he described as a very tense time.

They were fortunate enough to not come under live fire during the deployments, although at one point his ship sailed into a minefield.

“We didn’t know what we were heading into. We were all just hoping nothing would happen,” he said.

Just a Short Drive to Cowra

March 9, 2017 By editor

Enjoy A Meal In The Only English Manorial Village In Australia

CIRCA 1935 is located in the former Bank of NSW building in Greenethorpe, a pur- pose-built village. It was established in 1908 to house share farmers who worked on Iandra, the nearby pastoral estate owned by George Henry Greene. The vil- lage was based on the English manorial system, and is the only known settlement of its kind in Australia.

CIRCA 1935 is listed in the National In- stitute of Architects’ register of significant buildings in Australia. It was purchased by the present owner in late 2015 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory. It features high ceilings, cedar doors, archi- traves and picture rails, original fireplaces and mantels, and mostly original light fittings.

It now houses the local post office, an up-market café and a small guest house with three rooms plus shared bathroom, sitting/ TV room, tea and coffee making facilities and a bar fridge.

The café seats up to 24 people inside and a further 24 in the attached courtyard. The menu is seasonal and contains old favourites, mediterranean and Asian influ- ences. Larger groups can be catered for in the nearby Soldiers’ Memorial Hall, by prior arrangement. History talks and walks in the village can also be arranged, as well as group bookings to visit nearby Iandra Castle. At CIRCA 1935 stepping back in time never tasted so good.

All You Need In A Hop, Skip And Jump

Hippity Hop Kids is a family owned kids and women’s boutique and online store in Cow- ra. It was first created by Christine Hamer in 1997 as a small shop in Macquarie Street. It quickly outgrew the quaint setting and moved to the top of Kendal Street where business thrived.

After 14 years the shop was sold in June 2011 to Skye Muddle. She moved Hippity Hop Kids to the fresh and funky location she created at 7 Kendal Street. With the com- mitments of a growing family Skye sold Hip- pity Hop Kids to Sam Edwards in December 2013.

Thanks to the inspiration and hard work of these women Cowra has a unique store that attracts many people from near and far offering special children’s items – not only for them to wear and look absolutely divine in, but also to offer a range of accessories, toys and fabulous decor items for their rooms. The shop also stocks the very popular Eb & Ive range (one size fits all) of clothing and accessories for women. With the introduction of the new webstore, all Facebook ‘likers’ have access to readily available INSTOCK products as well.

Sam says she takes pride in personally selected products and friendly service, and hopes to make it easier for clients where they can shop for all their favourite brands in the one spot. “So grab a coffee, put your feet up and enjoy a leisurely tour of our store.”