Orange City Life is grateful to the following sponsors for their ongoing support over many years. These sponsorships, among other things, have enabled us to bring our readers a lot more enjoyment to our publications than would otherwise be possible. In return, we ask you to please support them as often as you’re able.
Spring at last! I’m looking forward to seeing the back of winter for a while, although no doubt we haven’t quite seen the last of the wintery weather.
For anyone with an interest in astronomy, Charles Sturt University is holding its Sky Stories Community Observation event again on September 13. The evening brings together western and First Nations perspectives on the night sky. There will be telescopes available for people to use and local astronomers at hand to help out and answer questions. Hopefully, the weather will be kind this year and there will be clear skies. You can find more details inside.
It’s Legacy Week, so don’t forget to buy a badge or make a donation and help Legacy ‘keep the promise’ as they have for the last 100 years. Around the country, Legacy cares for some 40,000 veterans’ families, from widows in their senior years to young widows and their children and veterans’ dependents with a disability. Orange Legacy alone assists some 220 windows as well as two teenage children. Legacy is not government funded and this week is the one time of the year they actively seek donations. So look out for the roving badge sellers and Legacy stalls set up in local shopping centres and give what you can.
Until next week!
Cele ating our inspiring women volunteers
Janice Harris and Amorette Zielinski added to Hidden Treasures Honour Roll
The volunteer work of two dedicated local women has been recognised this past week, with Janice Harris and Amorette Zielinski added to the NSW Government’s Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.
An initiative of the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ Rural Women’s Network, the honour rolls recognises and thanks inspiring rural women volunteers within our regional communities.
Janice and Amorette were formally presented with the honour by Member for Orange Phil Donato last Wednesday, August 28, at the Duntryleague mansion.
“Janice and Amorette are outstanding examples of the impact volunteers can
have on their communities,” Mr Donato said.
“In their own different way, they inspire and support people with initiative and compassion and I thank them for their enormous contributions.”
Janice Harris has been working tirelessly for her community for more than 50 years. She is a founding member of Push For Palliative, which has already secured improvements in palliative care at Orange Health Service on its way to the larger goal of a dedicated hospice.
Janice is also involved with Lifeline where her empathy and compassion are called on regularly, work she carries out alongside her commitments with Orange’s Ronald McDonald House, where she is the media and onsite volunteer.
Janice also has a great involvement in the arts, particularly dance, where
her lifelong commitment is well documented.
“I felt very humbled,” Janice said of her inclusion on the honour roll. “I know it’s a word that’s used a lot, but you do feel really humbled… There are a lot of fantastic people in our community, we’ve got a wonderful community where people really help.
“We’ve got wonderful services – I mean Foodcare for example, is an amazing organisation, and Ami’s Central West Mums has been fantastic support for so many women of varied ages…
“So it is… humbling — I’m using that word again — but it is. It’s such an honour and there were some really lovely, kind words spoken about us today and I think we both really felt a little emotional about that, but I love volunteering. I do 25 hours a week and I love it!”
Amorette Zielinski is the driving force behind Central West Mums, an online platform she established in 2016 after seeing a need to connect and support other mothers like herself, From a simple Facebook group Central West Mums has become an important online resource for thousands of local mums, and a community where they can feel supported and connected.
“ It’s incredibly humbling and it’s a lovely experience to be standing beside another amazing woman, Janice Harris, who does so much in our community,” Amorette said.
“I do enjoy what our [Central West Mums] community has become. I love that two of the most important things that I started with are still the case several years later, which is valuing trust and also growing support for other women in our community.”
❚ Janice Harris and Amorette Zielinski with Member for Orange Phil Donato. Janice and Amorette’s volunteer work has been recognised by their inclusion on the NSW Government’s Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.
Sky Stories: Where Western and First Nations science meet
Humans across the globe have been staring at the night sky in wonder for millennia.
Throughout recorded and unrecorded history the stars have inspired stories, been used to tell time and to guide us from place to place.
On Friday, September 13, Charles Sturt University is hosting a special community event, bringing together two different traditions of interpreting the night sky.
“It’s called ‘Sky Stories’ and it’s a community observation night, so a meeting of Aboriginal sky stories – what do they mean in Aboriginal culture, in Aboriginal law — and western science.” Dr Cesidio Parissi, one of the originators of the event, said.
Sky Stories is a family-friendly event that gives starlovers of all ages the opportunity to explore celestial bodies through powerful telescopes
“We have local amateur astronomers who come and help,” Dr Parissi said. “There’ll be probably six or seven telescopes set up and amateur astronomers with each telescope. People can ask them questions and have a look at whatever’s up there in the sky — the moon, the stars, the planets, maybe the moons of certain planets.
“And we will have a speaker who will talk about the sky stories, the Aboriginal knowledge gained from the sky, and how that related to the people and how they did work on the land, “ he continued.
“So we have sky stories being told from an Aboriginal point of view, by a Wiradjuri Man Uncle Ian Sutherland, and looking at the sky from a Western science point of view, so both Aboriginal science and Western science.”
Sky Stories was first run in 2017, although Covid lockdowns saw the event cancelled in 2020 and 2021. A storm stopped the event from going ahead in 2022, and heavy cloud cover meant viewing conditions were far from ideal.
With fingers crossed for clear skies on September 13, already 150 people have booked for the free event.
“Another aspect of it is to invite the community to get to know our campus,” Dr Parissi said. “So linking us up here on the hill to the wider community. Come on and have a fun night with the family.”
The Sky Stories Community Observation Night 2024 will be held from 6–8pm Friday, September 13 at the Charles Sturt University’s Orange Campus, Leeds Parade, Orange.
There will be a Welcome to Country, Aboriginal dancers, kids face-painting, with a barbecue and bush tucker available, and more. All you need is to bring a blanket or chair, your water bottle, and maybe a jumper.
To help with catering people are asked to register their interest here: info.csu.edu.au/sky-stories
“There’s nothing more mentally challenging than getting ready for a fight… It’s only you in there going toe-to-toe with someone else.”
Contenders glove up for novice BOXING CHALLENGE
Have you ever thought of putting your physical fitness and mental resistance to the ultimate test by stepping inside a boxing ring?
A small group of locals have signed up to do exactly that, signing up for an intensive 10-week boxing challenge that will see complete novices step foot in the ring for the very first time this November.
The PCYC Rising Star Boxing Program got underway this week, with seven local participants putting themselves through a gruelling six-day-a-week fight camp training program ahead of a tournament night at the Hornsby PCYC on November 16.
“This program is tailored for people that have never been in the ring before, who have always wanted to, I guess, test themselves and try themselves in a sport like boxing,” PCYC Orange boxing coach Justin Reid said.
“This is a different kind of fitness challenge… it takes you out of your comfort zone, and it really challenges you. There’s nothing more mentally challenging than getting ready for a fight, knowing that you’re going to get in there against someone else, and it’s only you in there going toeto-toe with someone else.”
Justin and assistant coach Ronnie Orge will be putting participants through their paces six days a week, working on their cardio and strength training as well as boxingspecific skills.
“We’ve got a strength and conditioning program tailored specifically to boxing. We’re gonna have James Doueihi from Pump It Fitness come and talk to the boys about nutrition, fight prep, supplements, what’s good for your body, how to eat clean, and all that sort of stuff,” Justin said.
“And we’re going to get some mentoring from a life coach,” he continued, explaining that the mental challenge of preparing to step in the ring is just as important as being physically ready.
“It’s definitely a personal journey, working out your strengths and your weaknesses, and I feel as though you learn a lot about yourself in the whole process,” he said.
Justin, who will also be competing at the fight night in Hornsby on November 16, only returned to boxing a few years back after nearly 20 years out of the ring. He said he was pleased to see a number of older men sign up for the challenge.
“It’s really good to see because I feel as though a lot of men that are approaching 40… It’s a good way to get them
motivated and maybe get them off the couch and give him a bit of a starting point on trying to get in shape,” he said.
“And also getting him into a good sport like boxing and being able to test themselves. I think it’s a really good initiative for me and I think it’s great for people that are over 40 or approaching 40 to do something like this.”
Thirty-eight-year Zander Peden was the first to sign up for the PCYC Rising Star Boxing Program. A lifelong player of competitive sports, Zander was forced to hang up the football boots after snapping his Achilles tendon last year and so was eager for another challenge.
“I knew that I couldn’t just go to doing nothing, so I needed something competitive to focus my energy on,” Zander explained.
“I’ve always loved coming to the gym and been a member of the PCYC for 15 years or 20 years or something… I thought it’d be great to learn a new sport!”
How does he feel about facing an opponent across the ring in just ten weeks’ time?
“Well, that’s the whole point, isn’t it,” Zander said. “You’ve got to train. You’ve got to make sure you’re prepared, mentally and physically — It should be a bit of fun!”
PCYC Orange boxing coaches Ronnie Orge and Justin Reid with Zander Peden, one of the seven local novice boxers who’ll be stepping into the ring for the very first time in November.
His Picks Collective – not your typical antiques store
His Picks Collective is the latest destination for all things vintage and collectable in Orange, but it is far from your typical antique store.
Founders Matt Paton and Phillip Denman have long been lovers of all things vintage and antique and the pair have hunted through hundreds of antique stores all around the country. But with their new Summer Street store, they wanted to create a different sort of shopping experience. Rather than just displaying their wares, Matt and Phillip have created themed ‘rooms’ in the store, each a hand-curated collection of pieces of the same vintage, style or theme.
“For us, with the shop, it was about displaying a space, not just stuff on a shelf. We wanted people to see how it can be displayed and put together,” Matt said.
“We’ve been in a lot of antique shops, and I’ve never seen a shop staged like this. I’ve never
seen a shop create a space.”
“That’s true,” added Phillip. “Not where you can see, that’s what my study would look like, or my mid-century lounge room… Nan’s left you her dinner set or antique dining table and you can walk in here and go, ‘That’s what I can do with that!’ Essentially, that is what we’ve tried to create.”
Step inside His Picks Collective today, and you’ll find a farmhouse kitchen, mid-century living room, Victorian study and more. But these spaces will constantly evolve as stock sells, with new ‘rooms’ with different themes and styles replacing the old.
“As a space gets almost empty, we will then take that space out and put a whole new different space in. So what you see here might not be here in four weeks,” Phillip said.
“We don’t want it to look the same every time somebody walks in the shop,” Matt added.
“One of the future installations will probably be vintage toy box and we’re planning on
...For us, with the shop, it was about displaying a space, not just stuff on a shelf. We wanted people to see how it can be displayed and put together...
possibly doing religious iconography around Christmas time and an outdoor courtyard area; we’re not ruling anything out.”
Being keen collectors themselves, Matt and Phillip have made a point of only stocking items that they themselves like and are excited by.
“There’s no point in having a space full of just random stuff; you have to have a passion about what you’re selling,” Matt said.
And they do want to sell, he said, which is why they’ve made sure that everything is priced fairly.
“We want people to walk out and think they’ve got a bargain,” Matt said. “Obviously, we don’t want people to leave thinking that place was so expensive, or walking out with one piece feeling a bit ripped off.
“We want to keep it fresh and the only way we can do that is to keep stock rolling, and that means keeping a price point where it’s going to sell.” His Picks Collectives stocks a huge and eclectic range of vintage and retro antiques, collectables, vintage clothes, jewellery and much more. Visit today at 209 Summer Street, Orange. You’ll also find them in Dirty Janes, Byng Street Orange.
Founders Matt Paton and Phillip Denman
Got an idea for an arts activity?
now for $3,000 CASP funding
Applications are now open for Arts OutWest’s Country Arts Support Program (CASP), the small annual funding round supporting arts activities in the NSW Central West.
CASP funds the payment of artists and arts workers to create or work on arts activities, with grants of up to $3,000 available.
“CASP funding is a valuable way to generate exciting and creative new arts activities in our communities,” Arts OutWest executive director Kylie Shead said
“This funding is about employing artists and making opportunities for people across our region to access a diverse range of arts and culture.”
Funded activities could include (but are not limited to) arts or heritage-based workshops, classes, performances, installations, exhibitions, tours, screen/filmmaking, writing or composition, development of new work, tours or talks, artist-in-residence programs, recordings or podcasts, experimental arts, and new arts activities attached to festivals or events – as long as they have some element of public outcome.
There were eight projects funded by CASP in the Central West in 2024 – ranging from a musician mentoring a new theatre show in Cowra, art workshops for the multicultural art group in Parkes, a writing workshop in Condobolin, to Latin percussion workshops and performances for Harmony Day in Orange.
“If you’ve got a great activity or project in mind, and the capacity to deliver it, we think you should apply,” Ms Shead said.
There is a total of $17,000 available in the 2025 round of funding, which is open to individuals, groups, not-for-profit organisations, arts businesses and councils in the local government areas of Bathurst Region, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Lithgow, Mid-Western Region, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.
To apply you must discuss your idea with Arts OutWest before submitting an online application. You can read the full criteria at www.artsoutwest.org.au/pf/casp/ and contact Arts OutWest on 02 6338 4657 or artsoutwest@csu.edu.au
Arts OutWest will run free online information sessions on Thursday, September 5 at 6pm and Wednesday, October 9 at 6pm. Book via the artsoutwest.org.au website.
Local artists Carl and Eden Plaisted will be returning to Mudgee’s renowned outdoor showcase event, Sculptures in the Garden this October 12–17.
While the brothers are thrilled to have had work selected for exhibition in this year’s exhibition they sheepishly admit they really should have been doing something else.
“It’s nice to have it completed,” says Carl Plaisted of the welded metal piece selected for October’s showcase.
“We’d made a pact with each other not to get sidetracked from these two big commission pieces, and it’s been really hard! We keep going, ‘Oh, what about this? We’ve got so many ideas and there’s so many things that we want to experiment with and do, but we’re like, ‘No, we can’t do it.’”
But when Carl and Eden’s brother-in-law, the Sydneybased artist Brett Anthony Moore mentioned he was submitting work this year, the brothers figured that maybe, just maybe, they might be able to find a little time to complete something on the side.
“We had three pieces that we’d attempted years ago that had been hanging in the shed and we thought, well, let’s try and finish them off,” explains Eden.
“So we got a bit sidetracked, I guess, and this is what’s come out. So we literally bashed it out in maybe two-and-a-half weeks… and we were actually pretty happy with it in the end!”
Carl and Eden’s sculptures will feature alongside more than 250 artworks from 130 successful artists at this year’s Sculptures in the Garden, which received an unprecedented number of submissions.
“We’re incredibly excited about this year’s lineup,” says Kay Norton-Knight, founder and curator of Sculptures in the Garden.
“The variety of work showcases the incredible range of creative talent in Australia. It promises to be an unforgettable event.”
Sculptures in the Garden is scheduled for October 1227 in the picturesque Rosby Vineyard gardens at Mudgee.
Due to the high level of community concern and lack of transparency over the McPhillamys mine declaration made by the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, I’ve requested an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister to see if he can sort out this very messy situation. I’ve asked to talk to him next week when federal parliament sits again. The feedback from the community is that many people are having a lot of trouble comprehending how this decision was made. The Mayor of Blayney Scott Ferguson and I recently had a meeting with Minister Plibersek but
Last week, many in our local community were shocked and concerned when Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, enacted a Section 10 Declaration blocking the construction of the tailings dam at the proposed McPhillamy’s Gold Mine near Blayney.
WHAT I ASKED THE MINISTER
many of our questions were not answered due to what was said to be confidentiality and pending legal proceedings. Regis has also requested a Statement of Reasons for the Minister’s decision which they are entitled to receive under the legislation. The Minister has apparently refused to provide one.
The proposed mine had received state and federal approvals giving the community confidence that the project was going ahead. Many business decisions had been made based on the project proceeding and there are a lot of jobs in the balance. There’s now a great deal of uncertainty about what’s happened and what it means.
MEETING WITH THE
At the moment there are just far more questions than answers.
At the meeting I raised issues such as the timing of the decision given that approvals had already been granted; the contradictory statements between the Minister and the mine about whether the decision effectively kills the project; the differing opinions given by local Indigenous groups; the community impacts; and also what reports the department commissioned on the issue.
I don’t understand why. Transparency requires that she provide this statement without delay. I call on the Minister to do so. For the public to have confidence in a decision-making process like this it has to be fair and transparent for all parties involved.
While we appreciated the Minister meeting with us, unfortunately we didn’t get the answers we needed.
The Minister said that because of foreshadowed legal action by the mine she was restricted as to what she could tell us about the decision-making process. This was very disappointing.
THE
PROCESS NEEDS AN OVERHAUL
Because the transparency just doesn’t seem to be there, a lot of people are not able to support this decision and I’m one of them. The whole episode demonstrates why the laws surrounding these declarations need an overhaul. At the moment the process is too long, complicated, unclear and unwieldy. This doesn’t benefit anyone. There must be a better way.
Let’s see what the Prime Minister has to say.
The meeting with the Minister highlighted why there needs to an overhaul of the laws and rules on these declarations. For a process like this to have public confidence it has to be fair and transparent for all parties
280 years young and on the road!
Vote 1
Nearly 280 years of experience has taken a record-breaking ride on the Cycling Without Age Orange electric trishaw.
The Orange chapter of the international charity organisation’s e-trishaw has just been shared by a pilot and two passengers with a combined age of 277 years.
This A-team was piloted by Peter Robson (81) with passengers Irene Chapman (102) and Grace Brideoake (94).
Irene and Grace are residents at the Orange Grove Community Care facility, one of five aged care facilities in Orange whose residents have been taken for rides on the CWAO e-trishaw in its first year of operation.
Since then they have given 482 people a ride at 44 events with the volunteers contributing a combined 493 hours of service.
The A-team is the oldest to get onboard in Orange.
This A-team was piloted by Peter Robson (81) with passengers Irene Chapman (102) and Grace Brideoake (94).
About 39 volunteer cyclists provide the service, which started last November.
While it is not clear whether the Orange combined total of 277 years has been bettered elsewhere the CWA website says Australia’s oldest volunteer was 86 and the oldest passenger was 107.
Grace and Irene had their second ride on the e-trishaw last Friday, where onlookers included the member for Orange Phil Donato.
Grace and Irene were happy passengers.
“It was lovely,” said Grace after the ride. “It was very good.”
After a winter break, CWAO Orange resumed operations on September 2.
MILETO FOR MAYOR
Tony Mileto and Group ‘C’ VOTE 1
Community
My focus is on delivering what matters most to our community. I believe councils should prioritise local issues, avoiding political and contentious social debates, which can be addressed through community committees.
In the next term, if elected, my priorities will include:
1. Responsible Financial Management: Ensuring our council is in the best financial position to upgrade essential infrastructure.
2. Infrastructure: Focusing on water security, roads & footpaths, and improving our parks and playgrounds, including weatherappropriate play spaces for our kids.
3. Economic Development: Promoting tourism and fostering a vibrant economy with opportunities for business growth.
4. Affordable Housing: Working with stakeholders to deliver quality, affordable housing.
Our plans and priorities need to reflect what our community actually wants to see in relation to development and infrastructure.
Grace Brideoake (left) and Irene Chapman take a ride with pilot Mike Bourke.
Photo: Supplied CWAO
ART REVIEW
By Lucy Stranger, Curator, Orange Regional Gallery
The Worlds of Peter Godwin
Orange Regional Gallery is excited to present the first survey of Australian artist Peter Godwin. Working from his studio on the central coast of NSW, Godwin recalls places, images and objects into his evocative compositions. From a light-filled apartment in Paris, France, to the misty landscapes of the Li River, China or a nocturne interior under a Hokusai moon; his works are full of objects and treasures that he has collected over time.
Whilst Godwin’s career spans over forty years, this survey marks its starting point from a major turning point in the artist’s practice - when Godwin shifted from working with thick, gestural oil paintings to light washes of egg tempera. Tempera is a combination of pigment with egg yolk or an oil emulsion. In contrast to oil paint, the fast drying, delicate medium allows the artist to construct a painting in light washes - painting, removing, and adding again.
As he explains, “One aspect of tempera,
unlike oil painting is, you can paint an image and you can remove it. You only have to dampen the paint with a rag or spray with water and it scrapes clean off because the egg breaks down and takes the pigment with it.” This process of lightly adding and removing and scratching back into the paint became the basis for Godwin across his painting and printmaking. Here he could create works that shifted in light and space, the soft transparent layers, creating veils for us to look through.
Over the last 25 years, Godwin has distilled and refined his use of light, space and time to create atmospheric paintings and prints that push the potential of an image. Delving into the layers of Godwin’s practice we are invited to be immersed in the evocative worlds he has marked out for us to follow.
Please join us at the Gallery for the opening of ‘Peter Godwin | Space, Light & Time’, Friday 6 September at 6pm.
Peter Godwin, Canoe Prow with Hokusai Moon, 2023, tempera emulsion and oil on linen, 76.5 x 76.5cm
FRANCES KINGHORNE
Frances has called Orange home for the past 39 years & has a deep passion for our community. As a pharmacist & long-time business owner, she is committed to promoting health. Serving as an Orange City Councillor since 2021, Frances is eager to continue her work in another term. Frances believes in managing the basics well, being sensitive to community concerns, and communicating effectively and respectfully with all residents.
EUNICE ADETIFA
Eunice is a dedicated practice manager overseeing two practices in the Central West. Eunice brings a wealth of experience & a deep passion for community advocacy.
A mother of two high schoolers, Eunice is committed to supporting those in need & values family above all.
THOMAS MCCANN
Tom came to Orange in 2011 as a student at Charles Sturt University & has since made it his home. Now a speech pathologist at the Orange Health Service, Tom is passionate about helping people build their confidence and communication skills.
With his extroverted nature, quick wit, strong opinions, Tom brings a fresh & youthful perspective to our team.
PAULA TOWNSEND
Paula has been a driving force behind the growth of our community through her incredible work with the Bowen Community Technology Centre, earning her the well-deserved title of Local Woman of the Year 2024. Paula is a proud wife to Wayne, & together they cherish their 3 children & 7 grandchildren.
SALVO SCIUTO
Salvo has lived in Orange for most of his life, Salvo is a familiar face in our community, known for his warm, affable character. As the hardworking owner of the iconic Alfio’s Restaurant in Lords Pl, he’s built strong relationships with locals & understands the pulse of our town. Salvo has been outspoken about the negative impact of the Lords Pl redevelopment on local businesses & is committed to improving how our council communicates with the business community.
PATRICK RAFTERY
Patrick has been a local podiatrist and business owner in Orange since the 1980s, building strong connections with many in our community. Alongside his wife Joan, he has raised three children here & has been actively involved in local rugby union.
Patrick is known for his unique ability to offer outside-the-box solutions to challenges, combining pragmatism & logic with a keen desire to see Orange thrive.
Authorised by: Frances Kinghorne
LET’S TALK MONEY with DANIEL MCGREGOR
Are You In The Retirement Risk Zone?
There is a period before and after retirement called the retirement risk zone… it’s a dangerous place!
It is typically considered to be the 5 years either side of retirement. This decade is when most people’s retirement savings reach their peak and start being accessed.
Often people work hard to squirrel away as much as possible in their last few years of their working life. Then, once they retire, they gradually draw down on their retirement savings to fund their lifestyle.
It’s in the retirement risk zone where if not planned for, unexpected events could derail your retirement. If there is a sharemarket crash, an emergency or an unexpected life event, the results could be
something that cause so much damage they can’t be recovered from financially.
That’s because it’s worse having a bad performing year when you have more money than when you have less.
As retirement savings go down over time, because they are being used to fund retirement, a bad year a long way into retirement will have a much smaller impact. At that point, the balance impacted is lower and there are also not as many years left to fund. It’s a similar situation a long way out from retirement, in that there are plenty of years for recovery before the money needs to be accessed.
In recent weeks we saw a fall in sharemarkets around the world but then things recovered quickly, so no damage was done. But if you’re in the retirement
risk zone or approaching it, don’t waste another minute… let’s get on top of things now, before the next large fall leaves you exposed!
Unfortunately, if things go badly during the retirement risk zone, the potential fixes are often things people would rather avoid! It may mean having to delay retirement and work longer, live on less in retirement and therefore have a lesser lifestyle, or have to invest in more risky assets to try and make up the shortfall. None of these are great solutions.
There are different ways to approach the retirement risk zone. Adjustments can be made to how retirement savings are invested in the lead up to retirement, money can be saved and invested into more conservative assets to build up a stockpile
or it could be a combination of these.
Whichever way you look at it, approaching retirement and then retiring is not something you want to do without a plan to navigate the retirement risk zone. You’ll have worked too hard to want to leave your entire retirement exposed.
These are not things that need to be feared, they just need to be managed and you may only get one shot at it. Don’t leave your retirement to chance, steer clear of danger and retire on purpose!
Smart financial decisions often come from having a sensible and well thought out financial plan. Yell out if you’d like help with yours from an independent financial adviser.
RURAL HEALTH MATTERS
Women’s Health Week
Spotlight on Cervical Cancer Screening
◊ Changes to Cervical
Screening
In 2017, changes to the cervical screening program introduced a new test that focuses on detecting HPV (Human Papillomavirus), which is responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer. This new test is an improvement over the former Pap test, which only identified abnormal cells. By focusing on detecting the virus that leads to cervical cancer, it enhances early identification and increases the effectiveness of the screening process.
◊ Self-Collection
The new screening program also includes an option for selfcollection. Although the test is still administered through your doctor, nurse, or healthcare worker, it now allows you to collect your own sample using a provided kit. The process takes just a few
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Regular cervical cancer screening is life-saving, providing one of the most effective and efficient ways to prevent the disease or catch it early.
minutes, and you will receive instructions and access to a private space for sample collection. Self-collection is as effective as the traditional Pap test in detecting HPV and preventing cervical cancer.
◊ Who should have a Cervical Screening Test
Women and individuals with a cervix aged 25 to 74 and those who have ever had sexual contact should have a Cervical Screening Test every five years. Regular screening enables early detection and timely intervention, significantly improving cervical cancer survival.
◊
Where to get tested
Cervical screening tests are still conducted at your local practice. Talk to your doctor or healthcare worker about whether selfcollection is the right option for you.
I’ve had a pretty bad gastro bug this week. As such, our house became a wild, lawless free-for-all that only exists when Mum is sick. I haven’t eaten at all and God only knows how many vegetables my girls have consumed. God can keep that knowledge to their self, because I couldn’t care less. Also, a shout-out to amazing ambos Fernando and Catherine who were required when I was really unwell. Thank you for all you do.
My poor husband missed out on anything special on Father’s Day, and ended up taking the kids out to breakfast on his own.
It’s very sad I couldn’t really do anything to celebrate him without risking making everyone else sick, but the girls put some effort in.
The best moment was Miss 10’s card which congratulated him on 10 years of knowing her. The pleasure of her company is a gift though, so fair call. And a special shout-out to all the teachers who help make presents and cards for these little people to proudly hand over, and the amazing P&C members who put on stalls. You guys are awesome.
looking irritated, I pull out the brilliant idea I’ve been sitting on for a while: a cooking roster. I tell them I’ll cook three nights a week, because I work the least amount of hours and mostly from home, but they can all have one night a week each. Fridays will continue to be toasted sandwiches so nobody dies from culture shock.
Mum, did you know that your frown lines now stay on your face even after you’ve stopped frowning?
Miss 15 immediately scrolls TikTok for trending dinner ideas, Hubby looks at me like I’ve lost my mind (I have, but this isn’t a symptom of that), and Miss 10 slowly goes through the stages of grief as she processes this information. I explain further that I will still buy groceries, but we write a meal plan on Sunday nights and you have until Monday morning to add the ingredients you need to the shopping list, or you have to go to the supermarket yourself.
By Monday I was starting to feel better, so I could finally do all the nagging I had missed out on. You see, I have this crazy overprotective/helicopter parenting thing going on where I don’t want Miss 10 to die from asthma while at school, so she’s required to have her Ventolin with her at all times. This is hard for her, because she’s not a detail-oriented person… unless she’s playing Minecraft.
She rolls her eyes at me when I ask if she’s been taking her puffer to school so, in a flash of annoyance, I call a family meeting. Once everyone is seated and
“I’m trying to reduce my mental load,” I say. Hubby can’t help but smirk as he thinks he does more, but I shoot him a withering glare because three days ago – while I was vomiting – he sent Miss 10 to ask me to put in a lunch order because he’s never learned how to use the app.
“Mum, did you know that your frown lines now stay on your face even after you’ve stopped frowning?” enquires Miss 10.
And so began the best week of my life, watching each family member fall apart a bit in the attempt to juggle school/work with providing dinner for us. Every single one of those meals was spectacular, and I managed to work until 6pm one night and have a hot dinner served to me once I was done. Great job guys! We’re tackling the clothes washing next…
CADIA WELCOMES EPA REPORT ON CADIA DISTRICT ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
Newmont Cadia (Cadia) has welcomed a suite of reports from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), following an extensive program of environmental testing across the Cadia district throughout 2023 and 2024.
The reports, released on 22 August 2024, address key community concerns regarding surface water, groundwater and air quality in the community.
The EPA reports confirm that the air and water quality around Cadia is good and Cadia does not have any material negative environmental impact to its surroundings. Cadia believes this is attributable to its adherence to strict environmental standards, ensuring protection of local water sources, air quality and the broader ecosystem.
Lead Isotopes
Community members have previously raised concerns about independent tests detecting ‘unsafe’ levels of heavy metals in their water tanks. Cadia commissioned a series of independent reports, including a Human Health Risk Assessment by EPA-accredited auditors SAGE Environment Services, comprehensive water tank sampling through ALS, and a lead Isotope Report, which was peer reviewed.
The EPA undertook its own sampling and analysis program which included sludge samples from the bottom of household water tanks, regional soil samples, Cadia ore body, tailings storage facilities and ventilation shafts.
The EPA’s Lead Isotope test findings confirmed that the origins of the lead found in the water tank sludge was attributed to local soils or water tank materials such as pipes, solder, taps and flashing.
The EPA states:
“There does not appear to be any measurable
influence from the ventilation shafts or tailings facilities on the lead in almost all tank sediment samples.”
“Results indicated that lead in tank sediments was from a mixture of old leaded products and local soils rather than the mine.”
Surface Water
In light of recent community concerns about the potential impact of PFAS and PFOS on local waterways, Cadia clarified that these chemicals have not been used on site for years. In addition to this, regulators have found no link between low level PFOS or PFAS detections in the Belubula River and Cadia’s operations.
The EPA’s report into surface water confirmed this position, stating that, “No PFAS or hydrocarbons were detected in Cadiangullong and Flyers Creeks.”
“The EPA’s investigation concluded that the groundwater quality near Cadia’s operations generally meets the required standards for livestock drinking water, irrigation, and ecological protection.”
“The results appear to pose no significant risk to the surrounding environment”.
Groundwater
Earlier this year, community members voiced concerns through the media about the possibility of groundwater contamination at Cadia. Cadia has consistently maintained there are no impacts, and that offsite groundwater remains unaffected.
The Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFS) at Cadia are designed and operated to meet rigorous Australian Standards and the mine’s operating approval.
The EPA’s groundwater report on bore samples tested on site states: “Between 27 and 31 May 2024, the EPA collected groundwater samples from 12 monitoring bores.”
“... the groundwater quality near the Cadia Valley
Operations mine site generally meets the required standards for livestock drinking water, irrigation, and ecological protection.”
“The results appear to pose no significant risk to the surrounding environment.”
Air Quality Monitoring
Cadia is committed to continually improving air quality through a range of dust suppression techniques. In 2023, the EPA commissioned its own HiVol air quality monitoring stations at various points around the mine site and also provided monitors to community members for their independent use.
The results from the EPA’s additional monitoring concluded that: “Particulate matter levels were well below the criteria, with heavy metals like selenium, nickel, mercury, and arsenic being undetectable. Copper, zinc, and lead were detected well within safe levels.”
“Results show good air quality. Of the 50 air samples taken, only two had detectable lead, and other heavy metals were not found. Copper and zinc were present but in very low amounts.”
“Wind analysis indicates no significant pollution from the mine.”
Newmont Cadia’s Manager – Environment and Social Performance, David Coe, welcomed the EPA results, which aligns with the site’s comprehensive monitoring and reporting program.
“At Cadia, our commitment goes beyond compliance – it’s about fostering a partnership with our community to ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone,” Mr Coe said.
“As stewards of this land, we are dedicated to preserving its integrity and the wellbeing of those who call it home”.
We don’t just listen; we act, and we stand by our promise to protect the environment and support a thriving community.”
PHOTOS BY HENRY DEROOY
Yvonne and Athol Evans, Tanaya Ashcroft with Karen and Matthew Holland
Brian and Chris Baker, Athol, Michelle Du , Tanaya Ashcroft and Yvonne Evans
Peter and Sharon Fuller, Athol Evans and Lisa McGrath
McDONELL
VOTE 1 Melanie MAYOR + COUNCILLOR
For respectful, collaborative, evidence-based leadership + decision making
Playground upgrades + shade sails
More footpaths/cycleways
Lobby Government for better road funding
Continue support for Villages
Develop Orange Region Wine Trail
Complete Conservatorium/Planetarium
Ensure Athletics Track is built
Action on Family + Domestic Abuse
More action on housing availability/affordability
6th-generation Orange local
Company Director
Board Member ALGWA NSW
Registered Nurse
Independent Mother
Gender equality advocate
Domestic Violence Survivor
Trainer/Facilitator
Musician/Composer
Support innovation + small business development
VOTE 1
GROUP
For collaborative, respectful leadership +
Granton
Authorised by Melanie McDonell 233 Byng St Orange NSW
It’s our way of acknowledging and assisting those key organisations that work tirelessly to make such a positive difference in the local community”
Orange Ex-Services’ Club announces recipients of 2024 ClubGrants
Last Wednesday night, August 28, the Orange ExServices’ Club announced the successful recipients of their 2024 Clubgrants Category 1 program, with 28 community organisations sharing in a total of $150,575 in funding.
Major beneficiaries of the club funding included Lifeline Central West, who received $25,000 for life-saving crisis support training for volunteers, along with the Cerebral Palsy Alliance ($10,503), the Vinnies Van Orange ($10,000), the Clontarf Foundation ($10,000), and Cancer Patients Foundation.
“Last Wednesday, we announced contributions of over $150 000 in category one funding to 28 projects run to the benefit of the Orange community,” Orange Ex-Services’ Club CEO Nathan Kelly said.
“It was a chance for Orange Ex-Services’ Club, just to celebrate the ongoing sponsorship and support for not-for-profit community-based organisations, committees and clubs through the ClubGrants program.”
Since it was founded in 1998, the ClubGrants program has provided over $1 billion in funding to deserving community groups state-wide.
ClubGrants Category 1 funding is allocated for projects and/or services that contribute to the welfare and broader social fabric of the local community, such as community welfare and social services, community development, community health services, and employment assistance activities.
Applications are assessed by an Orange Ex-Services’
Club subcommittee made up of representatives from the club, Orange City Council and the community.
“Each year through ClubGrants, clubs across NSW provide support to tens of thousands of local community organisations, sporting groups and charities that make a difference in the local area,” Mr Kelly said.
“With more than $1 billion in donations provided to the community statewide since the program’s inception, more than 100 million dollars was provided to deserving causes by registered clubs through the ClubGrants program just last year.”
To find out more about ClubGrant or to apply, visit www.oesc.com.au/clubgrants
Clontarf Foundation: David Baker, Emmanuel Rodriguez, Jesse Ruston, Sayed Boney, The Hon. Phil Donato MP & Adam Shepherd
Orange City Council received more than $14,000 in ClubGrants for its various community activities. Pictured are Melissa Stanford, Ros Davidson, Kristen Hunter, Anni Gallagher and Dounia Hassan
Little Wings representatives Tony Boland, Clare Pearson and Wanda Fennell
St Vincent de Paul received $10,000 to support the work of the Vinnies Van. Pictured are Tony Boland, Margaret Wendelin and Keith Dowling.
what’s happening in orange
CELTIC ILLUSION — ORANGE CIVIC THEATRE THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
Immerse yourself in the Irish dance and grand illusion sensation that has taken the world by storm. This exhilarating production has broken barriers by fusing unparalleled art forms more spectacularly than ever before! With new spellbinding illusions, entrancing music and choreography, Celtic Illusion is the must-see family event of 2024
See Celtic Illusion at the Orange Civic Theatre on Friday, September 6. Tickets at Ticketek or call 6393 8111.
WHAT’S ON AT WENTY Megan Woods
The Wentworth Orange – 6pm Thursday, September 5
Drawing inspiration from iconic country figures like Dolly Parton, Shania Twain and The Chicks, along with rock icons such as Melissa Etheridge, Megan Woods’ musical voyage is underscored by her commanding voice a magnetic force that holds audiences spellbound. The fusion of rock-tinged country melodies and poignant narratives renders her sound unforgettable.
THE GREENHOUSE LIVE IN THE COCKTAIL BAR
Nat Carboni
The Greenhouse of Orange Cocktail Bar – 6.30pm Friday, September 6 and Saturday, September 7
Popular regular at the Greenhouse, Natalie Carboni, is back this Friday and Saturday night. Natalie has had music running through her from a very young age, starting piano lessons at the tender age of 4 years old. With a Pop sound that spans many different genres, Natalie’s voice has taken her all over the world and she has worked with some of the industry’s biggest Broadway producers and composers.
But Natalie finds that her simple renditions of some old classics performed with just piano and voice satisfy her and her audience the most. Don’t miss it!
Head on up to the Cocktail Bar this Saturday night for live music from Dan O’Reilly for live music from 6.30pm
Coming up next weekend:
September 10 — Tuesday Tunes with Neil Gill Live in the Northcott Lounge 10am September 13 — Mat Cochrane Live in the Cocktail Bar 6.30pm September 14 — Gary Johns Live in the Cocktail Bar 6.30pm
orange and surrounding regions
Live music and comedy at the Bowlo in September
Get ready for two big weekends of entertainment at the Orange City Bowling Club this September!
Running in the Shadows of Fleetwood Mac — Saturday, September 7
Head down to the Orange City Bowling Club this Saturday, where this long-running Fleetwood Mac tribute act will have you singing and dancing from start to finish.
Running in the Shadows of Fleetwood Mac covers the best of this iconic band’s career, from the early hits from the music of Peter Green, through to the Rumours album era, Tango In The Night and even some of Stevie Nicks solo material — there is something for every Fleetwood Mac fan to enjoy!
Experience the energy and enthusiasm that this show delivers night after night. Audience members who have seen Running in the Shadows have found it hard to believe they were not experiencing the real deal on stage!
An Evening with The Nelson Twins — Saturday, September 21
Prepare to be entertained by the renowned comedy duo, The Nelson Twins, known for their quick wit, sharp humour, and impeccable comedic timing. This unforgettable stand-up comedy show will have you laughing out loud from start to finish. Ticket’s include a glasss of bubbles on arrival and a grazing Platter, with a selection of assorted cheeses, dips and cured meats.
For tickets and more information, visit: www.ocbc.org.au/ entertainment
AUSTRALIAN MADE: THE BEST OF AUSSIE PUB ROCK AT THE VIC HOTEL
by HENRY DEROOY
Australian Made, a locally produced show celebrating the best of Aussie pub rock was held in front of a sold-out crowd at the Victoria Hotel on Saturday, August 31
Photos
Sam Betts and Jack Carden.
Linda Ogilvie and Liz Richards
Mick Johnsen, Eli and Brett Stanford with Sophie Johnsen.
Tim Hewett, Scott Davis, Charlie Mills, Georgie Bell
Cecilia and Rocky Rochelli with Sandra Russell and Claire Lynch
Steph Turnbull, Heidi Gray, Barbara Gerhardt, Bill Bourke and Eli Stanford Margie and Tom O’Brien, Rex Marsh and “Beaver”, at back.
Team
Authorised by Kevin Duffy - ‘Fairbank’ 183 Curtins Road, Borenore NSW 2800
by PrintStorm,
Peisley Street,Orange NSW 2800
Authorised by Kevin Duffy - ‘Fairbank’ 183 Curtins Road, Borenore NSW 2800
Authorised by Kevin Duffy - ‘Fairbank’ 183 Curtins Road, Borenore NSW 2800
Peisley Street,Orange NSW 2800
GROUP Team
DUFFY B 1
OUR TEAM IS YOUR TEAM
I am proud to announce our team which includes, 2 Graeme Judge, 3 Fleur Vardanega, 4 Darren Johnson, 5 Richard Clifford 6 Bradley Tyack.
I as GROUP B Leader have previously been a Councillor, Deputy Mayor and Mayor of Cabonne Council and A Councillor on Orange City Council for 3 TERMS.
I
believe I have the necessary experience to be Mayor of Orange City Council.
About Council
Council is about providing Services that improves the Quality of life and the safety of its residents and ratepayers, plus its visitors.
I say services such as Parks, Gardens, Footpaths, Roads, Sporting Fields, Parking, Traffic management, Sewage, Water Security and Waste Management etc
Currently Chair of The NSW Mines & Energy Related Councils and I have held many community positions such as President of the Orange and District Cricket Association, President of Orange CYMS Cricket Club, President of Orange CYMS Rugby League Club.
I am extremely proud of the fact that I raised $25,000 for Western Care Lodge, $24,167 for The Royal Flying Doctor and WINGS3Kids, Instigated the Mercy Hall at James Sheahan and Instigated The Banners for ANZAC DAY in honour of the Locally Fallen, honouring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, their life, in Defending our country and our Democracy.
Like many in our community I have been heavily involved in Junior and Senior sports on a voluntary basis for many decades.
As Chair of the Mines & Energy Related Councils NSW (MERC) our organisation is made up of 20 plus NSW Councils and growing. MERC was founded in 1978.
Our membership is made up of Councils who are affected by Mines & Energy.
MERC is a peak body that is currently working with the NSW Government and have a seat at the table helping to develop government policy.
MERC currently is working closely with the NSW Minerals Council and the Mining Energy Union (MEU).
MERC for the last two years have co-hosted the hugely successful Resources, Energy, and Industry Innovation Forum (REIIF) with the ORANA RDA in Dubbo.
The State Government is scheduled to collect between $13 and $14 Billion in Royalties over the next four years and we are encouraging the Government to set up a “Mine Affected Community and Road Fund” and we look forward to working with the Government. I also wish to acknowledge and congratulate our local Land Council for their support of the Regis Resources Mines.
Our Councils Major Projects
1 : The Southern Feeder:
Previously The Northern Distributor Road, Forest Road, Cargo Road, Clergate Road were all major projects that are Completed. Done Now we have in progress The Southern Feeder Road, Hopefully Stage 4 A finished to Woodward Street by Christmas 2024.
It is The Most important section of Roadworks that when completed will link up with the NDR To form the Ring Road which has been spoken about by generations of Councils and long term residents. This will also ease the traffic burden on Peisley St, Anson Street but we expect it to cause issues along Woodward Street and most likely Cecil Road, hence the urgency to complete the Southern Feeder Road.
My major effort will be to annoy the NSW Premier Chris Minns and his Ministers to secure funding to complete our City’s Dream. This will allow residents of Central West, Cowra, Canowindra, Forbes, Parkes direct access to the Best Regional Hospital and Health Services in rural NSW.
It will also allow Leewood Industrial Area to expand and give greater access to our Airport Services.
It will also give better access to the Jewel of our region, Newmont Gold Mine at Cadia Valley.
2 : The Sports
Precinct
Orange City Council was granted $20 million originally for this project on the NDR.
Electricity, Earth Works, Water, sewage, Road Works, Roundabout would of meant there would have been nothing left to even start to build playing fields. As an outgoing gesture I want to pay tribute to our Mayor, Jason Hamling for his diligence in making this happen with the Support of the previous Councils Mayor Reg Kidd and our fellow Councillors.
A new location became available and now for many reasons Councils project costs burst its budget and with further Government Funding making the Project a $60 Million exercise as an extension of Jack Brabham Sports Complex.
With various interruptions in the Planning process finally a start has commenced. How ever I must say that I was the only Councillor that addressed the Regional Planning Panel in Support of the project while some others spoke against.
OUR TEAM IS YOUR TEAM
Councils plan was to build the Athletics Track first and in view of the huge blowout Premier Minns instructed Council to build the Football Stadium first as that was the intent of the Original Grant.
The whole amount of the money comes from a State Government Grant and we say thank you and do as directed.
If funds allow the Athletic Track to follow which I support 100% it will be a massive win for our region.
As I mentioned earlier I was the only Councillor that addressed the State Planning Panel in Support of the Project.
I am of the opinion that The Project was poorly named, It should have been the Jack Brabham Extension.
During this planning process we saw many protagonist, GREEN groups trying to stop a major Sporting Venue from moving forward which would and will be a massive economic boost to the city with sporting events and Carnivals.
The tree removals were mainly Radiata Pine which are noxious in the GREENNEST of Councils, The Blue Mountains.
The project needs constant attention so no further obstacles arise. An immediate review will be my aim to see that everything is in Order. This project has suffered enough.
3 : Planetarium/Conservatorium
$15 Million State and Federal Governments Grants and the Ratepayers of Orange LGA are dishing out $18 Million of Ratepayers funds.
But no Planetarium except a shell. This seriously needs to be immediately addressed by the new Council. The Planetarium is an Educational facility for all which also will bring income to Council or its Provider. Remember 2 things, we already have a Conservatorium which brings in Zero dollars to Council and the other is that the Grant funding was for a joint facility.
This project is another issue that needs a sensitive approach to Macquarie Street to complete. I also wish to acknowledge former Councillors, Russell Turner and Mayor Reg Kidd for their efforts for this project to come to fruition.
Addressing Parking Issues
Immediate budgetary process to commence a multi-story 0phir Car Park with proper consultation.
Address the issue of Width in Parking Spaces seeking Ministers support for change as our Vehicles have become much Larger.
Eg: Pajaro and many others.
Centre of Town needs Freeing up, especially Lords Place roundabout exits to become duel exits.
Targeting Roads.
The Southern Feeder is a MUST to complete ASAP.
Seal Springbank Lane (Example last Budget Issue). These residents have been trying for 20 years to seal their road which is at a Cost of around $150,000. At the last Budget meeting Council chose to put aside $50,000 for a future rainbow festival and a further $80,000 for Charity with a 3rd choice suggestion from Clr Peterson that the $80,000 be possibly set aside for additional funding for the Rainbow Festival if needed. That money could easily gone to seal those Residents Road like the others around them. I view that decision as disgraceful.
Immediate discussions with the relevant minister for a duel lane bridge to Christian school.
Also immediate discussions with relevant minister to open a rail crossing at March Street railway crossing to help free up CBD traffic.
Naming Footpath Repairs and New Pavement:
McLachlan Street off Bathurst Road going North, current state disgraceful.
Edward Street eastern side completion and with expansion to accommodate mine workers safety. Gona Street and Bletchington Street.
Further areas in the eastern side and maintain renewal strategy. East side of the railway line is our oldest and they have been neglected for many years although progress has been made around school and pedestrian crossings.
Targeting Parks and Gardens
Newman Park toilet block budget to replace with a solid building and seek a new management plan.
Budget Cook Park Avery as requested by ratepayers. Put pressure on Government to review bat vulnerability and extinction statis.
Protection of our Heritage Cemetery
Old Cemetery is a disgrace. Seek urgent consultation and action to review ownership laws and responsibility. The cemetery is the resting place of World War 1 veterans, Peter Rusconi renowned Sculptor, Robert & Hannah Trudgett Parramatta Women’s Factory etc.
Communication
Very Important. I also believe that in major projects that will effect the everyday life of all, being Residents, Tourists, Small Business and access around the city, it may be necessary to hold a referendum or a complete mail out.
But Councillors need to listen and understand the impacts.
I support all events that follow councils process and meet Councils standards Events should have their own incorporated body.
Examples:
Gnoo-Blas Car Club. Wine Week, Food Week. Orange 360, Housing Plus White Tie Ball.
These organisations have their own Registered Fair-Trading Registration, their own executive, own insurance. etc.
Ideology is also not the responsibility of Council. Neither was the Voice Referendum, These issues belong to a higher tier of Government.
As tragic and alarming some issues are, council does not collect Rates, Fees and Charges for Domestic Violence, Crime, Suicide, Ideology, Social and Affordable Housing. In saying that Council can assist to help facilitate these issues. They are not Core issues of Council.
An example of helping Affordable and Social Housing is the proposed 330 lot Subdivision at The Gateway Land, This project is being jointly proposed with Land Com.
Council donated land to Housing Plus to accommodate a Domestic Violence Refuge. This was another example of helping to facilitate community issues as are CCT Cameras to assist with Crime.
GO WOKE - GO BROKE
Example of Dealing with staff, Meetings and Media Reporting.
Councillors are obliged to attend scheduled Council Meetings which are advertised and are open to the Public and Media.
Council also conducts Briefings which are not advertised and the Public and Media are not allowed to attend. These meetings are also available on ‘TEAMS” which Councillors can watch at their own leisure outside their own work times and staff are readily available to answer questions.
My own personal opinion is that these Briefings can be seen as not transparent and can be viewed as priming Councillors to make a decision prior to having an open debate in the Chamber as required by the Local Government Act.
Any reference to skipping meetings etc. in any media outlet is misleading and reporters and journalists should have a better understanding.
Economic Development
Market Forces determine Economic Development
Its Councils priority to provide services that allow business to grow,
By this I mean good planning process and procedures. Our current process time for a Development is as indicated at an Audit Risk Committee Meeting had gone out from 25 days to 43 Days for approvals.
There is always the need for an assessable network of Traffic Movement and Management which includes Air Services.
“NO
MORE LORDS PLACE DEBACLES”
“NO MORE LORDS PLACE TREE MASSACRE”
“NO MORE WASTING FUNDS”
The best example of Anti-Development is The Lords Place fiasco, Debacle.
It was and still is a business street in a floodway.
Over $2 million dollars wasted, total mismanagement supported by a majority of Councillors. I can proudly say I spoke against the development from DAY 1.
Funded under Future Cities which had a kitty of $5 million which was inclusive of north and south Lords Place of Summer Street and inclusive of Byng Street
Traffic flow destroyed and still is, loss of parking for all especially the elderly who access the Commonwealth Bank and Post office.
Communication process was not very well presented as far as I was concerned. I witnessed business owners cut off during consultation.
I also don’t believe the investigation was done by someone who was totally independent of council.
A number of businesses closed down and lost patronage and had their dreams shattered. YOU GET WHAT YOU VOTE FOR!
Our Team Is Your Team Team Duffy
Team
On our ticket @ Number 2 Graeme Judge
I am a small business operator and I am aware of the issues concerning the CBD. The parking Issues, Traffic Flow issues and the disgraceful state of the Footpaths in Anson Street and Lords Place.
I am in Constant contact with other small business owners who are saying the same thing, Traffic Flow and Parking. Unbelievable the waste of money on Lords Place and other projects.
I am an avid sports fan and want to get things moving regarding the Sports Precinct. It will have great impact on our city’s economy and provide a valuable complex for our youth to exercise than be stuck inside playing computer games. Lets get it Built.
Having a young family I see the congestion around our schools at peak Periods. The Southern Feeder is urgent.
I have spent decades being a volunteer is sport at both Cricket and Football at a Senior and Junior level.
Its time as Kevin says bring back common sense.
Lets get on with the Job.
On our ticket @ Number 3 Fleur Vardanega
Hello
Everyone
I have retired and have been supporting our community in sport for over 3 decades through administration in a voluntary basis.
I am Mother and a Grandmother and I am sick of the waste of money weather it be Ratepayers money or Grant money.
We are in times when families are struggling with Interest Rates, Food Prices. Insurance, Rate Rises. Inflation, Energy Prices, Mortgages and Commodity prices.
Lets stop this waste and address the things that matter, Roads, Footpaths , Parks and Gardens , Sporting Fields. Lets leave a legacy for our grandchildren and their children in the same manner as generations before us.
I want a council with commonsense. One that builds our future not one that destroys.
We will never forget Lords Place, the shame of it all.
Our Team Is Your Team
✓ East Orange Footpaths, Sports Precinct Commenced, Clergate Road,
✓ Continue to support for major sporting event carnivals, cricket, rugby, netball,
✓ Gnoo Blas, Wine Week, Food Week, Australian National Field Days, Eight Day Games; Orange 360 just to name a few
On our ticket @ Number 4
Darren Johnson
I have been in Management for over 35 years in Orange.
I have semi retired after being in business for the last 15 years in the CBD.
I know what sporting events and carnivals bring to the small business. Basketball, Rugby, League, Athletics, Cricket, Golf, Bowls etc.. these carnivals are an essential to our communities economy.
I am excited that our Team vocally and voted support for the Greyhounds returning to Orange. Orange is the mecca centre of the Central West for Greyhounds.
I have been a long term supporter of the Stadium, Build it, we will stop the hold ups.
Don’t get me started on Lords Place. I feel for those businesses that operate there.
I am Proud to be part of Our Team Is Your Team
On our ticket @ Number 5 Richard Clifford
I have been a Mine Worker at Cadia Valley Operations. I am a School and Town Bus Service Operator.
I will get straight to the point. Cadia Valley is a Jewel of our region, it’s a life saver for our community in times of the harsh cost of living Get back to basic services that supports our community for which we pay rates for.
No more Lords Place and other wasted expenditure. Bring Back Commonsense.
On our ticket @ Number 6
Bradley Tyack
Hi all , I am a long-distance Commercial Coach Driver I see how our roads are deteriating compared to other areas of the State in Regional NSW and the Sydney region. We need to concentrate on our roads and footpaths so our residents can be proud of our city. It’s the basic reason we pay our rates for.
I am also a proud gay man, to be a part of this community, however I don’t believe that council needs to be involved anymore in the rainbow festival, and this organization needs now to have its own administration and needs to stand alone to be able to run it self.
✓ Continue to encourage Government to build the Ulmurrah Dam at Dixons Long Point and also to include Link Road to Mudgee thus securing Water Security and linking major centres a little over an Hour from Orange.
✓ If you vote for the Status Quo you will get more “ Golden Balls , More Bee Clocks, More Lords Place, More Gender and Ideology issues”.
DUFFY B 1
OUR TEAM IS YOUR TEAM
1 OUR TEAM IS YOUR TEAM
DUFFY
Goodluck in the Grand Final
UNDER 13 TIGERS
UNDER 14 TIGERS
1.Chayne
UNDER 15 TIGERS
Blayney Shire Council elections: Meet the candidates tonight!
Ahead of the September 14 local government elections, the Rotary Club of Blayney is hosting a ‘Meet and Greet’ at the Blayney Community Centre tonight, 7pm Thursday, September 5.
Candidates will be given the opportunity to speak to the community and present the basis of their platform for election. Each candidate will have six minutes to answer the following questions:
1. Why have you nominated for the council elections?
2. What skills and or knowledge do you have that you believe will be useful in this position?
3. What is your vision for the future directions of the Blayney Shire?
This will be followed by a short question time from the audience (3 mins). This meeting will be facilitated by Mr Mark Logan and is organised by the Rotary Club of Blayney as a service provided to the local community.
CROSS
STAR WARS?
WITH MICHAEL KEMP
I remember Star Wars with great nostalgia. From the original trilogy as well as lots of the new content over the years. It is an exciting adventure. The religion of the force is a key theme throughout all the content – the great battle between good and evil. How similar is Christianity?
One point of similarity is that Christians believe that God acts in the world and makes it all work. However, God also exists separate to the world that he made and thus is so much greater than it. That is different to the force idea. Star Wars also has the good side vs dark side – Christianity is quite different. God is not split into a good and bad part. Rather God is complete and all good. There is no counterpart evil god. People and angels can stand with God or against him – but no amount of beings standing up against God will make any dent on his plans. I encourage you to stand with the great God. God cares for you intimately despite his unfathomable greatness.
WHAT’S HAPPENING @
held, and the ongoingly popular Bel Air, this roomy family home has lovely street appeal and much to offer those buyers looking for a unique property that provides generosity at every turn. It is clear that liveability and plenty of storage was at the forefront of this home’s design and this is evident as you make your way through the property. The formal loungeroom overlooks the front patio and leads seamlessly to the formal dining area.
Texts, emails and calls are scammers’ favourite tools. Scamwatch data reveals these are the top three ways scammers contact victims to obtain their sensitive information.
“Phishing scams are a constant threat, and the only way to truly protect yourself is to remain vigilant with any type of unsolicited contact. Don’t be fooled by seemingly trustworthy entities; legitimate companies will not ask you to provide sensitive information through unsolicited texts, emails, or calls,” COBA Chief of Financial Crimes and Cyber Resilience Leanne Vale said.
Here are COBA’s Financial Crimes and Cyber Resilience team’s top tips to outsmart phishing scams.
is phishing
Phishing is when scammers impersonate trusted entities like banks, telcos or even official government agencies like the ATO, targeting individuals through emails, phone calls, or text messages.
The emails and websites they use are designed to look legitimate, often mirroring the branding and logos of the companies or institutions they’re imitating.
Their goal is to obtain personal
Scott was very knowledgeable and professional throughout the
information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details.
Tactics they use may include the ‘technical error’; they might claim there’s been a system glitch that erased customer data, urging you to re-enter your details; the ‘customer survey’ trick might involve offering a prize to get you to complete a survey that captures your information; the ‘security update’; asking you to update your details for security reasons and the ‘unauthorized activity’ alert: They might even raise alarms about suspicious transactions on your account, then offer to investigate if you just provide your details. How to spot phishing attempts
Phishing scams are designed to obtain your personal information or getting you to click on malicious links. If you’re unsure, contact the company directly using their official website, phone number or mobile app to verify the request. Never use the contact given in the site, text or call you receive.
Here are some red flags to look out for:
• Suspicious sender: The message or email may appear to be from a known company, but the number or email address is unfamiliar or doesn’t match the official contact details.
• Urgent language: Scammers often use urgent language (‘Your account is locked!’, ‘Payment overdue’ or ‘Immediate action required!’) to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking.
• Suspicious links: Never click on links in unsolicited text messages or emails. If you’re unsure, go directly to the company’s website, app, or phone them directly.
• Requests for personal information: Legitimate companies don’t ask for personal information like passwords or credit card numbers via text or phone calls.
• Suspicious attachments: Don’t open attachments from unknown senders. They may contain malware.
...Even if you’ve managed to avoid losing money to a phishing scam, reporting it is still crucial...
What to do you if spot a phishing scam
Even if you’ve managed to avoid losing money to a phishing scam, reporting it is still crucial. By sharing your story, you contribute to protecting others and stopping these criminals. Report the scam to National Anti-Scam Centre - Scamwatch.
If you have lost money as part of the investment fraud, immediately report the transaction(s) to your bank or financial institution and complete a report through ReportCyber.
Customer-owned banks are dedicated to safeguarding their customers from scams and fraud. In November, 55 mutual banks and credit unions, including Bank Orange, demonstrated this commitment by joining forces to launch the Scam-Safe Accord. This industry-wide initiative represents a united front against scammers and reinforces the banking sector’s determination to strengthen consumer protection.
9:30-10:00
9:45-10:15
10:00-10:30
10:00-10:30
10:45-11:15
12:15-12:45
1:45-2:15
2:00-2:30
VIPERS NETBALL CLUB DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS ROUND
photos by CEC TILBURG
On Saturday, August 31 the Vipers netball club made the invisible, visible! Players and supporters wore a purple ribbon or bib to raise awareness of the terrible prevalence of violence against women and show support for the work of advocacy group Birds in the Bush.
SPORT
AROUND THE GROUNDS
with DALLAS REEVES
Bathurst Bulldogs have been crowned Blowes Cup rugby union first grade premiers after a clinical 50-22 grand final win against gallant hosts Orange Emus last Saturday, August 31.
Emus were first through to the grand final after a 7-0 major semi-final win against Bathurst at Bathurst, but points flowed a fortnight later at Orange’s Endeavour Oval.
Emus scored first through inside centre Harry Cummins, but from there Bulldogs got in front and never looked back, with three late second-half tries eliminating any chance of an Emus comeback.
After being kept scoreless in the opening week of the finals, Bathurst were able to score 54 points in the preliminary final win against Forbes and then racked up a half-century in the big one.
Emus scored four five-pointers with number eight Cory Hooper getting a double and fly-half Mitch Evers also crossing the goal line for a try as well as kicking one conversion.
It was a difficult grand final day for Emus, with all three sides in action losing at home.
In second grade, Bulldogs won a 3129 thriller against Emus.
Both teams scored four tries with winger Harry O’Malley, flyhalf Dan Jackson, halfback Jamil Khalfan and number eight Harry Webster scoring five-pointers for Emus, with Jackson adding three conversions and a penalty goal.
Dubbo’s third grade grand final win was more comprehensive, Kangaroos defeating Emus 35-10.
In the colts decider, Bathurst defeated Dubbo 50-12. The roles were reversed in a closer women’s Westfund Ferguson Cup grand final, Kangaroos beating Bulldogs 24-19.
Orange Hawks’ brilliant under18s side is continuing its charge towards a second straight Tom Nelson Premiership title in Western Rugby League action.
Hawks eliminated Lithgow Workies with a clinical 34-10 qualifying final success at Parkes last Sunday, September 1.
Dynamic fullback Harry Wald scored two tries in the strong win.
Thirty-four was the winning tally in both under-18s finals, with Dubbo CYMS ending Parkes’ season 34-6.
It means Hawks and Dubbo CYMS square off in the Tom Nelson Premiership under-18s grand final at Mudgee on Sunday, September 8.
When Hawks and Dubbo CYMS met
in the regular season, Hawks were 26-6 winners.
Across their last five matches, Hawks have scored 256 points and conceded just 34.
While those statistics count for nothing on the big day, Hawks will enter the decider as the team to beat.
The two Orange sides in the other grades were eliminated last Sunday. Hawks’ blues tag side lost 30-10 to Dubbo Macquarie at Mudgee.
In reserve grade, Orange CYMS bowed out after a 23-10 loss to Dubbo CYMS.
Mudgee will host Parkes in the first grade Peter McDonald Premiership grand final
In reserve grade, it will be Mudgee against Dubbo CYMS and blues tag is a 2023 decider replay with Bathurst St Pat’s meeting Dubbo Macquarie.
Orange Wanderers have won through to the men’s Central West Premier League Hockey (PLH) decider with a thrilling 4-3 preliminary final win against Dubbo Lions at Orange.
Previous match-ups suggested the knockout clash could be close.
Ironically, Wanderers had won a match against Dubbo at Parkes back on June 1 by the same score (4-3) while Dubbo won 2-1 at Orange in July.
Despite Lithgow Workies Storm winning two of three matches against Orange Wanderers this season, the form line ahead of the big one at Lithgow on Saturday, September 7, again points to a tense and exciting contest.
Lithgow Workies Storm beat Orange Wanderers 2-1 at Lithgow on May 11 and 3-2 on August 24 in the major semi-final at Lithgow.
In between, Wanderers defeated Lithgow Workies Storm 3-2 at Dubbo on August 3.
In the women’s decider, also at Lithgow, minor premiers and major semi-final winners Lithgow Panthers host Bathurst St Pat’s.
St Pat’s have qualified for the decider from third place, eliminating Orange CYMS 2-1 in week one of the finals before knocking out Bathurst City 3-1 in a derby preliminary final last Saturday.
Orange Tigers’ season ended in senior AFL Central West action last Saturday but not before two spirited performances in their respective preliminary finals at Bathurst.
The Tigers’ women’s side didn’t win its first game until round 10 but then drew in round 11 and was victorious in rounds 12 and 15 to
storm into the finals.
Orange then won in week one of the play-offs and went so close to making the grand final, losing a gripping preliminary final 4.7 (31) to 4.2 (26) to Bathurst Bushrangers.
Heather Davies, Melanie Ryan, Dael Bingham and Cara Jordan were the goal-kickers according to play HQ as Orange kicked two majors in the final quarter.
In the women’s decider, minor premiers Dubbo will play Bushrangers.
Orange’s men’s tier two side lost its preliminary final to Cowra 5.14 (44) to 2.3 (15).
Cowra only led by a point at quartertime but managed to keep the Tigers goalless for the rest of the contest.
Play HQ recorded Calum Duncan and Ike Dean as Orange’s first term goalkickers.
Cowra, who were minor premiers before dropping the major semi-final, now play Bathurst Bushrangers in the grand final at Bathurst on Saturday, September 7.
The men’s tier one decider is an all-Bathurst affair, with Bushrangers hosting Giants.
A season that featured patches of promise ended in a difficult note for Waratahs FC with a 5-0 loss to Panorama FC in the final round of football’s Western Premier League competition last Saturday.
All year it was five sides going for the final three of four semi-finals spots as the seven-team competition had a clear leader and one team struggling down the bottom of the ladder.
After a season where Waratahs FC challenged many of the top-tier sides, consistency counted against the Orange side to finish 2024 with six wins, three draws and nine losses across 18 matches to earn 21 competition points and finish sixth.
Remarkably, there were only 10 competition points between secondplaced Dubbo Bulls FC (31) and Waratahs in sixth, but 20 points between Waratahs FC and last-placed Parkes Cobras (one).
Defending premiers Bathurst ’75 (45) also won the minor premiership by a hefty 14 competition points.
It means in week one of the finals, minor premiers Bathurst ’75 host Bulls in the grand final qualifier while Macquarie United and Orana Spurs meet in a Dubbo derby elimination final.
Final Western Premier League table: Bathurst ’75 (45), Dubbo Bulls (31), Macquarie United (29), Orana Spurs (25); Panorama (23), Waratahs FC (21), Parkes Cobras (one).
BLOWES CUP RUGBY UNION
Orange Emus hosted the 2024 Blowes Cup grand final at Endeavour Oval on Saturday, August 31. It was a tough day for the home side, with the first grade defeated by Bathurst Bulldogs 50-22.
photos by HENRY DEROOY
PUZZLES…. PUZZLES…. PUZZLES….
PUZZLES
23 Central American country (9)
24 Unencumbered (5)
26 Protected (9)
27 Sun-dried brick (5)
28 Brought together (8)
29 Actor, – Irons (6)
1 Common crumble ingredient (7)
2 Chocolate tree (5)
3 Refined (7)
5 Cerumen (6)
6 Extensive collection (7)
7 To that (arch.) (9)
8 Stockings and socks (7)
10 Sword (US) (5) 14 Travelling (2,7)
16 Continuing (7)
17 Floating ice (3,4) 19 Give (5)
20 Place or group different from those surrounding it (7)
21 Leather factory (7)
22 Farm animals (6)
25 Summon (5)
ACROSS
1 Vehicle propelled by explosive thrust (6)
4 Send (8)
9 Relation (5) 10 Outsiders (9) 11 Character (5)
12 Speak impiously (9) 13 Irritated skin bubbles (8) 15 NSW capital (6) 16 Get the better of mentally (6) 18 Lacking footwear (8)
3.
KI D S ZON E
Kids Talk
Huxley, age six.
✫ Who is your favourite teacher? Miss Daloran, she teaches us and I love school.
✫ Who is your best friend? Charlie and Dustan, we play zombies.
✫ What do you love to do after school? Play with my baby brother Jarvis. He’s one and we share a room.
✫ What is something your parents always say to you? Hurry up! They say it when I get ready for school.
✫ If you were principal for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do? Get dressed of course!
✫ What’s your favourite food? Milk, I like to drink it.
✫ What’s your favourite toy? Monster trucks. I let Jarvis touch them sometimes.
✫ If you could open a shop, what would it sell? Milk!
✫ If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Ice powers, like Elsa. I’d freeze the bad guys.
James Sheahan Catholic High School POSITIONS AVAILABLE
• TAS Teacher– full-time temporary for Term 4, 2024
• Science Teacher – full-time permanent, commencing. Term 1, 2025
• Maths Teacher – full-time permanent commencing.
Term 1, 2025
• Ongoing casual teaching positions
Come and be a part of our amazing learning community.
Further details can be obtained from our website: jschs.catholic.edu.au go to Our School, Employment or call 6362 1422. The Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst is an equal opportunity employer.
Fond Memories
daniEl “ BlockEr” StEdman
20.5.93 - 9.9.20
We are sending a dove to heaven, with a parcel on its wings. Be careful when you open it, It’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses, Wrapped up in a million hugs. To say how much we miss you, and to send you all our love. We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain .
To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.
Nothing could be more beautiful, Than the memories we have of you, To us they’re very precious Because they are of you.
Love from Mark, Jasmine and family
07.09.2011
Carolyn Davis
Thirteen years have passed, since you went away
Life is not the same without you
The sun still rises in the east and darkness falls at night but nothing now seems quite the same each day is not as bright
The birds still sing, the flowers grow the breeze still whispers, too but it will never, ever be the same world without you
It’s so sad that you had to go your leaving caused such pain but you were so very special and earth’s loss is heaven’s gain.
Loved and Remembered each day Love From Rodney
~ 8.9.2012
If roses grow in heaven, Lord pick a bunch for me, Place them in my Mother’s arms and tell her they’re from me.
Missing Mama
If I could visit Heaven even for a day, the pain in my heart would temporarily go away. I’d put my arms around you
Today, like many other days brings special thoughts of you of happy times we shared and caring things you used to do And once more, it’s a reminder that life’s road is sometimes rough because the time we shred just wasn’t long enough. For you were someone special who was thought so highly of who’ll always be remembered with affection, warmth and love So sending thoughts to Heaven on the day you went away and hope you know you’re missed more than words could ever say.
THUMBS UP and a big thank you to Luke at I”ve Got Wood. Always does a great job and always has a big smile.
THUMB DOWN for Orange City Council who promote Orange Biodiversity Month while they do the opposite, i.e. allow fishermen to have access to Spring Creek Reservoir. It is not only water birds which use the area, but many birds nest there. With big feet tramping around, the birds don’t have a chance. What a joke!
DOUBLE THUMBS UP to two local businesses, Kite Coffee Roasters and Simeon Cooke (Evergreen Electrical) for over-the-top customer service and follow up. You people give Orange a good name.
BIG THUMBS UP to Kate and staff at 119 Moulder Street for the birthday luncheon on the occasion of a joint 80th and 21st birthdays. Guests travelled far and wide and were most impressed, well done Kate.
THUMBS UP to Sally at Belle Property Orange, her great work and dedication is always appreciated!
THUMBS UP and well done to the management and staff at Orange Ex-Services Club and Wentworth for the outstanding new venue at the Wentworth Orange. Excellent facility which will cater for the Orange community for decades to come.
THUMBS UP to the gentleman who came to my assistance when I tripped last Thursday outside Dan Murphy’s. He helped me up and made certain I was OK. Also an extra thumb to the young lady from Dan’s who out to ensure I was OK.
THUMBS UP to Ev, the lovely nursery lady at Bunnings for telling my young children a great story about how a daffodil grows, and giving each of them a purple flower stamp on their hands, on a very rainy Sunday morning. You made all our days.
THUMB DOWN to the local business that burns their plastic waste. People have to breathe that waste, just pay for proper disposal, it should be part of your costs, not our children’s health!
THUMB DOWN to the drivers who appear unaware (or don’t care) that part of the Northern Distributor Road is now a 60kph zone. They tailgate or overtake drivers who are doing the correct speed.
THUMBS UP to one of the barmen at the Robin Hood Hotel. We went there to watch the footy, the kitchen had just closed and he made us a lovely pizza. This sort of thing is what makes people keep going to places.
THUMBS UP to Steven at Officeworks for explaining digital devices brilliantly, clearly and patiently.
THUMBS UP to Josh at HydroFix Plumbing. A great job and very prompt service. Thank you.
THUMBS UP to Katie at Harvey Norman for fantastic customer service.
THUMBS UP to the lady who backed into our car recently and was kind enough to leave a note. Glad to see there are still honest people around. A lottery gift pack is on its way as a small token of our appreciation. Good luck.
THUMB DOWN to the Cabonne Council. The condition of the road from Lake Canobolas Road is atrocious, especially the section to the Gaanha-bulla (Mt Canobolas) turnoff. Not sure whether it’s a ploy for people to drive slower but it certainly works.
THUMBS UP to Katy the transplant coordinator nurse and all the oncology nurses. Katy works long hours and is always caring, kind, and compassionate in trying times. She is very professional at all times and greatly appreciated by all the patients. The nurses are always friendly, caring and efficient. We are so lucky to have such a great facility in Orange. Thanks so much Sue and Bruce.
THUMBS UP and a big thank you to Elisabeth at Anson Street Woolworths. So helpful to the customers and always has a big smile. Nothing is a trouble for her.
HUGE THUMBS UP to ‘Movie Splice with Aidan Price’. Someone to give us the highs and lows of a movie currently screening at Odeon 5 Cinema. A very articulate article giving us all the information required to enable the reader to decide if this is a movie we would like to see!
The Thumbs represent thoughts and opinions of readers and do not necessarily reflect those of Orange City Life. Every care is taken not to publish thumbs that are considered derogatory or defamatory in nature . Please note that thumbs may be edited for clarity, space or legal reasons.
Published by Orange City Life Pty Ltd ABN 14 649 575
