Brenton Hawken
How long have you lived in Parkes for and what do you like about living here?
I have lived in Parkes my whole life, for 22 years to be exact. I love the community spirit and local attractions. Wherever I go, I am proud to talk up Parkes as the Elvis Capital of Australia, and the home of ‘The Dish’. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Where do you work and what do you enjoy about your work?
I am a part of the great team at Ron Dunford Chemist. I enjoy working alongside some of the great- est people that I have ever met, and the customers that you get to know quite well.
What do you do to unwind after work or on weekends?
I don’t get much time to unwind or relax, as there’s always something going on. I’m at university in Wagga Wagga studying a Bachelor of Education trying to keep up with assignments. And when I am home, you often see me working. Boring, I know!!
What are you really good at?
Setting goals and working towards achieving them. I am a person who does what they say they are going to do. Last month, my goal of representing NSW in the National Indigenous Youth Parliament came true, a goal that was six years in the making.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
The ability to control time. Time is such a precious resource that I never seem to have a lot of. Some days I just wish I could reverse time, freeze time or even fast forward time.
What is your pet hate?
Listening to people who sell themselves short, or believe that they are incapable of achieving something. Each individual is unique and more than capable of achieving anything that they set their mind to. If you don’t believe in yourself first, you’ve already lost the race.
Tell us about your best holiday ever.
Any holiday where I can take a break from University and work is a great holiday. I’ve taken quite a few trips to the Central Coast for holidays with both family and friends. I have plans to travel outside the country when I finish university.