The long weekend was one extended celebration for the Parkes community. Heritage Day at the Henry Parkes Museum celebrated impressive milestones: 80 years since the establishment of 2PK, 78 years of the Sunshine Club, 50 years of the Henry Parkes Museum and 50 years of the Emmanuel family living in Parkes. The Central West Country Music Awards also celebrated its golden jubilee with three days of concerts, busking and a talent quest.
Mayor Ken Keith congratulated the Parkes Historical Society on its anniversary and the wonderful display of the Emmanuel family “a very special product of our community” at the official cutting of the cake on Saturday.
“It was a wonderful day with about 200 people coming to the museum,” said committee member Rose Jones. Vice-president of the Parkes & District Country Music Association, Lindy Charlton was just as excited about a successful weekend of country music. The 220 entries received for the talent quest was the biggest in years.
“Our competition has a big reputation and entrants came from all over the state and even Mildura in Victoria,” said Lindy. Despite tough competition some talented locals picked up awards. Parkes High School student Gracey Denham-Jones won three third places in junior gospel, junior Australian and senior duo she sang with Gail Smith.
Gail also came second in senior open. Peak Hill’s Sarah Charlton (11) came third in a very competitive sub junior open category, while her younger sister Hayley (8) received the encouragement award.
By Maggi Barnard