OCLife20221201

Ben Sims has turned his love of looking after grass into a full-time YouTube career. Since moving to a small acreage last year, he’s been busy transforming part of the block into his own Par-3 golf hole, videoing each step along the way of course.

Spirit

reception@oclife.com.au www.orangecitylife.com.au www.facebook.com/orangecitylife

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Orange City Life is grateful to the following sponsors for their ongoing support over many years. These sponsorships, among others 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.

Another hard week for the people of Eugowra, Cudal, Molong and elsewhere who are still counting the cost of the devastating �ooding and working to get back to some sort of normality. It looks like it will still be a long road ahead for many.

One small blessing has been the run of (mostly) sunny weather we’ve had this past week. Still nothing like summer temperatures, but here’s hoping that with the o�cial arrival of the season the warm weather will follow.

Just a quick reminder that there are only two issues of Orange City Life remaining for 2022. Our �nal issue will be in the stands on Thursday, December 15 and the o�ce will be closed until Thursday, January 5. The �rst issue of 2023 will then be Thursday, January 12.

Jonathan Roe

Comedy for Cancer

Local came out in force on Saturday, November 26, to enjoy a good laugh for a good cause at PWM Advice’s “Comedy for Cancer” fundraiser.

The evening event, held at Factory Espresso, was held to raise money for the local prostate cancer support group and spread a bit of awareness of the disease — the most commonly diagnosed cancer, but with early detection, there is a 96% recovery rate.

“Everyone had a great time,” director and co-founder of PWM Advice, Daz Tindall said. “Couldn’t fault the crowd we had there, a great group of people.”

Local band called ‘The Wave provided entertainment on the evening followed by the main event, comedy from Peter Berner and Tommy Dean.

“The comedians were top shelf and the band was awesome, we were very happy with it all,” Daz concluded.

— PHOTOS BY EDITHMAY GOWING —

Mick Walker, Lyle Raso and JP Jordan

Glenn Mickle and Vince Lovecchio

Julie-Anne and Anthony Smedley

Neal Brindley and Alison Bennett

Nikki and Lawrence Breen

Jen Hillhouse, Sally Collins and Carey Martin

Sarah Thomson, Hannah Lawson and Heather Biega

Debbie Raso, Joe Throup, Tori Evans and Raz Davis

Darren Tindall and Lindy Ostini

John and Victoria Wynen

Robbie Mortimer aiming for the stars at Tamworth

Orange’s

The 29-year-old singer/songwriter was named among the top ten finalists in the long-running competition on Monday.

“To be named in the final is one of my greatest musical achievements to date and I am honoured to be able to perform on the Toyota mainstage,” Robbie told fans via his Facebook page.

He said he was excited to be in the same competition as some of his greatest musical influences, naming Keith Urban, Kylie Sackley, Darren Coggan, Brad Cox and fellow Orange musician Clancy Pye.

Robbie and the other nine finalists will perform two songs each at the 2023 Star Maker Grand Final on the first weekend of the Toyota Country Music Festival Tamworth. It all begins at 7pm on Sunday, January 15, 2023 at Toyota Park.

‘Over

the moon’:

Charred awarded hat in latest Good Food Guide

Orange’s Charred Kitchen & Bar has been awarded one hat in the Sydney Morning Herald’s coveted Good Food Guide 2023.

“We are simply over the moon to share this news with you!” read a post on the restaurant’s social media accounts.

“Our team have worked so unbelievably hard over the past six years, so to be recognised in this way is just incomparable and so unbelievably heartwarming.”

More than 150 ‘hats’ were awarded in the 2023 Good Food Guide, which are back after a three year hiatus. And new to the guide this year is the awarding of critic’s choice ‘hearts’ given to

Going for Gold: another win for Byng Street Boutique Hotel

Orange’s

Hotel has won gold for the second year in a row in the Deluxe 4.5 Star Accommodation category at the NSW Tourism Awards.

And in March next year, they will go up against the best hotels in the country.

“Last year, we came bronze in the Australian tourism awards, so fingers crossed, we’ll see how we go,” said Byng Street Boutique Hotel proprietor Kristen Nock.

For Kristen and husband Thomas, the awards are gratifying recognition after

what has been a difficult few years in the industry.

The stunning hotel — built around a lovingly restored 1896 heritage home — opened its doors in September 2019, just months before COVID shut the borders and most of the country.

“It has been tough, if I’m being honest, ‘’ said Kristen. “Obviously we weren’t aware of what was coming our way in terms of COVID…. And we’ve had bushfires, mouse plague, floods — it’s been kind of like, what’s next? So it has been quite the rollercoaster, lots of ups and downs and everything in between.”

To get this industry recognition two years in a row, having been open for such a short

time and in such trying circumstances, is a great compliment, said Kristen, who described the mix of emotions winning their first award.

“There was a sense of relief, a sense of recognition, so many different emotions — pride, happiness, excitement,” she said.

“But then it is kind of nerve-wracking being the incumbent, so winning last year and then going to the awards this year, it was a bit more pressure, but still exciting, obviously, to get the recognition from the tourism industry.”

Other local winners at the 2022 NSW Tourism Awards were Antica Australis, Carcoar — Bronze in the Tourism Restaurants category; and Country Food

noteworthy venues, that don’t neatly fit the scoring requirements for ‘hats’.

“It is a wonderful sense of achievement,” said restaurant manager and sommelier, David Collins, who said all credit goes to head chef Liam O’Brien and his hardworking team.

“Especially for the guys who have been here for a long period of time and put up with the COVID Closures, et cetera too — it’s good.

“And I think Orange was well represented in the guide, there are multiple restaurants in there too getting ‘heart’ status, which is a pretty big achievement… the more restaurants doing great things in the region, the better.”

PET of the week...

Trails — Bronze in the Excellence in Food Tourism category.

“It is a great region,” said Kristen, “and I think one of the biggest things Orange has going for it is it is so well diversified.

“We’ve got the biggest gold mine in Australia, we’ve got the food, we’ve got the wine, the great boutique shopping, we’ve got beautiful scenic outdoors things to do, and still three to four hours from Sydney and Canberra, so it ticks a lot of boxes.”

Introducing RILEY!

Well Hello, It’s lovely to meet you! I am a loving, 5 year old, big tabby boy who is looking for a new home through no fault of my own.

I am very friendly and love attention, and with my favourite people can be a real snuggle bug.

Like many cats I can be a little shy at first and would prefer a house with no young children as loud noises can scare me. I need to be indoors for the first three months so that I can get to know my new home and my new family. If I am to go outdoors after this, I prefer

that I be kept safe in cat enclosure. I have recovered from the cat flu and calici in the past so it would be best I do be kept indoors and be the only cat. I would love all the usual cat things such as a soft bed and lots of toys and a lap to snuggle on. I am a little on the large size so need a family who will be prepared to help keep me on

71 William St, Orange NSW 6362 6171

https://www.rspcansw.org.au

a healthy diet and encourage exercise. WAIVERS F.I.V, Tested Negative - Waiver Only (Medical) Feline - Calicivirus Recovered - Waiver Only (Medical) Dental Care Required (grade 1 Dental Disease) (Medical) RESTRICTIONS: Quiet household No children under 12

I hope to meet you soon.

Love RILEY xXx Adoption Application https://www. rspcansw.org. au/who-we-are/ locations/shelters/ orange-shelter/

Byng Street Boutique

own Robbie Mortimer is heading to Tamworth in January to compete in Australia’s largest country music talent search, the Toyota Star Maker.

When Orange City Life last spoke with local lawn care YouTuber Ben Sims in 2019 his passion for a great-looking lawn was just a handy little side hustle. Now with over 125,000 subscribers, it’s become a full-time business that has taken him on an international tour and seen him embark on an ambitious project in his new backyard.

“I’ve got too many plans,” laughs Ben, standing on the sweeping lawn of his home a few minutes’ drive east of Orange.

Ben and his wife bought the small acreage in July last year. He said it is something they had always wanted for their young family, but it’s also the perfect canvas for his growing business.

“My wife and I always wanted to move out of town, but the main reason was for the business, to expand it,” says Ben, who left

his job as a greenkeeper at the former Bloomfield golf course to go full-time into business for himself in late 2019.

The main source of his income is online sales of lawn care products through his website, where he sells everything from fertilisers, herbicides, and wetting agents to lawn aerators, spraying equipment and his own branded merchandise.

And his sales are driven through his ever-growing hours

— JONATHAN ROE —

of instructional videos on his Lawn Tips YouTube channel, where he gives advice on how to get the best out of your lawn.

“I never thought selling fertilisers would be my main gig but here we are,” laughs Ben, who says the irony is he first became a greenkeeper because he realised he wasn’t cut out for a sales job.

“My brother is working at the golf course and I wanted to get out of working at the phone shop, ‘’ he explains. “I wasn’t into sales… which is funny now that I’m doing sales all the time. but it’s not my cup of tea, selling stuff.”

Working with grass on the golf course, Ben became obsessed with learning more about it and soon turned to YouTube as an outlet to share what he knew.

“When I started doing projects at home and on the golf course, I just continuously kept talking about it to my wife and obviously she wasn’t very interested!

“So I thought I need to tell someone about this. It excites me enough, so I thought why not start shooting some videos teaching people how to look after their grass and it just exploded from there.”

In 2020, it even landed Ben a paid trip to the United States, where he filmed videos with other lawncare YouTubers.

“What a funny experience! Sponsors paid for the whole trip… it was a good experience and it was just right before COVID, so good timing,” he says.

“But by the end of it I was stuffed because I went to four different states talking to guys about grass — you’d never think talking about grass would get you a trip over to the States, but it did!”

Now with a lot more room to play with, Ben has embarked on an ambitious project for his Youtube channel; building his own Par-3 golf hole in the paddock next to his home.

“It has been a ridiculous amount of work and it will be ongoing! I think I’ll need to get an apprentice just to keep up with it all,” says Ben, who has been busy shaping the green this past week.

“It will be a Par-3 with a green, three tee boxes, two fairways and water feature… there’s a lot of work involved just moving dirt, installing irrigation and

...So I thought I need to tell someone about this. It excites me enough, so I thought why not start shooting some videos teaching people how to look after their grass...

shaping fairways, shaping greens, doing drainage…

“And that’s just the prep, then it comes to putting your turf down, and looking after your turf, watering it, keeping it healthy — it is an ongoing process, so it will take me a while to get it going and then the rain has also been a big factor as well.”

Each step of the whole process is, of course, filmed and uploaded so Ben’s subscribers can follow along and maybe learn a few things along the way.

“People grab onto the story; starting to construct a bit of a golf course sparks people’s interest,” says Ben, who is already working on ideas for future projects to film

“I have another paddock over there and I will do a few trial plots and eventually another golf hole, but it really depends on how things go with this and how much water we’ve got.

“Then I’ve got the backyard,” he continues. “I’ll get some different grass types back there and might get some robot mowers and show them off, maybe a little pitch and putt for the kids, show how to grow grass under trees…. there are lots of different things to do once everything is all up and running.”

While the larger block has brought with it added costs in fuel and many hours of (unfilmed) maintenance to take care of, Ben wouldn’t have it any other way.

“100 per cent, I wouldn’t change a thing! I’d do it for the rest of my life – well I will be until I retire and then I probably will keep doing it, because I love filming, uploading things and chatting to people online, it’s like a little community. I love it.”

COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING to save local sport

As the community of Molong works to rebuild flood-damaged businesses and homes, passionate locals have turned their attention to getting the sports and recreational areas back to their former glory.

“It’s not going to overcome the extreme loss being felt by businesses and households, but if we can bring some relief to a town, when it is on its knees, to bring some normality back, then we think it is worth the effort to build momentum to gain some support,” proud Molong resident Kate Strahorn said.

Together, with other members of the community, Kate has set up a gofundme page — with the catchy title #rebuildmolong — to help restore the town’s ravaged sporting facilities, such as the devastated synthetic hockey field.

“All of our sporting and recreational spots have been damaged in one way or another,” Cassandra Sullivan, another organisers behind #rebuildmolong, said.

“Our hockey field is symbolic of the destruction that occurred in the town, but the money will be distributed to the sporting funds as required – we’re working with Cabonne Council to understand where the needs are,” she said.

The #rebuildmolong gofundme page has seen lots of support already.

“We reached $28,000 dollars in three

days. It’s definitely generating a lot of awareness and support,” Cassandra said.

Channel 7 breakfast show, Sunrise aided awareness this week broadcasting a story in support of the fundraiser.

Molong has produced some tremendous sporting talent, such as the 14 Molong Hockey Club members recently picked for the under 15’s NSW State Hockey Training squad.

It’s why Cassandra believes it is important that the damage sport precincts are rebuilt as fast as possible.

“Our hope is that we have some sort of solution before the next season — for hockey, soccer, rugby. That would be the ideal scenario,” Cassandra said.

Hockey committee member, Hayley Lyons’ two daughters, Abbie and Phoebe Lyons have both represented NSW in hockey and they are hoping to have the chance to play locally again next winter season.

“It would be amazing to have it all back up and running before April next year,” Hayley said hopefully.

Cracked stained teeth? Smelly dog breath? There are well known links between poor dental hygiene and bad health in our pets, but they can not tell us when they’re suffering. Regular dental checkups are vital for the overall health of pets and to protect them from the pain of bad teeth. If any dental treatment is required, a gentle anaesthetic is given which allows our experienced vets to probe and examine each tooth, and xray if needed. Your dog, cat or rabbit can have a FREE dental check up in December, plus $50 off any dental treatment which might be required.

Parasites like fleas and worms love the warmer months and they love pets too! Fleas cause skin and health problems to our pets and can spread into our homes. Worms damage the health of cats and dogs, causing loss of weight, diarrhoea, loss of energy, anaemia and can affect humans. Vets say this will be a bumper year for paralysis ticks. These nasty bloodsucking parasites are widespread across coastal NSW and its essential that if your pet is travelling outside Orange, then he or she

is protected from ticks which suck blood, while secreting a toxin which affects the nervous system of your pet and can be fatal. Even if your pet doesn’t travel out of the Central West, tick protection is a wise idea as the parasites are spreading across the state. This month your dog receives a FREE flea and tick treatment when he or she visits for a vaccination. Cats are not left out – kitties receive a FREE flea and worm treatment at vaccination time!

Just one bite from an infected mosquito is all it takes to infect your dog with heartworm. Tiny larvae are injected from the bite into your dog’s bloodstream where they grow into adult worms in the heart and lungs. Heartworm used to be restricted to the warmer areas of the country but new research has found it in feral dogs and foxes in the Central West. Cases have been reported in Orange. Dogs can be protected with a range of treatments – chews, tablets, spotons or a course of injections followed by an annual booster injection. In December, your new puppy can have the first Heartworm protection injection FOR FREE! We will plan the course of injections for you and send convenient reminders.

Remember that if your dog or cat is going to boarding kennels, doggydaycare or the cattery this summer, you will be asked to show proof of vaccinations. Please don’t leave it until the last minute - phone for an appointment or book online and choose ONE of these very special offers for your pet! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Abbie Phoebe and Jock Lyons, looking on at some of the damage

Peace of mind in a little piece of paradise

“We envision our new respite house will be a home away from home” said Orange Respite Service co-founder Kelly Hofmann.

A local registered nurse who works in the hospital and disability sector, Kelly was confronted by the real need for short term disability respite accommodation here in Orange. So, together with partner Allen Munro, they founded Orange Respite Service and set about establishing their own unique respite accommodation – Lakeview Cottage.

“Working in the industry, I have noticed that there is a lack of short- term disability respite accommodation” Kelly said.

“We will be unique in this market given that we are providing an external respite service, rather than in house care”.

“At Lakeview Cottage there will be 24 hour disability support care, accommodation, nutritious home cooked meals and fun games and entertainment”.

Specifically, it was the need for emergency respite care that grabbed Kelly’s attention. Whilst working in the hospital system, it was evident that carers would often discharge from the hospital whilst unwell, placing their

own health at risk; in order to personally care for their loved one with a disability.

“Orange Respite Service will be able to accommodate clients in these emergency situations to alleviate a gap in the market” she said.

In addition to emergency situations, Orange Respite Service also offers weekend, shortterm and medium-term accommodation, giving carers the opportunity for a much needed break.

Lakeview Cottage is wheelchair friendly, and caters for low to very high needs disability clients. Wide doorways, disability friendly bathroom facilities, and an electric hospital bed are just some of the features.

“Orange Respite Service has invested in highly experienced staff to ensure that our disability clients are provided with the highest quality care. Our service can cater for clients with high level needs such as tracheostomies, catheter care, wound care and PEG feeding” Kelly said.

But more than just providing comfortable accommodation and care, Kelly and Allen are passionate about making a stay at Lakeview

Cottage an enjoyable experience.

With a stunning view over a beautiful lake from the spacious open plan living areas, equipped with a piano, pool table and spa; the cottage feels more like a holiday home than disability respite accommodation. Not to mention a leather appointed vehicle to transport clients to and from appointments and activities.

“Both Allen and myself had a vision to create a luxury respite experience. The water views are second to none, the furnishings are modern and the living areas are well planned and spacious”.

“Its understandable for respite clients to become anxious whilst staying in new surroundings. They are away from their carers and home environment. Therefore, at Orange Respite Service we are dedicated to ensuring that we ease those feelings of anxiety, and that our clients have an enjoyable stay”.

Opening in January 2023, Orange Respite Service offers emergency, weekend, shortterm and medium-term disability respite accommodation to both private and NDIS funded adult clients.

Orange Respite Service o ers a new luxury disability respite house that has all the comforts of home with a holiday feel.

LOWLIFES AND SCAMMERS PaulTIERNEY

Dear guy/gal upstairs, I’m sorry for taking up your time and whinging about my first-world problems –permission to call me a git, ignore me, and put all your energies into doing right by those who need your help the most. Here I am, complaining about potholes, golden balls and hearing Christmas carols in the shopping centre – sheesh, that gets put into perspective when you have friends or family in Eugowra or Molong, doesn’t it?

Country folk are a resilient lot. But a friend of mine from Forbes sent through a short vid of the waist-high water at their place, and as she panned around the street, you could see a house across the road that had planned to have an auction for their property, last weekend. Some things just aren’t fair.

I also read with great sadness (or, anger more like it) about the incident where unfortunate people who had their car stranded out at Ophir when the area was flooded and closed, returned only to find some amoral people had gone into the area and riffled through their stuff in the car. I’ve heard of some low things, but, stealing from people who are at their lowest ebb, when they come from the same town as you? It’s such a disgrace that nasty people can see times of need and struggle as their time of opportunity. Unfathomable.

Last weekend, I was in the process of putting some outdoor furniture for sale online via one of the many platforms we have available to us in this great city. The evening before I posted the sale online, another subscriber to one of the platforms let everyone know she’d had a big outdoor lounge (similar to mine) stolen from her front verandah. You’d need a trailer and maybe two people to do that. Grrr. So,

she posted some pics of it, in case the dishonourable duo decided to try and sell it online locally. I messaged her to say, “I’m selling one like yours, but I didn’t do it”, and it was easy to read the anger and disappointment about what had occurred to her in her reply. We’re reading about local thefts every day, and I just can’t get my head around it. I guess they’re desperate. Maybe between unemployment, drugs and just plain old greed, the temptations must be just too big to stop unprincipled people stealing from others in their own hometown. There’s a saying about doing something in your own nest that kind of fits here. It’s beyond comprehension.

Many of you would have had someone try to scam you online. Some will have been victim. Ugh. Medicare, Optus and heaps more. We’re a long way from Kansas now Toto. My online furniture sale brought out all sorts of online lowlifes. One who said, “I’ve transferred money to you and I put too much into your account” (when they hadn’t put in any) and “could you please refund some money into my account?” I guess somebody must fall for this or they wouldn’t do it. One loser even forgot to change his ‘cut and paste’ scam, replying to my furniture sale, “I’ll send a UPS courier over to pick up the car”. A great system that’s getting wrecked by scoundrels. I was lucky enough to find some genuine local people to do the exchange with.

You’d like to think that karma will jump in and take care of those with no scruples. We can only hope. Maybe the man/lady upstairs could step in here and deal with them, especially any wrongdoers who decide that Molong or Eugowra residents would be a good target.

LIFEandTIMES

with ANGUS GIBB

CHRISTMAS HOPES:

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. But does it feel like it? I don’t know about you, but I am feeling a bit of a lag in my Christmas spirit. It is usually about this time of the year, as we get ready for our annual carols event, that my Christmas cheer is on the up. Yet, for some reason, I’m not quite there at the moment. Maybe it is because of the weather. Maybe it is because of other factors. Whatever it is, I am just not feeling it. But then again, do I need to feel like Christmas for Christmas to happen? In one sense it is just another date on the calendar. But it is far more than just a date. There is something almost mystical about the Christmas season. It does something to us. It makes us nostalgic. It makes us reflect on those things that are of momentous importance. But what is it about Christmas that we need to ‘be in the mood’ for it if we are to enjoy it? What is it about Christmas that we need to feel? For some, it may be a feeling of comfort as families come together. For others, it is a feeling of generosity as you get to give gifts to those around you. Maybe you see Christmas as a time when you get to blow off some steam as you celebrate the year that was. Whatever the reason, how much does the original meaning of Christmas cross

your mind? We celebrate Christmas for a reason. It is not just a random holiday. It is the Christian season of Advent that culminates with Christmas Day which celebrates hope in the birth of Jesus. And what is this hope? At the first Christmas, an angel appeared and said these words about a 15-year-old girl: ‘She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ (Matthew 1:21). In this announcement, we see what Christmas is all about. About a child being born who would be the saviour of the world. That may seem like a crazy reason to have a public holiday. It may even seem like it has absolutely nothing to do with big family lunches, pine trees, Santa Claus, and presents. But perhaps it is this dissonance between what I know and love about what Christmas is, and feeling that tension between this and how we celebrate Christmas in our culture, that leaves me feeling a bit ‘meh’ about this time of the year. But then, as I spend time reading the nativity story from the Bible, singing Christmas carols and pondering the advent season, I see afresh the reason why we celebrate with all the trimmings. Because, at the first Christmas, the greatest celebration began. Because, at the first Christmas, God came to save people from their sin. And that is something worth celebrating. So, as we enter into these last few weeks before Christmas and in and amongst all of the craziness of the season, maybe you can take a moment to think about what it is that this season is all about.

Far out – there’s some sad things going on in our world

‘Pet-It-Forward’ to help our four-legged flood victims

livestock after the floodwaters receded.

The devastating flooding that ravaged Eugowra was not just a catastrophe for the people who lived there, but also for the town’s fourlegged residents.

So when the Department of Primary Industries put out the call for help, the Orange Vet Hospital — like so many other local businesses — were quick to lend a hand.

“It was pretty shocking seeing the town itself — it was just demolished,” said Orange Vet Hospital veterinarian, Ryan Lane, who put his hand up to help provide treatment and care to injured pets and

“I’ve never been involved with something like that — it was pretty confronting… lots got away, basically unscathed, but unfortunately some were washed away in the water and farmers lost a few hundred head of sheep and cattle.

“We’ve seen a lot of cuts and abrasions, infested wounds and things like that on pets but the water moved up so quickly that people weren’t able to move their stock or horses,” continued Ryan, who said he was happy he could help out.

“It’s just sort of doing our part. There’s no incentive or reward we want for it — we just want to help the animals so no one’s suffering,” he added.

Orange Vet Hospital is now hoping local animal lovers can also lend a hand to support families and their pets affected by the floods. While there are so many people doing it tough after this disaster, the vet hospital said the costs of treating these animals has been a lot for their own business to bear.

They have set up a ‘Pet-It-Forward’ fund to allow donations to come in to help people pay for vet bills and are also accepting donations of pet food, which will be distributed to Eugowra residents through the Local Land Services.

With this year’s weather being so unpredictable, Ryan urged pet owners to keep their animals in mind when making

emergency plans.

“You couldn’t pre-plan for this kind of event. But if you can have a plan for where your animals will go that’s your best bet. And contacting a vet is always a good idea in emergency situations like this,” he said.

To donate funds to the Pet-It-Forward you can call the Orange Vet Hospital on 6361 8388 or send money directly to the bank account below with the description ‘Pet It Forward’. All donated funds will go directly to flood victim pet bills.

Account name: Orange Veterinary Hospital BSB: 082774 Account number: 247450134 Reference: Petitforward

...It’s just sort of doing our part. There’s no incentive or reward we want for it — we just want to help the animals...

If you enjoy a good book, a glass of wine, or (if you’re like me) enjoy mixing the two then Borrodell Wine’s new Bubbles and Books Club is a monthly must-do.

Borrodell’s Event Manager, Katherine Fitzpatrick had packed the books away while busy raising her children, but now with a bit more time on her hands, she is excited to discover them again and enjoy discussing them in some good company.

“I’ve always enjoyed reading books and then children came along — books didn’t become a priority, unless it was a children’s book. I felt like I really wanted to get back into reading but making this event was also for the social side,” she said.

“It’s the excuse to read a book, optional of course, and catch up with friends and have that connection. You don’t have to be likeminded and like the same style of book,” she added.

“I don’t want to have any structures. It’s about what the general opinion of the group is, whether one person decides a book each time or whether we work through a list – I want others to decide.”

Borrodell boasts an amazing view from their stunning Sky Bar and amazing locally sourced

eats at their Sister’s Rock Restaurant.

“There’ll be drinks and cheese boards available, but we’ve also got the restaurant if you want to make a day of it,” Katherine said.

As the club is still in its early stages, she’s more than happy to be flexible and work out what most people can and can’t do.

“We’ll discuss whether Sunday is the ideal time and day. But it’s about taking time out for yourself,” she said.

“We want people, young and old, there’s no restrictions about that. But we do suggest you get a babysitter — this is really about you having a break and some self-care.”

If you don’t drink, don’t let that discourage you from attending; the club welcomes everyone.

“You don’t have to be a wine drinker. It’s about creating a different flow of people to come out here and enjoy the landscape.”

If you’re interested in joining the Bubbles and Books Club, you can call Katherine on 0438865217 or send an email to info@borrodell.com.au

Service NSW is coming to

• applications for birth, death and marriage certificates

•

Scholarship Program Opens Door to Mining Industry

Students planning to study a mining industry-related degree in 2023 are encouraged to apply for the Cadia Scholarship Program.

Cadia’s General Manager, Aaron Brannigan, said the scholarships will be awarded to students passionate about studying a Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) business or other mining industry-related degrees that will support and enrich regional NSW.

“Australia, and in particular regional NSW, is facing a major skills shortage and these scholarships are designed to assist with addressing some of those gaps,” Mr Brannigan said.

“It is vital that we continue to invest in the next generation of mining industry professionals. Cadia is pleased to be able to provide financial support

to students who have the potential to really make a difference in the industry.”

Every year, Cadia offers two tertiary scholarships and one Indigenous scholarship. To qualify, students will need to:

• Live, or have your family home, in the local government areas of Orange, Cabonne or Blayney;

• Apply for full-time study in an undergraduate STEM or other mining industry-related degree;

• Plan to study next year (the scholarship cannot be deferred);

• Not already be studying at university; and

• Applicants for the Indigenous scholarship must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.

Scholarship support will be to a maximum of $9,000/year for the recommended course duration. Recipients will be required to maintain satisfactory progress and pass all subjects to receive ongoing support.

Cadia will also provide a mentor to provide support throughout the course.

For more information, including how to apply, please visit www.cadiavalley. com.au/scholarships or contact cvo.recruitment@newcrest.com.au

Applications close on 11 December 2022.

A |

Orange Field Naturalist QUIZ

What am I?

Grapevine

Moth Phalaenoides glycinae

Black and white markings on their wings and body. Adults of the Grapevine Moth have tufts of orange hair projecting from their abdomen and the base of their legs.

With bright colours and a habit of flying in the day, they are more like a butterfly than a moth.

B | Cabbage white butterfly Pieris rapae

White colour with small black dots on its wings.

The upper side of the male is creamy white. The forewing is irrorated (sprinkled) with black scales at the base and along the costa (mid vein) for a short distance.

The female is similar to the male, but the irroration (springling) of black scales at the bases of the wings is more extended.

C | Caper White Butterfly Belenois java teutonia

Kids Talk

Moth or y?Butterfl That can be tricky but iesButterfl usually: - Have a thickened club or hook on the tip of the antenna, not ‘feathery’ - Front and back wings are separate, not linked - Fly during the day and hold wings together above their body when resting

These iesbutterfl are on the move now.

I AM THE - Caper White yButterfl

Adult Caper White Butterflies are mostly white with black margins to their upper wings and yellow-orange, black and white underwings.

In spring they migrate to where caper shrubs and creepers are more common, flying 2-3 m above the ground during the day, resting on shrubs and trees at night.

AGE: 6

Why did the chicken cross the road? To get to the other side.

What makes you happy? Playing video games… and baby Yoda!

What’s your favourite movie? Huggi Wuggi.

Why do we have money? So we can get stuff we need.

What’s your favourite food? Bubblegum.

If you opened a store, what would you sell? Pets!

The team at OCLife will be taking a well-earned break over the holiday period and our office will close from 3.00pm on Thursday, 15 December 2022. We will be back on Thursday, 5 January, 2023 at 9.00am feeling refreshed and recharged for an action-packed 2023.

If you have any last-minute advertising requirements for 2022, contact Marg on 0468 330 991 or email marg@oclife.com.au

Austin Gillett

RUNS ON THE BOARD FOR ORANGE

√ $54.8 million for the new CSU medical school and research centre √ $34.8 million for Dixons Long Point Crossing √ $54 million in water security pipelines around the Central West √ $1.9 million for The Orchard crisis accommodation centre √ $2 billion for Great Western Highway upgrade √ $3.8 million for the raising of Suma Park dam wall at Orange √ Federal Regional Investment Corporation established and based in Orange √ $12 million for the Southern Feeder Road project

√ Dept of Infrastructure branch moved to Orange √ $2 million for the Forest Road Bridge duplication √ $14.7 million for Mission Australia’s Benjamin Short Grove Aged Care facility √ $100,000 for new stadium seating at Wade Park √ $3 million for a second radiotherapy unit at Orange Health Service √ $10 million for the Orange Conservatorium & Planetarium √ 24 hour rescue helicopter service for Orange and region

√ $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

√ 42 mobile phone towers and base stations across Calare

SPECIAL FLOOD RECOVERY FUND NEEDED ASAP

We welcomed the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as well as Federal and State Ministers to Eugowra during the last fortnight. Their visits were an opportunity for them to see first-hand the devastation caused by recent flooding to homes, businesses and farms and to understand how crucial ongoing financial support will be to ensure residents and business owners can get back on their feet.

This week I have written to both Senator Murray Watt, the Federal Minister for Emergency Management and Steph Cooke, the State Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Flood Recovery, calling for the establishment of a special flood recovery fund, the Cabonne/ Wellington Reconstruction Fund, specifically for the Cabonne Shire and Wellington district to assist the hundreds of people left with damaged or uninhabitable homes as a result of the tragedy, as well as local businesses and farms.

Both levels of government jointly funded an $800 million Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Fund Package to help the 2,000 homeowners in floodprone areas of the Northern Rivers repair, raise, retrofit or voluntarily participate in a home buy-back scheme after that flooding disaster earlier this year.

Now unfortunately it’s our turn. We urgently need the Cabonne/Wellington Reconstruction Fund established to support homeowners, business owners and farmers in the Cabonne Shire and Wellington district who have lost homes or experienced considerable damage to their properties, businesses or farms. Eugowra bore the brunt of the November flood destruction in the Cabonne Shire, but Molong, Canowindra, Cudal and Manildra also sustained considerable damage, as did Wellington. Homes and businesses were inundated, and livelihoods destroyed overnight. Many Eugowra residents are now homeless and relying on the assistance of others to house them in surrounding towns and volunteers to assist in the mammoth clean-up effort. With regard to housing, we need both levels of government to urgently transport modular homes to the region to provide secure, temporary accommodation in the hometowns of all those displaced by the floods.

Most in Eugowra were insured but were asked to pay excessive insurance premiums for flood coverage of up to $40,000 per annum. It was simply unaffordable. Many locals are now battling the country’s insurers to claim benefits to help them repair or rebuild, with most being offered payouts of only a few hundred dollars. Put bluntly, these residents and families have simply been left with nothing.

I believe the establishment of the Cabonne/Wellington Reconstruction Fund will be absolutely instrumental in the long-term recovery of these

communities. I have spent more than two weeks on the ground in Eugowra, Molong, Canowindra, Cudal and Manildra assisting the community with the initial disaster response. These communities are hurting and need more help immediately.

I welcome the $50,000 Flood Recovery Grants for eligible businesses and non-profit organisations hit by the floods. However, more is going to be needed to get our Cabonne businesses back on their feet. For homeowners and their families, the $1000 Disaster Recovery Payment for adults and $400 for children is simply not enough to help those who have lost homes, possessions, livelihoods and loved ones.

Many Eugowra residents are being transported more than 100 kilometres to and from the town each day by community members who have offered shelter and transport to assist those left homeless. Modular homes for displaced residents would be a major way of assisting our communities. Eugowra is an extremely resilient, tight-knit community and we need to ensure the residents are close to home as they undertake the unenviable task of re-building their lives.

I urge the Federal and State Governments not to waste any time in establishing the Cabonne/Wellington Reconstruction Fund including, but not limited to substantial financial assistance for residents, businesses and farms, and the provision of modular homes to the Cabonne Shire.

POP OUT TO MOLONG FOR THEIR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING NIGHT

Last Friday I stopped by Molong and caught up with James Brazier (pictured left) who was busy rebuilding Lime and Stone's new digs in Bank Street. It's a massive job!

It's terrific to see the progress of all the Molong businesses as they clean up and repair the damage caused by the devastating flood and I congratulate everyone involved in the recovery effort! How amazing is it that the shopping night can be held so soon after such devastation!

After a massive clean-up and rebuilding effort by the entire Molong community and many people from outside the town over the past fortnight, this Friday many shops in Molong will be throwing open their doors for the town's Christmas Shopping Night!

On Friday the 2nd December, from 5pm-9pm, the shopping event will be a great chance to support the Molong community, grab some pressies, support local businesses, hear some top live music, and maybe even meet Santa!

INDIGENOUS VOICE TO PARLIAMENT

As followers of local politics will know, I have been a long-time supporter of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

I wasn’t present for the Nationals’ party room meeting on the issue earlier this week as I was in Eugowra, but my position on it hasn’t changed.

While I respect the opinions of my colleagues, I’m still a supporter.

The Australian Government does need to provide more detail on what is proposed and a number of our local Indigenous groups want this detail as well because they want to make sure they have a voice within the Voice.

So yes, there is still a heck of a lot of hard work to do. To achieve a Voice we’ll need that, as well as goodwill, open minds and generosity of spirit.

Reconciliation in Australia has made significant progress in recent years but there is still a long way for us all to travel.

Let’s keep working at it and walking down that road. Together we can do it.

It was terrific to drop in to Whitney Spicer Home - Studio & Wares in Manildra to discuss small business issues in our region.

FOR DAILY FLOOD AND RECOVERY UPDATES FOR EUGOWRA AND THE REGION, VISIT MY FACEBOOK PAGE

HISTORY TALKING

with HELEN MCNULTY

When Dorothea Mackellar wrote that poem in 1905 she was nineteen, living in London and feeling very homesick for Australia.

She remembered the often violent changes in Australian weather systems with a fondness which might be lacking in those who are affected by droughts and flooding rains today.

Ever since the first white settlement, both drought and floods have troubled the community.

Colonel David Collins, who arrived with the First Fleet, wrote eloquently about one such happening in 1798.

“The dry weather, which for so long had prevailed, to the great detriment of the cultivated and pasture grounds, was succeeded by rain for two or three days, which greatly refreshed the gardens which were nearly wholly burnt and everywhere revived the perishing vegetation.”

He continued writing, with some horror, about the Hawkesbury.

“The Hawkesbury suddenly, in a very few hours, swelled to a height of fifty feet above its common level and with such rapidity and power as to carry everything before it…. many inhabitants were taken off the ridges of their houses… just in time to save their lives… most of the dwellings were inundated and the whole country appeared like an extensive lake.”

So it’s nothing new!

Members of the Oral History Group shared their memories of floods with me.

Keith had to cross the Mandagery Creek on his horse to attend the Murga school which was on the far side of the creek

Flooding Rains

and had a reputation of the kind of severe flash flooding which has recently caused havoc in the small town of Eugowra.

“Riding my horse home from school and approaching the creek I saw that a storm upstream had sent down a very angry ‘gully raker’, which seemed quite furious, but well between the banks.

“I decided to cross it, but once in the water, things went seriously wrong and Dandy, my horse, finished up back on the school side of the creek and myself on the home side. What saved me, I don’t know, but I must have stayed there for a considerable time, hoping the horse would come over when the tide settled.

“He didn’t. And as it was by now dark, I, being wet and cold, was in a bind, but out of the darkness came a ghost like figure. It was my mother who had walked the two miles to find me.

“From 1950 to 1952,” continued Keith, “there was a period of consistent heavy rainfall causing disastrous flooding in the Lachlan Valley. By then I was a teenager, involved in flood rescue work. There was no SES or modern technology then, but

people pitched in to help where they could.”

Dick was born and grew up in Orange. He pointed out that most places in NSW grew from early settlements with access to water and there appeared to be no thought for the future.

“In those days transport was by foot or on horseback and water was essential for both and Blackmans Swamp Creek provided it.”

Rainfall was fairly reliable in this area and gold was the drawcard at Forbes, Junction Reefs and Lucknow, where traders set up shop to supply rich miners.

No thought was given to flooding and when it did occur it was a temporary problem.

“I remember as a teenager” continued Dick, “the flooding of Woodward Road near Gardiner Road, McLaughlin Street near the Showgrounds, the National Park next to the creek and Carrols Bridge on the Bathurst Rd.

“Any flood that occurs in that area is flash flooding because of the mountainous

Public Notary in NSW

WhatisapublicNotary?

APublicNotary,oraNotaryPublicisanofficerofthelawwhocertifiesthe“trustworthiness”ofadocumentforusein internationaljurisdictions.TheroleofaPublicNotaryistoconfirmtheidentityofthepersonrequestingthenotaryservices andtheauthenticityofadocumenttobeusedoverseas.TheauthorityofaNotaryisrecognisedbyaninternational convention.

WhenwillIneedaPublicNotary?

terrain, and is different from the slow flooding that occurs on the plains.”

John spoke from his point of view as an agriculturalist.

“Flood plains are called that for a very good reason— they flood! And they bring topsoils and fertiliser to benefit the land, as well as weeds and other contaminants down from upstream.

“Governor Macquarie was aware of this and cautioned against any building in those areas, but governments and developers have continued to approve building on flood plains and the risks are overlooked,” John continued.

“Road and rail infrastructure, irrigation channels and levee banks alter water flows, particularly in flat western country where land falls only about 100 millimetres per kilometre.”

“Building or raising any bank in these areas can change water levels from up to five to 10 kilometres away from previous flood areas. In large towns, roofs and concrete and tar roads have 100 percent runoff where previously vegetation absorbed some rainfall and slowed the rate of runoff.”

There have been even worse flood events in the past.

Huge areas of country were devastated at Gundagai in 1852 when 89 people died, Windsor in 1867, Lismore in 1890 and Maitland in 1955, but fortunately communication is much better today and weather forecasting, although not perfect, has become more scientific.

Let’s hope we can learn from the past about how to live in the future.

Copyright Helen McAnulty 2022

ApersonwilltypicallyrequireaPublicNotarywhereaninternationaljurisdictionrequiresit.Asabove,aPublicNotarywill notarisecertaindocumentsattherequestofaforeignjurisdictionforuseinthatjurisdiction.Themostcommonneedfora PublicNotaryistonotarisecopiesoforiginaldocumentstobesentoverseas.IncertaincircumstancesaPublicNotarywillbe requiredtonotonlynotarisedocumentsbutwitnessthepersonexecutingthosedocuments.Forexample,witnessinga personexecutingaPowerofAttorneythatallowsaforeignsolicitortoactasAttorneyintheforeignjurisdiction.

APublicNotarycannotnotariseadocumenttobeuseddomestically.

WherewillIfindaPublicNotaryandwhatdoIneed?

BlackwellShort,areluckytohaveboth JohnCarpenter and CharlesHenley,whoaretheonlytworegisteredpublicnotaries inOrangeand2ofthe4notariespracticingintheCentralWest.Ifyouarerequiredtohaveadocumentnotarised,please contactBlackwellShorttomakeanappointment.Priortoyourappointment, thePublicNotarywillrequire acopyofthe documentyouneednotarisedandacopyofyourpassportanddriverslicence.Foryourappointment you willneed tobring theoriginalsofallthosedocuments.

ThefeeschargedbyapublicnotaryarefixedandaresetbytheNSWSocietyofPublicNotaries.

PleasecontactBlackwellShortifyouhaveanyqueriesinrelationtoneedingapublic notaryon0263939200orbsl.reception@blackwellshort.com.au. 60HillStreetOrange|POBox26|0263939200|bsl.reception@blackwellshort.com.au|www.blackwellshort.com.au

PleasedonothesitatetoapproachBlackwellShortLawyersforyourlegalrequirements.

I love a sunburnt country A land of sweeping plains Of ragged mountain ranges Of droughts and flooding rains.”

SHARE IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS AT COMMUNITY CAROLS

Orange City Council’s popular festive family event, the Orange Community Christmas Carols will bring the spirit of Christmas to the Civic Square North Court on Saturday 10 December.

Orange Deputy Mayor Gerald Power is looking forward to the event showcasing some of Orange’s brightest talents, singing modern and traditional Christmas carols, with the theme ‘Let’s Sing Together’.

‘’You, your family and friends are warmly invited to the Orange Community Christmas Carols. Come and enjoy this free community event,” Cr Power said.

“We look forward to this year’s event really inspiring

the community to come together; to sing, rejoice and acknowledge the importance of family, friends and community at this special time of year.”

There will be children’s entertainment, live music and performances from the Orange Regional Conservatorium, Orange Pipe Band and Orange Brass Band.

The Wula Gurray Indigenous Choir will give a rousing performance and there will be a dance performance by Colour City Dance, as well as a Christmas message and prayer, and a much-anticipated visit from the man of the moment, Santa Claus.

This year there will also be food and beverage stalls, a Christmas Market for some last-minute Christmas shopping, glowsticks and candles available for purchase.

“Bring a picnic blanket, a fold up chair and an appetite for singing together,” Cr Power said.

The Orange Community Christmas Carols will be held at the Civic Square North Court, on the corner of Peisley and March streets, from 6pm to 9pm.

Make a donation to our flood appeal with a gold coin on entry.

RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH

The following services will have an information stall during the event:

• Orange City Council

Mission Australia

DISABILITY

Orange City Council is celebrating International Day of People with Disability on Friday, 2 December, from 11am to 1pm in the South Court Byng Street and is inviting the community to attend an inclusive event aimed at increasing awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

The theme is: Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.

Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee Chair, Cr Mel McDonell said the day provides an opportunity to be supportive as a community.

“We are highlighting what Orange has to offer in the form of support and activities for people with disabilities,” Cr McDonell said.

“Breaking down barriers and stereotypes are important steps to being more inclusive and I invite the community to join in and be involved.”

Each year, events like this are an opportunity to start a conversation about disability and encourage inclusivity from the community.

Council has engaged Aidacare, to provide an ‘access experience’, where, during a 30-minute activity, Council staff and Councillors will complete a short course while using one of the mobility aids. This experience aims to give participants an insight into the barriers and access issues experienced every day by people with disability.

“Challenging stereotypes around people with disability needs to go beyond the International Day of People with Disability,” Cr McDonell said

“I encourage everyone to engage in this event and find a way to take concrete action. We need to talk honestly about barriers in society that people with disability face every day.”

There will also be other fun activities and a free barbecue with refreshments.

• NDSP Plan Managers

• Omnia Inclusive Employment Solutions

• Wambinya Buwanha

Asuria and LikeMind

The Personnel Group

• OCTEC Disability Employment Services

• SpiritAbility

• Cerebral Palsy Alliance

Anglicare

Wangarang

• LiveBetter

• Social Futures

• Housing Plus Domestic Violence Services

Disability Advocacy NSW

Carer Gateway

• Aidacare

Canobolas’ mountain trails a real draw for runners

The picturesque forest trails of Mount Canobolas have proved to be a real drawcard for running enthusiasts, with 750 keen trail runners signing up for the inaugural Lonely Mountain Ultra in October.

There were anxious moments for the small committee in the lead-up to the event, with dates clashing with Blue Mountain’s popular Ultra-Trail Australia and the ever-threatening weather conditions.

But the weather was on their side on the day and it proved to be a huge success.

“We were really happy with how the

event ran, we couldn’t be happier really,” Lonely Mountain Ultra committee president, Sam Collins said.

“We had people come from Queensland, NSW, Canberra — well outside of this region and from most people who came we’ve heard really positive things and many, many people are keen to come back, which is great.”

Already there is strong interest in next year’s event, Sam said, adding that the stunning forest trails ascending to the summit of Mount Canobolas are a unique attraction for the event.

“People loved the trails that we had on offer and the trails are huge; we only use such a small portion of what’s on offer,” he said, adding that there is potential for

much bigger events in the future.

“There is a lot of interest in 100-mile events these days and we could easily put on a 100-mile in coming years, but for now I think we’ll keep it much the same and build from there.”

Dates for the 2023 Lonely Mountain Ultra are yet to be announced, but Sam said there are running clubs and groups from all over the state and beyond that are making plans to tackle the mountain once again.

“We know what dates we want, but we can’t release them until we get a few approvals from Forestry and National Parks… a similar time of year is what we are aiming for next year,” he said.

“We will be announcing it through our

socials in the coming weeks, as many people are already asking what’s on next year and are keen to come back… There are huge groups of people that are wanting to come out that are going to train specifically for the LMU again next year. For us, that’s pretty exciting!”

But putting on an event of this size takes quite a bit of work and they could always use a hand, he said, whether it be becoming an association member ($10 membership and a $2 annual fee) or joining the committee.

Anyone interested is welcome to attend their AGM, which will be held at 6pm Wednesday, December 14, at Orange Ex-Services’ Club. Or you can reach out to the committee via info@lonelymountainultra.com.au.

Phil DONATO MP State Member for Orange

FUNDING

flood recovery

Small business owners and not-for-profit organisations across flood-affected parts of NSW can now apply for up to $50,000 to help with immediate clean-up and recovery costs.

The grants are administered by Service NSW as part of a range of support programs for disaster-impacted communities.

The grant is available to eligible small businesses and not-for-profits in the 75 local government areas declared natural disaster zones in recent months.

The Disaster Recovery Small Business Grant – Storms & Floods August and September 2022 Onwards provides small business owners and not-for-profit organisations who meet eligibility criteria with up to $25,000 upfront. If business owners are applying for more than $25,000, they will need to provide evidence of payment for completed work or relevant business items.

The Disaster Recovery Small Business Grant – Storms & Floods August and September 2022 Onwards is in addition to the $75,000 Primary Producer Grant, $10,000 Rural Landholder Grant and a range of other assistance available to natural disaster declared local government areas, jointly funded by the NSW and Commonwealth governments.

For eligibility information and to apply, visit: https:// bit.ly/3Voru2n

Applications are now open to grassroots sporting organisations to help repair and rebuild floodaffected sports facilities and infrastructure, with the NSW Government allocating $43 million in assistance.

Essential Community Sport Assets Program was now available to Local Government Areas impacted by the February-March and June-July floods.

The $43 million Essential Community Sport Assets Program includes two funding steams:

Stream One - offering $33 million to 74 LGAs with grants of between $150,000 and $1 million available; and,

Stream Two – offering $10 million to sporting organisations and organisations that deliver sports programs, with grants of between $15,000 and $500,000 available.

Applications for the Essential Community Sport Assets Program close Friday, 9 December 2022. More information is available on the Office of Sport website https://bit.ly/3gwbJb1

Donato’s Diary

I have been busy working with the state and federal governments to get financial aid to our affected towns as quickly as possible. This last week the Prime Minister has announced co-state and federal funding for flood impacted small businesses and not-for-profits (NFPs) with an immediate $25,000 grant available. Impacted business and NFPs will be eligible for an additional $25,000 further down the track when receipts can be provided. I have requested the Premier consider the co-funded Back Home Grants of $20,000 and for rent assistance for those renting. Last week I requested the appointment of a Recovery Co-ordinator and have also suggested a Resilient Homes Fund - either buy backs, house raising or retro fitting. Lastly, I’ve called for the establishment for a reconstruction centre.

CENTACARE

While

Community groups are being encouraged to make an application for funds to conserve the state’s community war memorials under round two of the NSW Government’s Community War Memorials Fund. $125,000 will be available in round two which is now open with funding available to support the repair, protection and conservation of community war memorials across the state.

This funding from the state is vitally important as it helps our local community protect our memorials, ensuring the service and sacrifice of our veterans are not forgotten.

Community organisations including memorial trusts, veteran groups and local councils are encouraged to apply.

Grants of up to $10,000 are available to help with projects like conservation assessments, honour roll restoration, and repairs to war memorial structures and halls.

Round 2 of the 2022/23 Community War Memorials Fund will close at 5pm on Monday 13 February 2023. To be eligible for funding, the memorial must be listed on the NSW War Memorials Register For information about the program and to access the application form, please visit https://bit.ly/2EojYla

OUTDOOR SURVEY

It was great to catch up with the men from the Parkview Hotel Orange helping out in the clean-up in Eugowra this week. So many people across the central west have helped out displaying such great community spirit.

Cheers, Phil

Surprise 30th birthday for Tom

— CEC TILBURG —

Tom Devitt’s Saturday night turned out to be lightyears away from what he initially expected, when 45 friends and family threw him a surprise 30th birthday party.

Tom thought that he was going to his wife’s Christmas party at the Orange City Bowling Club, but she had secretly arranged a surprise Star Wars themed birthday party for him.

Happy Birthday Tom!

Orange and District Historical Society Christmas party

The Family

Emma and Tom Devitt and Ron Mills

Janine and Ngair Lovett, Emma and Tom Devitt, Bill Lovett, Jess Thomson and Front: Zaylee Quinn

Tim and Abigail Jones

Storm Rapley, Jess Thomson and Leilani Deveigne

Emma and Tom Devitt

— HENRY DEROOY —

Charles and Yvonne Everett with Julie Lawrie

Fred and May Brooking

Judi Spicer and Merv Wilkie Dinah Hayter and Liz Edwards

Karen and Tony Bouffl er

Robert Bruce and Christine Williams

Russell and Anne Tym

Judy Agland, David and Julie Sykes

Phil Stevenson and Steve Brakenridge

Young Colour City choristers

READY FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF A LIFETIME

Sophia Duncan, Vincent Duncan, Max Rimmer, Sienna Flannery, Abigail Johnson, Nancy Elliott, and Madeline Flannery — all vocal students at the Orange Regional Conservatorium — have recently been accepted in the Gondwana Choirs, known as the leader in Australian choral performance.

For the past 30 years, Gondwana Choirs have provided opportunities to talented young Australians of all backgrounds through their world-class training programs.

The seven talented singers were selected after a testing audition process. Each of the young singers had to submit a video of themselves performing a piece, which was then followed by a musicianship test over Zoom, where they had to demonstrate pitch marching,

Seven young locals have sung their way to the performance opportunity of a lifetime at the Sydney Opera House.

singing in parts, and sight singing — reading and singing music without having heard it before.

They are now preparing for the iconic annual Voices of Angles performance in the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House on December 14.

Being part of Gondwana Choirs is an amazing opportunity, said Orange Regional Conservatorium’s Head of Voice, Samantha Bartholomeusz, as those selected get to work with Australia’s best conductors and composers.

“Singers show a marked improvement in their understanding of music including Australian music, their sight reading skills and their ensemble skills,” Samantha said.

For 16-year-old Sophia Duncan, this will be her fifth time with Gondwana,

but she relishes the experience and the opportunity to learn new, challenging repertoire and meet like-minded people.

“I know how amazing it is! It’s a special opportunity,” Sophia said, who will be joined this year by her 11-year-old brother Vincent.

“My sister has been many times, and she says it’s wonderful. So does my teacher,” Vincent said, adding that he’s really looking forward to singing on the Opera House stage.

“I have watched Gondwana concerts from the audience… this time it will be so much fun to be performing!” he enthused.

For 13-year-old Sienna Flannery, this will be her third year with the choir, but says it is always something to look forward to.

“Every time, it has been another lifechanging experience and I’m always excited to learn more about vocals,” she said, adding that she has always left having made great friends.

“Gondwana is a great opportunity to make friends, sing in a choir and learn so much about vocal pieces and performing.”

Voices of Angels, features The Sydney Children’s Choir and Gondwana National Choirs. The performance will take place in the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House at 7pm, Wednesday December 14.

PHOTO CAPTION: The seven talented young singers selected Gondwana Choirs: (Back row) Sophia Duncan, Max Rimmer, Sienna Flannery, and Abigail Johnson. (Front row) Nancy Elliott, Vincent Duncan and Madeline Flannery.

Friday December 2

Orange Regional Art Gallery

Exhibition Opening - Martin Coyte: Before you know 6–7.30 pm

The Metropolitan Hotel Live music every Friday night from 8pm

The Greenhouse of Orange Robbie Mortimer in the Piano Bar from 6pm Rough Diamond on the Lawn from 7pm

Saturday December 3

Orange Ex-Services Club

Elton Jack - Dinner & Show, 6pm

The Greenhouse of Orange Neil Gill on the Lawn from 12pm

Natalie Carboni in the Piano Bar at 6pm Barabbas on the Lawn at 7pm, DJ Elliegant from 10pm The Victoria Hotel 4 on the 4loor rocks the Vic from 8.30pm

The Metropolitan Hotel Live music every Saturday night from 8pm

December

Sunday December 4

Millthorpe Markets from 8.30am

The Greenhouse of Orange

Robbie Mortimer on the Lawn at 12pm

6pm

December

Natalie Carboni returns to the Piano Bar at 6pm

Wednesday December 7

Orange Civic Theatre

A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland, 7.30pm

5 minutes with Lily

Making her 4 on the 4loor debut this Saturday night is up-and-coming local musician, Lily Elliott. With her genre-crossing musical tastes, Lily’s performance promises to deliver a little of something for everyone. Orange City Life caught up with Lily this week to talk about what music means to her.

How would you describe the musical genre you perform?

It’s really a mix of things. Some of it is like a grungy rock sort of thing from the ‘90s but just to mix it up a bit, some of it is pop, like Billie Eilish – just a mix of things so there’s a range of music for everyone.

Who would you say are your main musical inspirations?

I really like heavy metal, like Pantera, Megadeth, Metallica — all that kind of thing — that’s pretty much what got me into music and playing guitar. What about closer to home, any local musical inspiration?

Craig Mills, he’s in a band in Orange and I’ve been able to do openmic nights with him. But overall my inspiration would really just be seeing my parents play.

Tell us a little of your musical background?

My parents played music all the time when I was growing up — rock, grunge sort of stuff. It was just always around.

How can people find your music or see you play?

I have an instagram music account, called @lilmu_sic.

Where do you hope music will take you?

I’d like to just be gigging, like instead of going to a job, I’d just like to be going to gigs everywhere. But who knows what’s going to happen.

Anything else you want to say to our readers?

If you can, come to my 4 on the 4loor show! it’s important to support local acts!

See Lily at 4 on the 4loor 8.30pm this Saturday at the Victoria Hotel. Joining Lily on the lineup will be Munted Loose Units, Joey’s Midnight Spacemen and girls on saké.

with RUBEN LOPEZ MESA

The goodenough parent with

Emily Thompson

Revenge

“Mum, we’ve got a great idea!” Miss 14 triumphantly announces. “At the end of the year, we should write a column from our perspective, you know, all about your questionable parenting.

Simultaneously amused and concerned, I cautiously ask what kind of things they plan to write about.

“Well, remember when you borrowed Daddy’s Mitsubishi Lancer and announced you were a race car driver and challenged every car stopped next to you to drag race in Summer Street?” Miss 14 begins, “There’s that… and the time Safety Dance came on the radio and you asked me to take the wheel so you could dance — on the way to school! I mean, come on Mum! SAFETY DANCE! The irony!” she says with the con�dence of someone who just learned what irony is.

“Well, okay. I mean that’s all true, I guess,” I reply, starting to question whether an actual good parent does stu� like that. There seems to be a very �ne line between “fun parent” and “irresponsible parent”, but in my defence, I DID win every race!

Taking a deep breath I ask Miss Eight what dirt she’s got on me.

“I like most of what you do Mum,” she says lovingly, before continuing: “But I don’t like it when you starve us.

“What do you mean,” I ask, suddenly starting to get actually concerned. Maybe I’m not serving enough food at dinner? Or checking her lunchbox each day?

“You say ‘no’ to us eating all the time and then I starve,” she continues. “Like last night, when I asked for Oreos, but you said I had to wait for dinner. I was so hungry!” she declares with a dramatic �ourish.

I point out that I didn’t actually say that, what I had said was that dinner is less than two minutes away and she could eat then.

Miss Eight recoils in horror at my dismissive attitude. “Two minutes is ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SECONDS!” she says, with the con�dence of someone who just learned what a minute is. “I could have DIED!”

I decide this ‘revenge column’ might be a good idea after all. Sure, there’s a chance I might get lynched when Miss 14 spills her secrets, but I really believe most parents will understand that Miss Eight’s problems are generally pretty funny.

I move on to our most pressing issue this week: Grandparent’s Day at school.

It’s been a long time since I lost my parents. But although I am an adult and incredibly proud of how independent I am, nothing has me singing songs from Annie faster than the annual reminder of my orphan status: bloody Grandparents Day.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I love this day for two reasons. The �rst is that I appreciate any special events provided by the hard-working sta� at our school, especially after two years of COVID preventing our Miss Eight from having a normal Kindergarten and Year One. So it’s absolutely wonderful that she gets to experience these “special days” this year.

The second reason is my wonderful in-laws. They have been to every single Grandparent’s day for the last eight years, despite living four hours away. We are just so lucky to have them love our children as much as we do — sometimes more — but this brings me back to the planning.

No barbecue this year and we are asked to bring a picnic lunch. Due to my extreme laziness commitment to supporting small businesses I decide to order a picnic box from a local café.

Lunch sorted, I have a tiny little cry over missing my own parents, before reminding myself that the sun will come up again tomorrow and there’s a lot of love in our family and I should really go and check what the girls are writing about me…

Heritage raspberry and CHOCOLATE BROWNIE

Recently I was showing you how I make use of leftover bread in my cooking, but what happens if you can’t have gluten?

It’s a good question and one I have asked through my social media pages. First, you can look for an alternative bread that is safe for you to eat, and there are actually quite a few options available that are good and delicious. Then you can incorporate those leftovers in the recipes I’ve previously written about here.

But today, I’m going to share with you an amazing, but really easy recipe that is gluten-free: the famous raspberry and chocolate brownie that many people love here in East Orange.

To be totally honest with you, I don’t have a massive sweet tooth, but I love this recipe and I can promise you it’s a treat that will WOW even your most savoury-loving family and friends. In fact, I’m sure it will become the favourite brownie of whoever tries it!

Growing up, my brother had an allergy to gluten and so, for my whole childhood, we ate pretty average sweets for birthdays and Christmas celebrations. It was the 80s, when there weren’t really available alternatives in Madrid.

That’s why when I became a chef here in Australia, I made the decision to always have delicious glutenfree desserts to offer my customers.

So what is this amazing recipe? Basically, it is a really simple brownie to make, topped with frozen raspberries that takes it to a decadent level — moist and addictive, it’s a slice of yumminess!

TIP: local raspberries are developing now here in Orange and pretty soon we will be able to start picking them. At my house, I have a variety called ‘heritage’ and what I do is freeze them as soon as I pick them, for future use. But of course, if you don’t have raspberry plants in your veggie garden, you can get them from the supermarket. Don’t stress about that!

Please, give this recipe a try and don’t forget to tag me on your socials and show me the results!

‘HERITAGE RASPBERRY AND CHOCOLATE BROWNIE’

Ingredients:

- 250 g unsalted butter - 300 g chocolate - 500 g brown sugar - 5 whole eggs - 300 g gluten-free flour - 500 g frozen raspberries

Method:

- Turn the oven on at 160 degrees (no fan)

- Melt together butter and chocolate in the microwave.

- In a mixer, whisk brown sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.

- While the eggs and sugar are combining, add the butter and chocolate to it.

- When all these ingredients are well combined. Pass the mixture onto a nonreactive bowl.

- Shift the gluten-free flour, and combine and fold well using a plastic spatula.

- Get a tray and add a big piece of baking paper to it. Pour the chocolate mixture into it.

- Put the frozen raspberries on top, and bake it for 35–40 minutes until you’ll see it’s 95 per cooked (you’ll still see moisture in the centre)

- Put it aside and let it rest overnight (Difficult, I know right!).

- To cut it? The following day, using a chopping board, place it on top of the brownie tray and flip it over. Then remove the baking paper, flip it over again and it will be ready to portion as you please. I personally cut it in half lengthwise and then portion it following the ‘two fingers rule”, cutting each slice as wide as your two fingers

- Serve it with ice cream, or gelato, fresh berries, or eat just as it is.

Enjoy!

Got a cooking question you need answered? Any suggestions on what topic Ruben should tackle next? Get in touch with us at OC Life or with Ruben directly @rubenlopezmesa

Orange PCYC golf day

— HENRY DEROOY—

The Orange PCYC held their annual golf day fundraiser at Duntryleague on Sunday, November 27, where more than 100 golfers enjoyed a stunning spring afternoon.

Marilyn

John McGoldrick, Dave Cleal and Molly Hansen

Daniel McCullum and Bayley McCullum

Dan L’Estrange, Jamie Stedman and Dave Boundy

Ron Dillon, Matt Dillon, Rowen Cleal and Jack Sinclair

Blue Walker and Wayne Cole

I know as well as you do that the cost of living has been going up and up… all year! The media keep telling us about it, all whilst we’re each living the experience of everything costing more. Whether it’s food, fuel, the mortgage or power, it seems that everything we need to survive is costing a lot more than it did 12 months ago.

This year more than any other in recent memory, is going to be more important to limit or avoid DEBTcember.

No one wants to be the one who spoils Christmas (especially me!), so please don’t let this come across that way. All I want is for everyone to have one eye on 2023 and beyond as they make money and spending decisions this festive season. How much you spend in December will very likely have a big bearing on what your short-term financial future is going to look like. Let’s try keep the new year hangover to food and beverages only.

The number of Black Friday sale ads floating around is a little out of control, and between now and Christmas the bombardment doesn’t ease up. This is not about not spending, it’s about not overspending.

So, here are a few simple strategies to help navigate your way through the Christmas frenzy…

1. Know how much you have to spend

This is the most important piece to get right! All the marketing is trying to lure you towards impulse buying, which is why knowing your limit will keep you in check.

Keep a record of what you are buying along the way so that you know how much you have left to spend. Also, try and make sure that what you purchase is needed and valuable, and not just another want.

2. Think beyond Christmas

The temptations will come to spend more and more as Christmas approaches and to make extra lastminute purchases. To help stick to your budget, remind yourself of what you want to achieve in 2023 and beyond. A budget blowout at Christmas can set things back a long way… for example, spending an extra couple of thousand dollars at Christmas that you didn’t really intend to, could be the difference between being able to comfortably afford a holiday in 2023 vs having to

possibly miss out. Or what if interest rates on the mortgage keep going up… then what?

Everything in moderation!

3. Try to avoid credit

Again, I don’t want to sound like the Grinch when it comes to Christmas… BUT, even though there may be a need to put a few things on the credit card, wherever possible, try and avoid it. And if you do have to put things on credit, first map out a plan to take money from each upcoming pay to get it paid off ASAP and avoid too long a debt hangover in 2023.

And if you need a reminder of just how dangerous your credit card can be, check out the interest rate payable after your interest free period expires (ouch!).

Hopefully the above just gives you a bit of a reminder of what is upon us all, and a framework to keep your spending in check. Everyone’s situation is different, so we all have to make the decisions that are right for our own situation. But as 2022 comes to a close, let’s try and avoid undoing all the hard work we’ve done throughout the year, while at the same time ending the year in style.

Perhaps you can even use the cost of living pressures to have a joke and a laugh with friends and family who feel your pain – remember, the best things in life are still free!

Cheers, Daniel

DANIEL MCGREGOR

Cudal FOR SALE $495,000

Great opportunity for first home buyers!

This well-built,

4/51 Moulder Street Orange

CONTACT AGENT 322 a b c a b c a b c

Executive style in the tightly held Cook Park precinct

Within walking distance to shops, cafes, parks and all that inner city Orange has to offer, this near-new townhouse provides style and convenience. Situated at the rear of an established complex, you won’t feel like you’re within walking minutes from Summer Street, while the established trees around you, provide a sense of tranquility while you still have the option of not needing to drive anywhere. The modern and stylish kitchen flows into a light-filled living area with views out to the private, landscaped courtyard.

38 Kinghorn Lane Huntley CONTACT AGENT

This almost 2.5 acres offers a lifestyle so close to town while boasting uninterrupted views of Spring Hill, Mount Canobolas and the beautiful local countryside of Huntley as it is surrounded by a large rural property, so you are guaranteed peace and quiet. The charming older 4 bedroom homestead is set in lovely landscaped gardens and with its open fireplace and split system AC, provides year round comfort. The large living spaces and ornate ceilings epitomise classic design and craftsmanship, while the kitchen is well designed and light-filled.

Summer Street

VICTORIA MUNRO SCOTT MUNRO

AUCTION

1344 Amaroo Road, Borenore - Top Shelf Location & Grazing Country

‘Wylandra South’ is superbly located in a blue ribbon location just 13km* to the Orange. Boasting an outstanding 305 acres* property situated in one of the regions most tightly held areas, allowing for the enviable rural lifestyle. With an immediate sense of peace and privacy, ‘Wylandra South’’ will offer buyers a rare chance to secure a top-shelf grazing property in an area known for its fertility, high rainfall and reliability.

Auction

Friday 16th December, 10.30am

The Auction Centre Bathurst

Open By Appointment

Agents

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050 Michael Kennedy 0428 243 222

1268 Neurea Road, Mumbil - Vacant Block to Build Awaits!

This superb property situated in the sought-after Central Tablelands high country, is a genuine rural retreat on the outskirts of the thriving town of Mumbil, and within easy reach of the Blue Mountains and Orange. 15.23*ac of north-facing, undulating country that offers. 2km* drive to Mumbil, 53*km to Orange & 70km* to Dubbo. Dwelling entitlement, perfect for building your dream home or weekend getaway.

Auction

Friday 16th December, 10.30am

AUCTION Open By Appointment

The Auction Centre Bathurst

Agents

Michael Kennedy 0428 243 222

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050

287 Beaumah Road, Orange

‘Paloma’ is a well-presented & maintained 47ha* property, superbly located in a highly sought-after area known for its productivity, high rainfall & desirable lifestyle. Easy to manage top shelf grazing country, with rich basalt soils. Well maintained, 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home.

Auction Friday 16th December, 10.30am

Open By Appointment

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050

111 Spring Hill Road, Spring Hill

Sitting comfortably on 5acres* and 15 minutes from Orange CBD, this magnificent lifestyle block is not to be missed. This stunning homestead epitomises sophisticated country style. Everywhere you look, this beautiful property just exudes simple understated elegance.

Auction Friday 16th December, 10.30am

Open Saturday 3rd December, 10am - 10.30am

Michael Kennedy 0428 243 222

AUCTION

4 Spring Terrace Road, Spring Terrace

‘Locarno’ offers the ideal rural lifestyle for those seeking a productive 43Ha* (106ac*) parcel of land. A rare find, in a tightly held location, with an array of quality structural improvements, abundant of excellent quality water and a stunning outlook to Mount Canobolas.

Auction Friday 9th December, 10.30am

Open By Appointment

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050

SALE

15 Osman Street, Blayney

If you are looking for a good size family home filled with character and charm in a lovely leafy street, then look no more! Set on a good size 1669sqm* block of land, you will be pleasantly surprised on what this home has to offer. 3 generous sized bedrooms, and an extra study or office. Woodfire & electric heating.

Sale Contact Agent

Open By Appointment

James Taylor 0457 792 800

Ray White Emms Mooney

AUCTION

the street appeal of this

renovated from

with French

of the bedrooms boasting access to the renovated three-way bathroom. The master bedroom is generous in size with its own ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. There is also a generous second living area which is bright and airy featuring northerly aspect and is a sun-lovers dream. The yard is secure and private and perfect for children and pets. It’s ready for you to add your special touch to, the bones of this home are fabulous, and the potential is endless. This property is being sold as part of a Deceased Estate. CONTACT: MICHAEL WRIGHT 0421 360 948

DREAM HOME DELIGHT Nestled in one of Orange’s most desired cul-de-sacs, this lovely home has been recently updated. Surrounded by established gardens and with the Coogal Wetlands behind, the home has been designed to bring the outside in from every window. It will easily accommodate the whole family with four bedrooms, the main with an ensuite, a formal lounge room and a spacious open plan living area with windows galore opening onto the outdoor living zone that wraps around the back and side of the house. The terraced gardens are a delight and have easy access to the walking paths around the wetlands. The garage is double in size but is currently used as one car space plus a workshop and there is a toilet as well. It could easily be converted back to a double garage. The landscaping, private courtyards, pretty gardens and attractive home with flexible floorplan combined with the excellent location and wonderful lifestyle on offer make this a dream home come true.

CHRIS MASON 0438 629 417

Give back to the community, this Christmas

In

spirit of backing locals, Team Orange Credit Union are encouraging their customers and the community to help make Christmas special by donating

toys to support the efforts of the Salvation Army.

Chief Executive Officer, Andrew de Graaff said ‘giving back’ to the community remains a big part of the fabric of Orange Credit Union.

“At this time of year and now more than ever, it is important to ‘give back’ to the community in any way we can and spread some Christmas cheer,” Mr de Graaff said.

“It has been a particularly challenging year for our regional community coming out of the lingering effects of COVID-19 and now devastating flooding. The resilience of our community should be commended and we are grateful for the strong connections to help overcome these setbacks.

“We are pleased to offer our 288 Summer Street branch as a donation point for new gifts and toys that will be donated to the Salvation Army and delivered to locals in need throughout the region,” he said.

The Salvation Army Christmas Toy and Gift drive is now on and the community is encouraged to place new, unwrapped gifts under the Christmas tree at the Orange Credit Union branch by Friday 16 December 2022 for collection and distribution by the Salvation Army.

Your Team Orange would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy festive season, and a safe new year.

Margie joined Peter Fisher in 2010 as Receptionist and she also provides administration support to the Property Management team as well as coordinating the storage sheds for Orange Self Storage. Margie’s approachable manner and empathetic nature combined with her impressive real estate knowledge means that she excels at providing our customers with superior service while taking pride in knowing that she will be remembered by them for being so helpful.

MARGIE GOULD, RECEPTIONIST/STORAGE SHED

OPEN INSPECTIONS

11.45-12.15 6 Sophie drive 4 2 2 $839,000-$869,000 11.45-12.15 29 McCarron Place 4 2 2 $739,000 12.30-1.00 14A Emily Place 3 2 1 $589,000 11.45-12.15 6 Parnoo Place 4 2 2 $980,000-$1,030,000 12.30-1.00 4 Sophie Drive 4 2 3 $790,000-$829,000 10.15-10.45 20 Franklin Road 5 2 2 $650,000 11.00-11.30 18 Prince Street 3 1.5 2 $1,100,000-$1,200,000 11.00-11.30 15 Anson Street 4 1 2 $670,000-$690,000 1.15-1.45 20 Maple Avenue 4 3 2 $829,000 10.15-10.45 6 Lister Drive 5 2 2 $849,000 9.30-10.00 7 Sepik Place 4 1 1 $649,000-$669,000 10.15-10.45 2 Crinoline Street 4 2 2 $669,000 11.00-11.30 21 Roselawn Drive 4 2.5 2 $859,000 10.00 - 10.30am 111 Spring Hill Road Spring Hill contact agent

COMMUNITY DIARY

ART/MUSIC/DANCE

CANTAR WOMEN’S CHOIR meets at the Church of Christ, every Monday from 7.30pm - 9:15pm. Enquiries: Margaret 02 6369 1333.

EVERUPWARD CRAFT GROUP holds craft groups at Everupward Church, every Monday morning from 9.00am - 12.00pm. Enquiries: Mary 02 6361 0514.

OLD TIME ACOUSTIC JAM SESSION is held at The Blind Pig Sound Lounge & Bar, last Sunday of every month from 4.00pm. Enquiries: Kenneth 0408 619 235.

ORANGE ART SOCIETY INC. meets at the Orange Cultural Centre, every Monday from 10.00am. Enquiries: David 0407 627 092.

ORANGE CROCHET / KNITTING GROUP meets in the bistro at the Orange Ex-Services Club, every Saturday from 12.00pm - 3.00pm and every Tuesday 10.00am -12.00pm. Enquiries: Karen 0419 616 251.

ORANGE LACEMAKERS meet at the front of the Orange Cultural Centre, each Wednesday from 1.00pm. Enquiries: Sandy 02 6362 7938.

ORANGE MALE VOICE CHOIR meets at Orange Regional Conservatorium, every Monday from 7:15pm – 9:15pm. Enquiries: David 02 6362 8218.

ORANGE OLD TIME DANCERS meet at the Senior Citizens & Pensioners Centre, every Tuesday from 7.00pm - 9:30pm. Enquiries: Alan 0407 062 979.

ORANGE SOCIAL DANCE GROUP meets at the Orange City Bowling Club, every Thursday from 6.00pm. Enquiries: Audrey 02 6362 0068 or Richard 02 6361 7718.

ORANGE SPINNERS & HANDCRAFT meets at the Orange Cultural Centre, every Thursday from 10.00am - 2.00pm.

THE CANOBOLAS HIGHLAND PIPE BAND meets at Legacy House, every Wednesday from 7.00pm. Beginners are welcome. Enquiries: Zoe 0421 379 423.

THE COME TOGETHER CHOIR meets at the Orange Regional Conservatorium, every Tuesday from 10.00am - 12.00pm. Enquiries: Vicky 02 6361 8156 or 0424 008 350.

ORANGE COLOUR CITY LINE DANCERS meet at the Orange City Bowling Club every Monday from 5pm till 7.30pm and Wednesday from 5pm until 8pm.

CITY OF ORANGE BRASS BAND, 62-64 Endsleigh Ave, Orange. Players of all levels and enquiries welcome. Enquiries: 0491 707 979. Facebook and www.cityoforangebrassband.com.au

CLUBS

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF ORANGE meets at Duntryleague, every second Monday of the month from 1:30pm. Enquiries: Tricia 0410 600 869 or iiw.au.orange@gmail.com

THE ORANGE SUB BRANCH OF THE NAVAL ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA meets at 11am on the third Sunday of every month at the Orange RSL Enquiries: Barry 0407 259 2756 or Peter 0438 413 531 or bcynical24@bigpond. com or peter.furguson12@hotmail.com

ORANGE LIONS CLUB MEET AT DUNTRYLEAGUE

Golf Club, on the second and fourth Thursday of every month from 6:30pm Enquiries/Membership: Pat 0407 217 600

ORANGE COIN AND STAMP CLUB meets at the Orange Community Centre, on the last Tuesday of every month from 7.30pm. Enquiries: Howard 02 6362 2368 or 0427 107 554.

ORANGE LADIES PROBUS CLUB Meets every 4th Wednesday of the month. 10:00am to 12:00pm Duntryleague Club. Enquires: Marlies 0418 440 512

IONIAN CLUB OF ORANGE (Women new to Orange) meets at Duntryleague, every second Thursday of the month, from 11.00am. Enquiries: Helen 0417 749 152.

ORANGE LEGACY CLUB o ce hours are 10.00am - 3.00pm Tuesdays to Thursdays at 58 McNamara Street, Orange. Enquiries: 02 6362 1205

ORANGE BRIDGE CLUB. Enquiries: Murray 0418 206 485.

BRIDGE LESSONS from 1.00pm - 3.00pm, every Wednesday. Enquiries: Chris 02 6362 3029 or Dorothy 02 6362 8218.

ORANGE CANOBOLAS LIONS CLUB meets at Duntryleague Golf Club, on the first and third Tuesday of every month from 6:30pm Enquiries: Lisa 0419 641 282.

ORANGE CAMERA CLUB meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Senior Citizens Centre, from 7.30pm. Enquiries: orangecameraclub@gmail.com

ORANGE EVENING VIEW CLUB meets at the Orange Ex-Services Club, on the last Thursday of the month from 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start. Enquiries: Anne 0478 124 276

ORANGE LAPIDARY & MINERAL CLUB INC meets at the Orange Cultural Society, every Wednesday from 9.00am - 12.00pm & 7.00pm - 9.00pm.

Enquiries: Kathy 0437 917 074.

ORANGE COIN AND STAMP CLUB meets at the Orange Community Centre, on the last Tuesday of every month from 7.30pm. Enquiries: Howard 02 6362 2368.

ROTARY CLUB OF ORANGE meets at the Ambassador,every Monday from 6.00pm for dinner. Enquiries: Len 0428 459 117 or contact@rotarycluboforange.org.au.

SCRABBLE CLUB MEETS at Giyalang Ganya, Community Services Building on the first and third Sunday of each month from 2.00pm. Enquiries: Audrey 02 6362 0068.

SOUTHERN CROSS STREET CRUISERS is a family oriented car club that would like to welcome any new enquiries for membership. Enquiries: Jason 0431 456 889 or Mick 0427 856 427 .

THE EUCHRE CARD CLUB meets at the Orange Ex-Services Club, every Wednesday from 7:30pm. Enquiries: 02 6362 2666.

ZONTA CLUB OF ORANGE INC. meets at Lord Anson Hotel, every second Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm. Enquiries: Frances 0407 952 675.

ORANGE BIRD SOCIETY meets at the Senior Citizens Centre, on the third Wednesday of every month from 7:30pm. Tony 0409 912 370 or 02 6365 8441.

THE ULYSSES CLUB OF ORANGE conducts weekly motorbike rides, leaving the Railway car-park, Peisley Street, on Wednesdays from 9.30am. Social dinners are held on the second Friday of every month. Enquiries: Lee 0414 881 178.

ORANGE BASIC DOG OBEDIENCE meets every Sunday during school terms at Waratahs 8.45am -10am. BYO dog, lead, treats and patience. Enquiries via Orange Basic Dog Obedience Facebook page.

ORANGE GARDEN CLUB

Meets the first Friday of every month at 11.00am. May-Sep (Orange Ex-Services Club) Oct-Apr (Local Gardens) Enquiries: Vicki 02 6362 1257

EVENTS

THE AMUSU THEATRE in Manildra has regular movie screenings. The Movie Museum is open every weekend by appointment. Enquiries: Joan 0418 452 902.

THE COMMITTEE OF ADFAS ORANGE & DISTRICT holds lectures at 6:30pm once a month in the main auditorium at the Orange Regional Cons. Enquiries: Anne 02 6361 3923.

FOR THE KIDS

ORANGE DISTRICT GIRL GUIDES meet at 365 Peisley Street, on a weekly basis, during School Terms. The units meet Mon - Wed from 5pm -6.30pm. Enquiries: Yvonne 0412 736 700.

THE MINIATURE RAILWAY PUBLIC RUNNING DAY takes place on the second Saturday every month at Matthews Park, Corner of Moulder Street & Anson Street, from 1pm4pm. Enquiries: Shane 0414 887 005

ORANGE STORYTIME is held at the Orange City Library, every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during school terms from 11.00am. Storytime and Craft. Bookings are essential. Enquiries: 02 6393 8132 or library@cwl.nsw. gov.au or eventbrite.com.au.

3RD ORANGE SCOUT GROUP. Meeting dates for Joeys, Cubs, Scouts, Venturer & older ages call for details. 3 Icely Road Orange. Enquiries: Scouts NSW, 1800 SCOUTS (726887)

HEALTH & FITNESS

BLAYNEY SMOKING CESSATION CLINIC at the Blayney MPS. By appointment only. Enquiries: Pam 02 6368 9000.

CHAIR YOGA for those who can’t get on the floor, meets Mondays at the Senior Citizens & Pensioners Centre, from 10:20am for a 10.30 start, until 11:30am. Enquiries: Kerrie 0418 235 495.

ORANGE TABLE TENNIS meets every Tuesday from 6:30pm at the Canobolas High School Recreational Hall, 142 Icely Road. Enquiries: Steve 0468 308 705.

THE O’BRIEN CENTRE at Bloomfield Hospital has activities each Thursday during school terms, from 10.00am - 2.00pm. $5.00 for the day. Enquiries: Je 0423 277 788.

TAI-CHI CLASSES Wednesdays at 6.00pm Enquiries: Tony 0409 285 807

CENTRAL WEST MEDIATION meets second Saturday of every month at Senior Citizens Hall 8:30am - 10:00am Enquires: 02 4315 2763

MARKETS / FAIRS

ORANGE COIN AND STAMP FAIR is held on the first Saturday of every month at the Orange Cultural Centre. Enquiries: Howard 02 6362 2368.

ORANGE FARMERS MARKET is on the second Saturday of every month, at Northcourt, corner of Peisley Street and March Streets (October to May), and the Naylor Pavilion, Orange Showground, Leeds Parade from (June to September). Gold coin upon entry.

Enquiries: Holly 0418 654 226.

BLAYNEY ROTARY MARKET is held on the third Sunday of every month at CentrePoint Sport and Leisure Centre, Corner of Osman and Church Street, Blayney, rain, hail or shine from 8:30am.

Enquiries: rcblayney@gmail.com

COWRA COMMUNITY MARKETS is held on the third Saturday of every month at Sid Kallas Oval, from 8am until noon. Phone 0473 346 046 for more information.

CUMNOCK MARKET Is held on the third Saturday of every month from 9.00 a.m. to 12 noon at Crossroads Park Cumnock (opposite General Store) Enquiries: Pat Gilmour – 6367 7270

MEETINGS

FOODCARE ORANGE is open Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 10.30am1.00pm and Thursday from 4.30pm - 6.00pm, at 142 March Street. Enquiries: 0447 577 884

ORANGE CAKE DECORATORS GUILD meets the second Saturday of every month at 1.00pm at the Senior Citizens & Pensioners Centre, 77 Kite Street. Enquiries: Janelle 0438 618 483 or 0427 659 194.

ORANGE RSL SUB-BRANCH OFFICE HOURS

Tuesday & Friday from 9.00am - 12.00pm at Orange RSL Sub-Branch (next to the Orange Ex Services Club). Enquiries: (02) 6362 1735

RAILWAYS RETIREES meet the last Friday of every month, at the Orange City Bowling Club, at 12.00pm. Enquiries: Lindsay 02 6362 5959.

VIETNAM VETERANS meet every Friday from 10am - 1pm at the Orange Ex-Services Club. Enquiries: Lindsay 02 6362 5959.

ORANGE TOASTMASTERS meets every second & fourth Monday of the month from 6:45pm for 7.00pm - 9.00pm, at the Orange Ex-Services Club. Enquiries: 0439 568 752.

THE META-COACH FOUNDATION (MCF) Orange Chapter meets on the first Wednesday each month at Shop 15 / 212 Anson Street from 6.00pm - 8.00pm. Enquiries: Shawn 0439 194 323.

ORANGE BRANCH OF RSPCA meets quarterly from 7pm at Orange City Bowling Club. All interested parties are welcome to attend. Enquiries: 02 6362 6171 or orangesupportergroup@rspcansw.org.au

SOCIAL GROUPS

BORENORE / NASHDALE MENS’ SHED meets every Tuesday from 9.30am, at the Orange National Field Days site, Borenore. Enquiries: Max 0418 498 708.

ENVIRONMENTALLY CONCERNED CITIZENS of Orange (ECCO) meets on the 4th Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm at the Environmental Learning Facility. Enquires: Neil 0419 224 461.

FRIENDS OF THE ORANGE BOTANIC GARDENS run a guided bird walk at the Orange Botanic Gardens, on the first Sunday of every month from 8:30am.

ORANGE WOMEN’S SHED meets every Friday at 9:30am - 1:00pm at Riverside Centre, Forest Road, Orange. Enquiries: 0439 609 849 or orangewsinc@gmail.com

ORANGE MEN’S SHED meets every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 9.30am3.00pm, now at the Lucknow shed venue. Enquiries: Alan 0475 250 779.

ORANGE TROUT ACCLIMATISATION SOCIETY meets the third Tuesday of every month from 7.00pm at Orange Ex-Services Club, in the Boronia Room. Enquiries: Barry 02 6362 0096 or 0427 620 096.

ORANGE & DISTRICT 40+ SOCIAL GROUP meets every Tuesday at Orange Ex-Services Club, from 7.00pm. Enquiries: Brett 0427 462 887.

ORANGE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meets the first Wednesday each month from 1:30pm. Enquiries: Janet 0427 450 346.

ORANGE WOODWORKERS ASSOCIATION INC. meets every Wednesday from 8:30am - 3.00pm, on the second & fourth Sunday of every month at the Old Coach House. Enquiries: Chris 0407 129 934.

THE CENTRAL WEST AMATEUR RADIO GROUP meets on the first Sunday of each month, except for January. Due to COVID 19, we have been meeting on air. Enquiries: Garry 0413 358 037 or arcwg@hotmail.com.au.

HEARTS & HANDS - CAFE CHAT. A place to meet others & practice spoken english, meets twice a month on Mondays at St James Presbyterian Church Matthews Ave, Orange. Enquiries: Margaret 0428 835 866 or Vicky 0401 292 335

SUPPORT GROUPS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ORANGE meets at the rear of Kenna Hall, 84 Hill Street, from 5.00pm Sundays, and from 7.00pm Monday & Tuesday. We also have meetings from 6.30pm - 8.00pm Thursdays at The Leisure Centre Bloomfield. Enq: Graham 0447 839 026.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP ORANGE meets every Monday 6.00pm - 7.00pm at St. Barnabas Church Hall. Enquiries: 1300 252 666.

ORANGE SENIORS CITIZENS & PENSIONERS groups meet regularly. Various classes are held. Enquiries: 02 6362 6592.

THE ORANGE PARKINSON’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP meets fourth Wednesday each month, 10.00am - 12.00pm at Giyalang Ganya, Community Services Building. Enquiries: Bernie 0434 504 414.

RED CROSS CLUB MEETINGS currently on seasonal recess. For any enquiries please call 0498 815 229.

ORANGE STROKE SUPPORT GROUP meets on the third Monday of every month from 10.30 am - 12.00pm at the Giyalang Ganya, Community Services Building. Please call before attending the group. Enquiries: Michelle on 1300 650 594 or info@strokensw.org.au.

ORANGE PROSTATE CANCER GROUP Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month (Except January & December) at Cafe Connect 107 Prince Street, Orange at 6pm Enquiries: Ray 6362 5257 or Charlie 6361 1830

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS (BEREAVED PARENTS) meet every third Thursday of the month at the Orange City Council Community Service Centre, 286 Lords Place, from 7.00pm to 8.30pm (odd mths). Every third Sunday 1.30-3.30pm, Duntryleague (even mths) Enquiries: Donna 0419 357 431 and Tammy 0417 482 688.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

ORANGE GROW GROUP (Mental Wellbeing Programs) meets every Friday from 1pm-3pm at the Orange City Council Community Service Centre, 286 Lords Pl, Orange. Enquiries: 1800 558 268.

LIFELINE provides all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to online, phone and face-to-face crisis support and suicide prevention services. Enquiries: 13 11 14 Email: info@lifelinecentralwest.org.au.

HEADSPACE ORANGE is a youth-friendly FREE service for anyone aged between 12 and 25 years who are having a tough time. Enquiries 02 6369 9300, or email hs.orange@marathonhealth.com.au

ORANGE REGIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION Networks, Berevement Group. Have you lost a son / daughter to suicide?. Do you need support or someone to talk to?

Enquiries: 02 6369 2030.

Register: Jane.Passer@health.nsw.gov.au

LIKEMIND ORANGE, STRIDE MENTAL HEALTH, 122-124 Kite Street. LikeMind is an innovative mental health service providing a ‘one-stop’ hub o ering support for all adults with mental health concerns, under one roof. No referral required.

Enquiries: 02 6311 1700.

LIKEMIND ORANGE hosts a free Mindfulness group with an experienced facilitator on Mondays during school terms. 9:30am –10:45am. Enquiries: 02 6311 1700 .

OPEN ARMS & ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITAL, RICHMOND holds a free workplace trauma PTSD support group at Legacy House, 58 McNamara St, Orange on the second Wednesday of the month from 10am – 1pm. Also a group for family members available. Enquiries: 0439 048 344 or sean.fitzgerald@dva.gov.au

Toby Roberts delightful coming-of-age memoir, Two Mums and a Dad, explores the angst of puberty, school, sport and bad 80s fashion.

“A hilarious coming of age story about surviving a sexually liberated mother in a hippie human zoo,” as one reviewer described it.

But beneath the humour and quirky characters — reminiscent of Netflix’s Sex Education series and just as awkwardly funny — lies a deeper reminder of the human need to pursue more authentic lives, and the capacity for people to surprise us by accepting love in all its forms.

Over time, the bravery and decency of Toby’s two mums wins admirers and supporters in unlikely places, from rugby-playing school boys to deeply religious stay-at-

reception@oclife.com.au Have something of interest to share?

home mums. Even Toby learns to see the value in his embarrassing childhood…

A former lawyer, banker, speech writer and session singer, Toby Roberts has written articles for major Australian broadsheets, and written a number of short stories which have been published in magazines, converted into podcasts and broadcast on radio. Two Mums and a Dad is his first book.

Meet Author Toby Roberts at the Orange City Library at 2pm this Saturday, December 3. Book you place via eventbrite.com.au or call Orange City Library on 6393 8132.

For most people, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration ,a time to reunite with family and loved ones — “Happy Christmas” is the familiar greeting.

But for many people, it is a reminder of loved ones who have passed on and instead the Christmas period can be a time of grief, loneliness and depression.

For them, it can be difficult to enjoy the festive season without feeling a sense of guilt.

And so churches and funeral homes have begun holding memorial services in recent years. These events are made to offer some timeout and a place where people can be with others without putting a fake smile. Time is quietly taken to remember the life of the loved one who has died.

Having done that, people feel much freer to move on and celebrate with family and friends.

Orange Uniting Church refers to their service as a “Service of Solace.” The word solace has to do with providing comfort in a time of sorrow or trouble.

For us creatives, it’s a special time to let the people in our life know we love them.

Why not give someone you love an original handmade gift this Christmas and give a gift that will last.

Colour City Creatives’ potters, glass artists, painters, weavers — all our creatives will showcase lovely things you can gift. There is nothing over $200 and most well under that, but a

creative and “priceless” gift.

There will be paintings, prints, ceramics, weaving, wearable art, cards, decorations and lots more!

Come along to the Scout Hall at 94 Kite Street, Orange, this weekend — December 3–4 — from 10am to 4pm and see what might tickle your fancy.

Colour City Creatives is a group of local artists inspired by the place we live in and we like to show it.

Those attending this service are invited to list at the door the name of the person or persons remembered. This name will be included in a time of prayer with an opportunity to light a candle in their honour. Those attending are also invited to bring a decoration or photograph which symbolises in some way the person remembered. This will be placed on an unadorned Christmas tree which will remain in the church until Christmas is over.

The service will commence at 6pm Wednesday, December 14 at the Orange Uniting Church, 217 Anson St, Orange. All are welcome.

For more information contact Rev. Andrew Cunningham on 6362 5788

Steve Petersen will also be available.

A tour is arranged to Bathurst Train Museum for February 8, 2023. Group entry is $10 and lunch is available there

A trip to the Royal Flying Doctor Base in Dubbo is being planned, and there is always a train trip to Stuart Town for a convivial lunch.

perfect yet and are costly mainly due to the chemical elements in the batteries.

EVs have amazing acceleration without any noise.

The smallest car costs about $40,000, $100,000 for a family-sized vehicle, and about $30,000 for a DC quick charger.

Hey fellows, get out the red shirts, antlers and red noses; it’s Christmas time! We’re having a party, so come along and enjoy the fun, fellowship and friendship of PROBUS.

A luncheon is planned at the Orange mEx-Services’ Club on December 7 at 12 for 12.30pm in the Green Room.

A Christmas dinner with three types of meat, Christmas pudding, and all the trimmings will be served — and expect a little entertainment too. Cost is a reasonable $32 — and you may pay at the

door, but if you haven’t done so, you must book in with Phil by calling 0411 117 390.

Hopefully, the clouds will clear, the sun will shine, the croquet field will recover, and the roads are open. There are lots of plans for the New Year, so stay tuned.

Director Brian Coyne has arranged an impressive lineup of speakers for 2023: In January, former Orange Mayor Reg Kidd will enlighten us; in February, Ray Fowler will speak on Dr Porsche’s life and cars; next will be Raymond Haynes on his career in AstroPhysics, and we hope Dr

Tim Leahey was our last guest speaker. He heads the Tony Leahey Motors business in Orange and Cowra, finds time to Chair Ronald McDonald House in Orange, and confesses to being “a bit of a rev head”.

Tim gave a most interesting talk, mostly responding to members’ questions about the car industry, especially the development of electric cars, which are not selling fast in Orange. He prefers the hybrid petrol/electric type and describes them as being more versatile. Many Companies are making EVs but none are

Charging on AC is much cheaper, but takes all night to charge up fully. The cost is mainly in cobalt, copper, nickel and lithium. There is no real service work –just a computer check. Service men must be specially trained to work on EVs, for technical and safety reasons.

The rising cost of power is working against EVs and they will have low resale (trade-in) value due to the lifespan and cost of batteries. The batteries can be a fire danger, and cost up to $8,000 to replace.

Tim was thanked for his presentation and received the gift in appreciation.

Quick Crossword Quiz

ACROSS

1 Suggests (7) 5 Expressing much in few words (7) 9 Terrific (9)

Caribbean Sea island (5)

Sequence (6)

Becoming prominent (8)

Red wine (6)

Most important; major (4)

Not false (4) 20 Commercial (6)

Self-government (8)

DOWN 1 Brew; steep (6) 2 Food cupboard (6) 3 Female name (8)

Places oneself on a chair (4)

Railway vehicle (10)

Objects for sitting (6)

No. 060 1 Who plays Eve Polastri in the UK spy series Killing Eve? 2 And what book series is Killing Eve based on? 3 In fan fiction, AU stands for what?

4 Ariana Grande (pictured) released what album in 2020?

5 What three main ingredients are used to make arrabbiata sauce?

6 In what decade was the National Heart Foundation of Australia established?

7 Is Oolong tea a black, white or green tea?

8 Who is the author behind the Red Rising trilogy?

9 The Oort cloud is named after which Dutch astronomer? 10 The study of mosses and liverworts is called what?

Water-surrounded land mass (6) 27 Florida port (5) 28 From Oslo, e.g. (9) 29 Sources of light made with wax (7) 30 Traditions (7)

Maritime (8) 8 Replenishing (a battery) (8)

Medications given to a patient (10) 16 Second-largest ocean in the world (8) 17 Large Australian spider (8) 18 Members of a trust (8) 21 Require (6) 22 Gambling house (6) 23 Ancient Greek figure of beauty (6) 26 Australian actor — Bana (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

James Sheahan Catholic High School Teaching Positions available

• Permanent full-time English and History Teacher, commencing 27 January 2023. • Permanent full-time Science Teacher, commencing 27 January 2023. • Temporary full-time History/ RE/ English Teacher, 27 January – 19 December 2023

Temporary 0.6FTE HSIE Teacher, 27 January – 30 June 2023

TIME WARP

with ORANGE AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Students operate their own bank

In an innovative move, students at Orange Rural School’s secondary department operated four branches of the Commonwealth Bank in 1957.

The banks were operated by the second-year commercial class and students would line up to make deposits. They had to balance each day’s business and a bank officer would collect the money each week.

Teachers said it taught children to save and gave the commercial class good training and developed selfreliance and integrity.

CROSS purposes

What if?

What if God is real? What if God didn’t create the universe to ‘set and forget’ or to simply observe dispassionately, but rather had a specific purpose and is deeply involved with his creation? What if that purpose is to draw from the humanity he created, a people to dwell in perfect harmony with him and each other in his presence for eternity? What if the membership criterion for that people is that

throughout every instant of your life your every action, word and even thought has to be in accord with God’s will and character? What if everyone will have to face God’s judgement on whether they met this standard, and experience his anger if they haven’t? What if God knew that no-one by their own determination or will would be able to meet the standard and his plan from the outset included a way for us to get around this insurmountable problem? What if that way is through the god-man Jesus? If so, wouldn’t it be a good idea to get to know him? You can check him out in the Bible.

With Nick Milham

Photo courtesy of the CWD Negative Collection, Orange & District Historical Society. The society holds a working day each Wednesday from 10.30am to 4pm at 148 March Street. Volunteers are available at that time to answer inquiries from the public.

A MASSIVE THUMBS

UP to Wilson Towing and Crowley Automotive for their incredible skill, knowledge and ingenuity in rescuing my car with a broken ignition switch barrel/steering lock under difficult circumstances. Highly recommended businesses with engaging people.

THUMBS UP to Weilys and their wonderful delivery service. Two cheerful and competent men who delivered and installed my new fridge. I will definitely choose you for any future purchases.

THUMBS UP to the crew at the Carriers Arms Hotel. We have attended two events there on busy nights and the whole night was flawless. The staff were smiling the whole time, and nothing was too much trouble for them. Our group had such a great night with a fun vibe. Thank you Carriers staff for always putting on a fun-filled night.

THUMBS DOWN to the cat owners in Bowman Ave who think it’s fine to let their cats out of the house to go and do their business in the neighbour’s gardens.

A BIG THUMBS UP to the couple who paid for lunch for three ladies in a cafe in the Orange City Centre last Friday. That kindness was a total surprise, but we were very grateful. Thank you!

THUMBS UP to Father Karl Sinclair and the entire team at Norman J Penhall Funerals for their professional, caring, and compassionate services. They really went above and beyond to help create a wellorganised, smooth running and dignified funeral for my late Grandmother, Miroslava. Highly recommend their services.

THUMBS UP to Dallas and his lovely wife at the “Upward Apostolic Centre” Orange for not only allowing for the memorial service for Barbara Joyce Davis to take place, but for organising the service. Dallas conducted the service, and his wife controlled the music and screen. Thanks from all those who love Barbie D.

THUMBS UP to David who works at Services NSW in Orange. Thanks for your excellent customer service.

THUMBS UP to Tristan who works at Harvey Norman in Orange. Thanks for your great customer care.

A MASSIVE THUMBS UP to Orange Hospital ICU for taking such great care of our mum In her final days after a sudden illness. Extra special thank you to nurse Bryden and Dr Dimity McCracken for the extra support you provided to our family. We will forever appreciate your support and care.

THUMBS DOWN to Orange Council. The pine tree coming into town is a disgrace. Is this the way we honour our Anzacs? The tree was planted to remember the men from Gallipoli. How about you lop the branches and show some respect?

THUMBS UP to Sam, a young man from Manildra, who picked up boxes and paper that had blown all over the main road as strong wind blew the bin lid open at the local service station. He picked up all the rubbish, walked back to the bin and made sure the lid was closed properly. Great to see community pride and spirit.

THUMBS DOWN – can someone please fill in the craters on the back of the hospital road before someone has an accident?

A BIGTHUMBS DOWN to all our TV stations – we have been in lockdown so long with COVID – the only comfort was watching our tv. But no, it was like we were put into a torture chamber watching repeat after repeat. How many times do we need to watch programs from years ago of The Block, etc, midday movies that come back on week after week. My goodness now back in black and white movies from the 1947-56 era. It comes to the horror of not turning the tv on or just having a nanny nap instead. Not all oldies can afford Pay TV.

A HUGE THUMBS UP to the young P-plater who stopped his car on the Ngumbadal/ Unity Bridge, Jilba Street. He got out of his car and ushered a mother duck and her ducklings across the road to safety. Well done young man.

THUMBS UP to Andrew Gee! I know it's easy to poly bash but this man has worked so hard with the gas crisis affecting Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon. And for the past two weeks, he has been a constant at Eugowra, helping out as well as keeping everyone informed.

A BIG THUMBS UP to Channel 7 News at 6pm. It is a pleasure to see and listen to the ladies reading The News and Weather forecast. Thank you. We also enjoy channels 9 and 10 normal programs.

THUMBS DOWN to the background music during entertainment programs where you can’t hear the conversations due to overpowering music.

A BIG THUMBS UP to the Rapid Response Team in Molong, on Monday, November 21. They were there at 8.30am giving out sandwiches, burgers, tea and coffee and helping wherever they could. Many of us had no power and couldn’t cook and it was great to have a warm meal. They wouldn’t accept any money for their good deeds.

THUMBS DOWN to all the drivers who reverse their vehicles without using their mirrors to watch for pedestrians. Are you idiots? Or incapable of using mirrors?

General disclaimer: Whilst every care is taken in preparing this publication, we cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The publisher accepts no responsibility for letters, notices and other material contributed for publication. The submitter accepts full responsibility for material, warrants that it is accurate, and indemnifies the publisher against any claim or action. All advertisers, including those placing display and classified or advertorial material, warrant that such material is true and accurate and meets all applicable laws and indemnifies the publisher against all liabilities that may arise from the publication of such material. Opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Senior Journalist, David Dixon, accepts responsibility for election comment. Articles contain information of a general nature – readers should always seek professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances. Complaints: Orange City Life has a policy of correcting mistakes promptly. If you have a complaint about published material, contact us in writing. If the matter remains unresolved, you may wish to contact the Australian Press Council.

© Copyright 2022 Orange City Life Pty Ltd.

Copyright in all material – including photographs and ads – is held by Orange City Life Pty Ltd or its providers and must not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the Publisher. Printed for the publisher at the News Print Centre, 26-52 Hume Highway, Chullora 2190.

Published by Orange City Life Pty Ltd ABN 14 649 575 333

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 legal reasons.

Thurs 1 st 10.30, 1.00, 4.15, 7.30

Fri 2 nd 10.30, 1.00, 4.15, 7.30

Sat 3 rd 10.00, 1.00, 4.15, 7.30

Sun 4 th 10.00,