Snippets…

Parkes Country Music Meeting: Parkes & District Country Music Association recently held a COVID-safe meeting in Cooke Park to ensure the future of country music in Parkes. In light of the present situation and with the acceptance of members currently holding committee positions, all will continue in their respective roles for the ensuing year until an AGM is held next year. All financial association ordinary members will also have their memberships carry over until this time. Discussions have also been held with the Department of Fair Trading and Parkes Services Club and it is with a glimmer of hope that the committee now work to see when we can resume our functions. We look towards the new year, should restrictions not be too onerous as to over regulate our audience, social distancing, number of backing musicians, performers on stage, compere, stage hands, etc. A rough draft of future function dates has been discussed along with the possibility of some type of an outdoor event. A visit by the South Coast Country Music Association from Wollongong to Parkes is due in March. So, watch this space – looking forward to a brighter, healthier and safer 2021. By Maree Mulligan

Country Kids And Mental Health: Children in rural and remote areas of Australia are needing more support for their mental health and at a younger age, according to paediatric mental health specialist, Dr Josephine Anderson at Royal Far West. Dr Anderson said the drought, bushfires and COVID-19 have combined to dramatically increase the demand for psychology services in the bush, including for young children. Recent figures from Royal Far West show the volume of psychological therapy delivered by telehealth is now six times what it was three years ago. Early intervention was the key, as first symptoms of emotional and behavioural disturbance typically develop up to four years before serious mental health problems become apparent in children. GPs and practice nurses are ideally placed to start conversations with parents about their child’s emotional and behavioural development as they prepare to enter school for the first time.

Bird Count Postponed: The rain has been great, but not for conditions for volunteers counting glossy black cockatoos. The Great Inland Glossy Count has been moved to: Pilliga – 13th February 2021; Goonoo – 20th February 2021 and Goo- bang – 27th February 2021.