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Here it is; our last issue of Orange City Life for the year! And it certainly has been an interesting one, with the lingering pandemic, foreign wars, supply chain issues and extreme weather events.

The year always seems like it’s slipping by so fast, but looking back this week and our �rst issue in January feels so very, very long ago… de�nitely a sign that I’m ready for a holiday.

But the new year will be here before we know it, and on that; take a moment to nominate a local unsung hero for the 2023 Orange Australia Day awards. It’s a great way to recognise some of the many people in our community who go above and beyond to make life a little better for others. Nomination forms can be found on Council’s website at www.orange.nsw. gov.au/australia-day or you can grab one at the front counter at the council o�ces in Byng Street.

Don’t forget our o�ce will be closed from Friday, December 17 until we reopen on January 5, 2023.

So, from all of us here at OC Life we wish you Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season! We look forward to bringing you all the happenings from around our city in 2023.

Until next year!

Jonathan Roe

Chris Watson shares some of his spectacular photos...

Not your typical Saturday ‘garage sale’

Emily Thompson caught up with the founder of the Orange Producers Garage Sale, Edlyn Lockwood, to chat about how it all began.

Hi Edlyn, I stumbled across the crop sale two weeks ago buying our usual weekend coffee from Bill’s Beans next door. It’s such a beautiful opportunity for local growers to not only sell their goods but to connect with their customers.

How did you come up with this

amazing idea?

Well, my partner Alex and his father have been in partnership together selling their fruit for many years under the trading name ‘Produce from Orange’. The business sells fruit and veg grown on their farm — as well as from neighbours and friends further afield — at markets in Kiama, Berry, Warriewood and North Sydney. All of these markets have a fabulous local following as well as a lovely sense of community and we really wanted this for our own community.

We sat on the idea for a while (oneand-a-half years, but who’s counting!) and then the opportunity to use the little courtyard attached to the back of Bill’s Beans came up and we thought better

get our backsides into gear and make this happen.

How long has the Orange Producers Garage Sale been running for now?

We started up on Saturday, November 5, and have been running every Saturday since then and so far the support from locals has been phenomenal! The whole idea of this ‘garage sale’ is to enable locals to buy the beautiful food grown and/or made right on their doorsteps.

And having it available regularly enough that it becomes part of the ‘weekly shop’ rather than heading to the supermarket to buy subpar food that’s been driven halfway around the country before it’s eaten.

How many local producers are currently involved? What can we expect to see if we pop by this weekend?

There are getting to be quite a few of us now! There is us, ‘Produce from Orange’ for your basic seasonal fruit and veg; ‘Primal Alternative’ by Melissa Y who bakes gluten-free, grain-free, ‘bad stuff ’ free — all the kinds of free — bread, bagels, biscuits and mixes; Dougal from ‘Boutique Garlic’ who grows all sorts of different heirloom vegetables and garlic;

SJ from ‘Second Mouse Cheese Co.’ who makes heaven in your mouth; ‘Fourjays Hazelnuts, which are now new season and so good, and all their delicious hazelnutty goodies; and Miranda who makes the most incredible bouquets of flowers… Last week we also had Alison and Scott from ‘Walkabout Berries’ with the most incredible, flavourful strawberries, and Robin from ‘Just Homegrown’ with topquality jams, preserves and pickles.

We producers are trying to work together to ensure that we can reliably offer our products each week even if we can’t attend the sale ourselves. This means that sometimes the setup might look a little different but we will do our best to make sure the regulars are always there.

What is in season right now?

Right now we are on the cusp of cherry season! Hurrah! The Orange season is still a few weeks away thanks to the charming weather we have been having, but, we know a farmer in Gulgong where it’s just a bit warmer and slightly drier who has supplied us with some pretty good earlyseason fruit. Garlic is also right in season now and we should have some lovely fresh garlic on offer.

Our friends in Canowindra are growing

great broccoli, lettuce, beetroot and radishes. Apples are still eating well and last but absolutely not least, honey!

We love our mini orchard at my house, I love plums the most, my hubby loves peaches and our daughters live on nectarines until the trees are bare. What are you looking forward to the most over the next few months?

Cherries! We reckon there is nothing better than our mid-season organic cherries. Considering the cold, wet start to the season the Kordias are looking promising and have incredible flavour when picked just perfectly ripe. This season has been a tough one on both the cherries and the stone fruit so we anticipate a light crop. We also love our figs; the first pick is looking pretty lean but hopefully, the season will improve after Christmas and there will be a good second flush!

The Orange Producers Garage Sale is being held every Saturday morning, from 7am-1pm in the Bills Beans courtyard at 148 Mclachlan Street, Orange.

To keep up to date, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

A small group of local growers and food producers have started coming together for Saturday morning ‘garage sales’ in the courtyard behind Bills Beans cafe in McLachlan Street. The idea is to make the purchase of fresh, locally grown fruit and vegetables easy, convenient and regular enough to be part of the weekly shop.

Orange Ex-Services’ Club’s fundraising appeal in the wake of the devastating flooding that swept through Eugowra has been met with overwhelming support, with the club now preparing to distribute more than $345,313 in donations to those in need.

Following news of the flood disaster, Orange Ex-Services’ Club (OESC) established itself as a donations hub, calling for people to donate goods, cash and gift vouchers to help those in need.

They were quickly overwhelmed with the support and had to cease accepting physical goods due to the sheer volume they received.

The broader Clubs industry too, got right behind the appeal with donations coming from clubs, big and small, all over Australia.

“Unbelievable and exceeded our expectations,” OESC Chief Executive Officer, Nathan Whiteside, said of the response.

“We are so proud of our club community in what has been raised from clubs, suppliers, individuals and industry bodies in NSW, Victoria and Queensland.

“Through the Clubs initiative, OESC has raised a total of $259,553 and not to mention the generosity of the community that has also raised a total of $85,760, on top of a large stockpile of physical goods from water, baby supplies and cleaning products.”

Over the past few weeks, OESC has hosted a number of Eugowra residents and the various organisations who provided evacuees shelter, food and accommodation.

“We got to meet some incredibly strong individuals who, when they arrived at OESC, had nothing but the wet clothes on their backs,” Mr Whiteside said.

“Orange Ex-Services’ Club Board and staff would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming response to our call for donations. The generosity of our community and the club’s industry as a whole is truly inspiring, and we appreciate everyone’s contribution to helping these communities rebuild.”

Mr Donato and fellow MP Roy Butler have both resigned from the SFF, citing comments directed at former Shooters colleague Helen Dalton by party leader Robert Borsak earlier this year.

Mr Borsak is alleged to have been recorded saying words to the effect that someone should have clocked her (Mrs Dalton).

“That was essentially for me the straw that broke the camel’s back, as well as a number of internal issues,” Mr Donato said, announcing his resignation on Monday.

“For 22 years as a police officer, I stood up to protect women from threats of violence, intimidation and mistreatment..

“I’m a man of integrity; I will never compromise my principles. I’ll always call out wrongdoing, and stand up for what is right – no matter who it involves.”

Mr Donato and Mr Butler had demanded Mr Borsak step down over the matter, but he refused to do so. Raising the matter at the party’s AGM on Saturday, December 10, “the party chose to circle its wagons around the leader,” Mr Donato said.

“The members voted on Saturday, to keep the current executive, So, you know, I’m a man true to my word, you’ve got to draw a line in the sand,

I’ve got principles, I’ve got values, I’ve got the beliefs and I’m prepared to stand up and support those principles and not sell out and toe a party that’s going to endorse that sort of thing,” he said.

Mr Donato said both he and Mr Butler had hoped the matter could be handled internally in the party and it is unfortunate that it had come to this point.

“I’ll still be a supporter of farmers, of lawabiding firearms owners, of fisher and anyone else who needs my help — that doesn’t change. That doesn’t change at all, but I just can’t do it with the party going forward,” he said.

As to how running as an independent will affect his chances at the polls in March, Mr Donato said that’s in the hands of the voters.

“Ultimately, I’ve got to do what I think is right, and this is the right decision. So that’s the question for the voters, obviously, come March,” he said, adding that from his perspective nothing will change in the way he represents the electorate.

“I’m here for Orange. I think I’ve demonstrated that over the last six years that I’ve been the local member, whether it be issues like health or education, or housing, or helping our farmers, or ensuring that our community doesn’t miss out on its fair share…

“That doesn’t change. I’ll be still doing the same things and working in the same way, I just won’t be under the banner of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party.”

Member for Orange, Phil Donato will contest the state government elections in March as an independent candidate after announcing his resignation from the NSW Shooters, Fishers and Farmers (SFF) Party on Monday.

Tree change brings rewards for Robin Hood’s Mark and Michelle

From beachside Kiama to the hills of Orange, the past six months have certainly been a change of scenery (and climate) for

Taking the helm of the hotel in May, the couple have quickly made the Colour City home and are looking forward to big things at the Robin Hood.

“It’s been great! It’s a nice town,” said Mark, who was previously managing the Corrimal Hotel, north of Kiama.

“I got here a week before Michelle, in the middle of May, and so just at the start of winter… what a welcome!” he jokingly added, referring to the difference in climate to his previous workplace.

“But in saying that, we’re in here working and we’ve got fires going; it’s warm,” said Michelle, who was running

the North Nowra Tavern before moving to Orange.

“And so we’re not spending too much time outside — which is fine!”

A real feather in the cap for Mark and Michelle was the Robin Hood being named the best regional casual dining venue in the western region by the Australian Hotels Association (AHA).

“It was fantastic, it’s great and a bit of a surprise,” said Mark. “We’ve only been here a short time and it’s based across the whole pub, of course. From the kitchen to bar staff, it was a team effort… all areas, good service, good food, good surrounds.”

Indeed, the judges’ comments have nothing but high praise for their dining experience:

“Lovely, enjoyable and comfortable,” they begin, describing their overall experience. “Staff were friendly, service was quick and serves were absolutely massive. There’s something for everyone at this venue by way of variety, menu, drinks, areas of hotel and most importantly; the kids. The free-entry play area is one of the best for the whole region…”

Not resting on their laurels, Mark and Michelle said there are big things planned for the Robin Hood in 2023. The new gaming room is due to be finished in

February, with the previous space to be converted into a new recreation area.

“Pool tables, more sports TVs… lounge area, a more casual space,” said Mark. “And then we will potentially look at the sports bar and renovate that; that’s the long-term plan.”

For anyone interested in trying their award-winning dining, Mark said they are launching a new menu this week, which has their popular favourite and a few new surprises.

“There’s a few exciting things on there,” he teased. “Just a couple of different dishes our chef has put on like a slowcooked lamb rump.”

Robin Hood Hotel general managers Mark and Michelle McCarthy.

Robin Hood Hotel general managers Michelle and Mark McCarthy

It’s all about family

AT FRIENDS FOR LIFE

It was a family tragedy, says Friends for Life Disability Service managing director, Julian Azzopardi, that motivated him to start the business, and it’s what is behind their mantra to care for everyone as if they were your family.

Founded in July 2021, initially in Wagga Wagga, Friends for Life Disability Service (FFLDS) is an NDIS provider offering support services and disability accommodation.

They have since expanded into Orange and Geelong, and have plans in progress to build brand new Specialty Disability Accommodation (SDA) in all three regional centres.

“So we’ve now got six properties that are being built for Speciality Disability Accommodation and a number of Supported Independent Living homes as well around three locations,” said Julian, who was in Orange recently for the opening of the FFLDS activities centre in McNamara Street, known as McNamara House.

Julian has extensive experience in the healthcare and health science sectors. He has launched and operated private clinics as well as large healthcare projects in Australia and overseas.

But it was his disappointment in the level of care his own family received that made him decide to find a way to do it better.

“My mother-in-law and father-in-law passed away shortly before, eight weeks apart from each other and I saw that they didn’t receive the care that I would have hoped,” he said

“So I wanted to do something about that myself and start a service that would treat people the way I’d want to be treated or have family members treated.

“So that is the mantra here; that our

staff and our participants are treated like family, that we care for them and don’t discount our services and take the easy road. We want to do the best for them, to give them the best life they possibly could have.”

From Melbourne himself, Julian said the service has expanded into regional areas as it is where he saw the greatest need for accommodation and support services, “Yeah, it was about demand,” he said, “Looking at the number of participants that are in need, number of new participants coming in each year, number of providers… So really it was about the greatest impact that I could have on a community.”

Currently operating five Supported Independent Living homes, Julian

said they are very close to getting development approval and construction certificates for new purpose-built SDA homes — homes specially modified to meet the individual needs of people with disabilities — in Wagga Wagga and Orange.

“But it is a long haul,” he said of the lengthy development process. “We’ve just recently received the construction certificate [in Wagga Wagga] but that actual property I purchased with a development approval already, so it was quite a way forward and it’s taken this long to get the CC.

“So it’s a lot of effort that’s required… a lot of effort, but for the benefit of the community.”

Founder and managing director of Friends for Life Disability Service, Julian Azzopardi

“A reminder that our land may be harsh, but she’s also beautiful,” posted Canowindra-based commercial drone photographer, Chris Watson, on his must-follow ‘Farmpix’ Facebook and Instagram pages.

Orange City Life has been an admirer of Chris’ work for some time and during the recent flooding disaster, we were able to share some of the truly remarkable images Chris captured of floodwaters around Canowindra.

He is currently taking orders for his 2023 Farmpix Photography calendars, which are full of stunning photos taken in better times over the past year.

And $5 from every calendar sold will go to the Eugowra Flood Disaster Appeal.

You can find the calendars online at www.farmpix. com.au/store/2023calendar or pick one up in person at Canowindra Post Office.

‘Our land may be harsh, but she’s also beautiful…’

2022

Community Building Partnership program

Phil DONATO MP State Member for Orange

The

Glenroi Heights school fire...

My thoughts went out to the students and staff of Glenroi Heights Public School last week after a fire ripped through the school’s administration building, which also contained its library. Despite the devastation the fire caused, the school was quick to minimise disruption to the students by pivoting to learning from home. I’m getting updates from the Department of Education and I hope the building can be repaired as soon as possible in preparation for the 2023 school year. My thoughts are with students, staff and families of the school.

Eugowra

public school awards presentation

I had the pleasure of joining the Eugowra Public School community last week, along with member for Calare Andrew Gee, for its awards presentation. The evening was thoroughly enjoyable and relaxed and finished with a sausage sizzle and some bare-foot bowls. It was a great occasion for the small, flood-ravaged community which has been through so much in the past weeks to come together and celebrate. Well done to the resilient staff and students for organising a great and very important night.

Thanksgiving Celebration and Presentation Evening Orange Christian School

Last week, I dropped-in to see the centre’s founder Paula Townsend, along with families and kids who benefit from the after-school care and education. I was pleased to have helped Paula succeed in obtaining recent funding to keep this important community service operating. Paula is devoted 14 continuous years to running the centre and is now seeing second generation children and families now attending. Paula has done an amazing job. Congrats Paula - well done

volunteers day

Monday, December 5 was International Volunteer Day, which acknowledges the important role volunteers, and the work they do, which essentially underpins our community.

The flood events across the Orange electorate have brought out the best in us, with many volunteers coming to the aid of the community. We couldn't have gotten through it, or for some - keep getting through it, without volunteers. To all volunteers everywhere, THANKYOU.

Orange Electorate a Merry Christmas and a happy and successful New Year. This year has been a challenging one for some of our communities and here’s hoping 2023 brings happiness and prosperity. Please note: my office will be closed from Friday 23rd December 2022 and will reopen Monday 9th January 2023.

I popped into Orange business Golfungym last week to check out this relatively new concept with 25,000 listed golf courses and meet with manager Alex Ross-Edwards and his staff to see how business was going.

Orange Police and Citizens Youth Club and the Orange Tigers Australian Rules Football Club were among the big winners in the 2022 Community Building Partnerships program with around $400,000 announced for the electorate last week. The Tigers have been allocated $30,000 to go towards their electronic scoreboard project, while the PCYC will put $14,694 towards upgrading it gym equipment. Orange Model Aircraft Club Inc will also upgrade their facilities after being allocated $16,040. It was great to be able to do my part in advocating for this funding. I congratulate the successful organisations and look forward to seeing the positive benefits these projects will bring for their communities.

I attended the Orange Christian School Thanksgiving Celebration for years 5 - 12 and presented the Phil Donato MP School Citizen of the Year Award to year 8 student Ebony Cooke.

Ebony also was awarded excellence in history, english, science, maths, visual arts, Auslan, technology and Yr 8 Dux.

Congratulations Ebony. A fantastic young lady with a bright future.

In just a few weeks' time the World’s tennis greats will descend on Melbourne for the Australian Open, one of the premier events on the Australian sporting calendar.

But for lifelong racquet sports lover, Chris Doucas, the real tennis action takes place a short walk from Rod Laver arena in the neighbouring suburb of Richmond.

Starting January 9, Chris will be competing in the Boomerang Cup, a team event in the sport of real tennis.

Also known as court tennis or royal tennis, real tennis is the ancestor of modern lawn tennis. Played on a walled court with an asymmetrical wooden racket and a cork-core ball, real tennis is notable for its truly dizzying scoring rules.

“It takes a couple of months to get used to all the scoring,” Chris said, explaining that he was introduced to the game after stumbling across a real tennis club while working in Hobart.

“I became a member and ever since then I've been addicted to it, because it's a very special type of sport, arguably one of the first organised sports in the world.

“And yeah, the scoring is quite amazing,” he said, before attempting to explain a few of the differences to

Anyone for real tennis?

Orange City Life.

“It starts off very similar to lawn tennis, you know, like sets and games and first the six, et cetera,” he began.

“But it's not like in lawn tennis where you serve out a full game and then you swap; there's no automatic swapping… in theory, if the conditions are right, the person could serve for the whole time.”

Unique in racket sports, Chris said, is that in real tennis, the ball bouncing twice does not win the attacking player a point.

“You are not penalised for it, but you keep track of where that mark was — and there's markings on the wall to designate that and it's called the chase,” Chris continued.

“So they keep a record of that (in yards) and it's these chases that actually determine how the serve changes. So this concept of chases, which is quite complicated at times. It changes the whole dynamics.”

Then there’s a window in the back of the court, which may or may not contain a picture of a Pope or church bishop, he continued.

“So that is a target and if you hit that target, you get a point,” he said.

“And on one side, there's a cowbell hanging on to the mesh that protects the spectators, and if you hit that cowbell, that's an automatic point… So there's many different ways of scoring points.”

Players of real tennis also receive a

handicap, like golf, he said.

Then there’s the court, with an angled wall on one side which also adds to the complexity of the play.

“The net, by the way, is the least of the player's worries in this game,” Chris said.

“It's a lot of the angles played like squash off corners and you’re trying to get the ball into a corner. So it's quite an interesting and dynamic game.”

With just a handful of real tennis courts in Australia, Chris has had to get creative with his training in the lead-up to the tournament in January.

“I practise on a squash court, to get the angles, especially the serve, and so that my shot in real tennis will actually die in the corner, not hit the back wall and bounce up,” Chris said.

A lover of all racquet sports, Chris said there is just something about the game of real tennis that’s very special.

“Look, I've spent over 50 years playing lawn tennis and that's probably my home base.. but I'm probably most excited about real tennis because it's just so different.”

The 2023 Boomerang Cup gets underway at the Royal Melbourne Tennis Club in Richmond, Victoria, on January 9 and concludes with a presentation dinner on January 21.

Show your pet how much you love them with care at Mulberry Lane Vet Hospital. Regular checkups and our very special offers make protecting your pet so easy – we help keep your pets as happy and healthy as they can be!

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!

30 years of volunteer service with Australia’s Supercars Championship.

An unapologetic motor racing tragic, Graeme’s love of the sport developed at an early age and it’s taken him around Australia and around the world.

“I’ve always liked motorcars, even when I was much younger, much to my father’s disgust,” says Graeme, who originally hails from the “Apple Isle”.

“I used to sort of hot my cars up a bit, with lowering and all that stuff,” he continues. “Anybody that knows me, knows that I’m a bit crazy with moto

racing, but I suppose there are a lot of other bad vices to have.”

It was actually motor racing that brought Graeme to Orange. Attending his first race at Bathurst in 1975, Graeme was a regular at the Mount Panorama circuit, but after being forced to find accommodation in Orange one year, he picked up a job and decided to stay.

It was in 1991, while flicking through an issue of the motorsport magazine Auto Action, that Graeme spied an advertisement looking for people interested in being flag marshalls.

“I rang up and It all started from there,” says Graeme, who worked his first Bathurst race the following year and he’s been right there at the starting line for every race since.

“And even now, when they’re revving up before they take off at the start of the race, I still get goosebumps,” he says

with a grin.

“I don’t know if it’s just the adrenaline and… when you’re up close to them, you sort of feel part of it. It’s just the hype with it all I suppose. They are big and loud and noisy — and the smell! Ah, yes!

“It’s probably a bit crazy for people that don’t like it; I appreciate that not everybody likes motor racing and watching cars go around and around, but that’s sort of my passion I suppose!”

It’s a passion that’s led to some great friendships, Graeme says, as well as some unforgettable experiences.

“I suppose working at Le Man (24-hour race in France) is the biggest thing –that’s the top of the tree,” he says.

Graeme and a friend flagged at Le Man in 2004 and 2008, and even got to walk the circuit ahead of the race.

He also flagged at the British Touring

Car Championship in Thruxton, England in 2011.

And just this November, he found himself waving the chequered flag to James Golding, when he broke the S5000lap record in an exhibition lap at the TCR International Round in Bathurst.

But in all the years he’s been watching races at Bathurst, there’s one driver that stands out above the rest – the “King of the Mountain” himself, Peter Brock.

“I’ve always been a fan of Brocky and in 1979 when he won by six laps — and to record the last the fastest lap on the last lap — is something that I don’t many people can compare with that,” says Graeme, who describes himself as a “Holden man through and through”.

“And he was a bit of a gentleman, or any dealings I had with him, I thought he was at the top of it here in Australia.”

Mullion Creek resident Graeme Crowden has been recognised for his

Orange

Hands-on holiday fun this school holidays

From arts and crafts to fun in the pool, there’s a huge range of activities on offer this school holidays that are sure to please busy parents and bored children.

Orange City Council has planned an engaging array of activities and events throughout the summer break to help families enjoy the outdoors and keep young minds entertained.

Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee Chair Mel McDonell said the programs cater for a range of interests and ages.

“There is something for everyone in Council’s school holiday program this year,’’ Cr Mel McDonell said.

‘’The public facilities have so much to offer and it’s great to see such a variety of activities to meet everyone’s needs.”

Young artists can enjoy craft workshops at the library, design and create their own currency while learning the history of the Dunera Boys at the Orange Regional Museum or even try their hand at creating their own cartoon mural at the Orange Youth Hub.

The ever-popular Lego Club will continue to run during the holidays, and there’s a special holiday movie screening planned to celebrate the 35th anniversary of The Princess Bride.

Children have a chance to get creative alongside their parents or grandparents at the Orange Regional Museum in January with the unique workshop, Showground Sketches. This intergenerational drawing workshop, facilitated by illustrator Alex Barnes Keoghan, will introduce children and their adults to drawing techniques and exercises while reflecting on the

artistic legacy and experiences of the Dunera boys, who were interned at the Orange Showgrounds in 1941.

The Orange Aquatic Centre will also be offering swimming lessons for all levels over the summer. Private lessons will also be available by request if space and instructors are available.

The gallery, museum, library, and youth hub have combined forces to create a combined school holiday activity calendar available online at www.orange.nsw.gov.au/school-holidays

Regional Museum’s exhibit Enemy Aliens:The Dunera boys in Orange,1941 tells the little-known story of 400 Germans and Austrians interned at the Orange Showground during World War II. The museum, library, gallery and youth hub have prepared a variety of holiday activities for the summer break

FIRE ARMS Memories byNED

When I was 12, Dad decided I was mature enough to own a rifle. After a thorough instruction period, I was told if I infringed any of these basic safety rules I would certainly be gunless. They were: don’t load until you are ready to fire; never ever point the gun at anyone; store it in a safe place; and keep it clean and oiled.

It was a Bayard single-shot hammer gun, fairly old, but the bore was good and it would shoot straight. When I took it out hunting, Dad would give me three or five cartridges so I learned early on not to waste them.

Dad told me not to fire until sure of a killing shot, to wound your prey was cruel and inexcusable. I never had any desire to shoot any birds or wildlife, only something classed as vermin such as rabbits, crows and foxes.

This association with firearms was helpful in later years. In those days nearly every country household had a firearm. It was possible to buy a handgun over the counter. Even though there was no Government control, firearm accidents were scarce.

When I joined the school cadets we were issued .303 Army rifles, mainly for drill purposes. As I progressed to the rank of Sergeant Major, I was allowed to take it home. We were never issued with live ammunition of course, but a relative was an armourer in the Air Force. His job was to load the guns on the fighter planes, so with his help, I had access to ammunition. These guns were loaded with a sequence of ball, tracer, explosive, armour-piercing and incendiary. We had a great time trying them out in a gully nearby.

All this was a great apprenticeship when I went Jackarooing (Ah! the freedom of those days). All vehicles carried a gun, on the tray behind the seat or on the back seat, some even had a rifle bucket attached to the front door. The only request from the Police Sergeant was, while in the town area, to remove the bolt and put it in the glove box.

One day I was told to take the ute to town

to post some mail, pick up some drums of dip and drench and bags of flour and sugar and some sundries for Cook. On the way home I saw a big spotted wild boar pig among some lambing ewes; a ewe was manning a hopeless attempt to protect her newborn lamb but the pig was determined to have lamb for dinner. I drove up as close as I could. As he was too interested in what he was doing to notice, I left the ute for a closer shot, but he moved as I fired and I only creased him. This annoyed him considerably and this is where the fun started; he spotted me and charged. I was never much good at sports but I sure moved that day! As I shut the door, he hit the side and attempted to demolish the ute, he soon tired of this and trotted o , that was when I put him down. I saved the lamb but all I got was a mighty fright and “two bob” Government bounty for his snout and tail. The worst part was because I had no witnesses I had to forfeit my bragging rites.

Now on a lighter note, let me tell you of the two Hillbilly brothers from a valley in Tennessee. They had lived all their lives in this valley growing corn, raising pigs and making moonshine. They had never been out of their valley. One day while hunting, they went further than before over a ridge into the next valley and, lo and behold, below stretching out was a new four-lane highway. Around a bend in the highway came a motorbike rider, exhaust echoing through the hills thoroughly enjoying riding on the new highway. Up came the old hunting rifle and BANG! The bike on its side bubbling away, the rider spread-eagled on the road.

One brother asked, “Did ya’ get him Lem’?

Lem replied, “Dunno, but I sure made him let go of that man”.

Regards, Ned

LIFEandTIMES with

ANGUS GIBB

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR:

It is now that time of the year. Everything is winding down. There are a lot of ‘lasts’ for many of us. The last day of work. The last day of school. The last game before Christmas. The last week in the house. The last Christmas in Orange. The end of a year brings many of us to a point of reflection. We think back over the year that was. We may smile at a memory. We may feel our stomach lurch as we recall a conversation we wished had gone better. We may feel utterly exhausted. As you reflect on all that has happened this year, would you say it was a good year? A bad year? A ‘meh’ year? Whatever the case, we are nearly there. In three weeks’ time we will be in 2023 and 2022 will become a thing of the past. In all of this though, what have you learnt about yourself? I really hope that as you’ve read through these columns you have had opportunities to think and reflect on who you are or what it is that makes you tick. Perhaps you’ve been challenged. Perhaps you haven’t. I hope in all of this though, that

you have had the opportunity to reflect on our life and times. Because this is what these columns are all about. To give you the space to pause for a moment and consider who you are and how you perceive the world. I am writing from the perspective of someone who believes in Jesus Christ as the one who has rescued me. It is this truth that makes me tick and shapes what I do and why I do it. It may seem like a strange, outdated or even unintelligent worldview for someone to have, but I believe that this worldview makes total sense. It’s because everything rests on who God is and what he has done, rather than what I must do. That is an incredibly freeing notion and one that may seem too good to be true. But in this case, it is true. This is what the Apostle Paul captured so beautifully in Ephesians 2:8-9 which says: ‘For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.’

When this truth clicks, it is truly wonderful. Maybe you would like to explore this more. If that is the case, you won’t be disappointed. So, as we consider the end of another year and the promise and expectation of the year to come, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of those who have followed these columns. I have certainly enjoyed writing these each week. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe and blessed New Year and I look forward to another year of thinking about our life and times. God bless.

“All it takes is three centimetres of water…”

Royal Life Saving issues warning after surge in summer drownings

A record-breaking summer for drowning deaths last season has prompted an urgent warning from the Royal Life Saving Society–Australia for people to be water safety conscious in, on, and around water over the summer break.

In 20 years of fatal drowning data, last summer (2021/22) had the highest number of deaths on record, with 145 people drowning across Australia and 55 people in NSW alone.

The week between Christmas and January 2 was the deadliest period for drowning deaths.

Royal Life Saving Chief Executive Officer Justin Scarrr said it is critically important that an adult is actively supervising children at all times near water, whether it is an inflatable pool, a backyard pool, a dam, river, beach or lake.

“Children can drown in only three centimetres of water, silently within just 20 seconds. Keep Watch and keep children within arm’s reach,” he said.

The Royal Life Saving Society’s has five top tips to enjoy the water safely this summer:

• Always supervise children around water

• Avoid alcohol around water

• Wear a lifejacket when boating and fishing

• Know the conditions

• Avoid going alone

“We want everyone to have a great time around the water, and go home safely at the end of the day,” Mr Scarr concluded.

Auction and livestock sale puts #rebuildmolong campaign up $143,000

An online auction organised by Molong residents Stuart Hobbs and Paul Glynn has raised a staggering $143,000 for the #rebuildmolong campaign.

The GoFundMe fund was set up to raise money to restore and repair local sporting infrastructure damaged in the recent flooding.

Stuart and Paul put together an impressive list of 34 lots for the auction, which took place on December 8–9 through the online sales platform, AuctionsPlus.

Bulls, rams and other auction items were generously donated by local farmers, businesses and individuals and included some special items which had never been up for auction or sale before.

“The money is utterly staggering,” said Emily Ellis, one of the organisers of the #rebuildmolong campaign.

“But it’s more than that. It’s country people backing their home. It’s community connections becoming stronger and it’s hope.”

Donations to the #rebuildmolong fund can be made via www.gofundme.com/f/help-rebuild-molong

Paul Glynn and Stuart Hobbs

RUBEN LOPEZ MESA

A lot of people have been asking me what we do in Spain during Christmas. The answer to that is we love catching up with family and friends, plus consuming our body weight in food and drink during the festivities!

Big differences? First of all, it’s winter over there, so there are more indoor traditions. Secondly, the length of the Christmas season is longer, starting the week of December 24 and finishing around January 6.

These are the three main event dates: December 24 — Christmas Eve dinner: a big family feast with a long night ahead.

December 31 — New Year’s Eve: a big dinner and drinks gathering with the main goal of waiting until midnight. Then, as the clock strikes midnight, we have the most important cultural tradition in Spain, the ’12 grapes tradition’. This is the one where everyone eats one grape per second during the first 12 seconds of the year. It is one of those traditions where we all wish for a little bit of luck for the following year. After that, the family gathering usually goes on until really late, sometimes we even finish in the churros place at five or six in the morning.

January 5 — The magic night of the ‘three wise men’. It is basically the same tradition that Santa is here in Australia, but with a more religious approach to it. Kids love going to the local parades, where they see colourful carriages, music, jugglers, animals, lollies everywhere, et cetera. And, on January 6, kids get up in the

morning with the presents under the Christmas tree.

Christmas in Spain is definitely a season where family and friends always come first. Where Spanish bubbles and rich treats always appear on the table. Where family living overseas surprise Mum in order to give her a special and memorable night. And where suddenly we become better human beings and we help people who need a hand.

Whatever your background, religious point of view, or political affiliation, Christmas brings people together and we all, independently of our social class, do the same. In fact, there is one thing that unites Spanish people all

around the planet during Christmas festivities. Today I’m going to share that with you: we love eating a treat called ‘turrón’.

What is turrón? Well, it is one of those Xmas treats we took from the Arabic influences in Spain, usually made with almonds and honey. The English word for this is nougat, and they are soft or hard versions. I have to be honest with you; I have never been a big fan of these two, but ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved the chocolate version of turrón! It is actually really, really easy to make (sort of like a fancy chocolate cracker). Hope you give this one a try and don’t hesitate to let me know how you went.

Recipe: Turrón de chocolate Ingredients

- 180 dark chocolate

-150 milk chocolate

- 50 g lard or butter

- 70 g rice bubbles

Method

- Place a saucepan filled with water (half of it) and turn the heat on.

- Put a metallic bowl on top, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. (This is called a bain-marie)

- Add butter, dark chocolate and milk chocolate and melt everything while stirring with a spatula.

- Once everything is melted add the rice bubbles and stir it until all is well combined.

- Prepare a rectangular takeaway container with a piece of baking paper.

- Pour all the mix inside, and press with the spatula making sure there are no gaps with bubbles.

- Leave it in the fridge until fully cooled down. Slice it and serve.

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

Merry Christmas!

There have been some incredible stories coming out of Eugowra, Molong, Cudal and Canowindra.

Stories of devastation and tragedy, and stories of courage and selflessness.

√ $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

Stories of survival against great odds, like that of Smithy and Bootleg, and Ed the Sheep.

And stories of heroism despite the great danger… A list so long, I’d need a book to write them all.

They’re all stories of true Aussie spirit.

The tsunami smashed through many communities our area.

While it tore apart our towns, it has also brought people together.

It’s been wonderful to see so many folks from our region and from afar step up, lend a hand, and dig deep to help those who’ve been devastated in the floods.

Thank you to everyone who’s given so generously. It’s greatly appreciated.

The rebuilding task is massive, and it’ll take more than a Christmas miracle to get through.

If we stick together and keep on keeping on, these stories won’t remain tragedies, they’ll be stories triumph. Visit my Facebook page to hear some of these incredible stories.

Andrew

MOLONG RAIL BRIDGE UPDATE

The cleanup and rebuilding in Molong continues. When I was in Molong recently I stopped by the bowling club and saw the full extent of the damage to this wonderful community facility.

With three storm and flood events this year we can’t expect residents and businesses to keep going through this. It’s too much.

The NSW Governments needs to urgently fix the rail bridge over the creek (plus the road bridge) and modify them to get the water flowing and stop them backing up in big rain. We can’t stop major storms but we can minimise the impacts.

Enough is enough. We can’t keep doing this. Fixing the rail bridge will greatly lessen the impacts of storms/flooding.

I’ve raised this directly with the Premier requesting urgent action be taken, to prevent this happening again!

CONGRATULATIONS HSC STUDENTS!

After 13 years of schooling - that’s about 2,500 days behind a school desk! – the Class of 2022 have received their ATAR scores.

A lot of fingernails were no doubt nibbled down as year 12 students logged in on Thursday morning to see their HSC results – it’s a nervewracking moment, to be sure!

Since I was at school, blackboards have become smartboards and notepads have been swapped for laptops, but there’s one thing that hasn’t changed, and never will.

It’s the knowledge that, no matter the number achieved on your HSC, what counts more is the courage you have to pursue your dreams, and

HENRY HOSWELL, A EUGOWRA LEGEND

Henry Hoswell is 91 years old.

On that terrible Monday, Henry woke up with water running through his house.

the hard work you’re willing to put into achieving them.

Your score is not the be-all and end-all, and there are plenty of paths available to get to where you want to go.

During some of their most important schooling years, the Class of 2022 battled lockdowns and persevered through many many months of online learning. They should be so proud of their efforts and achievements as they enter this new chapter of their lives!

achievements

Congratulations, Class of 2022! Remember, it ain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it.

RFS ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

I know it’s only a small thing, but I have to say I was pretty chuffed to get Rookie of the Year at our RFS brigade’s Christmas party on Friday night!

Even though fires have been fortunately few and far between in recent times, it’s been pretty hectic with the storms and floods.

√ $1.2 million for CCTV in Orange, Bathurst and Wellington

and

√ 42 mobile phone towers and base stations across Calare

What followed was an ordeal which lasted hours and as he quipped today, he didn’t even have time to have breakfast! Trapped in a house that was afloat and being pushed through Eugowra by a torrent of water, Henry’s police and SES training helped him stay calm make the the right decisions that saved his life. That and a few good country tunes! He is currently staying with his daughter, Ann, in Orange.

pushed through Eugowra by a

The full video is available on my Facebook page. You will be as amazed as I am by yet another incredible story from Eugowra!

From pulling people out of flood-hit cars in Orange, to the craziness of Cudal on that Sunday night and the cleanup work in Molong and Eugowra, our members have been busy. So it was great to stop and pause for a couple of hours and hear what everyone had experienced through this extraordinary time.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Christmas Stories

That piece of doggerel was penned in 1931 by one of our early Bush Poets and it vividly captures the essence of an Australian Christmas.

The Oral History group shared its memories of Christmas some time ago and many of them involved fire, flood and heat.

How confusing it must have been for some of our forebears who arrived from the northern hemisphere and discovered a topsy-turvy world where the seasons were completely opposite to what they had known all their lives.

As John, who migrated from England in the sixties, said:

“It is so very different in the UK. It doesn’t get light until about 9am and is dark again by four in the afternoon, and in between it is pretty murky, so much of the day is spent indoors.

“I remember as a little child in wartime, the government issued a thing called a ‘Morrison shelter’, which was a kind of table made of steel and which was supposed to protect you in an air raid. We used to sit at this table to have our Christmas dinner and on one memorable occasion I had the mumps under the Morrison shelter.”

Russel spoke feelingly of the heat in an Australian Christmas:

“We ate a hot dinner in a small kitchen, which was warmed up by a fuel stove at a temperature of over 100 degrees and at night we slept outside on the lawn,” he recalled.

“I remember all our relations coming to spend Christmas in our little flat above the garage. It was so hot that everyone lay on the floor on the lino to cool off,” agreed Dick.

Fire featured largely in the Christmas

C.J. Dennis from “A Bush Christmas”

memories of many of our group.

“I had just left school and my brother and I were driving home to Mum and Dad’s place through the bush and turning a corner we saw a massive glow in the sky. We spent Christmas day and most of January fighting the fire,” Tim told us.

Tom was in the air force in Victoria in 1943 when, at about 10am on Christmas morning, an announcement came over the loudspeaker for volunteers to fight a nearby grass fire.

“We fought it with beaters which were long sticks with leather attached to the end. We were rewarded for our efforts by the ladies in the area who served us a wonderful lunch.”

Russell, who has a fund of good stories, all of which he swears are true, told about:

“A massive fire which we had spent all Christmas morning fighting near Warialda. We went into town in the afternoon as we were running out of water and we knew there was an old well in the grounds of the courthouse.

“We found that the valve at the bottom of the well wasn’t working although the downpipe was still intact, so it was decided that we needed help.

“Someone was sent into the Commercial

Hotel for a volunteer and came out with a rather intoxicated customer named Percy who was introduced to the offending pipe.

“There was much discussion about ‘bad air’ at the bottom of the well, so it was proposed to hang a billy can with a lighted candle from our volunteer’s foot and if the candle went out we would know the air was not good.”

Percy’s job was to climb down the pipe while attached to a safety rope to free the foot valve, Russell explained.

“When he was down about 12 feet the pipe ended and he struck oil, unexpectedly continuing his trip down unassisted by the pipe. There was a sudden ‘cooee’ and a massive splash and we yelled, “Are you alright Perc?”

A wail came back: “Yeah, but I think there might be bad air down here!”

Apart from fighting fires most of the group remembered the family gatherings at Christmas.

Dot and Monica’s family always went to their Grandma’s in Wellington and, “all slept in a row on the floor.”

At dinner, there was hop beer and ginger beer and pudding with threepence and sixpence.

Daphne had a huge family dinner with all the relatives and ate food grown in their garden.

Elma’s mother was one of seven girls and all the families gathered together on their sheep station, while Pat also remembered how happy she was to have everyone together.

Doreen’s fondest Christmas recollection was the happy time she had with her cousins after lunch, climbing the mulberry tree and sitting there eating as many mulberries as they could fit into their already full stomachs.

But it was Leslye who reminded us all that the festive season is not always the happiest time for some people.

She was home alone all one Christmas Day, when her family, who were travelling down from Queensland, were unexpectedly stopped by floods and couldn’t get through.

“For the first time in my life I spent the day entirely on my own,” she told us.

“It was strange. I could hear the frivolity and gaiety from my neighbours on either side, but I spent the whole day inside because I felt ashamed that I was by myself and had no one to celebrate with.

“It made me realise just how many people must be alone all year but at Christmas, it is so important to have people with you.”

Over the years, the Oral History group has delved into the past and has often come up with treasure. We have had thoughtful and worthwhile discussions combined with much laughter. Perhaps in the new year, we may be able to meet again.

Meanwhile, have a very happy Christmas!

Copyright Helen McAnulty

The sun burns hotly thro’ the gums, The chirping of the locusts comes across the paddocks parched and grey. “Whew!” said Father, “What a day!”

Welcome the New Year in spectacular style when Orange’s free New Year’s Eve party lights up the Civic Square North Court from 6.30pm on December 31.

With a focus on the community, Light Up Orange 2022 will feature local musicians and food vendors, as well as a spectacular light show and projections by Stephan de Wit set to illuminate the gallery wall and shade sails.

Orange Mayor Jason Hamling said

this event has been provided to encourage family and friends to come together to celebrate the incoming year.

“Light Up Orange 2022 gives everyone the opportunity to come together on a picnic rug or chair to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends on the last day of the year,” Cr Hamling said.

Orange City Council received funding from the NSW Government

LOCAL COUNCIL AT WORK

through the Reconnecting Regional NSW program to support the event.

“This year we have plenty to celebrate and I invite everyone to come down and welcome in the new year with live music and a laid-back style.”

The alcohol-free event will feature live performances from local solo artists Megan Woods, Eli Stanford, Dubbo hip hop group Riley & Ah-See, and Orange’s own O’Donnell 3.

You can take a picnic, but attendees are encouraged to support the local food stalls that will be there, including Orange Pie Co, the Tuckshop Tucker Truck, Spilt Milk and Spuddz.

Spaces are limited so tickets need to be purchased prior to the event via Try-Booking https://www. trybooking.com/CELQW

The event will be fenced for ticketing. The limit is 2000 people and the event finishes at 9.30pm.

A rebu al

The goodenough parent

with Emily Thompson

That’s a wrap!

You know those TikTok lunchbox clips? The ones of mothers packing themed bento boxes with sushi that looks like a bear and carrots cut into stars? If you’re like me and these horrify you beyond belief then let me tell you, this is your week to shine!

This week’s lunch trend is two packets of chicken crimpy shapes, a cheese and bacon roll, a mars bar (full size) and $1 for an ice block at the canteen. I can hear your protests now, that you can’t not artfully decant shapes into Yumbox sections as you’ve done all year.

Well, I’m here to tell you that you DON’T HAVE TO TIP ANYTHING OUT, JUST THROW THE WHOLE PACKET IN AS IS. There are no consequences for you now. Your child’s teacher has already written their report. Your child has written their last “what I did on the weekend” snitch-fest. Presentation day is done. This last week is a wild, lawless time of half-assed parenting.

Here’s the thing; your eldest child abandoned uniforms in favour of their Year 6 jersey a month ago, right? Well, guess what? There’s nothing stopping your Year 3 child from wearing an Eels jersey this week. Your kindergartener wants to be Rudolph all week? Go for it! Socks don’t need to be school colours or even matching and the term “shoes” can be used loosely. Even the most diligent teachers have given up enforcing uniforms by now.

You need to do school pick-up on Thursday afternoon already dressed as a �amingo for drinks with the hockey team that night? No problem! You do drop-o� on Friday morning in your nightie, hungover as hell, using your eye mask as a headband? There will be no judgement; we’re all just limping through together to the weekend.

This brings me to the �nal point I will make for 2022: endof-year gifts. As an ex-early childhood teacher, let me tell you the three best gifts you can give.

Write an email to the principal letting them know how wonderful your child’s teacher is. Describe all the amazing things they did and how special they made the year for your family.

Give a handwritten letter to the teacher. Let them know you see them. You understand they put their own money and time into the class this year and everything they did to help your child learn. Thank them. I promise you they will keep this forever and re-read it on bad days as a reminder of WHY.

Or something your child made. A letter or card from the older kids and a drawing or craft from the younger ones. A funny �ll-in-the-blanks quiz about their teacher or even a photo you’ve taken during the year with the teacher and their class.

The best presents cost nothing but your time.

So enjoy these last few days of the last week of school for the year and then cherish the rest. I’m hoping for weather warm enough to swim every day, a calm Christmas with family and report cards that aren’t too harsh on my parenting.

Catch you next year xxx

The good-enough kids

By Miss Eight and Miss 14

You may have read a lot of dirt about us from our mother this year, but the joke’s on her; we have dirt on her too. Like speeding when we are three minutes late (because she’s still doing her make-up even though she’s only coming back home to write things about us in her dressing gown). Yelling “Where’d you get your license!” at cops when they are reversing up a hill (just leave them alone!). Do you know how many times I’ve (Miss 14) had to stop her from getting arrested? Miss Eight is usually on board with her crazy antics. Or when she tells us to wait for dinner, but I catch her stu�ng a mars bar in her face while stirring the pot full of disgusting soup. Oh, Mrs 42 (even though you tell everyone it’s 32), WE KNOW YOUR SECRETS!

In the mornings, she looks like the ogre from Shrek. And I actually mean Shrek, not princess Fiona. But she acts more like Sleeping Beauty, only waking up after she drinks the triple-shot mocha I give her. Did we mention she is on a �rst-name basis with the menu-log driver, just like I’m on a �rstname basis with all the baristas at Bill’s Beans, because she makes me run in there every day of the week to fetch her co�ee?

If you read our mum’s writing regularly you might have read about how Miss Eight constantly asks questions every time we watch a movie? Well, maybe if the movie wasn’t Deadpool, Jackass or Me Time she wouldn’t have to ask questions about the inappropriate dialogue and acting!!

Oh, did you know that during dinner Mum

makes us try everything on our plates, but somehow the peas don’t make it onto her plate...

She makes empty threats daily, especially when our dog barks at the cats all night. “I’m selling this dog to the RSPCA,” we hear every morning. But who’s going to eat the leftover overcooked sausages you cooked and then refused to eat?

Then there’s the, “I’m donating your favourite clothes to the homes for the homeless people”. Yeah. As if, Mum. They cost you $30, and you’d never sacri�ce that money.

My favourite moment this year was the afternoon Mum picked us up from school and announced we were going out for milkshakes… before driving us to the dentist for check-ups. She thought this was so funny, she pulled a similar stunt the next week.

“Girls, we are going out for ice cream!” she told us. We were both ecstatic! But, truth be known, we were booked in for �u shots…

Lastly, let me tell you about our annual family championship. Having read so much about our craziness, you’ll probably have some wild ideas about this particular event.

Well, let’s just say that by the age of nine we’ve been kicked out of O�ceworks six times. Surprisingly, Dad is still the reigning champ of our annual o�ce chair race!

Our family life might be a little bit insane, but Mum’s de�nitely fun to have around. We both love her, despite her craziness, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Orange Open Air Flood Flix fundraiser

— HENRY DEROOY —

It was a night of live music, great food and drink, capped off with an outdoor screening of the Christmas rom-com favourite Love Actually. Orange Open Air’s Flood Flix fundraiser in the Civic South Court on Thursday, saw all the ticket proceeds go to the Eugowra Flood Appeals as well as money made in a live auction on the night.

Molong Car, Bike and Truck Show

The roar of engines filled the normally quiet streets of Molong on Sunday, December 11, where a car, bike and truck show was held to raise money in the wake of the devastating floods. Attendees enjoyed the beautiful cars, food stalls, a live auction and much more.

Laura Evans, Victoria Blinkhorn and Alexia Blinkhorn

Leah Mortimer, Flora Mortimer, Julie Mortimer and Tasley Mortimer

Peter, Kristine, Georgia, Sonia with Joseph and Jacqueline Russell

Danni Smith, Elsa Presslaber, Claire Fox and Charlotte Gundry

Emma, Joey and Isabella from The Agrestic

Catherine, Michael and Nicholas Hennessy

The Hillbilly Tours

Santa and one of his elves

Sonja Kirchhoff and Eric Johnson

Baden Hart with his BA

Aaron Chapman, Della Tuiminatai, Lilliana, Kynan Barnes and Taylah Sargent

Tammy Harvey and Vicki Shearing

— MICHELLE PETERS —

Canowindra’s Summer Sunday Sessions back at the Bowlo!

aving taken a three-year break, Sunday Session founder, Eleena Markcrow of Canowindra Music & Events Co, decided the timing was right to get live music back to the Bowlo.

“The monthly events started back in 2018 as some drought relief for everyone in town and to have a space for the community to engage in a conversation about the weather, good and bad times, and general catch-ups while we supported live music in the region,” Eleena said.

“In the three–year break we have been through bushfires, flooding and COVID, so it seems like an appropriate time to get people back together for some time out.

Musicians are busting to get their music heard and we are here to support that, too,” she added.

Thanks to support from Carlton & United Breweries, Eleena has put together three shows over the coming months.

It’s a small step back into the live music scene

and all about building community, she said, with each show having a community group running the barbeque for a bit of local fundraising.

The first Sunday Session features local singer/ songwriter Megan Woods, who has been building quite a following in the Central West.

This year saw Megan drop her first original single, ‘Shirt on the floor’ which has been getting regular radio airplay on Triple M.

“Just the first of many songs to come!” Megan said, who hopes to release an EP in 2023.

“I have been working hard with Craig Honeysett at Dotted Eight Studio here in Orange and loving every minute of working on my own original music. I have been working hard to push myself forward in a direction that I have wanted to achieve since I was a little girl.”

Megan’s hard work was acknowledged at the recent Dotted Eight Music Awards, where she won, not one, but two award categories.

“This was a huge honour as I know the 8-year-old

girl in me would have been jumping for joy to know that I was finally making some waves in the music industry,” she exclaimed.

“I’m so lucky to have so much support in the central west. And over the last 18 months where I have taken my music from being a musician to an artist has been a real treat.”

So what can you expect to hear from Megan at the Bowlo this Sunday?

“So many songs and such a mix!” she said. “From Fleetwood Mac to Melissa Etheridge, The Beatles, Rod Stewart, Dolly Parton, Shania Twain and so much more including some of my own songs.”

If you enjoyed the Sunday Sessions ‘back in the day’ then don’t miss out and come enjoy the good times at the Canowindra Community Bowls and Recreation Club this Sunday, December 18.

Sunday Sessions are a family-friendly event and there’ll be a kid’s arts and craft table, raffles and a courtesy bus. The barbecue will be run by the Canowindra Junior Cricket Club.

Sunday Sessions at the Bowlo are back! See Megan Woods this Sunday, December 18 from 3-6pm, live and free at the Canowindra Community Bowls and Recreation Club.

Friday December 16

Mortimers Wines

School’s Out for Summer Live & Kicking, 4.30 - 9.30pm

Railway Hotel, Spring Hill Live music with Jamie Cooper, 6pm

Buckinbah Park, Yeoval Yeoval Community Christmas Dinner, 6.30pm

Metropolitan Hotel Pete Naylor live from 8pm

Greenhouse of Orange Henry Saxby live in the Piano Bar from 6pm Mak & Shar on the lawn from 7pm

UPCOMING EVENTS

DECEMBER 23

Greenhouse of Orange — Kent Eastwood in the Piano Bar, Barrabas on the lawn

DECEMBER 24

Hotel Orange — Christmas Eve

Greenhouse of Orange — Christmas Eve Entertainment

DECEMBER 30

Greenhouse of Orange — Lionel Robinson in the Piano Bar, Gary Johns on the lawn

DECEMBER 31

The Blind Pig — Black Party NYE

Northcourt — Light Up Orange Oriana Hotel — New Years Eve at the Oriana Greenhouse of Orange — NYE Entertainment

School’s Out for Summer Live & Kicking

Saturday December 17

The Blind Pig

Live and Local: Kevin Laso 2pm

Club Millthorpe Carols on the Green 7pm

The Exchange Hotel, Blayney Live music featuring Tameeka 7pm

Stockmans Ridge Winery Live Music Saturdays, 1pm

Metropolitan Hotel Terry Lovett’s Rock n Roll Disco from 8pm

Greenhouse of Orange Hustle and Heart on the lawn, 12pm Kent Eastwood in the Piano Bar from 6pm Rough Diamond on the lawn from 7pm

Sunday December 18

Greenhouse of Orange

Brad Myers on the lawn from 12pm

Musical bingo from 3pm

Kent Eastwood in the Piano Bar from 6pm

Metropolitan Hotel

5 O’Clock Shadow in the Beer Garden from 8pm

Curtain Up! Civic Theatre launch packed 2023 program

It’s fair to say the performing arts were heavily affected by COVID, but things are certainly looking up in 2023, with the Orange Civic Theatre officially launching next year’s packed season program.

Attended by about 200 eager theatre-goers, the Orange Civic Theatre held an official launch of their 2023 program – under the title “Let’s Shout!” – last Thursday, December 8.

It’s the first in-person launch the theatre has held since before the pandemic.

Launching the season, chair of Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee, Councillor Mel McDonell, said Orange Civic Theatre continues to attract large numbers of patrons from Orange and the wider region.

“Alongside the important bricks-andmortar infrastructure that every local council has to provide, I’m pleased that Orange City Council has a great record in building and continuing to support our community’s cultural life,” Cr McDonell said.

“Places like this theatre continue to enrich our community and make Orange

a fantastic place to live.

Cr McDonell praised the theatre management on the upcoming season.

“The theatre management has done a fantastic job putting this season of shows together, and I’d encourage local theatregoers to make sure they get in early for tickets,” she said.

This season’s highlights include something for everybody. There’s the return of internationally renowned theatre company, Bell Shakespeare with Twelfth Night.

Live music fans will be charmed by artists, Konstantin Shamray and Hania Rani who will be dazzling audiences on the piano.

The best stand-up comedians from The Sydney Comedy Festival and The Melbourne Comedy Festival will return to make crowds wild with laughter.

Children will be enthralled by fun and lively performances, such as Roald Dahl’s The Twits, Possum Magic and Mr Stink.

For something provocative, Silence, produced by Karul Projects and BlakDance, is described as a show which can “pull the unresolved conversations from under the rug and slam them back on the table... because the conversation about a treaty will never be silenced.”

If you’re somebody who likes to support local talent and see familiar faces onstage, our very own Orange Theatre Company will be putting on performances of School of Rock and Footloose.

Complementary memberships (formerly known as a subscription) are available for people who book at least five season shows in advance. Members’ benefits include first choice of seating, discounts and notice of other events at the theatre.

Paid memberships are available for $35 allowing the purchase of discounted tickets and benefits for the entirety of the season.

Surprise birthday bash for Bec!

Bec

Well,

— HENRY DEROOY —

Jones was given a surprise birthday by family and friends on Saturday, December 10 Guests travelled from as far as Nelson Bay to help her celebrate her special day…

an early celebration for Bec, who’s actual birthday falls on Christmas Day.

Anthony and Bec

Bernie and Bec

Bec with her parents Mick and Doreen

Helen Willmott (Sydney), Bec and Olga Treston (Nelson Bay)

Katrina, Bec, Cree Diduzco with Janet Mclean

Bek Jones, Keeley Stewart, Bec, Ana Paula Silva and Sally Cain

Bec with her grandchildren

Janet Mclean, Bec, Justin and Justine Landers

Ristin Jones, Charles Jones, Bec, Nathan Jones and Mitchell Jones

Carols by Candlelight

— CEC TILBURG —

On Saturday, December 10 people of Orange and surrounding areas gathered around Northcourt for an evening of carols and Christmas cheer. It was a night of singing, dancing and lots of joy!

As another year draws to an end, now’s a great time to do a quick five-minute financial health check.

And if you need a little bit of motivation to do so, have a think about this: How many years have you already been working?

How many years until you’d like to retire? Just imagine how much money has already passed through your fingers. Do you feel like you have enough to show for all your hard work? Does this make you think seriously about what you need to do to make the most of the working years you have left to set yourself up for when you hope to stop working?

Here are a few quick questions to answer to get a handle on where some of the gaps may be in your financial plan…

Q1: Do you have clear financial goals? Statistics show that you could potentially create 9 TIMES more wealth by formulating clear goals, writing them down and reviewing them on a regular basis.

Q 2: Do you know your net worth? Your net worth is your assets minus your liabilities and gives you a clear picture of what you have achieved financially. It helps you see where you are now and see the path required to where you need to get to.

Q 3: Do you have a system for tracking your spending?

Most of us have a pretty good sense of what money’s coming in, but it’s common these days for people to not have great oversight over where their money goes. This is perhaps the greatest difference between those who do well with money and those who don’t.

Q 4: Do you know your debt trajectory? Debt is almost unavoidable for anyone who wants to own a home. However, how much you borrow, what interest rate you pay and how long it takes to pay it back, can mean hundreds of thousands of dollars difference in the long run.

Q 5: Are you maximising your super? Super is so poorly understood, but it needn’t be that way. It’s actually pretty simple… it’s just a tax-effective way to

own investments that will help pay for your retirement. And you have enormous control over it. Use it to your advantage and you will likely retire well. Ignore it at your peril!

Q 6: Are you investing wisely? Many people invest on gut feel or follow what others they know do, or, these days, are guided by social media. Others just never get around to investing. Like with super, investing is easier than you probably think. Invest wisely and you can take advantage of the power of compound returns.

Q 7: Are you properly protected? Insurance is one of those things none of us love paying for. But some are more important than others. If you have a

partner and/or dependent kids, and if you have an income that you couldn’t live without, then not being properly insured leaves you exposed to financial ruin in the event something goes wrong. Get protected!

Q 8: Do you have a will?

Statistics suggest that around half of all adults in Australia die without a will. What a mess that leaves! None of us want to think about dying, but getting a proper will (and some other estate planning measures in place) is thinking about those we leave behind.

If you can’t categorically answer “Yes” to all of these questions, then that would suggest you have some important things that need to be addressed. Then, the question becomes how long will it be before you take action?

Of course, you can stay in denial and keep doing what you’re doing in hopes that your problem areas will just miraculously fix themselves. Alternatively, you could jump online or give me a call and book an appointment for the New Year for a free initial consultation with a local, independent financial adviser. Book in now and then give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy Christmas knowing you’ve taken an active step towards a financial future that you’re in control of.

A five-minute financial health check… It could be the most important five minutes of your life.

Cheers, Daniel

ADVICE & EDUCATION AFSL 520963

OPEN HOUSE

SAT 17th DECEMBER 12.00pm - 1.00pm

Moulder

Orange

Executive style in the tightly held Cook Park precinct

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.

3 Agate Street Orange

CONTACT AGENT

Five bright and beautiful bedrooms in North Orange

38 Kinghorn Lane Huntley

CONTACT AGENT

Tranquil and lovely- with extra income

Within an easy drive of Bunnings, North Orange Shops, The Botanic Gardens, the Adventure Playground and Waratah sporting grounds. This lovely home has been designed with livability in mind. The pleasing neutral palette and nine foot ceilings emphasize the light and airy feel of this lovely home. Offering plenty of space , this generous home includes a formal lounge/dining room adjoining the lightfilled foyer. which could also be used as a media room. The landscaped backyard has established, low maintenance

SATURDAY 11.00 - 11.30am OPEN HOUSE

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.

SATURDAY 10.00 - 10.30am OPEN HOUSE 312 a b c a b c a b c FOR SALE 1855 Acres $1300 per acre Near North Parkes

another 1195 Mercadool Road Walgett

LEASE ALL OFFERS CONSIDERED

but which FOR SALE $900 per acre Mixed farming agricultural enterprise. 2844 Acres, border with River and Creek. There is also a 4 bay garage, 3 stand shearing shed, 1 set of sheep yards and shearers’ quarters.

downstairs rumpus area 223 Farnham Road Stuart Town 142 Acres

three good 3633 Bogan Road Goonumbla “Coraki”

multiple living FOR SALE $850,000 Housing allotment subjust to DA approval

VICTORIA MUNRO SCOTT MUNRO

and there is a huge mudroom with store cupboard as well. CONTACT: JACOB EVANS 0428 130 789

PERFECT PARNOO Here is

buyer looking for a low maintenance lifestyle in an attractive area close to the gorgeous Botanic Gardens and North Orange Shopping Centre. The spectacular gardens are a botanical delight themselves having been established over many years and designed to be easy care as well as beautiful. The home is stylish with a formal lounge and lovely open plan living that both open onto the covered al fresco area that overlooks the inground pool and is perfect for entertaining with blinds and fans added. There are four great sized bedrooms with the master suite having an ensuite and walk-in robe and there is a three-way bathroom with spa bath perfect for unwinding

OWNERS ON THE MOVE It looks like a sweet country cottage from the outside but looks are deceiving for this family home. Not only is this home close to Kinross Wolaroi School but it is also spacious and airy with something for everyone. The master bedroom is every parent’s dream, featuring a brand-new fully renovated ensuite and a ‘Kardashian-Level’ walk-in wardrobe. All of the bedrooms are enormous, able to accommodate large beds easily and can double as a second living area if required. In the heart of everything is a combustion wood heater which keeps the home toasty warm and there are two additional split systems. There is a lovely feeling of space towards the back of the home due to its elevated position which is also framed by a stunning elm tree, allowing for beautiful westerly sun in winter and shade in summer. You’ll love sitting out on the elevated deck enjoying your cuppa. The yard is very low maintenance, with great access down the side, and there is plenty of shed space. CONTACT: MICHAEL WRIGHT 0421

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.

Molong is a well-established town located 20 minutes from Orange with a vibrant community. Well-serviced by schools, healthcare, shops and boutiques, restaurants, cafes and pubs. These 2 blocks have elevated views in an alreadyestablished quiet area, have full town services available and are ready to build on in early 2023. They are within walking distance to Molong Central School.

9.30-10.00 21 Roselawn Drive 4 2 2 $859,000 10.15-10.45 6 Parnoo Place 4 2 2 $980,000-$1,030,000 10.15-10.45 12A Botanic Way 3 1 1 $579,000 11.00-11.30 6 Kamdell Place 4 3 2 $829,000 11.00-11.30 14A Emily Place 3 2 1 $589,000 11.45-12.15 15 Anson Street 4 1 2 $660,000-$680,000 12.00-12.30 7 Sepik Place 4 1 1 $649,000-$669,000 12.30-1.00 68 Icey Road 4 2 6 $699,000 12.45-1.15 20 Franklin Road 5 2 2 $629,000-$649,000 1.15-1.45 2 Crinoline Street 4 2 2 $669,000

OPEN INSPECTIONS

with ORANGE PROPERTY MARKET

11.00 - 11.30am 16 Fox Avenue 3 1 1 $630,000 12.00 - 1.00pm 99 Bathurst Road Contact Agent 10.00 - 10.30am 12 Oak Street 3 1 1 Contact Agent 11.30 - 12.00pm 9/198 Byng Street 3 1 1 $550,000

10.00 - 10.30am 28 Seymour Street 3 1 1 Contact Agent 11.00 - 11.30am 3 Agate Street 4 2 2 Contact Agent

10.00-10.30 47 Sundew Circuit 4 2 2 Contact Agent 10.15-10.45 15 Benelong Place 3 1 1 $589,000 10.45-11.15 46 Tynan Street 3 1 3 $529,000 11.45-12.15 90 William Maker Drive 5 2 2 $935,000-$965,000 12.30-1.00 6 Thomas Brosnan Way 4 2 4 $660,000-$680,000

Quick Crossword Quiz

ACROSS

DOWN

No. 062

1 From what cereal is pumpernickel made?

2 Who did Monica Bellucci (pictured) play in The Passion of the Christ?

3 What comic strip did Jim Davis work on before Garfield?

4 The endocrine system is a system of what in the human body?

5 What is the term for a baby ferret?

6 What colour is cadmium?

7 The Nobel Prize was established in 1895 in which country?

1 Salt lake bordered by Jordan, Israel and Palestine (4,3) 5 Domed building (7) 9 Fake (money) (11) 10 Bodily fluid (3) 11 Sick feeling in the stomach (6) 12 Country in Horn of Africa (7) 14 Modify (4) 15 Broad aspect ratio used in film (10) 17 They protect the eyes from the glare (10) 19 Unwrap (4) 20 Cure-all (7) 22 Opposite of givers (6) 25 Tree that drops acorns (3) 26 Not made clear (11) 28 Give the nod to (7) 29 Cat breed (7)

1 Floor of a ship (4) 2 Excessive admiration (9) 3 Locations (5) 4 Body of water to the East of Italy (8,3) 5 Fish eggs (3) 6 Relating to the natural emblem of a clan or tribe (7) 7 Its capital is Kathmandu (5) 8 Restraining oneself from doing something (10) 12 Clichés (11) 13 Daughter of Zeus (10) 16 Town in Western Australia (9) 18 Varnish (7) 21 Nude (5) 23 Australian marsupial (5) 24 Brink (4) 27 Seeing organ (3)

Theme:

No. 062 Edgeword

EF FL

before addition

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: Mark 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

ORANGE RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm at the Orange Ex-Services Club. Enquiries: orra2800@gmail.com

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

“Wonderful News!” reports Samaritan’s Purse “Operations Christmas Child” local coordinator, Robyn Hicks.

At monthly working bees over the past year, volunteers from Orange and surrounding districts have packed 1,441 shoeboxes full of toys, school supplies, and fun gifts, which are now bound for children in need overseas.

Shoeboxes from Australia and New Zealand will be distributed in Cambodia, Fiji, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vietnam, Robyn said.

“We thank all those that made items, donated items and packed shoeboxes.” Robyn said, on behalf of her team.

“Image their bright smiles as the children open their shoeboxes!”

Jubilee planting to honour the late Queen

CUMNOCK MARKET ON THIS

The Cumnock Market will be held this Saturday, December 17, from 9am to 12 noon at the Crossroads Park Cumnock (opposite General Store).

With lots of fabulous country cooks our fresh cakes and biscuits are legendary!

So too are the jams, chutneys and pickles.

There are stalls with beautiful craft items that will make great Christmas gifts.

The local honey is always popular, and there’s excellent coffee available across the road at the General Store.

If it is raining, the market will be held under cover. Visitors, or anyone wishing to have a stall, can get further information from Pat Gilmour - 6367 7270

Orange Garden Club recently planted a tree in Robertson Park to mark the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who gave seventy remarkable years of unbroken service as monarch.

With the help of Orange City Council, the club determined that a Quercus Rubra, or Red Oak, would be a suitable choice. The tree, which was sourced locally, is fast-growing and long-living with a height of 25 metres when fully grown. Winter temperatures in Orange will allow the dark green foliage to turn a maroon-red colour in Autumn.

The Queen herself planted a tree in Robertson Park during her visit to Orange in 1954, which still stands on the eastern side of the Rotunda.

During her lifetime it is believed that the Queen planted in excess of 1,500 trees.

This year, 2022 has affectionately been dubbed the ‘treebilee’ and is part of the Green Canopy initiative, launched by King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) in May 2020 when he planted an oak

sapling in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

The Queen showed a keen interest in conservation during her lifetime, so this initiative will remain another lasting legacy of Her Majesty.

Orange Garden Club wishes to sincerely thank Nigel Hobden and Dean Sutherland from Orange Council for their support of this project, as well as the committee and members of our club who have fully supported the idea from the outset.

Orange Garden Club will celebrate its 30th birthday on February 3 next year with its first meeting of the year in the Botanic Gardens. It is hoped some of the original members will be in attendance along with present members to celebrate this special milestone. The club presently has in excess of 100 members.

administrative tasks. You would be working with a small friendly team in a busy environment. This opportunity will be ideal for anyone planning a career in finance, superannuation or insurance, providing entry level support, ongoing training and mentoring while you learn on the job.

If you feel this maybe for you please forward resume and covering letter to enq@firstchoicecu.com.au attention Denise McDonald by 23rd December, 2022. 2/18 Sale Street Orange NSW 2800 02 63622 944

We are seeking a Parts Coordinator to join our team in Molong This role can be learnt on the job It involves but is not limited to packing of parts, organising the freight for outward goods, helping troubleshoot with customers, and keeping the workshop in good order Computer skills are required

This is a full time position, 38 hour week and start times can be discussed

Please refer to our website for position descriptions and to apply: davimacgroup com au Apply to hr@davimac com au or call our office on 6366 8584

We are seeking a Advertising Sales professional with a passion for

In Loving Memory...

Passed away peacefully at hospital on 11 October 2022, aged 84 years.

Elaine Margaret Rawling

Beloved wife of John. Loving mother and mother-in-law to Grant and Michelle, Scott and Felicity. Much loved Grandma to Sarah, Krystal, Alec, Samantha and Thomas. Loved sister to Valmae (deceased), Carol, Dianne, Trevor and Mark (Boulton family)

Brian Ivan Wright

11.8.1937 ~ 17.12.2017

e face we love is missing, e voice we love is still, e hands that did so much for us Are resting at God’s will

Eternally missed

Barbara, Cath, Steve, Andrew and families

Colin Tilst

14/12/1945 - 18/12/2010

And in every move I make, Lie the memories I have of you at I never will forsake.

Dad, Sadly missed along life’s way, Quietly remembered every day … No longer in our life to share, But in our hearts, you’re always there.

Love Pam, Allison, Paul, Tania, Mark and their families. Mick, Eileen, Be y, Sid and Denise.

We love y Dad, always. Kylie, Stephen & Christine and family

Today is lled with memories with happiness and tears, of Christmas celebrations we’ve started. And though we will always miss you and the endless joy you brought, warms our hearts with gratitude and lls our every thought. We feel that you are with us in everything we do. So we will celebrate Christmas, but we will spend it missing you.

Mum, Dad, Tanya, Mark, Marly and Ange

Douglas John Hateley

21.2.1951 ~ 30.12.2018

God called your name so softly at only you could hear And no one heard the footsteps of angels drawing near e golden gates stood open God saw you needed rest, His garden must be beautiful He only takes the best F ever loved Sue

Fond Memories

TIME WARP with ORANGE AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Dec 15: Thaao Penghlis, actor, 77. Don Johnson, US actor, 73. Greg Matthews, cricketer, 63. Adam Brody, US actor, 43. Kirsty Lee Allan, Dubbo-born actress, 38. Ashleigh & Nicole Sykes, Dubbo’s twin soccer stars, 31.

Dec 16: Liv Ullmann, Norwegian actress, 84. Benny Andersson, of pop group ABBA, 76. Benjamin Bratt, US actor, 59. Georgie Parker, actress, 58. Miranda Otto actress, 55. Zeljko Kalac , soccer player, 50. Flo Rida , US rapper, singer, 43. Axle Whitehead, singer, actor, 42.

Dec 17: Pope Francis, church leader, 86. Tommy Steele, British singer-actor, 86. Michael Edgley, entertainment entrepreneur, 79. Bill Pullman, US actor, 69. Sara Dallin, of Bananarama, 61. Giovanni Ribisi, US actor, 48. Milla Jovovich, US actress, 47. Matt Canavan Liberal politician, 42.

Dec 18: Keith Richards, Rolling Stone, 79. Steven Spielberg , US film director, 76. Gillian Armstrong , film director, 72. Andy’ Thomas, astronaut, 71. Frankie J: Holden, singer, 70.

Ray Liotta , US actor, 68. Brad Pitt, US actor, 59. Rachel Gri ths, actress, 54. Bridie Carter, McLeod’s Daughters actress, 52. Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario, Spanish tennis player, 51. Sia Furler, singer, 47. Josh Pyke, singer-songwriter, 45. Katie Holmes, US actress, 44. Christina Aguilera , US singer, 42.

Dec 19: Kevan Gosper, Olympic athlete, 89. Richard Alston, former politician, 81. Lisa Wilkinson, TV presenter, 63. Mike Lookinland, The Brady Bunch actor, 62. Kristina Keneally, politician, 54. Alyssa Milano, US actress, 50. Ricky Ponting , cricketer, 48. Jake Gyllenhaal US actor, 42.

Dec 20: Ray Martin, TV personality, 78. John Bertrand, America’s cup-winning sailor, 76. Uri Geller, Israeli psychic, 76. Ken Duncan, photographer, 68. Deborah Hutton, media personality, 61. Jonah Hill, US actor, 39. JoJo, US singer, 32.

Dec 21: Phil Donahue, US TV talk show host, 87. Jane Fonda , US actress, 85. Doug Walters, cricketer, 77.

Samuel L: Jackson, US actor, 74. Chris Evert, US tennis player, 68. Ray Romano, everyone loves him, 65. Kiefer Sutherland, US actor, 56. Karrie Webb, champion golfer, 48. Adam Harvey, country singer, 48. Tom Sturridge, English actor, 37.

Self-service comes to Orange

From small beginnings in the 1950s, supermarkets are now a part of life in Australia. This week’s photo shows East Orange’s first supermarket, operated by Mr and Mrs Eslick in Endsleigh Avenue, in October 1957.

They had been trading in the same location as a grocery business for seven years before making it a mini supermarket. Hundreds of customers used the self-service facility on the first day.

Photo

10.30am to 4pm at 148 March Street. Volunteers are available at that time to answer inquiries from the public.

The team at OCLife will be taking a well-earned break over the holiday period and our office will be closed 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 advertising requirements for 2023, contact Marg on email marg@oclife.com.au

courtesy of the CWD Negative Collection, Orange & District Historical Society. The society holds a working day each Wednesday from

Ray Martin

A MASSIVE THUMBS

UP to the staff at Petbarn and Mulberry Lane Vet Hospital who went above and beyond as they all desperately tried to save our red cattle dog. Our much-loved dog suffered a fatal medical episode which has broken our hearts. The team members at Petbarn phoned ahead and helped lift our dog into our car. The Mulberry Lane Vet Hospital staff ran and carried her quickly inside and gave her care until she quickly lost her life. We are inspired by your loving actions in what turned out to be a very traumatic morning. Thank you all, from the Jarvis family.

A HUGE THUMBS UP to Kinross Wolaroi performing arts department. The Festival of Nine Lessons and carols held at Holy Trinity Church last Sunday was exceptional. What talented staff and students you have!

THUMBS UP to Orange Basic Obedience and Kennel Club for donating a number of large bags of dog food to the Eugowra flood victims. Such a tragic time for these people and every bit helps.

THUMBS UP to Orange’s Spilt Milk Bar, who operated their van at last week's Molong Christmas market night. They very, very kindly gave away their products at no charge, instead asking all customers to dig deep and spend their money at local stalls so their money went into Molong businesses. Well done to the owners of Spilt Milk!

A MASSIVE THUMBS UP to the Opal Aged Care Centre (formerly known as Cherrywood). My mum was admitted into this facility a year ago. Margaret, Val, Chandelle and all the nursing staff are all amazing, the place is clean and tidy and very friendly. I can’t thank you enough. I highly recommend this aged care home.

THUMBS DOWN to the driver who — on Saturday, December 3 — hit another car whilst leaving the Kmart carpark on Byng street and just kept driving. You ripped their bumper off. Shame on you. They were given your rego.

THUMBS UP to Andrew Gee for his strong stance on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Our Indigenous brothers and sisters are long overdue to receive meaningful reform and progress.

THUMBS DOWN to the National Party for their archaic stand and failure to close the gap in the last successive terms of government.

THUMBS UP to the wonderful first aid officer and her assistant at Coles Orange when I had a medical episode at the checkout. Bettina was so kind and caring and looked after me until the ambulance arrived. Thank you also to the paramedics. I am so grateful to you all.

THUMBS UP to the Council staff and contractors who are getting all the rampant grass under control. We see you battling metrehigh grass and thank you so much for your efforts. Keep up the good work.

THUMBS UP to the lovely and very honest young lady who discovered a wallet on the ground upon exiting the Summer Centre. Struggling with groceries and a baby bundled in her arms, she bent down, picked it up and promptly headed for the IGA counter and proceeded to wait in line to hand it in. However, an extremely rude man stormed over and snatched it from her and abruptly exclaimed, “that’s mine!” He would have clearly seen she was trying to hand it in. So, a big thumbs down to that arrogant, rude man for basically hissing at her instead of commending her.

A BIG THUMBS UP to Gasweld Orange – great customer service and aftersales support.

THUMBS UP to Troy and Tammy from Irwin’s Jumping Castle hire for donating jumping castle hire to the Glenroi school community for the event at the Youth Hub while the school was non-operational. Such wonderful community spirit. Thank you, Irwin’s!

THUMBS UP to all the OCLife readers, the OCLife team wish you all a Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing you in 2023!

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14 649 575 333

Introducing Savanna

I love a good zoomies session and a play with my toys but can also lounge in the sun on a lazy afternoon. I would need a home where I’m the only dog, I’m ok seeing them out on my walk, I just get uncomfortable when I have to share my space with them. I haven’t had much training and can get rambunctious in my play,

Hey there new friends, my names Savannah and it’s awesome to meet you! I’m a medium to high energy girl in search of a loving home who can give me all the love I deserve. even though its all fun and games it would be best if any kids in the home are over the age of 12 and my owners are committed to my ongoing training, a nice adult class would be a great way for us to bond! Restrictions: ○ Must meet all family ○ Must be only dog

○ No children under 12 ○ Committed to ongoing training

If you’re looking for a loyal new best friend and a brand new play buddy then bring the whole family down to the Central west shelter and say hi, I’ll be ready!

Love Savannah xXx Adoption Application https://www. rspcansw.org.au/whowe-are/locations/ shelters/orangeshelter/

ADOPTION PRICE

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