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This past week I had the pleasure of sitting down to chat with local artist Ted Lewis. Ted has been painting most of his life and had his very first exhibition as a teenager just shy of 50 years ago. Most Orange people would be familiar with Ted’s work and it was great to hear a bit of his story. While at his studio, one of the things I found remarkable was the collection of photographs he has taken over the years to use as he works on his paintings. It’s a historical treasure trove, with Ted returning to photograph some of the same locations many times over the past decades. You can follow the changes in buildings and landscapes over the years and I’m sure some of his photographs would be the only ones in existence of certain locations. Hopefully, we might be able to share a few examples from Ted’s photo collection in the future.
Are you a blood donor? Has it been a while since your last donation? Now is the time to book an appointment. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is always on the lookout for more donations, but while attending our local blood donor centre last Friday, I was made aware of a push to get people to donate due to the disruption caused by Cyclone Alfred. Lifeblood was forced to cancel nearly 4,000 appointments due to the approaching storm and the closure of 22 donor centres in the cyclone’s path. While most donor centres have reopened, blood collections in the area are not expected to return to normal for some time. To book an appointment for your donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood App.
Orange’s popular long-running food festival, FOOD Week, is almost here. The organising committee and sponsors held an official launch and media event at the Hotel Canobolas on Tuesday. Running from Friday, 28 March to Sunday, 6 April 2025, this year’s festival will feature close to 100 events and bring thousands of visitors to the region. As always, it gets underway with the night markets in Robertson Park, and we really hope the weather holds this time around.
Until next week!
Orange FOOD Week committee and sponsors held an o cial launch of the popular annual food festival at Hotel Canbolas on Tuesday. Now in its 34th year, Orange FOOD Week takes place from March 28 to April 6, with nearly 100 events over two weekends showcasing the best the region has to o er.
Orange FOOD Week 2025 serving up close to 100 delicious events
Orange’s longrunning food and wine festival gets underway on March 28, serving up nearly 100 events over two weekends showcasing the best of the region’s seasonal produce, cool-climate wines, and vibrant culinary scene.
Now in its 34th year, FOOD Week continues to be a huge visitor drawcard for the region. The festival’s six signature events alone are estimated to generate nearly $500,000 in revenue, and that excludes the other
70-plus events hosted by individual businesses at cellar doors, restaurants and elsewhere, FOOD Week President Charlotte Gundry said during the official launch of the festival at Hotel Canbolas on Tuesday.
“Really quite an extraordinary thing that FOOD Week now is a half-amillion-dollar exercise run by a bunch of volunteers… I think it’s just quite extraordinary and I’m certainly very proud to be a part of it,” Charlotte said.
“A lot of the signature events have sold out, which is amazing,” she said of the 2025 FOOD Week program.
“And so we can now push guests and visitors into going to the smaller events that are being run by our wineries and restaurants and farm gates… This year, we’ve actually got over 70 events being run by individual operators across the region, which is really exciting and from all accounts, ticket sales are going pretty well for those events.”
The diversity and variety of this year’s events is also great to see, added Charlotte, with everything from intimate dinners, hands-on masterclasses, and family-friendly events alongside exciting new additions in neighbouring towns and villages like
the Molong Meander and Falling for Blayney High Tea event.
“People have taken a lot of time to think about what their event is trying to achieve and being quite creative. I really like that people have thought about them and taken time to create something special… that really shows that level of maturity in the region as well,” she said.
FOOD Week 2025 gets underway on Friday, March 28, with the popular night markets in Robertson Park and concludes on Sunday, April 6. For the full program of events, visit orangefoodweek.com.au
PEOPLE OF O-TOWN
J emy N ris
A restauranteur, father of 2, a passion for classic cars, straight lines on his lawn and a firm believer that life’s too short to drink bad co ee and average wine.
— By Emily Thompson —
What do you do for a living and what do you love about it?
I’m not sure I have an actual title as such but with the help of a great team and some key management people, I own and operate Byng Street Group here in Orange, Dubbo and soon to be Goulburn. I have been in the hospitality industry since I was 18 and it has taken me all over the world. From the fast pace of Formula 1 where I worked as a chef for the McLaren Race Team to the quiet bubbling brooks of Scotland where I worked as a private chef on country sporting estates. I love meeting new people and talking to our regular guests on a daily basis.
Describe your ideal day out in Orange (with unlimited time and budget)?
✓ Breakfast with the family at Byng Street followed by a stroll around the shops.
✓ Home for a quick dip in the pool.
✓ Short scenic chopper ride from home to Printhie Cellar Door for a long 3-hour lunch with friends.
✓ Back home for another quick dip in the pool.
✓ Family movie with Spilt Milk Gelato delivery.
That’s a wrap.
Where would you go for the perfect birthday dinner?
I turned 51 last week and we had 2 excellent birthday dinners. The first was at Lucetta on my actual birthday with just Juliet and myself which is always very delicious. We always get Francesco to cook for us which is the best way to do it. The second dinner
a few nights later was at Byng Street Local Store which was also extremely good especially with Chef Alan’s extraordinarily good layered chocolate and beetroot birthday cake and the token Happy Birthday singalong we do for all our Byng Street Birthday guests
What’s your favourite quiet space in Orange?
Probably my office at home. Its separate from the house and I can watch the cows in the paddock and the endless horizons that lie between us and Mt Canobolas.
Who are your top three dinner party guests from any point in history?
1. The first would be my father who passed away 10 years go. He would be 78 now and it would be great to catch up with him again.
2. The second would be Mark Knopfler. I would love to hear his story. Both dad I are fans of his music and I’m sure he would be pretty good company. He would naturally have to teach me a couple of riffs in between courses.
3. Naturally I think there needs to be a lady at the table so I would choose Amy Winehouse. She would bring an element of WILD to the table and her voice is unbelievable. I think she would have some interesting stories to tell as well.
If you were running for mayor, what would your campaign slogan be?
Made In Orange…. Small business matters.
& Lunch menu including kids menu ~ including a gelato bar
20th
First look at 117-key hotel development planned for Peisley Street
Plans for a large new CBD hotel complex in Peisley Street have been unveiled.
Designed by Plus Architecture, the planned development opposite the Orange Railway Station at 123-125 Peisley Street covers 7,400 square metres stretching between Peisley and McNamara Streets.
The six-storey hotel will incorporate 117 serviced apartments with private balconies, conference facilities, a hotel restaurant, a swimming pool and rooftop communal garden, as well as retail spaces on both street frontages.
The development will see a new public laneway
opened alongside the hotel building between Peisley and McNamara Streets.
Plus Architecture says the development will create a new landmark for Orange’s CBD while respecting the site’s historic significance. The design draws inspiration from the surrounding locality and features earthy tones, textural brickwork, finegrain detailing, and profiled bronze columns.
It also incorporates passive design elements, energyefficient systems, and Building Management System optimisation.
“This project shows how thoughtful design can create spaces that bring people together. We envision the hotel as more than accommodation – it will be a destination where Orange’s lively culture, arts
and culinary scene can flourish,” Plus Architecture Director, Rido Pin, said.
“As a practice, we’re focused on creating places that evolve with their communities. In regional centres like Orange, we see incredible opportunities to design spaces that support local aspirations while attracting visitors who want to experience authentic Australian destinations.”
The Orange Hotel is the latest project in Plus Architecture’s growing portfolio of regional hotel developments across Australia and New Zealand — with others including Ballarat Gateway in Victoria, Palm Beach Hotel in Queensland, Byron Bay Hotel in New South Wales, Cooyou Close in Exmouth, Western Australia and Palmerston North Hotel.
The Rotary Club of Orange is donating all the gate takings from Sunday’s community market to local volunteer group Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Orange, which will be holding an information stall at the market on March 16.
Sunday’s Community Markets supporting RDA Orange
Rotary Club of Orange’s Community Markets are back at the Orange Showground this Sunday, March 16, and as you make your donation at the gate on your way to nab a bargain, buy some delicious homemade goods or that perfect gift, know that your money is going to help a very worthy local cause.
Rotary is donating all the gate-takings from Sunday’s market to Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Orange, a volunteer group providing local school children with therapeutic horse-related activities out at Clifton Grove.
RDA Orange secretary Deb Finlay said it is an inspiring thing to see the positive impact their horses have on the lives of many children.
“Having to interact with us in that easy, going manner to get on a horse, helping them learn how to trust a horse… when you watch that child’s behaviour change from being really, really scared of a horse to being able to touch the horse, to being able to get on it and ride it and then being fully confident, It’s really amazing,” she said
“We had one child that it took the whole year to get in that way and at the end of the year at his school, he did a dance on the stage!. This child, who was so shy, quiet and didn’t love change, is up on stage dancing to music with two others. It was an amazing transformation.”
But maintaining their 13 horses and riding facilities is not cheap, and the work of RDA Orange is not funded by
the government.
“The only funds that we get, we get from the community. And in fact, our community does support us brilliantly, as shown by Rotary thinking of us for receiving this gift,” Deb said.
Along with funds, RDA Orange is always looking for volunteers to lend a hand, whether it be working with the horses, working with the children or behind the scenes.
“You can choose what your preference is as to what you wish to do with the groups of children. It is an easy-going volunteer group,” Deb said.
RDA Orange will have a stall at the markets on Sunday if anyone would like to
know more about the organisation.
“If you want to have a chat with us, you’ll see us in our blue shirts with our sign, RDA Orange… It’s as tall as I am! You won’t miss us,” Deb said.
Don’t miss the Rotary Club of Orange’s Community Markets at the Orange Showground this Sunday, March 16, from 9am to 2pm. Stallholders will be selling: primary produce, plants, food and nonalcoholic beverages, toys, cosmetics, brica-brac, clothing, jewellery and accessories, quality second-hand goods, arts and crafts, books and homeware, leather goods, succulents, handmade bags, gems/opals, toys, succulents, baby goods, hair goods, honey, salts and rubs, décor, mosaics and more!
Rotary Daybreak’s Vocational Awards recognise four very special people
our Orange citizens were presented with Rotary Orange Daybreak’s Vocational Excellence awards, recognising their outstanding contribution to our community through their chosen vocation.
Dillon Bell, whose high ethical standards and hard work are being applied and appreciated at the Orange
Aboriginal Medical Service. Once a budding sportsman, Dillon’s diligence and dedication to duty are doing great things at OAMS.
Courtney Harcombe provides exceptional customer service at a local coffee shop in Orange. She is renowned for her welcoming smile and shares a friendly chat with her many customers. She really cares for people. Her great personality makes dealing with her an
absolute pleasure!
Christine Whipple is the Manager of the Commonwealth Bank in Orange. She started her banking career in Molong before moving to Sydney. Later returning to Orange, Christine continued to work her way up to become the manager of Commonwealth Bank. There she delivers friendly, caring and professional service to all her customers.
Jane Heffernan is a Senior Constable with the NSW Police. She set her sights on a career with our police force from an early age. After taking time off to complete a science degree, Jane returned to policing and is now a youth engagement officer. Jane also strongly supports Rotary’s youth driver training initiative.
The four awards were presented at a recent Rotary Daybreak meeting.
Rotary Daybreak President Adrienne Myles, Senior Constable Jane He ernan, and Rotary’s Kerry Denney
Council CEO DAVID WADDELL
will step down in September
Orange City Council CEO David Waddell has announced that he will not seek to renew his contract when it expires in September.
Mr Waddell, who made the announcement at last week’s council meeting, has held the position since replacing former CEO Garry Styles in 2019. Previously Director of Development Services, he has been with Council since 2009.
Mr Waddell said that having turned 60 in 2024 and with his three children now independent, he had decided to step away from full-time work into lesser roles to spend more time with his family and pursue less intense work opportunities.
“It is with a mixture of sadness and excitement that I announced to Council that I will not be renewing my contract in September this year,” he said.
“It has been a great privilege to lead the staff of Orange City Council over the last six years and I am very proud of
the achievements that Council and staff have made in the last period including the efforts during Covid, drought and through extraordinary growth in our beautiful town.
“It is time for me to step aside from the role and let someone else take Orange forward.”
Mr Waddell said the decision was made with a great deal of thought and discussion with his family,
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto thanked Mr Waddell for his long contribution to Council.
“Mr Waddell has given 15 years to Orange City Council with six years as CEO and I’d like to thank him for leading so well the organisational side of Council over that period,” Cr Mileto said.
“His legacy will be significant. I look forward to farewelling him properly later in the year.”
Mr Waddell will finish up in August 2025. Council have stated that they will begin the recruitment process for a new CEO in April.
are available from the Administration Office from Wednesday 12 March 2025.
APPLICATIONS
will be open from Wednesday, 12 March 2025 and will close Friday, 4 April 2025.
Late applications may be subject to a waiting list.
We are taking applications for all other year groups.
MUSIC MATTERS
with RUTH THOMPSON
Iwas eight years old when I was gifted my first musical instrument – a three-quarter-size nylonstringed guitar from my Dad. I don’t remember pestering him for a guitar, but learning, playing guitar and singing, has opened so many doors throughout my life of which I am grateful.
When people discover that I teach music to children as young as three months, often the first question I am incredulously asked is, “What instrument do you teach a baby?” This question is often asked without much analysis or reflection upon the motor skills of an infant, not yet walking, but it is a common association, music = learning an instrument.
I propose that our bodies, as young as newborns, are a portable instrument allowing us to engage in playful music making. We move, we make babbling sounds, we listen and if this is done with someone who loves us, the learning is faster and enjoyment, heightened. Children learn through experimentation and repetition how to press “play” on their own bodies and make their own music. A skill many of us have relegated to electrical devices and flat screens…. another whole article there!
Children are born ‘wired for sound’. With their auditory
system fully developed at birth, they are making sense of all the sounds around them continuously. Did you know that a newborn hears spoken language as music? Is this one of the reasons why a gently sung lullaby reduces anxiety in a crying, restless infant – and the quality of your voice, I might add, is irrelevant to your child.
Musical intelligence, one of the seven basic intelligences proposed by Howard Gardiner (in his book, Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences, 1983), is the only intelligence that can be developed to any marked degree in the first years of life. Music is the vehicle that can tap into all intelligences – at EYMS we see it every day: as we sing Two Little Dickie Birds or Five Little Ducks – our music is feeding into Mathematical intelligence; as we play clapping and tapping games, we develop body awareness and spatial intelligence; as we take turns and share we develop interpersonal intelligence to name a few.
So perhaps the question isn’t “What instrument do you teach a baby?” but rather “Does it matter?”. My answer, “Yes it does. Music matters.”
Early childhood programs that are built upon musical play allows the child to develop a whole range of skills – mathematical, linguistic, spatial, kinaesthetic, interpersonal.
Ruth Thompson is an award-winning early childhood music specialist. For more information about her Early Years Music School, visit: www.eyms.com.au
Join award winning early childhood music specialist, Ruth Thompson, for an exciting musical journey with our age appropriate curriculum
Call for enrolment or free trial
0408 835 528
Timetable and more information www.eyms.com.au
Jelly slice
Ingredients:
BASE:
250g packet Nice biscuits
I need to be honest and tell you that this recipe is from my mother-inlaw’s recipe treasure trove, not my mum’s. I had never even heard of jelly slice until 2016 when hubby and I were showing our tiny babies the duckies in cook park, and wandered into the Guildry. What an incredibly magical place that is, that reminds me of my grandmother’s house! He chose a treat for afternoon tea and picked up the bright red jelly slice. It was love at fist bite for our eldest daughter, and hubby spent the next two days talking about how his mum’s recipe is better.
Now, again, this is a tried and tested recipe that I’ve made countless times, and there’s only a few secrets to it. The first is the base- using salted butter and adding cinnamon makes all the di erence. The flavour is just barely noticeable but it elevates it from a simple slice to one that people will ask the recipe for.
The middle layer should always have zest in it, not just juice, for a super lemony zing, and let the gelatine bloom in cold water before heating it. This means it will be evenly incorporated and not stringy or gummy.
The last tip is to use 1.5 packets of jelly crystals in the topping. The best way to mitigate waste is to simply buy 3 packets and make two slices. And why not- I’ve never had anyone say no to jelly slice!
150g salted butter, melted tsp ground cinnamon
Filling:
395g tin condensed milk
Juice and zest of 2 large lemons
1 tbsp gelatine powder in 30mls cold water
TOPPING
1.5 packets of raspberry jelly crystals
200mls boiling water
250mls cold water
METHOD:
1) Blitz biscuits in food processor. While running, add melted butter and cinnamon
2) Press into lined slice tin and refrigerate for 1 hour.
3) Make up jelly using the measurements provided, let sit on bench to come to room temperature- do not refrigerate.
4) Place gelatine in small dish with cold water, leave for 5 minutes to bloom. Microwave for 30 seconds until liquid.
5) Stir gelatine, condensed milk, lemon juice and zest in a mixing bowl, pour over cooled base and refrigerate for 1 hour.
6) Carefully pour cooled jelly over slice, refrigerate for 2 hours until set. Slice with a warm knife and serve.
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Lifeblood urgently needs an additional 6000 people to donate blood this week following the unprecedented number of donor centre closures due to ex-Cyclone Alfred and a surge in hospital orders preceding the disaster.
A major boost in donations is urgently needed now to ensure blood continues to be available for patients in need.
Acting Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Chesneau said Lifeblood was particularly focused on replenishing stocks of platelets, which are made from blood donations and have a shelf-life of just five days after they’re tested.
“We pre-emptively sent extra supplies of blood products, including platelets, to hospitals in the impacted region ahead of Alfred landing, but many of those platelets are now close to expiring,” Stuart said.
“They are used to help people undergoing chemotherapy or to stop bleeding during surgery or after a major trauma.”
Urgent call for people to donate blood in wake of ex-Cyclone Alfred
period, and many won’t be eligible to donate blood for a while. New donors will be needed to see us through the coming weeks.”
If you’ve been waiting to find a reason to become a donor or have been thinking about coming back to donate, this is the time to act, Stuart said.
Almost 4,000 bags of blood are needed by hospitals every day across Australia to help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, childbirth, and for a range of other medical conditions.
Lifeblood has now reopened most donor centres in Queensland, but with some roads and donors still cut off, is not expecting blood collections in the state to return to normal for some time.
“Understandably, many donors will be unable to get to their appointments as they focus on their families and homes in the coming days and weeks,” Stuart said.
“Between the shortfall in donations, combined with the pre-emptive drain on our blood stocks, it means we now urgently need to replenish blood supplies
With 22 donor centres in Queensland and northern NSW closed due to the approaching Cyclone, Lifeblood was forced to cancel nearly 4,000 appointments from Thursday to Monday.
right across the country,” Stuart said.
“We’re asking anyone who may be eligible to donate to book an appointment now, and we also need new donors to step up. Our regular donors have seen us through the Christmas and New Year
“We have therefore opened up additional appointments in other states to help make up any shortfall.”
To book a donation call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood App.
now for your chance to win a double pass to the Rural Women’s Gathering 2025 in Lismore, including flights and accommodation, for you and a friend.
You'reInvited!
Phil DONATO MP
State Member for Orange
Grant
Writing Workshop
Join me for my 2nd Annual Grant Writing Workshop on Wednesday, 9th April 2025 at the Greenhouse Function Room, Orange Ex-Services Club.
Grant expert Keith Whelan (The Grants Guy) will deliver a comprehensive 3-hour session to boost your grant application success. Light refreshments provided.
Bump-in: 5:30 PM | Start: 6:00 PM RSVP by COB Monday, 24th March 2025 to orange@ parliament.nsw.gov.au
Limited spots! Priority given to Orange electorate constituents, non-profits, charities, councils, and relevant businesses.
Orange Safety Forum Road Safety Matters
I was honoured to open the Orange Safety Forum of the Australian College of Road Safety NSW Chapter, alongside Chair Michael Timms and Road Safety Officer Andrea Hamilton-Vaughan.
With two-thirds of NSW road fatalities occurring on country roads, despite regional areas making up just a third of the population, forums like this are crucial for raising awareness and driving change.
Road safety is everyone’s responsibility—we must do all we can to reduce crashes, trauma, and loss of life.
NSW Regional Woman of the Year 2025
Kirsty led pro bono legal efforts in Molong after the 2022 floods, dedicating 250+ hours to help 12 businesses secure over $1 million in claims. Her advocacy overturned denied insurance claims, and her evidence to the Parliamentary Inquiry exposed systemic failures, leading to key reforms. A welldeserved recognition—congrats, Kirsty!
Cerebral Palsy Alliance – 80 Years!
Honoured to celebrate 80 years of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance at a morning tea at Orange ExServices' Club. Expertly emceed by Susie Elelman, we heard from CEO Andrew Buchanan and a local mother sharing her powerful journey. The event highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and the Alliance’s vital role in advocacy, support, and research funding.
I recently visited Wagga Wagga as part of the Rural & Regional Crime Inquiry. Our team is meeting communities across NSW to discuss challenges, programs, and solutions to combat youth crime in our regions
New Free Virtual Health Service for Western & Far West NSW
Long GP wait times can be frustrating, especially in regional areas. A new free virtual healthcare service is now available, offering quicker access to doctors and nurses via video call—without the need to travel.
With the rising cost of living, this service ensures more people can receive timely medical advice without financial strain. It’s an important step towards improving healthcare access and outcomes for our community.
Call HealthDirect: 1800 022 222 – A nurse will assess your condition and refer you to a virtual doctor or nurse if appropriate. This secure video consultation allows medical professionals to diagnose, provide treatment advice, and issue prescriptions or referrals—all from the comfort of your home.
Honoured to officially open Gidget House at Blooms the Chemist, Orange Metro Plaza.
A huge thanks to Gidget Foundation CEO Arabella Gibson and her team for bringing this vital service to Orange, and to Michael Macdonald of Blooms Chemist for hosting it.
Gidget House offers free, bulk-billed psychological counselling for expectant and new parents. A GP referral and mental health care plan are required. Learn more: gidgetfoundation.org.au
Great to meet Kinross Wolaroi, Riverview, and Loreto College students at Robertson Park for their assessment on regional vs. metropolitan cities. We covered key issues like health, transport, law and order, housing, water security, tourism, and the environment—all vital to Orange’s future. Engaging discussions and great questions! Thanks for having me, and enjoy exploring our beautiful town.
Kristy Evans
The half-century art career of
Ted Lewis
“It was funny back then because people in Orange, they knew Ted Lewis the football player, but Ted Lewis the painter, that was on the odd side,” recalls Ted Lewis from the comfortable, well-used art studio at his home halfway between Orange and Ophir.
“They had the idea that because you painted, you can’t be a rough, silly footballer who goes out and gets his head bashed in, and if you are a painter, you’d be soft. Couldn’t be the same person.”
Ted, who is certainly not silly and even at 67 years of age looks quite capable of strapping on the boots if he had a mind to, is telling of the time in his early 20s when his coach asked him to choose between football and his career as an artist.
“I thought that’s a silly thing to say; one’s making me a living, the other one’s only good for a few more years,” says Ted, who simply stepped down to reserve grade and continued to paint.
Ted’s love of art began at a young age and he recalls times he had a notebook flung out the schoolroom window for drawing in class when he should have been doing something else. It was an interest fostered by his mother and grandmother, along with a love of the Australian bush, which for Ted, was literally at his doorstep.
“We grew up on the edge of Orange. Orange pretty much ended then at Phillips Street and we were halfway up the hill to where those two tanks would be. My grandmother had a fiveacre block there, and we lived there with this beautiful view of Mount Canobolas,” says Ted.
Ted’s father had left when he was young, and so he, his two brothers, and his sister grew up living with his mother and grandmother on their small block overlooking Orange.
The family also loved to explore the surrounding bush and among Ted’s extensive photo collection are snaps of family outings along Summer Hill Creek and the Mullion Ranges.
Ted was drawn to the bush and it soon became the focus of his art.
“I just like landscapes,” says Ted, shrugging. “I live where we live here and even when I was out on my L-Plates, we would stop and take photos of gum trees and the country. I just like gum trees and so it was always a thing for me to do, to go look at the trees.”
Ted’s artistic talent was recognised by his Orange High School art teacher, who encouraged him to pursue it, despite his mother’s initial wish for him to study commerce.
“Mum wanted me to do commerce and maybe be an accountant because I was good at maths, but the art teacher approached her and said, I had to do art, which I was happy with. So I did art as an elective in second form and I stayed with that right through,” says Ted.
Ted’s HSC major work was selected for a state-wide exhibition and upon leaving school, he sold 50 of 53 artworks at his first-ever exhibition at Orange’s Hesley Gallery.
Amazing success for an 18-year-old up-and-coming artist, but Ted then caught an even bigger break when he was the subject of a three-page feature in the Women’s Weekly, written by legendary Australian journalist Ron Saw.
Not only did the story lead to one of Ted’s biggest art sales at the time, but he found himself in demand for commission work.
“These people from Mungindi read it and they commissioned me to go up there and paint a picture as a prize for a sheep trial they were having,” recalls Ted.
work. So, I quit,” he explains.
Over the years, Ted has tried his hand at many things to keep paying the bills alongside the ups and downs of his painting career, from mowing lawns to working in an orchard, all while building a house nearly singlehandedly.
Opening his own local studio, Ted began to get more and more work exhibited in galleries around the country, he was able to close his shopfront and now focuses solely on painting from his home in the bush.
It’s where he has always wanted to be, and he’s doing what he always wanted to do, says Ted, 50 years and many thousands of paintings on from that first solo exhibition at the Hesley Gallery.
“Art has always been a passion. It’s always been what I wanted to do, so I just made it work,” he says simply.
“It’s enabled me to do a lot of things, which has been good. You can’t always guarantee sales or income, but you just got to stick at it and take good time with a bad time.
“It’s always been what I wanted to do, so I just made it work”
Most of Ted’s painting during those years was done in front of the television, he says, sitting on the lounge room floor surrounded by paint tubes at an old techdrawing easel.
His work found a market at his mother’s workplace, where they were sold to help keep him in art supplies.
“Mum used to sell them when she worked at the council. A couple of dollars a painting or whatever. And it was handy because that just bought the paints, so it pretty much paid for itself as I went along,” he says.
“And it kept you going, kept encouraging you. It worked well for me.”
“I went up there to paint this picture. It turned out really good and I had a great time. I did a couple at their place as well, and they bought them.
“After that, a few others up there started wanting pictures of their sheds or bore drains, or pump stations or houses and things like that, so people would contact me and I’d organise boards and frames and go up there for a week and stay with them and go and paint – that went on for a few years.”
It was this work that took Ted away from the football field and brought about the demand to choose between rugby league and his art.
Not that it was ever really a serious decision for Ted, who also chose his art over a steady job at Email, when he began to develop strain injuries in his wrists.
“It’s not worth your future, especially painting, to have your wrists and hands knocked up so that you can’t
“All you can do is your best. You can always keep trying to do better, and that’s what I try to do.”
^ At just 18 years of age, up-and-coming local landscape artist Ted Lewis found himself the subject of a feature in the Australian Women’s Weekly (February 11, 1976)
Let’s Feast @ The Barrel Restaurant
Look what’s new at The Barrel Restaurant!
Tired of the same old pub menu?
Take a look at what’s new at The Barrel Restaurant!
The Barrel Restaurant, located at the Ibis Styles Orange, offers delicious and affordable dining all year round with a focus on fresh local ingredients, all perfectly matched with Orange’s sumptuous cool-climate wines.
The Barrel Restaurant has just launched a new seasonal menu that is sure to make it your favourite dining destination.
Try the classic New York Sirloin steak with chips and a herbaceous chimichurri sauce. Or the perfectly cooked lamb rump, served on housemade ricotta with pea, cucumber and spinach salad finished with a preserved lemon dressing.
There’s the Barrel’s own delicious take on a traditional bruschetta, with confit tomatoes, roasted garlic and ricotta served on homemade focaccia. Or, for something a little different, try the jalapeno poppers, smoked in-house at The Barrel Restaurant. Or, perhaps the salmon tacos with zesty fresh lime and chipotle yogurt.
Finish your meal with the Barrel Restaurant’s decadent white chocolate brownie made with roasted macadamia nuts and served with a raspberry coulis.
Pair your chosen meal with one of the wide selections of local wines available at The Barrel Restaurant and enjoy the best the Central West has to offer.
And, of course, there’s a selection of delicious meals just for the kids!
Planning a function or family get-together? The Barrel Restaurant’s function room can cater for groups of up to 70 people and includes an adjoining beer garden. The Barrel kitchen can cater for all dietary requirements, contact them today to discuss their range of catering options.
The Barrel restaurant is open five nights a week, 5.30–8pm Monday to Friday. To make a dinner reservation or book your next function, phone The Barrel Restaurant on 6362 6033, email admin@ ibisstylesorange.com.au or call in at 146 Bathurst Road, Orange.
The Barrel Restaurant
Ibis Styles
146 Bathurst Road, Orange 6362 6033
ORANGE CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL PRESENTS CULTURED
Photos by HENRY DEROOY
A key feature of the 2025 Orange Chamber Music Festival was the community event, Cultured, a free day of music in the cultural precinct on Saturday, March 8,
The idea behind Cultured is to take classical music out of the concert hall and make it more accessible to people with more informal performances.
Our OC Life photographer caught the debut performance of the newly established Cultured Youth Orchestra and the Wula Gurray Children’s Choir who performed an Australia-themed program at the Orange Civic Theatre. They then ventured over to the Orange Regional Gallery for a specially curated performance by alumni of the acclaimed Australian Chamber Orchestra.
Sam and Deborah Kwa
Ian Whitney, Elizabeth Carpenter, David Shaw and Kate Rose
Stefan and Emma Skoda with John Gardiner and Simon Hrebicok
Conductor Dr Joanna Drimatis
Jacques and Gizelll van Wyk with Joanna Hoskins
Rick and Anna Molloy from Byron Bay
Geoff and Tabitha Merrell
Julie, Leighton and Irene Soriano
Jenny and David Manning
coming soon to odeon 5
LOCKED
Cast: Bill Skarsgård, Anthony Hopkins, Ashley Cartwright, Michael Eklund, Navid Charkhi
Consumer Advice: Horror, Thriller
A thief breaks into a luxury SUV, only to realise that he has stumbled into a complex and deadly trap set by a mysterious figure.
Sing Sing
Cast: Colman Domingo, Clarence Maclin, Sean San Jose, Paul Raci, David “Dap” Giraudy
Consumer Advice: Strong coarse language
MARCH 27
Divine G, imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group alongside other incarcerated men in this story of resilience, humanity, and the transformative power of art.
A Working Man
Cast: Jason Statham, David Harbour, Michael Peña, Jason Flemyng, Arianna Rivas
Levon Cade left behind a decorated military career in the black ops to live a simple life working construction. But when his boss’s daughter, who is like family to him, is taken by human traffickers, his search to bring her home uncovers a world of corruption far greater than he ever could have imagined.
ANORA
6.00, 8.00
151.00, 6.00,
BRIDGET JONES
MAD ABOUT THE BOY
THUR1310.00, 12.45, 7.45
FRI1410.00, 12.45, 7.45 SAT 1510.00, 12.45, 7.45 SUN 16 10.00, 12.45, 7.30
MON1710.00, 12.45, 7.45
TUES1810.00, 12.45, 7.45 WED1910.00, 12.45, 7.45
THUR1310.00, 5.45 FRI1412.30, 5.45
1512.15, 5.45 SUN 16 12.15, 5.45 MON171.00, 5.45
TUES1810.00, 5.45
WED1912.30, 5.45
THUR1310.15, 3.30
3.30
1510.15, 3.30
3.30 WED1910.15, 2.45
what’s happening in orange and surrounding regions
Rainbow Festival Pride Party returns bigger, brighter, and bolder with host Joel Creasey and headliner Odette
Orange’s most colourful celebration is about to hit new heights, with the Rainbow Festival Pride Party returning bigger, brighter, and bolder in 2025— now with newly announced host comedian Joel Creasey, and headliner Odette.
The all-out Pride Party will light up McNamara Street on Saturday, March 22, with the incomparable Joel Creasey guiding the night’s festivities.
Playing alongside the ARIA-nominated Odette (“Watch Me Read You”, “Feverbreak”) will be up-and-coming electro-pop duo Sumner (“South”, “Stranded”), who will be playing a DJ set.
Closing out the evening will be DJ Jimi the Kween, spinning crowd favourites and dance anthems.
The Pride Party is part of Orange’s expanded five-day Rainbow Festival, which runs from Wednesday, March19 to Sunday March 23. The festival celebrates inclusion, acceptance, and the local LGBTQIA+ community.
Alongside the Pride Party, other highlights include the Rainbow Walk and Community Gathering, a queer film festival, drag queen bingo, comedy night at the Orange Function Centre, and even a doggie drag queen day out.
The Rainbow Festival Pride Party takes place 5pm–10pm on Saturday, March 22, in McNamara Street, Orange (entry via Summer Street).
For more information, links to tickets and the full festival line-up, visit: rainbowfest.com.au
Central West Band Fest comes to Robertson Park
Brass, concert and stage bands from all over the Central West will descend on Orange’s Robertson Park this Saturday, March 15, for one big day of band music.
The inaugural Central West Band Festival will see ten bands from Orange and surrounding towns perform free in Robertson Park from 10am to 4pm.
Jeff Markham, President of the Band Association of NSW, said this festival will be a trial run of a model he hopes will lead to more band events around the state.
“We are always looking at how we can engage our membership better and how we can create opportunities and help our bands to get out and perform in the community,” he said.
“We’re looking to set up a program of events… festivals where we pick a central location and invite bands from around that region to come in for a day of music-making, just a social get together, a bit of fun, have a listen and support each other.”
The ten bands performing on Saturday include brass, concert and stage bands from Orange and all over the Central West, as well as the Toronto Brass Band, who will give a free concert at the Orange Regional Conservatorium on Saturday night.
“They’re one of our state’s leading brass bands so that’s terrific having them along,” Jeff said.
“It will be a pretty full-on day, which is fantastic… and all styles of music and playing. mThe Orange Lions Club will have their food truck down there for sausage sandwiches, coffee, tea and cold drinks. So bring a rug, have a bit of fun and enjoy some great band music!”
Central West Band Fest takes place at Robertson Park this Saturday, March 15, from 10am to 4pm.
Open Mic at the Vic!
FRIDAY MARCH 14
The JAM Orange Open Mic Night returns to the Victoria Hotel this Friday, March 14.
Always popular, the monthly open mic features a mix of up-and-coming musicians and well-known local talent. The Vic is a favourite venue with the JAM musos and it should be a top line-up of local talent.
The night gets underway at 7.30pm. If you are a musician interested in booking a spot, email jamorange2800@gmail.com.
Then, on Saturday, March 15, head back to the Vic for some good oldfashioned Rock ‘n’ Roll and party like it’s 1959 with The F250s from 7.30pm til late!
On Sunday afternoon, PHATBOY keeps the music going, performing live from 2–5pm.
Andrew
THERE'S ONLY ONE TRUE INDEPENDENT
I’m a genuine and true country Independent, and I value and treasure that independence.
I’m not going to be owned by anyone and that’s why I’ve been very determined to maintain my independence, both in the Parliament and out of it.
The National Party is backed by big city corporates like big tobacco and big insurance companies that caused so much misery across our region in the floods of 2022.
Climate 200 is backed by a big city billionaire in Simon Holmes a Court.
They’ve put a Teal candidate (Kate Hook) in the field for Calare backed by their big city money, which by the time we get to the election, will probably total hundreds of thousands of dollars.
But why the coyness about who you are and who’s backing you? Let’s talk frankly, it’s a de facto political party – the Teal Party. To me, that’s not true independence!
Everyone’s welcome to run for office and I believe we have an obligation to protect our environment for future generations and that
includes tackling issues like global warming.
But I’ve now seen all major parties like the National Party and special interest groups like Climate 200/Teal Party up close and believe me, they’re all the same.
They’re all political operators. They may wear different uniforms but they’re just different sides of the same political coin, using big money to gain and expand political power, influence and empires.
Together they will spend millions campaigning for this seat. In a cost of living crisis, what a waste!
It's obscene. Imagine all the needy community groups and residents that could use that money.
So when you see all the slick ads on TV and social media – ask yourself: where’s the money coming from? And what strings are attached?
And keep in mind that slick ads are no substitute for hard work on the ground. As the Beatles famously sang, money doesn't always buy you love!
To my way of thinking, we need more true Independents in parliament that aren’t going to be wholly owned subsidiaries of anyone.
As the only true country Independent in the race, I know I won’t be.
I’ve been fighting for better rural health services for years, and one of the key milestones I’ve achieved, together with the community, is the establishment of the Charles Sturt University, School of Rural Medicine.
To ensure CSU continues to train country doctors, it's crucial that the school receives accreditation from the Australian Medical Council. I made it a priority to attend recent hearings to highlight the exceptional programs and work happening at CSU and to advocate for their future plans.
The mission of the School of Rural Medicine is to
EMPOWERHER FASHION SHOW AN INSPIRING EVENING
EmpowerHer Fashion Show presented by the Orange Culture Hub on International Women's Day was an inspiring evening with so many important goals.
Firstly, it was about empowering women through the excitement of runway fashion. Secondly, it was an opportunity to learn about the serious issue of domestic abuse, with a powerful talk from Maria Woods, Director of Community Services at Plus Community Orange. Her words gave all of us a better understanding of the impact domestic violence has on individuals and communities.
The evening included a delicious supper and vibrant dance performance by the Shimmy Sistahs, keeping everyone energised and uplifted. We also heard from Dr. Christine Purcell, a dedicated psychiatrist at Dudley Private Hospital, who shared her personal journey as a working mum and her valuable insights into the importance of self-care for women
CSU SCHOOL OF RURAL MEDICINE – ADVOCATING FOR ACCEDITATION
improve health outcomes for country people, and I remain committed to fighting for:
Increased funding for rural medicine
More enrolments for medical students
Retention of doctors in rural areas
This year, the first cohort of CSU graduates will receive their medical degrees, and I am working urgently to secure more government-funded student placements to train even more doctors for our regional communities.
My sincere thanks to all the panelists at this week's forum and the opportunity to contribute to CSU School of Rural Medicine’s future plans.
RUNNING FOR PREMATURE BABIES
I
t was terrific to support Orange Running Festival last Sunday! I’ve been a supporter of the festival for years and it was a privilege to complete the Community Dash with Kim, Carson and Mikayla, and the team at Running For Premature Babies. Kym had her twins at just 27 weeks and told me about the long months they had to spend in Sydney, all of the health issues her family have had to deal with and also the need for better support and equipment for premature babies in the Central West. Presenting her kids with their medals after all they’ve been through was the highlight of my day.
I also caught up with another sporting legend, Jack Littlefield! Jack and Sarah have just welcomed little Rocky to the world and he was certainly out enjoying the sunshine at his first running festival. The Littlefield's Boxing team had a very successful day!
From mums, dads, and kids, to toddlers in prams, sprinters, dawdlers, marathon pros, and visitors alike, everyone had a great time at the running festival.
Thank you to all of the event organisers, volunteers, and sponsors, for making this festival such an inclusive and successful event.
It was amazing to see so many beaming smiles at the finish line. My congratulations to all the local schools, community groups, and runners who participated.
DESPERATE CRIMINALS PICK THE WRONG MAN TO ASSAULT
I’ve been in state and federal politics for 14 years and have been involved in many campaigns. This campaign is by far the meanest, dirtiest and nastiest that I have ever seen.
Over the past few weeks we’ve had a number of instances of people trespassing onto private property and stealing our election posters. Trespass and theft are both crimes.
Recently solicitor Toby Tancred was working back late when he heard people ripping my posters from the front fence of his office in Orange.
He went outside and caught three young men who’d pulled up in a dark coloured ute stealing signs. When he asked them what they were doing one of them threatened Toby by shaping up to attack him. This is as shocking as it is disgraceful. They picked the wrong man to assault. Toby defended himself and the three spineless criminals fled the scene.
Toby got a good look at all of them and said the whole operation was clearly well organised.
I hope the law catches up with these low-lifes soon so that assault can be added to theft and trespass. When it does it will be very interesting to see who may be behind it all.
It shows you how desperate some people are to silence our campaign.
Those
Posters were also stolen from properties in Lucknow, Molong, Wellington, Orange and Bathurst as well as from trailers. They are clearly trying to steal every poster in the region.
responsible should turn themselves in to police.
The theft and vandalism hasn’t stopped at campaign posters. Our trailers have been stripped of their wheels too.
My campaign will not be silenced.
reception@oclife.com.au Have something of interest to share?
Orange Evening VIEW Club held their Annual General Meeting in February to elect this year’s Committee.
The new Committee pictured are from back left: Annelie Cudars, Wendy Reddan, Julianne Grant, Treasurer- Rohanne Tiefel, Yvonne Walker, Secretary-Michelle Dunkley and Michelle Holland.
Front Row: Carole Thompson, Toni Parker, President- Anne-Maree Davis and Carmel Powell.
The outgoing President was thrilled to report that, in 2024, the club was able to send over $11,000.00 to The Smith Family in support of the education of underprivileged Australian children.
A big Thank You to the Ladies of VIEW and the people of Orange for their support of VIEW and thus The Smith Family.
VIEW Club meet at the Ex-Services Club the last Thursday of the month for an evening meal, a short meeting and entertainment. Contact Michelle, 0401 693 297, if you’d like to attend.
Rotary Community Market Orange Showground
Sunday 16th March 9.00am to 2.00pm
A wide range of products will be available with stallholders selling the following already have sites booked:
Primary produce, Plants, Food and non-alcoholic beverages, Toys, Cosmetics, Bric-a-brac, Clothing, Jewellery and accessories, Quality second-hand goods Arts and crafts, Books and Homeware, Leather goods, Succulents, Handmade bags, Gems/ opals, Toys, Succulents, Baby goods, Hair goods, Honey, Salts and rubs, Décor, Mosaics.
Gate donations from this market are being donated to Orange Riding for the Disabled
For more information about the market or to book a site go to https://www.rotarycluboforange.org.au/ or the clubs Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/rotarycluboforangensw/
TIME WARP
Scouts eager to join jamboree
This enthusiastic group of Scouts were off on a week-long adventure in December 1964 to join the Seventh Australian Jamboree in Dandenong, Victoria. The group of 23 were unfazed by their heavy luggage and the long journey ahead of them. On the train they joined more than 100 other scouts from as far west as Nyngan.
Photo courtesy CWD Negative Collection, Orange & District Historical Society. The society‘s volunteers hold a work day each Wednesday at Heritage Cottage, 148 March Street, from 10.30am-4pm. Members are available to answer inquiries at this time.
LET ME IN WITH SUELLEN MILHAM
Last week I walked up to the automatic glass doors at the entrance to the shopping centre and they didn’t open. Three steps backward, a second attempt and I was able to enter. This has happened to me before and I’ve joked with a passerby that I mustn’t be heavy enough to open the door!
My weight doesn’t fluctuate that much but sometimes I’m let in and sometimes I’m not.
This prompted me to think about other spaces I might want to enter. How can I come into the presence of God, for example? Is there a way in? Is it as hit and miss as walking straight into a shopping centre? Thankfully, no. God says the way into his presence is through his Son, Jesus. He’s not some kind of random, unpredictable doorkeeper but he is in fact the door, the only door. Jesus said: ‘I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’.
If you come to the door and are known you will enter, no questions asked. So let me encourage you to meet Jesus.
Orange District Antique Motor club
If you own, or have a passion for older cars, (30 years or older,) and would like to meet new friendly people and join in some fun outings and meets, this might be just the car club for you. We are a small car club based in Orange. We have at least four events a month so it’s a good chance to meet new people, have some fun and get that old car on the road. Membership is only $50 a year.
Members have cars ranging from a 1910 SCAT to a 1995 Mercedes, with everything in the middle.
MONTHLY MEETINGS HELD AT OUR CLUB HOUSE ON THE 3RD MONDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 7.30PM at the Old Lucknow School, Lucknow, NSW 2800. All welcome.
ORANGE CITY continues building partnership with BOWEN SCHOOL
—
HENRY DEROOY —
Orange City Rugby Club were back at Bowen Public School last Thursday morning, putting on a free breakfast and rugby clinic for students as they continue to develop their community partnership with the school.
This is the second year the rugby club has held its free breakfast and skills clinic at the school, Orange City Rugby Club President Darren Wooding said, a way for them to give back to the local community while maybe even discovering a future Wallaby.
“We want to give back to our community in some small way, and we know that Bowen has a great bunch of kids over there who may not always get all the opportunities of other kids, and we want to present opportunities to those young people and give them the opportunity to play a team sport on the weekend,” Darren said.
“We took some burgers, kindly donated from our
sponsors at McDonald’s, and some senior players went up there and we ran some drills with the kids, just to give them some exposure to rugby union and team sport, along with a bit of breakfast while we were at it.”
Darren said the club is also offering to provide transport to take away any barriers that might stop kids who want to play rugby from taking part.
“We will be providing pick up and drop off for training and game day as well, so if mum and dad don’t have the means to give them transport to training or game day we are going to make that available for them,” he said.
“We also have our golf day coming up on the 8th of March and we are going to raise some money for Bowen again, for them to put towards whatever they see fit, just to give a little back to the community.”
Photos by
Environmentally friendly options all part of the service at
Rapidamp Electrical
With a deep interest in solar and renewable energy systems, electrician Michael Dougan can provide electrical solutions that in the long-term will both save you money and benefit the environment.
His business Rapidamp Electrical offers a wide range of services, including power and lighting installation, switchboard upgrades, appliance installation and repairs, electric hot water repairs, electrical safety and compliance checks, appliance test and tagging and EV charger installations.
As an electrician with almost 15 years of experience before venturing into his own business Rapidamp Electrical around a year ago, Michael enjoys the flexibility of working for himself. There can be some challenges, and he has learned the value of patience.
He said providing large initial quotations for electrical solutions that will provide long-term cost savings means he understands clients need to take their time to consider all
Trade and Service of the Week
their options before they decide to proceed on a job or not.
But, if they say yes to Rapidamp Electrical, they will be receiving workmanship with a personal touch.
“I put a lot of effort into making sure whatever the client’s needs are, that they are looked into properly,” he said.
“Any design, idea or what their end goal is, I’m very much wanting to meet that.
“I have a high standard of work.
“I complete all jobs like it’s my own house, like how I would want it to be done.
“That comes with not only the methods used, but the materials sourced.”
In terms of solar, Rapidamp Electrical only uses reputable brands like Sungrow, Fronius or Tesla, and installations comes with a 10-year warranty.
It was while conducting research on his own house that he became further interested in solar and renewable energy options.
“In the world we are living in these days, it’s becoming increasingly important,” Michael said.
“More and more people are switching to electric vehicles … there are good government incentives to work with solar and batteries so it’s certainly something for people to consider.”
He was also quick to point out that most electricians can perform renewable energy jobs and that people don’t have to go to someone who works exclusively in that field.
“People generally look for a company that specialises in renewable energy, not thinking that electricians are perfectly capable of completing that sort of work,” he said.
“There are pretty good incentives for solar and batteries now through the NSW government … as electricity and the cost of living continues to rise, it’s becoming more lucrative.
“I am passionate about helping people reduce their electricity bills and becoming sustainable. I can do this by designing a bespoke solar system to suit their lifestyle.”
Based in Orange, Rapidamp Electrical services Bathurst to Cowra, Blayney to Molong, and everywhere in between.
Michael said everyone is welcome to a free-quote to see how they can save on their electricity bills and become more self-sufficient.
You can contact Rapidamp Electrical on 0423 215 472 or michael@rapidamp.com.au
Michael Dougan has been operating Rapidamp Electrical for more than a year. Photo courtesy of Rapidamp Electrical.
WHAT’S HAPPENING @ Bank Local.
For over 15 years, Bank Orange has been dedicated to supporting community groups and individuals through our Community Support Grants Program.
This initiative offers financial assistance for a variety of causes, projects, events, resources, and support that align with our mission and vision, significantly benefiting the community and enhancing lives.
Sporting teams, schools, community organisations, clubs and associations and charities are encouraged to apply between Monday 3 March to Thursday 17 April.
Grants of up to $5,000 (including GST) per application are available, unless otherwise approved by the Committee. Projects must demonstrate lasting value to the community and have clear, defined outcomes.
Visit bankorange.com.au for application guidelines and to submit an application
‘Belgravia North’ 942 Belgravia Road, Orange NSW 3 A 2 B 2 C Spectacular Scenery from Every Angle
Welcome to Belgravia North, beautifully nestled into the hillside, surrounded by an established country garden and trees.
• 122 Ac (49 Ha) with excellent water, previously used for horticulture production with an 18 meg irrigation licence
• 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and an office, the weatherboard home oozes charm and character
• Galley style kitchen, with dishwasher and generous storage, leads to a formal dining room, then on to the large sitting room with picture windows, “that view” and an open fire.
Located on the edge of Cumnock, ‘Barters Block’ offers the perfect canvas for building your dream rural lifestyle home. This undulating 50-acre property is ideal for those seeking space, privacy, and the ability to create a rural lifestyle.
• Zoned R5 Large Lot Residential allows for a variety of residential developments, subject to council approval
• Town water is connected and services the block
• A small set of steel cattle yards is located for ease of transport
• Three bay shed, workshop with concrete floor.
640 Tallwood Road, Forest Reefs NSW 32 HA (78 AC)* Rich Fertile Country with Panoramic Views
• Subdivided into three main paddocks, all suitable for cultivation
• Power connected
• The original homestead still is present, making a great starting point to build onto
• Irrigation hydrants set up ready to go
• Two equipped bores. 1 x 1,000gal/hr, 1 x 3,000gal/hr
• Most recently used to grow potatoes, the soil type suits many different enterprises
• Yellow/White box timber, lightly scattered through the property provides excellent livestock shelter.
For Sale $1,390,000 - $1,490,000
Ben Redfern 0457 770 062
Hugh Gooding 0439 000 639
In Conjunction with Paul Pace Country 0416 128 177 eldersem.com.au * Approx.
‘Mayfield’ 24 Mayfield Lane, Blayney NSW 4,224 HA (1,044 AC)* Agricultural Property with Unlimited Potential
• 1,044* acre (4,224*ha) property with immense potential for both agricultural production and future residential development
• Currently run as a beef backgrounding and finishing property
• The property has secured and in place subdivision into seven lots
• Four bedroom brick veneer homestead and three bedroom weatherboard cottage
• Reliable dams, well and bore with an efficient reticulation system
For Sale Contact Agent
Ben Redfern 0457 770 062
Pat Bird 0438 361 109 eldersem.com.au * Approx.
Orange Property MARKET
PRIME POSITION IN NASHDALE!
179 Woods Lane, Nashdale For Sale
$2,700,000 - $2,900,000
Open Home Saturday, 15th March 12:30pm to 1:00 pm
Agent One Agency, Orange Ash Brown 0417 663 687
WHAT WE LOVE
Nestled in one of the most sought-after areas of the Orange district, this property offers an unbeatable lifestyle. Just a 15-minute stroll through a scenic creek reserve to Lake Canobolas and only a 5-minute drive to the city limits, convenience meets serenity here.
Sitting on over 27 acres of fertile basalt soil, the property boasts uninterrupted views of the iconic Mount Canobolas. The charming home has so much character, featuring stunning vistas of the established gardens from every room. For relaxation, enjoy the heated pool, perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking district views.
Adding to the appeal is a self-contained studio nearby, ideal for guests or creative pursuits. Now here’s the bonus – a massive
shed! Whether you’re looking for an incredible entertaining space or a spot to store all your toys, this versatile space has you covered.
This is a property you’ll never want to leave. WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
• House has 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a double carport
• Self contained studio or guest accommodation has 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom
• Kitchen with Jarrah benchtops, Platinum integrated dishwasher, Miele oven and induction cooktop
• 3 Living areas
• Home office
• Reverse cycle Air conditioning plus 2 wood combustion fires (Scandia and Lopi)
• Underfloor heating in some areas
• Heated pool with uninterrupted views of Mt Canobolas
• 2 Covered alfresco areas
• Firepit area
• 2 other sheds | Massive 25x17m shed
• Solar (inc.hot water)
• 3 Tanks (120,000 litres approx.)
• Established gardens
• Golf hole, including putting green
• Beautiful pond with a jetty, overlooking waterlilies
• 3 Dams in total, 1 spring fed
• 4 Paddocks
• 15 minute walk to Lake Canobolas
• 5 minute drive to the city limit
If you are thinking of buying or selling property, need a Will, or would like to update your existing Will or Power of Attorney, then call me for a chat or send me an email to discuss your situation
ONEAGENCY ORANGE
1:15-1:45
2:00-2:30
Best Properties Best Agents... ONE AGENCY
PETER FISHER
PRD REAL ESTATE
AWN REAL ESTATE
RAY WHITE TOWNSEND
11:00 - 11:30 163 Broken Shaft Close, Orange
- 12.30 113 Forest reefs Road, Millthorpe
ACROSS
1 Foot covers (5)
4 Pleasure (9)
9 Purchaser (5)
10 Verification schedule (9)
11 Purpose (6)
PUZZLES…. PUZZLES…. PUZZLES….
24 Telemarketer (6)
26 Kept up (9)
27 Taut (5)
28 Indigestion (9) 29 Acting parts (5)
1 Surrender (6)
2 Difficult to understand (7)
3 Odd (7)
4 Cope, – it (coll) (4)
5 Stated an argument (10)
6 Trying (7)
7 Newspaper executives (7)
8 Begins a voyage (4,4)
13 Personal items (10) 16 Pledged (8)
18 Woodlands (7)
19 Realm of an independent Islamic chieftain (7)
20 Farm vehicle (7)
21 Forbidden by law (7) 22 Complimentary (6) 25 Notion (4)
may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in ‘s’.
3.
5 LETTERS
QUICK QUIZ
KI D S ZON E Kids Talk
Name and age: Ariana, 9
Who is your favourite teacher? Miss Ewin- she was strict at first, probably because we wouldn’t listen, but by the end of the year we loved her and she was nice. She gave us prizes and everything!
What do you think the best thing about being a grown-up is? Ge ing a job, I either want to become a vet or a teacher.
What’s your favourite thing to do on the weekend? Hang out with my friends probably. I don’t get to do it enough.
What is something your parents always say to you? Use your manners, and I do!
If you were principal for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do? I’d get surprises for the whole school!
What is your favourite food? Sushi.
If you could open a shop, what would it sell? Sushi!
What’s your favourite movie? Trolls- I like all of those movies.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? The power to control nature, so I can give it more trees because everyone keeps cu ing down trees. And the power to control air- I’d make it windy and cool on a hot day.
SPORTSNEWS
Tenpin Bowling HEAD PIN
with Bob Taylor
Let’s get going with a look at the Thursday 7.30pm league where there were two Stars, these being Monique Slaczka with 153 over average and Josh Thornton with 104 over average and they were followed by Jayden Christoff from the Wednesday 7.30pm league with 149 over average, then came Kruz Carnie from the Friday juniors with 137 over average for the series.
Trying not to be ignored there was also Tyson Morris from the Tuesday 5.00pm juniors with 113 over average and to round out the stars there was also Tahlia Brown from the Monday 7.30pm league with 112 over average for the series.
Star Bowler of the week and winner of the Auto Wash compliments of Race Track Car Wash was Monique Slaczka who scored that great score of 153 over average for the series.
Unfortunately I was unable to locate a High Roller champion so those three free practice games cannot be awarded, but there were many trying very hard to grab hold of them including Hugo Belmonte 208, Matthew Woodham 254, Nick Millar 216, Kane Spirit-Jones 223, Will Rollo 234, Travis McMahon 236, Nugget Frecklington 234, Jacob French 234, Luke Hannon 211, Nathaniel Mason 227, Ben Barry 236, Taylor Clark 211 and Tony Williamson a pair of 204s.
Then there was Jayden Christoff 268, Brock Gallagher 220, Jason Kelly 210, Monique Slaczka 245, Darius Thurtell 259, Blake Symons 221, Lauren Mason 213 and Ben Howard 214.
This week’s Almost Made it Hero and winner of the gift certificate from Kings Takeaway at Greengate was Michael Owens who scored 193 (PB).
And there were many feeling the pangs of hunger, among them being Lucas Fisher
188, Kruz Carnie 147, Jeromie Zelukovic 148, Lani Gouge 179, Paul Chate 152, Debbie McKeown 165, Colleen Blake 146, Margaret West 150, John Smith 190, Frances Patton 154, Vicki Matthew 137, Irene Priest 144, Lyn Butterfield 109 and Gae Claydon 168.
Then there was Marilyn Schwenke 192, Alan Westendorf 177, Kerrie Stent 148 (PB), Jan Duff 166, Shirley Dive 168, Yvonne Daniels 172, Liam Stibbard 168, Samson Hammond 190, Alex Coleman 186, Dustin Southwell 136, Jeramie Russell159, Diana Blakely 128, Jordan Trenholm 199, Tahlia Brown 190 (PB) and Guil Beath 160.
So that they didn’t feel left out, there was also Connor Peate 105, Noah King 181, Tracy Gavin 169, Tristan Grove 169, Kevin Fruin 177, Geoff Lockwood 165, Sophie Jones 178, Tyson Morris 175, Oliver Vietch 149, Steve Grabham 179, Nick Culverson 170 and Stephanie James 118.
Junior of the week and winner of the free game compliments of the tenpin bowl was Kruz Carnie who bowled that score of 147 (PB) which was 82 over average.
The first Female of Note for March and first in line hoping for the gift certificate from MJ’s All Hair-All Occasions was Monique Slaczka who scored 245 which was 67 over average and part of her 153 over average for the series.
The Man of the Moment for March was Kruz Carnie who scored 147 (PB) which was 82 over average and part of his 137 over average for the series.
Country Club BOWLS NOTES
ORANGE EX SERVICES CLUB COUNTRY CLUB MEN’S BOWLS
Hello Bowlers,
Tuesday socials, there were 44 bowlers.
Raffle winners were, John Dunn, Jim Duffy & Jim Finn . Lucky rink winners, Jim Hill, Matt McMullen & Al Gregory. Unfortunates’ rink winners, Carl Jager, Tony Hoy & Pat Niewendyk. Consolation winners Michael Weekly & Juile Pitt.
Saturday socials also had 44 bowlers.
Raffle winners were Peter Brooking, John Cooper & Geoff Lockwood.
Lucky rink winners, Peter Griffth, Roy Leonard, Ian Carr & Geoff Lockwood. Unfortunates’ rink Phil Knight , Paul Paananen, Ray Windsor & Jim Finn. Consolation winners, Marg Henry, Linda McFadden, John Cooper & Peter Wright.
Nominations for the handicap singles are in alcove on the board.
There will be Coaching, every Friday, 4pm – 6pm.
Saturday 15th & Tuesday 18th March, please call, Jim Finn 0418 651 382, Peter Wright 0427 813 220, or the club on 63613210. Names in by 11:30 for a 12:30 start.
Bowls Etiquette tips
At the completion of the game the graceful loser should congratulate the modest winner with a handshake & share a drink with them in the clubhouse.
Happy bowling
Orange City Bowling Club BOWLS NOTES
Last Tuesday the Orange City women played their Major Singles semi finals and also contested their monthly Trophy Day.
In the Major Singles Sue Clinghan faced off against a determined Robyn Doyle, however hung on for a three shot victory in an exciting game under gusty and difficult conditions. Mary Carr jumped away to a good start playing against Michele Tredinnick in the other semi final, though Michele made up significant ground Mary managed to sneak away to a 7 shot win.
Trophy Day winners with the highest
winning margin of 13 pnts on the day were, Kristeen Oates, Roslyn McGroder and Kay Kennedy. Lucky losers drawn from the cards were, Lyn Wittig, Margo Fairbairn and Pat Stedman.
Twilight bowls are on each Wednesday evening at 6pm. Names in by 5pm please.
If you are interested in taking up lawn bowls we have free coaching sessions each Wednesday morning at 10am. Please text Sue on 0409 522 099 or contact Orange City Bowling Club.
Wentworth Ladies Golf Results
5th March 2025 – Event 18 Hole Stableford
Today we played an 18 Hole Stableford in the most brilliant weather. It was truly a golfer’s delight to be on the course today.
The Winner in Division 1 was Robyn Newey with a very impressive score of 35 points. It is nice to see Robyn playing well and in the winner’s circle, well done. Runner up was Laurell Gassman also with a very well-played 35 points. Laurell is really playing well at the moment and hitting form at the right time of the year. Third place went to Di Selwood with 33 points, she also has been in good form of late, well played.
Division 2 Winner was Maureen Commins with a magnificent 38 points. Maureen was in outstanding form today and played some really steady golf, great work. Runner up was Sue Gander with a very good 33 points, well played and third place went to Sandra Jarman with 32 points on a count back.
Division 3 Winner was Janet Davenport with a brilliant 38 points. She was very excited with her game and the win, well done. Runner up was Liz Mitchell with a very steady 34 points, well played and third place went to Helen White with 32 points. With Championships set down to be played over the next three Wednesdays these girls are in great form.
Drive & Pitch were won by Katrina Ferris (9th) & Christine Phillips (17th).
Nearest the Pins were won by Jacqui Flanigan (3rd) Laurell Gassmann (5th) & (6th) & Sandra Jarman (13th)
Ball Competition winners were Val Lynch, Judy Brewer & Janet Davenport.
Just a reminder that the first two rounds of championship bookings are available to book your names into now. These dates are the 12th & 19th March. Just double check that you are booked in for both rounds. The third round of the Championships are seeded so the booking sheet for this round will not be available to book until the second round of the championships has been completed.
The Wellington Tournament is coming around fast. It is on Sunday 16th March, entries for this need to be in by 12th March.
There is a Lifeline Charity Day being held on Friday 14th March. It is a 4-person Ambrose event. More details can be found on Lifeline Central West Facebook page or contact The Wentworth Pro Shop for more information.
Have a great week.
Country Club BOWLS NOTES
What a great start to the singles competition. I can’t really express how great it was to see so many ladies taking the opportunity to participate in both the Major and Minor Singles Club Championships on Thursday. This was the first time for many of our ladies to enter a competition at any level. The games were played with enthusiasm, respect and most of all enjoyment whether you were in a winning position or not. My Congratulations to all the winners and commiserations to those that were knocked out of the competition. Winners from round 1 in the Minor Singles were Annette Nash, Jane Rowlands, and Julie Pitt. In round 1 of the Major Singles the winners were Patricia Wilson and Veronica Alexander. Next week will see the Quarter Finals for the Minor Singles being played by Jane Rowlands vs Annette Nash, Julie Pitt vs Vicki Hanlon, Donna Swiatisky vs Carol Brooking and Lorraine Gallard vs Val Baker. In the Major Singles Semi Finals Veronica Alexander vs Trish Wilson and Elaine Connor vs Judy Adams. Good luck.
Thank you to all who were markers and umpires for the games on the day.
Practice and coaching is available every Tuesday commencing at 10.30am, at the Country Club. These sessions are for our existing members and any ladies who would like to try their hand at lawn bowls.
Please contact Trish - 0400379294, or Phoebe0408223843 for further information.
Follow us on Instagram oesc_womensbowls or Facebook Orange Ex-Services’ Country Club Womens Bowls
CLASSIFIEDS 6361 3575
DEATH NOTICE
FOR sale
• As new Baby Car Seat - $80
• Small white upright Fridge (140cmx55x55) - $120
• Rectangular Hampton Style Dining Table with White Legs, Varnished Wood Top - $120
• 3 x White Chairs with Floral Seat Pad $25 each Call 0431 966 367
Karlene Anne NAYLOR
SATURDAY 15TH MARCH 8AM-2PM 5 Lucas Street, Orange
Passed away peacefully at Orange Health Service after a short illness.
Dearly loved daughter of George and Esmay Frecklington, both deceased.
Dearly loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Wayne, Annette, Julie, Stepmother of Greg, Christian and their families. Loving Sister and Sister-in-Law of Kevin and Jill (deceased), Brian (deceased) and Annette, John and Kathy (both deceased), Bary and Rosie, David and Val. Loved by all her Nephews and Nieces.
be
has been held.
L/P records, DVD Box Sets, 2 arm chairs, ladies clothes, glass wear, plenty for everyone
SATURDAY 15TH MARCH
9AM-5PM 10 Warrendine St
Books, Plants and Lots More Downsizing
SAT 15TH & Sun 16th MARCH 9AM-5PM 12A Whitney Place Time 8.00am to 4.00pm (only)
• Exercise vibrating platform for losing weight. Brand new still in box • New cooking appliances
• Tupperware clearance
• As new cookbooks
• Lots of bags for travelling: including leather handbags • Linen and bedspreads all dry cleaned
MORE All in excellent condition in clean undamaged condition from smoke free
Eligible water users in the Murray-Darling Basin, can now apply for free telemetry devices and installation under the Telemetry Uplift Program.
Under the program, over 2,500 groundwater and surface water sites with an annual water entitlement of 100ML or more will receive free telemetry devices and installation. This initiative will cut costs for water users, boost local businesses, and accelerate NSW's non-urban metering reform. It’s thanks to a $10.5 million investment from the Australian Government. Telemetry devices will be installed by duly qualified persons on behalf of the department, beginning in the first half of 2025. They will deliver near-real-time data, improving water management, ensuring fair resource use, and simplifying compliance for license holders.
Learn more and register your interest, visit our website: dpie.nsw.gov.au/water/our-work/ nsw-non-urban-water-metering/ what-water-users-need-to-know/ telemetry-uplift-program
THUMBS UP to the honest individual/s who deposited my dropped wallet to the real estate firm where it had fallen, outside of their office, from my bag overnight earlier this week. They even left the $50 note that was tucked away in the wallet! It's so great and heartwarming to know there are nice people out there. Thank you!
THUMBS UP to Orange City Council for finally fixing the surface of Winter Street.
THUMBS DOWN t to the Orange City Council for not cleaning up large branches broken out of a large tree in Tanderra Park eight to ten weeks ago. The council was notified twice by the mowing contractor. Also, the two dog-bag dispensers in Wirrabara Walk have been empty since the end of November when the council made it a leash-free area.
THUMBS UP Wonderful to witness a thoughtful tradie working in Moulder Streey on Tuesday, March 4. Downed the tools to assist an elderly lady having extreme difficulty trying to get into a car (passenger side). So caring, he even put her seat belt on for her. Absolutely wonderful!
THUMBS UP I wish to thank the young lad in the ute who helped me out of pickle the weekend before last. I broke down just three kilometres from my destination in Orange after travelling 560km. Not able to get off The Escort Way in a safe position, this young man assisted me before the NRMA arrived (who were also good), and escorted me to my destination. He could not have been more helpful. Such selflessness and generosity is still out there! Another couple also stopped, so Orange welcomed me well.
THUMBS UP to Jordan, a very personable and efficient young man, employed at Aldi. It was a good experience to be served by you. You were very polite and helpful.
THUMBS UP to Lorne at Ryan’s Pest Control. Very professional service and helped us get rid of some pesky fleas our dog brought home. Lorne was kind and conscientious; thanks for all your help.
THUMBS UP to Josh and Seth from Hydro-Fix Plumbing for installing a water filter for some elderly people. They rang before they came to make sure we were home. They also went out of their way to help us pick the system.
THUMBS UP to all the men and women, boys and girls, I see playing cricket each weekend around town. I admire your dedication to run around in the sun all afternoon, enjoying a game you obviously love. Great to see old and young playing sport together. What a great sport it is.
THUMBS DOWN t to all the roundabouts with the high gardens in the middle so you can't see the cars or their indicator lights when they use them to see where they might be going.
THUMBS UP to special people: To the nurses working at the Wellness House. Lyn and Carolyn have dedicated and devoted to their professional model of care and are a credit to all nurses. Lyn has been a central figure at the practice for the past 17 years, having helped many in need. Carolyn is a compassionate and caring professional, giving her best and treating all without discrimination. Thank you both for all the care, treatment and support you have given to me personally and on behalf of others in the community.
THUMBS DOWN t to the genius who designed the fencing for units in Torpy Street. There is no access for a lawn mowing contractor!
THUMBS UP to Charlie at Australia Post for his excellent interpersonal skills and for locating a parcel sent to Brisbane after I lost the receipt containing the tracking number.
THUMBS UP to Jodie our homecare worker. She is so efficient, courteous, and helpful and always smiling and happy. Nothing is a problem for her… she goes out of her way to ensure we are happy with her work.
The Thumbs represent thoughts and opinions of readers and do not necessarily reflect those of Orange City Life. Every care is taken not to publish thumbs that are considered derogatory or defamatory in nature . Please note that thumbs may be edited for clarity, space or
SPORTSCAM
ORANGE RUNNING FESTIVAL
photos by CEC TILBURG
The Orange Running Festival held on Sunday, March 9, at Gosling Creek Reserve, was a resounding success, attracting 2,469 participants. The event featured various races, including the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and several 2K Dash events, catering to all ages and abilities. Participants enjoyed perfect weather conditions as they navigated the scenic, gently undulating courses. The festival drew numerous locals and visitors from across the state, contributing to a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. For detailed race results, visit the o cial Orange Running Festival website, www.orangerunningfestival.com.au
