Orange City Life is grateful to the following sponsors for their ongoing support over many years. These sponsorships, among other things, have enabled us to bring our readers a lot more enjoyment to our publications than would otherwise be possible. In return, we ask you to please support them as often as you’re able.
EDITOR’S note
This week, we bring you two great stories of locals doing their bit to help others this Easter. First we have Tom, who used to keep us all organised in the OC Life office, who goes out of his way to deliver Easter eggs to hospital staff, police, local firies and even harried OC Life staff! Tom is not normally one to seek out publicity for himself, but we managed to convince him to have yarn with us as we think it’s a nice story worth sharing. Then we have Jade Murray, who has been doing her bit to make Easter a little more enjoyable for families staying at Ronald McDonald House in Orange. Jade also wasn’t looking for publicity, but her proud grandmother thought we should know about it and got us in touch. They’re two great examples of people ‘paying it forward’ and what a difference it can make.
It was great to see so many people head out to Gosling Creek on Sunday to see the Royal Australian Air Force Roulettes in action. It was an impressive show and a beautiful autumn day to be out and about. We have some photos inside, but it is also well worth looking up the Roulettes’ Facebook page, as they have posted some terrific video footage taken from inside the planes as they flew over Gosling Creek. And, of course, Troy Pearson has some superb photos posted on his Eyetrix Production page.
Easter is here, and all of us at OC Life are eagerly looking forward to enjoying an extended break from the office. It does mean we have two fewer days to put a magazine together, so anyone who needs to have something published in our April 24 edition needs to get in touch as soon as possible.
Enjoy your Easter weekend!
ENTERTAINMENT: What’s happening around the region, this long weekend...
26
32
Jonathan Roe
ORANGE PROPERTY MARKET: Nest or invest with this great property...
Green light for 330-home Redmond Place development
Construction of a new housing development in Orange’s east will proceed after the NSW Government gave the green light to the 330home Redmond Place housing precinct.
The housing precinct, the result of a partnership between Orange City Council and the NSW Government-owned developer Landcom, is the first to be finalised under the NSW Government’s Social and Affordable Housing Rezoning Pathway, which seeks to accelerate rezoning proposals for NSW communities in need.
The precinct will dedicate at least 20 per cent of the homes as ‘affordable housing’ to make sure there are more affordable
places to live in the current housing crisis.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto welcomed the approval as a sign of steady progress being made to deliver more affordable housing for Orange.
“Now that the project has the green light, I look forward to seeing shovels in the ground to bring this vital development to life,” Mayor Tony Mileto said.
“Alongside the process of approving rezoning, work is well underway to produce a Development Control Plan for the site, which will set the tone for the neighbourhood and set guidelines for the kind of housing that can be built.
“Once that’s in place, Landcom can lodge a development application with Council for the subdivision design.”
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has prioritised the
Redmond Place rezoning so more homes can be delivered in a shortened timeframe for those who would otherwise not be able to afford to rent privately.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully welcomed the speedy approval.
“Redmond Place precinct will deliver quality affordable housing in Orange for families, essential workers and vulnerable people,” Mr Paul Scully said.
“As the first proposal finalised under the Social and Affordable Housing Pathway, this precinct is evidence that the reforms being delivered by the Minns Government are working to get more roofs over heads faster.”
Plans for the new residential housing precinct at Redmond Place show a diverse range of more affordable housing types,
such as duplexes, townhouses and lowrise apartments.
Along with new housing, the development will include extensive green space areas with walking and cycling paths and playgrounds.
Member for Orange Philip Donato believes the Redmond Place housing project is good news for the future of Orange.
“Orange is a growing community and projects like the Redmond Place Precinct will allow it to continue to thrive,” Mr Donato said.
“These 330 homes are great news for Orange and will help to keep the great Australian dream of owning a home a reality in the Central West.”
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
Every Easter, for the last five years, Orange local Tom has taken it upon himself to spread a little joy to our essential workers, distributing hundreds of Easter eggs to hospital sta , police, and the local fire brigade.
It’s just a little act of kindness, says Tom, who has made ‘paying it forward’ a regular part of his own life ever since a stranger’s random act of kindness to his mother five years ago.
“In 2019, my mum was doing some Christmas shopping. She had to rush around and get stuff done for Christmas Day. She got to IGA, she was in a hurry, she was exhausted, and somebody let her in so she
could get through quickly and then someone at the front of the queue paid for all her stuff,” Tom recalls.
“When she told me that story, I thought I could help pay this forward and pay for somebody else.”
It wasn’t long afterwards that Tom did just that, stepping up to the front of a supermarket checkout, card in hand, and offering to pay for an elderly lady’s groceries.
“So, I sort of paid it forward for Mum, and that felt good. So I started doing that sort of stuff quite regularly,” he said.
“I don’t know what alerts me to people, but I’ll see someone that looks like they might be a bit down in their luck, they might be sort of choosing between getting milk or getting bread because they don’t have enough money, so I’ll go to the checkout and say here’s fifty dollars to pay the bill of that person over there.
“Or, I have walked up to people and seen people at checkouts and said, ‘This is on me.’
And I’ve just tapped and walked off.”
Not everyone is willing to accept his generosity, but if he’s got the money to spare, Tom makes sure to find someone else who needs a helping hand.
The Easter egg tradition began following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. With hospital staff under pressure, Tom decided to spread a little cheer to our local health workers.
“When COVID hit, I thought, what can I do for the nurses and other staff? I ended up going out and buying, I think it might have been 200 Easter eggs, and went to the hospital to hand them out,” Tom said.
This Easter, Tom hasn’t had to put his hand in his own pocket thanks to the kind donation of 400 chocolate eggs from Ashcroft’s IGA. Tom said Rochelle Ashcroft
Tom’s paying it forward and sharing a little joy this Easter
had previously given him substantial discounts on his bulk order of Easter eggs, but this year offered to donate the lot.
“I asked how much and she said, ‘No, I’m donating the lot this year. I don’t mind doing it. I love doing this sort of stuff’,” he said.
Tom, who is a former staff member of Orange City Life, has never sought publicity for his numerous good deeds. He agreed to let us share the story with you, so he could thank Rochelle and Ashcroft’s IGA for their kind deed to him.
“I don’t need them to know who I am. I don’t need anything for it,” Tom said. “From that moment when Mum told me that someone paid for her groceries, and I saw how that made her feel and the joy she got out of it… I hope I pass that on to others when I do it.”
WEST THEME NIGHT
The Year of Toys: Waste 2 Art gets playful in 2025 competition return
The Sims Metal Waste 2 Art community art competition is back in 2025 with the theme ‘Toys’, inviting a playful interpretation from entering artists.
Coordinated by Netwaste, the annual Waste 2 Art competition aims to challenge people’s perceptions about ‘rubbish’ by showcasing creative works made from reused ‘waste’ materials.
The competition is open to artists of all ages, with separate primary school, high school, community and open categories.
“Waste 2 Art shares its waste reduction message in such a fun and unique way it appeals to a large cross-section of the community, from aspiring and professional artists to schools and community groups,” Orange City Council’s Sustainability Community Committee Chair, Cr David Mallard, said.
“Waste 2 Art is a great way to highlight the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, while creating a new life for materials that would otherwise have been thrown away or considered useless.
“It also offers a wonderful opportunity for the entire Orange community to
showcase their creativity.”
Waste 2 Art is increasing in popularity in Orange each year, with more than 90 entries in the 2024 competition.
Entry forms for the 2025 local competition must be submitted by the end of May, with the exhibition taking place in mid-June. The winners of the Orange competition will then progress to the regional competition and exhibition to be held at the Western Plains Cultural Centre in Dubbo from September 20 to November 2.
Works can be two or three-dimensional, but must have been made using only recycled ‘waste’ materials. Over the years, people have turned items like soft plastics, tin cans, bottle tops, plastic bags, scrap metal and clothing into fantastic works of art.
While this year’s theme is ‘toys’, artists are not required to use toys in the making of their artworks.
For those looking for inspiration, there will be two workshops held at the Environmental Learning Facility in the lead up to the exhibition, where you can learn more about toys in the waste stream and provide an opportunity for entrants to receive guidance and inspiration from
local artists.
On Saturday, April 26, artist Tavia Lyons will host a workshop aimed at young people and their parents. Tavia has a background in graphic design and visual arts and has been involved with Waste 2 Art in Orange since its inception in 2015..
Book your spot via Eventbrite https:// tinyurl.com/W2AChildrensWorkshop2025
Then on Sunday, April 27, Jaq Davies will run a workshop for families with older children, adults and community groups who would like to learn techniques to use to make an artwork to display in the Waste 2 Art Exhibition. Jaq Davies is a multidisciplinary artist who uses a wide
range of materials to create her artworks.
Book via Eventbrite https://tinyurl.com/ W2ACommunityWorkshop2025
Both workshops will be held at the Environmental Learning Facility (ELF), Orange Showground, Leeds Parade.
Entry forms and further details of the 2025 Waste 2 Art Competition are now available via the Orange City Council Website here: www.orange.nsw.gov.au/ bins-collection/?tab=waste-2-art Or scan the QR code.
Contact Orange City Library for more information on 6393 8132 or email mengel@cwl.nsw.gov.au
Helping the Easter Bunny hop into the Ronald McDonald House
Jade Murray knows all too well how important the little comforts are when stuck far from home, and this Easter, the local beautician and mother-of-three is making sure to bring a little joy to families staying at Ronald McDonald House in Orange.
It was 14 years ago that Jade and her husband were given the news that their unborn daughter, Indy, would require treatment for a cleft lip and palate.
“We were so young,” says Jade, “We didn’t have much money and we were suddenly faced with a journey with our unborn baby that would involve a lifetime of medical help, hours away from where we live.”
Indy has had to undergo 18 surgeries so far in her young life and there are still more to go, says Jade, who has had to travel back and forward to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney with her daughter for treatment.
Throughout their journey, Jade says they have been unbelievably grateful for the support of Ronald McDonald House, which has given them a place to stay and the comforts of home while going through some difficult times.
“We’ve been seeing the team at Westmead for 14 years, so we know what it’s like being away from home,” says Jade.
“We remember the feeling of someone showing up for us, of kindness given with no strings attached, of hope delivered when things felt heavy and scary. Fourteen years on, we are grateful for the chance to now do the same for others.”
Spotting a call-out for donations of Easter
eggs from our local Ronald McDonald House last year, Jade saw a way in which she could give back and rallied her beauty salon clients and friends to put together five large washing baskets of Easter goodies.
Putting out the call once again ahead of this Easter, Jade has been overwhelmed with support and on Monday afternoon delivered nine baskets full of Easter eggs, books, games, toys and other treats.
“My clients and local businesses came on board, even people who actually don’t see me in the salon, they’ve seen it on my socials and just messaged that they had items to drop off. So the Orange Community, not necessarily just my clientele, the whole community has got behind it,” says Jade, who is happy to be able to give back in some small way.
“I know firsthand what it’s like being away from home. The last thing, when you’ve got a sick kid in hospital, you don’t have time to run down and buy Easter eggs,” she says.
“But the Easter Bunny has to come, and if I can help then that’s really heartwarming.”
Posting to her LillyRose Salon Facebook page on Monday, Jade expressed her gratitude to all those who donated to her cause.
“Today we will be dropping off 9 full washing baskets full of kindness, generosity, and love from the Orange community to the Orange Ronald McDonald House…
“What you gave wasn’t just Easter treats, you gave hope. You reminded families they’re not alone. You reminded us all of the power of compassion.
“And with our Indy by our side, who has helped sort the donations, pack the treats and add her own touch of love. To see her give, with the same open heart that once received, is really special.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much.”
Jade Murray and daughter Indy with the nine baskets of donated Easter goodies for Ronald McDonald House Central West.
Giant hay bale chicken wins 2025 Sculptures by the Bush
Silk “Hay”, the giant hay bale silky chicken, is this year’s winner of the Blayney Shire’s annual Sculptures by the Bush competition.
The annual community challenge gets local residents putting their creative skills into action to create a trail of sculptures through the shire and villages. There’s the Hay Bale Art Challenge, for sculptures primarily out of hay. A Farm Art Challenge for artwork made out of any farmrelated resources like corrugated iron, wire, wood, and old machinery. Then the Scarecrow Challenge for people to create their best scarecrow or even a series of themed scarecrows.
From a giant weiner dog to a Dutch post-impressionist scarecrow and the full cast of Sesame Street created in hay, locals really let their imaginations run wild this year, said first-time judge, Blayney Shire Deputy Mayor Rebecca Scott.
Overall the judges were very impressed with the imagination the entries displayed and high-quality results, Cr Scott said.
2025 Sculptures by the Bush Winners
Hay Bale Art Challenge
1st Place $300 – #15 Silk Hay
2nd
–
Farm Art Challenge
1st Place $300 – #12 Moo-riah Carey
2nd Place $200- #7 Humpty Dumpty Visits Blayney
Scarecrow Competition
Individual $100 – #4 Vincent Van Scarecrow
“The Sculptures by the Bush competition continues to impress with the creativity of local residents, and this year was no different,” she said.
“It is such a great event for the community to get involved in and encourage visitors to travel around the Shire.”
The other judges of this year’s competition were Arts OutWest Director, Kylie Shead and President of Sidetrack Arts, Laura Baker, who congratulated all the entrants whose creative contributions made this Sculpture by the Bush competition yet another resounding success.
Sculptures by the Bush is on display all through the school holidays, and Blayney Shire Council has created a handy map so you can find all 19 entries.
You also have the opportunity to vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Award. Simply visit the Sculptures by the Bush Facebook page and give your favourite a ‘like’ before voting closes at 12pm Thursday, April 24.
The full map of entries can be found at www.blayney.nsw. gov.au/our-community/events/sculptures-by-the-bush
Themed $100 - #9 Enchanted Scarecrows of Carcoar Public School
Sculptures by the Bush is an annual community challenge in the Blayney Shire where local residents use their creative skills to create a trail of sculptures. With the display period inclusive of the April School Holidays, the Sculptures by the Bush campaign has already encouraged a number of visitors to the Blayney Shire.
Congratulations to the following entries who have won cash prizes as voted by our judges:
Hay Bale Art Challenge
1st Place $300 – #15 Silk Hay
2nd Place $200 – #13 The Word on the Street 3rd Place $100 – #17 Barry’s Weiner
Farm Art Challenge
1st Place $300 – #12 Moo-riah Carey
2nd Place $200- #7 Humpty Dumpty Visits Blayney
Scarecrow Competition
Individual $100 – #4 Vincent Van Scarecrow Themed $100 - #9 Enchanted Scarecrows of Carcoar Public School
TIMEIS RUNNING OUT!
Remembering Gallipoli 110 years on
fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders, and when they evacuated eight months later, over 8,000 Australian soldiers had been killed.
of Orange RSL Sub-Branch President Chris Colvin, who is expecting a large crowd at next week’s service in Robertson Park. This year marks 110 years since the landing
Eyecare Plus Orange
Anzac Day, held on the 25th of April, the anniversary of that landing, has since become a day to remember all Australians killed in military operations.
“For us, it has the same significance whether it’s a major year or any year,”
Orange RSL Sub-Branch President Chris Colvin said.
“It’s about being there to commemorate those wonderful men,
Hansen
young boys most of them, that went off to war and never came back and those that came back home with all sorts of mental and physical problems.
“It’s about honouring those guys… We’re not honouring war. No, it’s not about war. It’s commemorating the sacrifices these men made.”
The Dawn Service will commence at 6am at the Cenotaph in Robertson Park. Veterans are asked to assemble in front of the Memorial Hall in Anson Street by 5.45am to march to Robertson Park at 5.50am.
The Morning Service at the Cenotaph in Robertson Park will begin
following the march at 11am.
Anyone wishing to march is asked to form up outside the Memorial Hall in Anson Street at 10am, with the march to depart at about 10:40am
“If anybody wants to march we will have a banner for descendants of all veterans,” Mr Colvin said. “If you’re a descendant and you want to wear your forebear’s medals, they are worn on the right-hand side of the chest,” he added.
The full 2025 Anzac Day Program and map of the march route can be found on pages 18–19.
This year marks the 110th anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand forces at Gallipoli on the 25th of April, 1915. Photo: Australian War Memorial
Raise a glass to the saxophoneplaying pig raising money for the Orange Con.
The Orange Regional Conservatorium (ORC) and Strawhouse Wines have come together in a creative collaboration to raise money for the fitting out of the new conservatorium building. Strawhouse Wines has released a one-of-a-kind limited edition label, with each bottle sold contributing directly to ORC’s new purpose-built facility currently under construction in the Civic Northcourt.
Available in both a bold red and a crisp white, the distinctive labels feature a cartoon drawing of a sunglasses-clad
pig in a white dinner jacket, playing the saxophone.
It’s Strawhouse’s signature pig label reimagined with a musical twist, Executive Director of the ORC, David Shaw, said.
“This project is a joyful reminder of what happens when creativity and community come together,” David said.
“Who knew you could put a saxophoneplaying pig on a wine label? It’s fun, it’s local, and it supports something truly meaningful; our future home for music in Orange.”
Crafted by Meg and Justin Byrnes of Strawhouse Wines, the wines are designed to delight collectors, music lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike. Every bottle sold contributes directly to the ORC’s efforts to build a facility that will inspire and serve generations of musicians across the region.
“We wanted to do something special for the ORC, and the musical pig just felt right,” Strawhouse Wines’ owner and winemaker, Justin Byrnes, said
“Music and wine both bring people
ADVERTISEMENT
together and this was our way of celebrating that.”
Wines are available to order via the ORC website orangecon.org.au/strawhousewine or by contacting Strawhouse Wines directly at info@strawhousewines. com.au. Quantities are limited, and the bottles make for perfect gifts or unique keepsakes.
“It’s a local partnership that hits all the right notes, raising funds, raising glasses, and raising the roof on community spirit,” David concluded.
Sam’s Plan to fix the Calare cost of living crisis
UNDER LABOR THE NATIONALS PLAN
Wait 15 months to pay just 70c less tax a day
Interest rates have gone up 12 times and payments on mortgages have tripled
Electricity bills have increased by up to $1,300 – another broken Labor promise
Grocery prices have increased 30%
Rents are up 18%, making it harder to save for a house deposit
Immediately halve the fuel excise saving $14 on every tank* for a year
End wasteful government spending to lower inflation and interest rates
Deliver cheaper energy through our balanced energy plan
Stop supermarket exploitation through new competition policy
Will boost regional housing supply and help young Australians enter the property market
We all use common-sense risk assessments when on the road, at the beach, and with our health — young women should also be taught to apply the same principles to their personal safety, Mel Thomas believes.
“Awareness”, “assertiveness”, and “avoidance” have been traditional strategies for girls in dangerous public and private situations, and they’re key to an innovative self-defence workshop being offered in Dubbo and Orange in April.
Marital arts expert and founder of the KYUP! Project, Mel, is again bringing her unique half-day presentations for local young women aged between 12–22 to the region for an issue that is very close to her heart.
“KYUP! was in response to child youth crime in the area where I was growing-up, and my own lived experience of being in a dangerous relationship,” Mel revealed.
“Since then, I’ve done 25 years of martial arts, and I looked around, and saw that nothing much has changed from when I was a kid,” she added.
Pronounced “KEY-UP” after a Korean martial arts exclamative power call, it aims to offer local girls “a voice” in situations where they might otherwise feel powerless, Mel — a writer, speaker, media commentator,
“Swimming between the flags” for women’s safety, at Central West selfdefence classes
and mother of two girls with a black belt in Hapkido, the Korean art of self-defence — explained.
“The analogy I use, is ‘it’s like ‘swimming between the flags’; at the beach, we all use sun-screen, hats, and clothes, to protect ourselves, we should do this also for our safety.
“We want the whole country to be able to ‘swim between the flags’ but not all of us
Say NO to the Men in Hats. Say YES to change. Community
have got the skills to keep ourselves safe; for this we needed real-life role models in the community,” Mel recalled.
She founded KYUP! with the central purpose of empowering women with a tailored suite of physical, psychological, and emotional tools to handle almost all situations.
“The workshop skills have been developed from a range of sources — policing,
ADVERTISEMENT
psychology, the military, and education.
“It’s about intuition, using your voice, ‘ethical bystanding’ and basic self-defence moves and scenarios that anybody can utilise.”
Participants, she added, will learn to:
• Replace fear with confidence
• Trust their instincts and make smart choices
• Use the power of their voice to defuse dangerous situations
• Get away from a situation that doesn’t feel right
• Fight back when needed
• Break the cycle of violence
“I’m very excited to be holding these workshops, we usually get between 50–55 young women involved and have been holding them for three or four years,” Mel said.
“Almost all women have experienced violence at one time or another, but we show you how to become an excellent ‘de-escalator’ and how to react to unsafe situations,” she concluded.
The two free holiday programs are at Dubbo PCYC on Wednesday, April 23, and at Orange PCYC on Thursday, April 24. For more information or to book, go to: www. kyupproject.com.au/upcoming-workshops/
I’m sick of the Central West being held back by Andrew Gee and the National Party. Unlike them, I’ve NEVER been a member of a political party. As a true Independent I will hold Dutton and Albanese accountable. If they’re not doing right by us, I’ll call them out.
Authorised by Kate Hook, 1 Bathurst Road, Orange NSW
Lend a few hours, help make Blayney Book Fair a success
With final preparations now underway for Blayney’s popular annual book-fair, the call has gone out for volunteers to lend their time to make the event a success.
With the Anglican Parish event running Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 26 — also on Friday and Saturday, May 2–3 — why not pitch-in for a couple of hours, organiser, Elizabeth Russ, asked.
“Helpers are needed from 8.30–4.30pm each day, but shifts are only of two hours duration,” Elizabeth said.
“It’s light and pleasant work, just helping-out on the sales desk, and tidying books, that sort of thing,” she added.
Those with a flair for food and flora, are being sought for
a few hours, she revealed.
“We also require helpers for the barbecue that is on the Thursday and Saturday, April 24 and 26 only.
“As well, willing workers are needed for the trading table, that sells home-made jams, cakes, chocolates and sweets, as well as home-potted plants,” Elizabeth revealed.
With a call for donations recently seeing a huge jump in a diverse range of works dropped-off in recent weeks, the fair is offering thousands of novels, thrillers, who-doneits, self-help publications, romance, and historical novels, plus gardening, cooking, and military, Australian, and world history.
The thousands of dollars raised by the annual extravaganza, goes not just to the good works of the church, but to a number of other local charities, including the Blayney food bank, as well.
“This is by far the main fundraiser for the Parish each year,” Elizabeth said.
“We also donate proceeds to a number of local groups that provide support, meals, and food, to the needy in our community,” she concluded.
Interested in pitching-in for an easy morning or afternoon shift? Contact Elizabeth Russ on 0408 682 122 or email: elizabeth.russ@hotmail.com
BUILDING BLOCKS FOR SALE
BUILDING BLOCKS FOR SALE
Clearview Stages 2B and 3 is a new land release in the highly sought after area of Shiralee in South Orange. Located off Rifle Range Road:
Clearview Stages 2B and 3 is a new land release in the highly sought after area of Shiralee in South Orange.
Located off Rifle Range Road:
- Large lots, ranging from 702 to 1,769 square metres.
- Prices start from $345,000.
- Large lots, ranging from 702 to 1,769 square metres. Prices start from $345,000
If you require any further information, please contact Chris Fenton (0429 474 437) or Dave Fenton (0418 297 336) or visit the website at www.landorange.com.au
If you require any further information, please contact...
Blayney Anglican Parish Book Fair organiser, Elizabeth Russ and volunteer, Joy Ritchie; the call has now gone-out for volunteers to lend their time to make the event a success. Photo: Supplied
LET’S TALK MONEY
with DANIEL MCGREGOR
The 10 Minute Phone Call That Could Save Your Retirement
Are you a retiree in Orange? Perhaps you’re nearing retirement or maybe you’re simply ready to start seriously planning for your retirement.
If so, can you answer this one vital question?
- Do you really know how the fees on your retirement savings compare with what else is out there?
Why is this question so vital! Because a 1% higher fee on your retirement savings could cost you 10 years of retirement income! 1% doesn’t sound like much, 0.5% even less, but thse seemingly small amounts can have huge implications.
It’s a huge price to pay and it’s why you want to be very confident you’re not paying more fees than necessary. During times like we’ve just experienced, you’d be forgiven for thinking things like Trump’s tariffs causing an economic meltdown are the biggest risk to your retirement savings. But that’s short-term thinking. When it comes to retirement, you’ll probably be retired for a long time, and we’ll see other crises
during that time… they will come and go. Things will fall in the short term but they’ve never, ever failed to reach new highs in the long term.
We can’t control the short term, but we can plan to make sure your retirement savings are set up to deal with the short, medium and long term.
There is, however, one thing we can control… FEES.
Fees can eat away at your retirement savings year after year and there could be an array of fees eating away at yours.
The sooner you put a stop to higher-than-necessary fees eroding your nest egg, the sooner that money will start staying in your pocket.
Showing people just how much they can save in fees on their retirement savings is one thing I love doing. I get to give many people an ongoing annual bonus by helping them pay thousands of dollars less in fees each year.
What would you do with thousands of dollars a year that would otherwise be paid in fees? Are there a few things you can think of that you’d rather be spending that money on?
Put it this way, if you had big holes in your wallet and money was constantly falling out and being lost, you’d very quickly do something about it. Your retirement savings are the wallet from which you will pay yourself a retirement income. If yours potentially has big holes in it, you’d want to do something about it, wouldn’t you?
That’s why the question is SO important:
- Do you really know how the fees on your retirement savings compare with what else is out there?
And secondly:
- If you’re paying for financial advice, do you really know how much it is costing you?
If you’re not sure, pick up the phone and give me a call on 0411 484 464 and in the space of 10 minutes I can give you a quick assessment of whether you’re potentially at risk of the biggest killer of retirement savings – high fees!
The upshot of making a 10 minute call could well be a better retirement lifestyle!
$14 million for highway upgrades between Lithgow and Orange Bat/hail netting funding for local orchardists
$1.2 million for CCTV in Orange, Bathurst and Wellington
60 mobile phone towers, base stations and wi-fi across Calare
Thesupermarket giants, Coles and Woolies, are raking in massive profits. Between them they have an 80% market share and prices have gone up 24% in just five years.
They are amongst the most profitable grocery chains in the WORLD!
These huge profits come at the expense of price gouging of farmers at the farmgate and consumers at the checkout.
One thing that we can do to bring prices down is slash the market dominance of the supermarket giants.
Last year I teamed up with Bob Katter to draw attention to the shocking behaviour of the supermarket pigs and hogs.
We did this because the supermarket snouts are in the money trough. They’re rolling around in massive profits, yet they pay our farmers a pittance and price gouge customers on the way through.
Urgent action is required to give our farmers and consumers a fair go.
ASLASHING THE POWER OF SUPERMARKET GIANTS –REAL COST OF LIVING RELIEF
REDUCING SUPERMARKET DOMINANCE BILL
That’s why Bob Katter and I introduced the Reducing Supermarket Dominance Bill into Parliament.
It would significantly shake-up the behaviour of the grocers, wind back the market share of the big supermarkets, and level the playing field between the farmers and the supermarket giants.
In summary, the legislation would:
• Force divestiture of the supermarkets and their market power in the grocery sector to a maximum of 20 per cent within five years.
• Maximum 100% markup for supermarkets (they currently markup many hundreds of percent) to give farmers and consumers a better deal.
• Scrap the ‘Food and Grocery Code of Conduct’. It fails to address power imbalances between farmers and grocery giants and instead provides a mechanism by which supermarkets control suppliers and producers.
MAJOR PARTIES ARE ALL TALK
Talking about taking action is not good enough. Words have to be backed up by deeds.
The National Party had nine years to stop the supermarket hogs and failed. They also introduced the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct and it turned out to be a dud which has not stopped the price gouging.
The Labor Government’s policies have been just as ineffective.
WHAT DO WE WANT?
What we want is for all the major parties to not just hold press conferences and talk about taking action, but to actually vote in favour of this game-changing legislation. If you’re not prepared to back up your big talk with a vote in Parliament, it’s all just hot air and porkies.
We want the major parties to back up their words with deeds. Stop just talking the talk. Start walking the walk. Vote for the Reducing Supermarket Dominance Bill. Help get the snouts out of the trough.
ustralia enjoys one of the highest living standards in the world.
And unlike many other countries, we have a safety net that gives a hand-up to those in need - such as the NDIS and Medicare. We also have a highly regarded and capable Australian Defence Force and world class schools and universities. We can be proud of all of this.
What helps us pay for them is exports. In the Orange region we mine and export gold and copper out at Cadia. They are both in our national top 10 list of exports. Copper is used in electrical wiring, transportation and construction.
So when you see a local miner, thank them for the important work they're doing for our region and country! They help power our local and national economy. THANK YOU MINERS!
SUPPORTING AGRICULTURE IN THE CENTRAL WEST
We need to be supporting agriculture and agricultural production.
Our country needs food security. As the world’s population continues to grow, food and water security are going to be huge issues for future generations.
I’ve been in politics since 2011 and I’ve always worked closely with our farmers on a range of issues.
Examples locally include:
• Opposing the unfair biosecurity tax and successfully working with independent senators to block and scrap it
• Opposing the ban on live sheep exports. I spoke against this and voted against it in Parliament
• Introducing a Bill into Parliament that would slash the market dominance of the supermarket giants and give farmers and consumers a better and fairer deal
• Introducing a Bill to ban wind farms in State forests, which so many farmers across our region are opposed to because turbines are far too close to homes (700 metres)
• Opposing the superannuation tax on farmers
• Supporting the building of new dams
• Opposing the ute tax
The importance and value of agriculture is only going to grow, and this includes protecting prime agricultural land. Our farmers need to be valued and supported and I will always have their backs.
FIXING THE RURAL DOCTOR SHORTAGE CRISIS
The rural doctor shortage crisis is costing lives.
It’s outrageous that the further you live from a city, the shorter your life expectancy is.
I’ve been leading the fight for better health services in the bush for years, securing a 24-hour rescue helicopter, improved radiotherapy, fighting to save Gulgong Hospital, and achieving a new rural medical school for Charles Sturt University in Orange.
I also introduced the Doctors for the Bush Bill to bring thousands more doctors to regional areas like Calare, but the major parties
refused to support it.
Despite their inaction, I’ve consistently raised this issue in Parliament through Question Time and Notice of Motions.
I’ve gathered nearly 15,000 signatures on a petition, and used media platforms like A Current Affair to demand action.
I’ve also led the charge for MRI services for the Mudgee region, and got free MRI scans for Lithgow and Bathurst.
Rest assured I’ll keep fighting hard to secure the healthcare our communities deserve.
OUR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS ARE TRUE COMMUNITY HEROES!
Early Childhood educators play a vital role in ensuring that our children have the best possible start in life.
We need to support, value and appreciate them!
That is why, last year in Parliament, I supported the ‘Wage Justice for Early Childhood Education and Care Workers Bill’ that would give our Early Childhood educators a 15%
pay rise over two years. This means they are now earning on avaerage an extra $155 per week. This is a good start but the government also needs to come up with a plan to train and attract more educators to address staff shortages across the region.
If we didn’t have early childhood educators many parents would not be able to work.
Our sincere gratitude to all of our early childhood educators for your vital role in nurturing the promise of Australia
Andrew with Bob Katter and a couple of supermarket hogs
THE GOOD ENOUGH PARENT
WITH EMILY THOMPSON
Letting go
You know that thing where you’re sure you’re going to be a patient, loving parent and you’ll simultaneously have an incredibly fulfilling career, a busy and fun social life and you will volunteer enough to be a positive impact in your community. But then you actually have children and you barely have time to phone it in at work and remember your children’s names. You do occasionally run into your former best friend at the supermarket or doctors though.
It can feel like your life is a check-list of things you think you should be doing, and never feeling like you’re doing enough. But this year, I am being forced to constantly re-evaluate what the important things are, and what is good for me to be doing. And I was doing so well until today, when I messed up at work, had to pull out of dinner with friends, and missed my daughter’s assembly in the process. So, I came
home and cried in my husband’s arms.
He told me that I’m doing a great job, I am enough and then he took me out for a cheeseburger and told me I looked pretty. Because for all the things I might do wrong, I definitely chose my life partner well.
And so, as we head into term 2 here is a list of things I no longer give a f*** about:
1) The school app. Look, I appreciate everything the school does for these students, and how hard the teachers and admin staff work. But after 12 years of school parenting, I’m handing these reigns over to my husband for the rest of the year. I will however keep the canteen app and this morning I messaged our canteen manager and told her exactly how much I appreciate her. She is the GOAT. So next term my kids probably won’t make their
Building your future
As an Orange local, social worker and researcher, Julie Cunningham has always put our community first. Now she’s working with Labor to take the pressure off you and your family, with her plan to:
soccer gala days, but they will be eating chicken burgers for lunch on Fridays.
2) My bully of an apple watch. Look, I’ve been on a bit of a health kick and even this week when my healthy eating has devolved into a steady stream of Cadbury mini eggs (strawberry of top deck), I’ve still been exercising because it makes me feel so good. But I don’t need to count steps or track standing hours. I’m doing enough. Stuff your loops.
3) Planning meals. I didn’t know this was the number one mental strain as an adult, but apparently it is. I’ve tried many things to combat thismeal rosters, meal kits, apps and I’m ashamed to admit that I briefly joined a Facebook group called “mums who organise” before quickly realising that these were not my people. Look, nobody in my house is going to starve or become malnourished, but I don’t
know what’s for dinner tonight and I also don’t care.
This I care so very much about:
1) My beautiful little family. I’m lucky enough to be married to the love of my life, and be a mum to the most incredible two girls in the world. No, I’m not going to make it to every assembly, but my kids are going to remember the ones I went to, not the ones I missed.
2) The people who love me. My close friends are getting very used to drinking coffee with me while I cry, and they meet me for coffee anyway. The people you don’t have to pretend with are the best.
3) Sunlight, the swimming pool, walking at the lake, reading good books and chocolate. Because these things and the people I love are all I need.
Dr Julie CUNNINGHAM
MAKE IT EASIER TO SEE A DOCTOR by investing in an Urgent Care Centre in Calare, rebuilding bulk-billing, strengthening primary care, attracting more health professionals to our region, and protecting our health and hospitals.
KEEP THE COST OF MEDICINES DOWN with Labor’s Cheaper Medicines program, cutting the price of your PBS prescription from $42.50 to $25.
KEEP TAXES LOW and delivering additional tax cuts for every taxpayer in Calare, so you can earn more and keep more of what you earn.
INVEST IN EDUCATION
With the 3-day childcare guarantee, fully funding our public schools, slashing HECS debts by 20%, and making free TAFE places permanent, to train more nurses, healthcare workers, tradies and construction workers.
BUILD YOUR FUTURE
by securing our transition to cheap, clean, reliable energy, investing in innovative manufacturing for home building and renewables, extending the small business instant access write-off, putting Australian business at the front of the queue for government procurement and contracts, and growing new markets for Australian products.
for Calare
Orange Urgent Care Service
The last place anyone wants to spend their Easter break is in an emergency department waiting room. Thanks to the Orange Urgent Care Service (OUCS) you can still get the care that you need even out of hours.
Located at the Bloomfield Medical Centre, the Orange Urgent Care Service is open from 8am to 8pm, 365 days a year, to provide bulk billing care for urgent, but not life-threatening, illnesses and injuries.
Since its opening 12 months ago, the OUCS service has saved thousands of people from making unnecessary trips to the Orange Hospital ED and provided urgent out-of-hours GP services, while getting timely treatment without the lengthy wait times.
“I think this service is fantastic,” Orange Urgent Care Service GP Dr Danielle Morris said.
“Because it’s predominantly run by GPs, so you have doctors with a general practice background, and we see people and organise urgent treatment depending on what’s necessary.”
Dr Morris has been practicing medicine in the Central West for over 25 years and has experience in rural general practice as well as emergency medicine. She joined the growing Orange Urgent Care Service team at the Bloomfield Medical Centre in June last year.
“I think, for patients, the biggest benefit is being able to have timely access to urgent review, and get investigations ordered and treatment organised knowing that their normal treating Doctor or practice will receive all the results also and without necessarily having to wait for hours in an emergency department,” Dr Morris said.
“What I find is, it’s lovely how appreciative people are of the service. So many people walk out
grateful and saying, ‘Thank you for being here. Thank you that we didn’t have to go to the ED’.
“So, it takes a lot of the load off the emergency department for things that don’t need an emergency department to be sorted out.”
Dr Morris said her usual hours in the Urgent Care are every Monday and Tuesday from 11.00am to 8.00pm, as well as occasional weekends however the service is available 365 days a year 8am to 8pm with a range of Doctors making up our Team.
To be seen at the Orange Urgent Care Service, the first step is to call the free Healthdirect hotline on 1800 022 222, where you will be assessed by a registered nurse (RN). Depending on the assessment made by the RN, you may be referred to the Urgent Care Service, or the RN may recommend an alternative treatment option for you.
“Call Healthdirect first,” Dr Morris advised. “Sometimes people self-present with issues that they really should be in the emergency department for and Healthdirect can help them with advice about what’s the best place for their care.
“Healthdirect also has access to our Urgent Care appointment system and can book them in on
the spot, so it helps people present at a time that has been allocated to them, rather than having to wait for an availability.”
Walk-in patients are always welcome to the service however and Orange Urgent Care will always try to help where necessary.
The Orange Urgent Care Service is open from 8am to 8pm, 365 days a year.
The Bloomfield Medical Group is located on level 2 of the Bloomfield Medical Centre, 1521 Forest Road, Orange. Call them on 02 5335 6666, or visit bloomfieldmedical.com.au
Photos by CEC TILBURG
On Saturday, the Canobolas Lions Club held a special plaque unveiling ceremony at the Waratahs Wetlands, marking a heartfelt collaboration between the club and Orange City Council.
The plaque, o cially unveiled by Orange Mayor Tony Mileto, commemorates the dedication of 30 trees planted in memory of past Lions Club members. This thoughtful gesture not only honours the contributions of those who have passed but also enhances the natural beauty of the wetlands for the wider community to enjoy.
Canobolas Lions Club members, with Mayor Tony Mileto
Canobolas lions club members with their families
Phil Baker president & Tony Mileto
www.orange.nsw.gov.au
Find us on social media @ Orange City Council
Residents invited for conversations with Mayor Tony Mileto
Do you have a question, idea or concern you would like to share with Orange Mayor Tony Mileto?
Come to the Civic Centre and meet with the Orange Mayor at the first ‘Tell Tony Day’ on Wednesday 7 May.
Orange residents are invited to book their spot for a chat with Cr Mileto in the mayoral office.
He said he was looking forward to having casual conversations with members of the
community about issues affecting them.
“I’m here to listen and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to having constructive one-on-one conversations with local residents about what’s happening in our city,” Cr Mileto said.
Orange City Council is making smart, forwardthinking changes to ensure a stronger, more efficient future for our community.
We’ve already made great strides. Carbon emissions are down 23 per cent since 2020, and we’ve avoided spending millions through smarter energy choices.
“Come and share your concerns, suggest ideas for improvements, raise awareness of an issue or provide feedback on a local matter.”
Head to the Orange City Council website at www. orange.nsw.gov.au/tell-tony to fill out the online form or drop in to the Customer Service Counter at the Civic Centre, 135 Byng Street. You will be asked to select your preferred time for a meeting and outline your proposed conversation with the mayor. This will allow us to prepare any necessary nformation for the meeting. The meeting times
will be limited to 20 minutes to ensure the Mayor can meet with as many people as possible throughout the day. We will endeavour to cater for everyone’s preferred meeting times however pleasenote that there may be cases where that is not always possible.
If you miss out on a spot on your intended date, you will go onto a waitlist for the next date.
But there’s more work to do.
Our plan focuses on costeffective and practical solutions, including:
• Sustaining a renewable energy contract to power our facilities
• Installing solar panels and batteries on more Council buildings
• Completing LED streetlighting upgrades
OUR PLAN FOR A SMARTER, MORE EFFICIENT FUTURE
• Upgrading gas equipment to electric equipment throughout Council facilities
• Executing a low emissions fleet transition plan
• Implementing projects to reduce emissions from Council managed landfill
• Investigating local carbon insetting projects
hese smart investments don’t just benefit the environment, they help us cut costs and future-proof ourcommunity.
We’ll continue to share our progress and the steps we’re taking to build a cleaner, more efficient Orange.
Visit Council’s website to learn more: www.orange.nsw.gov. au/sustainability/net-zero/
Chat with Mayor Tony Mileto about community issues.
Solar panels on the roof of the Orange Aquatic Centre. s
Hoppy Easter at Nashdale!
— words by EMILY THOMPSON | photos by CEC TILBURG —
Last Friday, families gathered at Nashdale Oval for the school’s Easter hat parade. The children marched around the oval in buddy systems, with older children helping younger ones.
Parents, grandparents, relatives and friends watched the children proudly parade, each wearing a hat they made themselves at school—it was their first chance to see their creations!
At the end of the parade, the entire school gathered to perform the chicken dance, with giggles and cheers from the delighted audience. The morning concluded with a special visit from the Easter Bunny and an “eggciting” hunt around the oval!
It was an incredible end to a long and wonderful term, and the Nashdale sta and students are eagerly looking forward to a well-deserved two week break!
EasterParadeHat @ Spring Hill
— photos
— The Easter Hat Parade is a highlight of the school term for students all over our district. Last week, OC Life stopped by Spring Hill Public School to snap all the colourful, creativity on display!
by HENRY DEROOY
AIR FORCE ROULETTES FLYING DISPLAY
Photos by CEC TILBURG
On Sunday, 13th April, the skies over Orange came alive as the Royal Australian Air Force Roulettes wowed the crowd with a thrilling aerobatic display above Gosling Creek.
Flying in tight formation with their six Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, the Roulettes demonstrated incredible skill, precision, and teamwork that had locals looking skyward in awe. It was a spectacular sight, and by the looks of the crowd, just about all of Orange turned out to witness the event.
The excitement didn’t end in the air. After the show, the pilots landed at Orange Airport and stuck around to meet the public. Friendly and engaging, they were fantastic ambassadors—chatting with families, handing out stickers, and happily posing for photos with their fans.
It was a truly special experience for the Orange community, and one we won’t forget anytime soon. A huge thank you to the RAAF for sharing their incredible talent and time with us!
Sharon,Cooper & Will Beasley
Mark Bessen, John Pullen, Stuart Porgess, Lucas Blashkin & Allan Brown
Ivy & Harlo Farr
coming soon to odeon 5
FLOW
Genre: Adventure, Animation, Fantasy | Screening Sunday 27th & Wednesday 30th April
The world seems to be coming to an end, teeming with the vestiges of a human presence. Cat is a solitary animal, but as his home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. In the lonesome boat sailing through mystical overflowed landscapes, they navigate the challenges and dangers of adapting to this new world.
THUNDERBOLTS
Cast: Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen
Consumer Advice: Action, Adventure, Crime
After finding themselves ensnared in a death trap, an unconventional team of antiheroes must embark on a dangerous mission that will force them to confront their pasts.
MAY 1
THE PENGUIN LESSONS
Cast: Steve Coogan, Jonathan Pryce, Vivian El Jaber, Björn Gustafsson, Alfonsina Carrocio
Consumer Advice: Coarse language/Drama
Starring Oscar nominee Steve Coogan, this poignant dramedy from director Peter Cattaneo (Military Wives, The Full Monty) follows an Englishman’s personal and political awakening after he adopts a penguin during a cataclysmic period in Argentine history.
THE CORRESPONDENT
SINNERS
DEATH OF A UNICORN
what’s happening in orange and surrounding regions
JAM Orange presents Autumn Bloom
Sunday, April 27
Not-for-profit local music organisation JAM Orange has put together a festival of folk and acoustic music, featuring a selection of the region’s best performers at the Bloomfield Hall on Sunday, April 27.
Billed as “an afternoon of the best folk ’n’ acoustic around here for the pleasure of your ear”, the event will feature six acts: No Motor, Limoncello, Sam Bucca, Andy Nelson, Chloë and Jason Roweth, and November Shorn.
It’s bound to be an unforgettable afternoon with each act taking you on an exhilarating musical journey with back-to-back dynamic 40-minute sets:
No Motor: this 4-piece acoustic band features upright bass, guitars, banjo and voice, performing up-tempo story-telling songs with humour and skill.
Limoncello: Crafting their sound from a baritone uke and cello, Bathurst-based Annie’s and Sarah’s voices are confident and accomplished with a hint of vulnerability, and it’s these four elements that create Limoncello’s unique allure and depth. Reimagining a long list of well-chosen pop classics with an often bluesy and soulful leaning, this duo was born to entertain and elicit smiles of musical joy.
Sam Bucca: Sam Bucca a bush punk rock and roll poet, writing personal and visceral songs on Wiradyuri country. His acoustic guitar provides
a rhythmic and dexterous counterpoint to Sam’s powerful voice, as he sings with humour and deep consideration of contemporary social and cultural issues
Andy Nelson: Andy’s soulful blend of contemporary folk and Americana speaks straight to the heart. His poignant lyrics touch on universal themes of family, love, and loss, while his deep, warm voice and dynamic acoustic guitar draw listeners in.
Chloë and Jason Roweth: Chloë and Jason have been researching and performing the living tradition of Australian music for over twenty years. They gather and present the songs and poems of the kitchen, the verandah, the shearers’ huts, the local pub – and the yarns that go with them – in all their ornery detail. Drawing their inspiration from the warmth of old-style bush entertainment, the Roweths create vibrant arrangements of new and old traditional Australian ballads and work songs,
The Greenhouse of Orange
Neil Gill & Brad Myers Live on the Lawn Head up to the Greenhouse this weekend, where on Friday, April 18, local favourite Neil Gill will be playing live on the lawn from 6pm. Then on Saturday, April 19, the Greenhouse welcomes back Brad Myers who’ll be playing all his favourites from 6pm.
The Wentworth Orange
Dom Lenarduzi
Enjoy your Sundays at Wenty, with Dom Lenarduzi performing live from 12pm-2pm, followed by all the fun of Musical Bingo from 2pm-4pm. It’s free to play, family friendly and there are plenty of prizes up for grabs!
early country music, original music, poetry, yarns, and dance tunes weaving together and carrying forward many threads of the Australian tradition.
November Shorn: November Shorn, the Central West’s premier acoustic bush band, plays material from Australia’s rich bush music heritage and tunes from Europe, particularly England, Ireland and Scotland. Many years of performing in country halls, pubs, woolsheds and tents from Bourke to Sydney have established the band’s reputation as a popular and good fun dance band who continue to be in high demand.
Autumn Bloom, 4–9pm on Sunday April 27, promises to be an afternoon packed with delectable sounds that will ignite your auditory senses. There will be bar stocked with popular local beer and wine, soft drinks and water. There will also be a barbecue with meat and veggie offerings to satisfy all.. Tickets are $25 via eventbrite.com.au
The Orange Film Society presents the Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature, Flow, at Odeon 5 Cinemas this April 27 and 30.
The world seems to be coming to an end, teeming with the vestiges of a human presence. Cat is a solitary animal, but as his home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. In the lonesome boat sailing through mystical overflowed landscapes, they navigate the challenges and dangers of adapting to this new world.
See Flow (Rated G) at the Odeon 5 Cinema at 5 pm on Sunday, April 27, and at 10am on Wednesday, April 30.
Tickets on sale from the box office; normal pricing applies. Members and non-members are welcome.
Millthorpe Named Finalist
for NSW Top Tourism Town
Millthorpe has been named a finalist for the NSW’s Top Tourism Town awards in the Tiny Town category.
The award highlights the quality of a location from a tourism standpoint and is judged by both a public vote, as well as a panel of judges who take into account a video, editorial story about the village and an itinerary which showcase the highlights of the village.
Blayney Shire Mayor Bruce Reynolds aid it’s fantastic that the village has been shortlisted as a finalist he encouraged both locals and visitors to cast a vote for Millthorpe.
“The village provides an amazing visitor experience with first rate dining, high quality cellar doors, boutique shopping, cafes, a lolly shop to die for, an amazing rural museum and a variety of quality accommodation,” Cr Reynolds said.
“There is also history all over the village with an array of old buildings from hotels, banks and houses to school buildings and an operating railway station dating back to 1886.
With its variety of visitor experiences, Millthorpe is a prime example of a top tourism town, Cr Reynolds said.
“I hope the village receives the recognition it deserves as it is the kind of place that visitors just love coming back to,” he said.
“We are also supporting our neighbours in Oberon in its quest for the Small Tourism Town category hoping to secure a win in the Central West.
Other finalists in the Tiny Town category, with a population under 1,500, include Broke, Bulahdelah, Darlington Point, Huskisson, Wentworth and Wollombi.
Winners of the NSW Tourism Town Awards will be announced at the end of May then go up against the other states at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards held later in the year.
Voting is now open to the public and closes on Sunday 4 May. You can find the link via millthorpevillage.com.au
MEHRV at Bunnings
April 17!
Rotary’s MHERV van is back in Orange today, providing men and women with vital health checks – and it’s all free!
In just a few minutes, your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels can be checked at Bunnings car park at Rotary’s MHERV (Men’s Health Education Rural Van.
A registered male nurse provides these simple but vital services to anyone who visits the van.
It’s a stress-free session and conducted by a friendly, reassuring and efficient nurse who makes it all so easy. The last time the van was in Orange, over 60 men and women took advantage of this great service. Rotary is expecting even more people to attend this year.
So when you’re visiting Bunnings to pick up some supplies, plants or tools, include this valuable free health tool that could actually be a lifesaver.
Millthorpe
Rosebank Gallery. Photo: Niina Talikka
CROSS purposes
“SEE, THIS IS GETTING US NOWHERE. LOOK HOW THE WHOLE WORLD HAS GONE AFTER HIM!” (JOHN 12:19) with SCOTT HAZELTON
Are you tired of chasing after the latest fad one moment, only for it to inevitably fade into the rear vision mirror as another thing takes it’s place? There was a time when the world was chasing after Jesus—not just for the miracles He performed, but because of the hope, truth, and love He embodied. People saw in Him something greater than the temporary distractions of life. But as the events of Holy Week unfold, we also see how quickly some of that same crowd turned away when following Jesus became difficult. So, as we approach Easter, it’s worth asking: What are we going after? Are we pursuing things that will fade away, or are we following the One who offers eternal life? To “go after” Jesus means more than just admiring Him from a distance—it means choosing to live by His truth, even when it’s not the popular choice. It means trusting that what He offers is better than anything the world can promise. Jesus wasn’t just a fad, 2000 years later the whole world still stops due to the indelible mark he has left on history. Palm Sunday and the Easter Holidays are upon us. Let’s take time to reflect on where our hearts are leading us and think deeply about what it truly means to follow Jesus—not just in moments of excitement, but in the everyday choices we make.
If you have any questions you would like answered, ideas for articles, or would like to find out more about Jesus click this QR code
GOOD FRIDAY 18 April: (Communion Service) 9:00 am
EASTER SUNDAY 20 April: (Celebration service) 10:00 am
Guest Speaker for both services, former Pastor, Geoff Langdon.
ENQUIRIES Wayne on 0417 291 362
Email: forests2@bigpond.com
79 - 85 Molong Road
THE BLAYNEY LIBRARY
INVITE YOU TO JOIN US ON SATURDAY 10TH MAY 2025 2PM - 4PM AT
for an afternoon exploration of the group’s resources to begin (or continue) your local or family history search. No RSVP required
Enquiries to Secretary Rhonda Jones Ph 6366 3089
The Blayney Anglican BOOK FAIR AND TRADING TABLE will be held on Thursday 24th April, Saturday 26th April and Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd May.
Prize winning author Peter Deakin will be speaking at 11.00am in the Anglican Church about his book The Parchment.
As well as books in excellent condition there will be CD’s, DVD’s Jigsaw puzzles and plants, pickles, relishes and other delicious things to buy at a reasonable price.
A 2 B Renovators Delight with Subdivision Potential
Set on 3.4 Ha at the edge of Molong, this property offers endless potential for a buyer with a vision.
• Old weatherboard house in need of renovation, presenting the perfect opportunity to restore it to its former glory or create something entirely new
• Ability to run a small herd of sheep, perfect for those looking for a manageable hobby farm
• The property is zoned R5 Large Lot Residential, offering subdivision potential for future development (subject to council approval).
Prime location and ample room to grow!
Rural Lifestyle Block
Auction Fri 9th May, 10:30am
Venue 152 William Street, Bathurst View By Appointment
Ben Redfern 0457 770 652
Marty Lyden 0404 070 391 eldersem.com.au
With the 32 acres of land, the north-easterly views, and the potential to run livestock like horses, sheep, or cattle, it seems like the perfect rural lifestyle setting. The location, 20km from the centre of Molong, offers a balance of privacy and accessibility.
• Near complete three-bedroom shed house
Approx. 102 Watson Street, Molong NSW
• Large spring fed dam, registered shared bore and two large rainwater tanks
• Fencing is stock proof.
‘Belgravia North’ 942 Belgravia Road, Orange NSW
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
* Approx. 54 Shiralee Road, Orange NSW
• 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.
For Sale $1,680,000
View By Appointment
Ben Redfern 0457 770 062
Kurt Waterford 0439 642 390 eldersem.com.au
* Approx.
Stylish Comfort in South Orange
Located in South Orange, this modern home is perfect for families, downsizers or investors.
• Spacious four bedrooms, two stylish bathrooms
• Modern kitchen with open plan living and dining
• Ducted air conditioning
• Rear yard access perfect for additional parking or storage.
For Sale Contact Agent
View Sat 19th April 10:30-11:00am
Marty Lyden 0404 070 391
Katie Christopherson 0400 637 559 eldersem.com.au
* Approx.
Welcome to 2/61 Bletchington Street, a delightful unit nestled in a peaceful and serene complex, providing a tranquil living environment. Thoughtfully updated with recent enhancements to the laundry which has been refreshed to offer additional storage, while the backyard has undergone a transformation, now featuring a beautiful deck, a grassed area, and a well-maintained garden-an ideal space to unwind and enjoy outdoor moments.
This property is currently tenanted until July 2025, making it a great investment opportunity. Whether you are a downsizer looking for a low-maintenance home, a first-time buyer entering the market, or an investor seeking a steady income stream, this unit offers a versatile and attractive option.
Creative Heading
PETER FISHER
AWN REAL ESTATE
RAY WHITE TOWNSEND
Best Properties Best Agents...
PUZZLES…. PUZZLES…. PUZZLES….
PUZZLES
23 Slow (8)
24 Skillfully produces (6)
26 Purifying (9)
27 Greenish (5)
28 Game birds (9)
29 Frozen shower (5)
DOWN
1 Heavenly body (6)
2 Non-professional (7)
3 Local law enforcer (7)
4 Measure of length (4)
5 Brotherhood (10)
6 Length of a film (3,4)
7 Miraculous (7)
8 Masterful (8)
13 Relative dimensions or size (10)
16 Disability (8)
18 People of Malta (7)
19 Viewing figures (7)
20 Fears (7)
21 Disconnected (7)
22 Appearance (6)
25 Ova (4)
ACROSS
1 Supplicates (5)
4 Provider of information (9)
9 Belittle (5)
10 Middle Age armour (5,4)
11 For blinking (6)
20 words: Good 30 words:
12 Formal request signed by many people (8)
14 Choice (10) 15 Exclamation of surprise (3) 17 Tentacle (3) 19 Public estimation (10)
4 LETTERS
5
6
QUICK QUIZ
KI D S ZON E Kids Talk
Who is your favourite teacher? Mrs Kurren, she’s my teacher this year and I
What do you think the best thing about Everything! I just
What’s your favourite thing to do on the Practice gymnastics or art. I do cool tricks on my trampoline, and do
What is something your parents always I love you; it makes me feel
If you were principal for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do? Let them have 10 minutes of free time – I’d draw if it was me! What is your favourite food? Sushi… we either go out for it or we make it at home sometimes. I love the sushi train.
If you could open a shop, what would it sell? Anime things and art stu . What’s your favourite movie? I don’t have one, but my favourite books are the My Hero Academia series.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? To fly – I’d explore new countries. I’d go to the UK first.
SPORTSNEWS
First up is Matthew Carroll from the Friday 6.00pm league whos scored 150 over average, followed by Tanya Drewe from the Thursday 7.30pm league with 141 over average and she was ahead of Kane Spirit-Jones from the Mondayn7.30pm league with 119over average, then came Kathy Selwood from the Golden Oldies who scored 115 over average and finally there was Cameron Smith from the Monday10.00am league who scored 106 over average for the series.
Star Bowler of the Week and winner of the Auto Wash compliments of Race Track Car Wash was Matthew Carroll who scored that great 150 over average for the series.
The High Roller champion this week and winner of the three free practice games was Ben Howard who scored a marvellous 256 (PB).
Others trying desperately to beat Ben included Matthew Carroll 230 (PB), Michael Quinlan 217, Ian Middleton 205, Marilyn Schwenke 204, Damien Christoff 222, Will Rollo 252, Brock Gallagher 221, Joseph Talidong 211, Patrick Govier a pair of 215s, Kane Spirit-Jones 245 (PB), Harrison Walker 220, Jacob French 227, Travis McMahon 255, Alex Gaeta 202, David Quinlan 212 and Greg Shapter 202.
The Almost Made it Hero and winner of the open order from Kings Takeaway at Greengate was Lani Gouge who scored 193 (PB). As this score was 60 over average Lani was named the second Female of Note for April and next in line hoping for the gift certificate from MJ’s All
Tenpin Bowling HEAD PIN
with Bob Taylor
Hair-All Occasions.
Other feeling like a good feed included Milo Lees 184, Felicity Moller 133, Chelsea McLennan 125, Adam Moss 179, Madeline McCulloch 137, Rachel Sorrenson 164, Lisa Everett 162, Paul Chate 176, Paul Heath 173, Steph Ward 153, Richard Davis 147, Craig Woodley 112, Julie Swallow 199, Craig Broome 184 and Maureen Corby 143.
Then came Karen Anderson 166, Blake Hendra 151, Richard Saunders 169, Jenny MacDouall 133, Alan Westendorf 182, Rob Jones 189, Dianne Gee 185, Kathy Selwood 181, Gary Stedman 195, Julie Hoogenboom 174, Samson Hammond 148, Jack Flitcroft 160 (PB), Harvey Quarmby 132, and Macie Jones 91.
Not to be left out there was also Harrison Walker 193, Verona Gavin 190, Jeremy Jones 166, Adrian Baker 155, Dolly Millgate 173 (PB), Mel Billow 108, Lani Gouge 165, Jenny Solling 157, Adam O’Connor 175, Jordan Trenholm 192 and Khye Downey 189, Nick Culverson 184, Lucas Fisher 196, Oliver Veitch 155, Steph James 131, Tanya Drewe 192, Scott Jones 168 and Rebecca Walton 168 (PB).
Junior of the Week and winner of the free game compliments of the Tenpin Bowl was Dolly Millgate whose score of 173 (PB) was 68 over average.
The second Man of the Moment for April and next in line hoping for the voucher from Guys Cuts was Kane Spirit-Jones whose score of 245 was 81 over average and part of his 119 over average for the series.
Country Club BOWLS NOTES
ORANGE EX SERVICES CLUB COUNTRY CLUB MEN’S BOWLS
Hello Bowlers,
A thankyou to all the members of the club as well our visitors to the club, for donating monies to our wrong bias box, which is collected for the Royal Far West Children’s Charity. We have been awarded a certificate for our generosity & support. Thankyou once again for the continued support.
The club would also like to thank Ian Webb who has recently resigned as Treasurer, due to ill health. Thankyou Ian for the work you have put in over the many years in this position, muchly appreciated.
John Dunn has now taken on the position of treasurer & wish him all the best.
Club opening hours during Easter, are as follows, Closed Good Friday to Easter Monday, re open Tuesday. Closed Anzac Day.
Tuesday socials, there were 41 bowlers.
Raffle winners were Neil Higgins, Trevor (on a roll) Stedman & Peter Wright.
Lucky rink winners, Carl Jager, Simon Kempson & Pat Nieuwendyk. Unfortunates’ rink was, Doug Nonnemacher, Rick Stephens & Billy Keogh. Consolation winners, Micheal Weekley, Don Willams & Tony Hoy.
Tuesday, No. 1 Jackpots was won, by Jim Duffy, Trevor Stedman, Col Rosser, Jim Hill, Matt McMullen & Al Gregory. Seeing this Jackpot was won, the jackpot will be run as usual. i.e. one jackpot.
Tuesday’s No. 2 jackpot was not won.
Saturday socials, 26 bowlers.
Raffle winners were, John Dunn. Lucky rink winners, Vicki Hanlon, Mary Carr & Sue Gore. Unfortunates’ rink, Claire Portass, Paul Paananen & Luke Taylor.
Saturday, Jackpot was won by V. Hanlon, M. Carr, S. Gore, H. Johnson, J. Fenwick & S. Kempson.
It was generous of the jackpot winners for donating some of their jackpot winnings to the wrong bias box (Royal Far West Children’s Charity) gratefully appreciated.
Nice to see more of the ladies playing on a Saturday.
Our Senior 4’s made it through to the Semi-Finals at the State Playoff and went down 20 – 16, against Harbord, in a tight fought game.
Great effort Made by Nev Seton, Wayne Carr, John Dunn & Geoff Lockwood, you have all done our club proud.
I would like to thank, to everyone involved, with the Grade 5’s Pennant Teams; Paul Ruggerio, Manager & Phil McGarity for filling in, the managers spot on Saturday.
To all the players who played throughout the competition, you all, have done an outstanding job to get through to the Regional Playoffs.
So many players to mention, great teamwork, Ladies & Gents.
Nominations for the Triples Championships are on the board in the alcove, so get your teams organised.
Our Open Pairs Tournament Sponsored by PMW Plus Accountants will be held on the 25th of May, this is a popular tournament so get your entries in early. Nomination form in the Alcove or Call Jim Finn to place your entry.
The Nyngan Triples Tournament held on the 7th & 8th June long weekend nominations if you wish to play will be on the board in the Alcove next week.
If there are people interested in gaining their umpire or markers accreditation please contact President, Phil McGarity on 0418 277 418
Saturday closed & Tuesday 22nd April 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, for both days.
Bowls Etiquette tips Be Ready to play your bowl when it is your turn.
Orange City Women’s Bowling Club BOWLS NOTES
A beautiful autumn day greeted our social bowlers last Tuesday. The winners on the day drawn from the cards were Sue Moore, Maria Cudars, Toosje Webster and Laurel Duffy. Lucky losers drawn from the cards as well were Karen Bouffler, Pat Nokes and Marianne Boers.
A big thank you to all the lovely ladies on our social committee who make sure we have morning tea and a two course lunch each Tuesday.
Our Major Triples Championships have kicked off this week, and we are now calling for our Novice Singles wich will hopefully commence on the 6th of May, weather permitting.
Thinking of taking up lawn bowls? We have coaching for beginners each Wednesday at 10am Please text Sue on 0409 522 099 or contact the Orange City Bowling Club.
Happy Bowling everyone
Club
BOWLS NOTES
News from the Country Club was that the Club Single’s Championship was going to be a spectacle to witness.
It did not let anyone watching down.
The Singles match between Donna Swiatkiwsky and Julie Pitt finished with Julie taking the prize of Minor Club Singles Champion.
On the other rink Veronica Alexander and Judy Adams battled it out. Judy finally took the game. Taking out the Prize of Major Club Singles Champion.
With this wonderful weather we are looking forward to catching up this Thursday for a social day out on the green.
To any of our members who are not in good health
we wish you all the best and look forward to seeing you soon.
Please contact Trish - 0400379294, or Phoebe0408223843 for further information.
Follow us on Instagram oesc_womensbowls or Facebook Orange Ex-Services’ Country Club Womens Bowls
Wentworth Ladies Golf Results
9th April 2025 – Event 18 Hole Stableford
It was brilliant weather that also saw some remarkable scores across the grades today.
A Grade was won by Helena Ross with a very well-played 33 points. Congratulations on a great game. Runner up was Laurell Gassmann with a nice round of 32 points. She has been playing some solid golf, well done and in third place was Chris Phillips who also played steady to finish with 32 points.
B Grade was won by Wendy McIntyre with a fantastic 39 points. She certainly has hit the purple patch at the right time, great work. Runner up was Jan Moad who played some consistent golf to finish with 37 points and was happy with her game and in third place was Julie Roweth with a very nicely played 35 points.
C Grade was won by Robyn Cannon with a brilliant 38 points. It is great to see Robyn playing some consistent golf, well done. Runner up was Trish Harvey with a very nice 37 points. Trish has found some form of late, well played & third place went to Coral Britt with a solid 36 points, well played.
Nearest the Pins were won by Helena Ross (3rd) Susan Hutchinson (5th) Wendy McIntyre (13th) Drive & Pitch were won by Di Rodgers (9th) & Jan Moad (17th)
Ball Competition winners were Laurell Gassmann, Robyn Cannon, Helen Hubbard, Helen Ross & Shirley Buckler.
Next Wednesday is the April Monthly Medal.
The Individual Matchplay Championships are up to the Semi-final stages & below is who these players left in their wake! Good luck to everyone in the semi-finals, play well. Just a reminder that a date for the final will be arranged after Easter.
Round 1 Jane Gunn def Lee Pickett 2/1, Karen Newton def Sue Gander 5/4, Shirley Hyde def Tayla Harvey 2 up, Wendy McIntyre def Kerry Bruton 2 up, Alice McKeowen def Judy Brewer 4/3, Sandra Jarman def Sue Healey 2 up, Laurell Gassmann def Kerrie Rossetto 1 up & Maureen Commins def Leslie Wright 6/5
Quarter Finals – Jane Gunn def Karen Newton 4/2, Wendy McIntyre def Shirley Hyde 4/3, Sandra Jarman def Alice McKeowen 2 up & Laurell Gasmann def Maureen Commins 19th. Semi Finals – Jane Gunn v Wendy McIntyre & Sandra Jarman v Laurell Gassmann.
Results for 2/4/25 are below:
A Grade 1st Di Selwood 34 pts, 2nd Rachel Kelly 33 pts, 3rd Katrina Ferris 33 pts
C Grade 1st Liz Mitchell 31 pts, 2nd Coral Britt 30 pts, 3rd Cindy White 29 pts
Just a reminder to all players that we are now taking names for Pennants. If you are interested in either being a player or a caddy, please let Tayla or Lee know at your earliest convenience. We play Mudgee, one game in Mudgee, one game at Wentworth. We will confirm dates ASAP.
Have a great week.
Judy Adams and Julie Pitt.
The
One
EASTER FESTIVAL
Photos by CEC TILBURG
The annual Easter Festival brought joy to Robertson Park on Sunday, with families from across Orange turning out to enjoy a fun-filled day in perfect autumn weather.
The park was buzzing with excitement, o ering a great mix of live music, children’s entertainment, and plenty of Easter-themed activities to keep everyone smiling. From face painting and craft stations to an Easter egg hunt, there was something for kids of all ages.
With school holidays just beginning, the festival was the perfect way for families to relax, have fun, and celebrate the Easter spirit together. A wonderful day out for our local community!
Becky Cooke, Hannah Cooke and Charlie Miller
The Matthews and Nugent Families
Michael, Lizzie, Anaka and Rose Front: Hazel
Patrick and Joan Ra erty with Emma
Maisa and Talby Delaney Will and Beau
Bonny Destiny, CJ and Lily
A BIG THUMBS UP and thank you to all the team in ambulatory care at the hospital. First time we have had to utilise this service and we are so grateful it exists. To nurses Aaron and Taylah, your care and compassion towards my dad has been exceptional, your extra effort has not gone unnoticed.
THUMBS UP to the organisers of the air show on Sunday morning. A fabulous air show, great location and the best of Orange’s weather. A huge thank you. How lucky are we to live in Orange!
THUMBS UP to all the lovely ladies who work at Coco’s Cafe. They are all so friendly and the food, coffee, and drinks are delicious. It’s a pleasure to go there.
THUMBS DOWN I invited a group of public service visitors to Orange at 9.30 am on April 11 to visit Gaanha Bula/Mt Canobolas and to share my Dreaming Story with them. The toilets on the summit and at Federal Falls were filthy and in a disgraceful condition. I would hope that the council who are responsible for cleaning these toilets take their responsibility seriously and have them cleaned before the Easter holiday period.
THUMBS DOWN to the dog owner who hung the dog poo bag in the tree on Wirraburra Walk this week.
DOUBLE THUMBS DOWN to Orange Taxis. I booked a cab to take me to the railway station to catch the early morning coach to Sydney for an urgent appointment. Pickup time: No cab, then two desperate calls to an automated system, and a message to say they were trying to find a driver! Fortunately, I was able to drive myself to the station. The coach departure was delayed waiting for another passenger who had also booked a cab! Orange Taxis: If you can’t guarantee a service, don’t take a booking, so other arrangements can be made!
THUMBS UP and a huge thank you to Marissa at MG Service Centre for going above and beyond to resolve an issue with car keys.
THUMBS DOWN to the old Five Ways Congregational Church for allowing candidates to plaster their doors with campaign material! I was horrified to see a large ‘how to vote’ sign covering up a fallen soldier’s memorial plaque. What a disgraceful, disrespectful act.
THUMBS DOWN to Orange City Council and our state member for ploughing millions of dollars into projects around our town for minority groups, for example the planetarium, the Lords Place debacle, the Music Conservatorium, the new sporting stadium, when what is needed is a plan to drought-proof Orange for the future. Get your priorities in order.
THUMBS UP to Mukoko Sushi on Summer Street… the crispiest chicken sushi I’ve had in a long time, great service, nice staff, and reasonable prices.
THUMBS DOWN to some of the candidates for the upcoming election who consistently peeve off the public – mailboxes flooded with unsolicited letters, and our streets overtaken by a sea of campaign posters. Some intersections look more like shrines to vanity than public spaces, with dozens of faces plastered all over the place. But what’s truly infuriating is seeing these posters nailed into trees that are well over 150 years old along the roadside on the margins of our town. You’re not making fans with these tactics. To the rest of the candidates: listen to your electorate. You have to listen and learn to be able to lead.
THUMBS UP A huge congratulations to Principal Glen Bourke, all his staff, and students at Orange East Public School, for holding the wonderful commemorative ANZAC service at Newman Park. It was very memorable – the school and community should be very proud.
THUMBS UP to the lovely couple who came to my rescue after a nasty fall at the pedestrian crossing on Anson Street, outside of Woolworths on May 30. They kindly sat with me and my great grandbaby, while my husband went and got the car. Your kindness was greatly appreciated. Thank you.
