The Parkes Phoenix Issue 115

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Friday 1 June 2018

ISSUE 115

ONCE UNDER A BLUE DISH… The 35 world record breakers celebrate at the Parkes Radio Telescope after successfully observing the moon for ten minutes last Wednesday and helping to set a new Guiness World Record.

(Photo: John Sarkissian)

Stargazers Over The Moon With World Record

A seven-day-old moon was hanging in a gloriously clear sky when 35 people observed it through telescopes and binoculars for ten minutes with the blue dish as a beautiful backdrop.

On very short notice, the Parkes Radio Telescope took part in the national stargazing event last Wednesday and helped to set a new Guiness World Record with over 40,000 Australians who observed the moon at more than 285 venues at the same time.

While the final number of participants is still being processed, the turnout far exceeded expectations making a vast improvement on the previous record of the Australian National University of 7,960 people.

Before the official event on the lawns of the CSIRO Parkes Observatory’s Visitors Centre, people observed the moon, Jupi-

ter rising behind the dish and several other stars with the Central West Astronomical Society (CWAS) telescopes. Les Dalrymple’s 18-inch behemoth, which he built himself, was a big hit with everyone.

At 8:25 PM (AEST) precisely, the record attempt began. Dr Alan Duffy, who featured at Parkes for the Stargazing Live programme on ABC TV the previous night, officiated as the prime time-keeper. His assistant was Chris Green, as the second time-keeper, while Tricia Trim of the Visitors Centre was the witness and John Sarkissian acted as steward ensuring everyone kept their optical devices at the moon, for the entire ten minutes.

Each participant who took part in the record-breaking attempt will receive an official Guinness World Record participation certificate.

CUNNINGHAM’S 362 Clarinda Street Parkes 6862 2522 Monday to Saturday 6.30am-7.30pm Sunday 7am-7pm

MANAGING PRIORITY WEEDS Help protect our unique bushland, wildlife corridors and waterways within the Parkes Shire.

Council’s Biosecurity Team offer our community free services aimed at minimising the spread of priority weeds. + + + +

Weed control advice Property inspections Weed identification Educational material

Contact our Biosecurity Officers on 02 6861 2343.

www.parkes.nsw.gov.au

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THUMBS... phone l (02) 6344 1846 web l www.parkesphoenix.com.au Postal Address PO Box 251 Canowindra NSW 2804

Publisher Sarah Maynard | Publisher | 0403 270 995 publisher@phoenixnewspapers.com.au

MAYORAL NOTES This week we pay tribute to music legend Phil Emmanuel, who sadly passed away last Thursday evening from a sudden asthma attack. We are privileged to have had Phil feature at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival, performing the Guitars of the Era concert in the Little Theatre. Phil and his brother Tommy, were also inducted into the Elvis Wall of Fame, which will now serve as a lasting legacy to the musical talent.

This week the Parkes Shire marks Reconciliation Week, with the theme ‘Don’t Keep History a Mystery’. The Galari-Lachlan Reconciliation Group invites locals to view an exhibition in the library showcasing both contemporary and ancient Wiradjuri history, which is rich in the Parkes area. The dates commemorate two significant milestones – the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.

Recently I attended the inaugural meeting of the new Central NSW Joint Organisation (JO) of councils. Parkes Shire Council has transitioned from Centroc to the new JO, joining forces with 10 Central West councils to push state and federal governments on important issues such as improved road links to Sydney, better telecommunications, upgraded health facilities and continued development of regions.

A number of road projects are nearing completion this week. The Saleyards Road project saw our crew carry out widening of the road, pavement rehabilitation, correction of superelevations and grade table drains. The causeway repair along Oliview Road (SR26) has wrapped up, the work consisted of reconstructing the causeway, headwalls and road approaches. Our township crews have also begun utilising the new portable ‘bladder’ storage unit, which holds 100,000 litres of water. The unit enables our crews to carry out works in remote and isolated parts of the shire. The new bladder is currently feeding the re-sheet of Adavale Lane (104) near Goonumbla.

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend, Cr Ken Keith OAM Mayor of Parkes Shire

Editorial Maggi Barnard | Editor | 0403 080 085 editor@parkesphoenix.com.au Advertising Sylvie Maloney | Sales | 0490 517 590 sales@parkesphoenix.com.au Advertising Deadline Tuesday 4pm if you require design Wednesday 3pm for pre-designed ads Editorial Deadline | Wednesday 10am

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THUMBS UP To Coles and Woolworths for introducing online shopping (Click and Collect). It makes life so much easier for people in mobility scooters, and saves time for those with hectic schedules.

THUMBS UP To the ‘golden drops’ of rain that fell this week. It felt so good!

THUMBS UP To everyone who did a rain dance – in the rain or in their hearts!

THUMBS UP To Coles and Woolworths for implementing a ban on plastic bags in the near future. The less plastic we discard into the environment, the better!

Sudden Loss Of Revered Guitarist The community of Parkes was plunged into shock last week with the sudden death of one of its most famous ‘sons’ best known for his legendary guitar skills.

Phil Emmanuel suddenly died in Parkes last Thursday at age 65 after an asthma attack. He was visiting his brother Darcy at the time and planning to do some shows.

Phil and his brother Tommy were inducted into the Wall of Fame at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival, and Phil gave a sold-out concert at the festival.

RIP PHIL... Sylvie Maloney of The Parkes Phoenix and owner of Chemical Creations Photography took this photo of Phil at his concert at The Parkes Elvis Festival this year.

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SNIPPETS...

Budget Boosts Stronger Communities: The Federal Budget delivered funding for an additional round of the popular Stronger Communities Program, meaning local community organisations are set to share in $150,000 made available for the Riverina electorate. The grants, ranging from $2,500 to $20,000, help sporting clubs, community groups and volunteer organisations continue their vital work.

“If you have a group or a public facility which needs an upgrade, or which can help boost tourism, local volunteerism or build a stronger local community, please have a look at the criteria and share your idea,” said Riverina MP Michael McCormack.

Craft Corner News: At the recent AGM the following committee members were elected: President, Rosemary Mitchell; Vice-President, Shirley Michalk; Secretary, Margaret Tanner; Treasurer, Kerry Buerckner, Treasurer Assist., Bev Dawson; Public Officer, Rhonda Redenbach; Roster Leslie Fischer; Shop Secretary, Carol Lee; Publicity Officer, Ann Reginato.

Winners of the Mother’s Day draw are: 1st prize Angela Crowley and 2nd prize Ann Gehrig (she ceded her prize and May Woods’ name was drawn as the winner).

194 clarinda street, parkes phone 6862 1499 www.parkesleaguesclub.com.au

Friday 1 June 2018 Page 3

QUESTION of the week Please note the Knit and Natter day has been changed to 26th July at 10:30am All are welcome. Please like us on Facebook.

Any enquiries contact President Rosemary on 6862 2570 or Secretary Margaret on 686 23240. The next meeting is at 10am on 14th June - newcomers welcome. You can also visit the shop in Clarinda Street if you are looking for a special gift.

About 50 NSW Ambulance volunteers from across the state took part in exercise ‘Extreme’ at Northparkes Mines (NPM) on Sunday dealing with several mock accidents and casualties requiring treatment. Pictured above is Linda Snyman of NPM who volunteered as a casualty.

Can Assist Benefits From Aero Spectacular Profit: With over 2,000 people attending the Parkes Aero Spectacular in April, the Parkes Aero Club celebrated its 70th anniversary and was able to make a little profit. The celebration included a thrilling display by the RAAF Roulettes with their aerobatic stunts and manoeuvres. Last Friday club members Warwick Tom and Greg Rout handed over a $2,000 cheque to Can Assist to help them with their vital work in the community. Can Assist Secretary, Pat Bailey said every contribution helped to reach their goal of $100,000 plus per year, which were all spent locally to help families affected by cancer. She said the local branch had about 40 volunteers who spent a lot of time on fundraising.

The Parkes Aero Club has a fully serviced club house at the airport, which Warwick said was available to the community to hire.

Receiving the cheque from The Parkes Aero Club members are Anne McLachlan and Pat Bailey (middle) from Can Assist with Warwick Tom (left) and Greg Rout (right).

What do you think of Parkes getting a dragon boat club?

Susan and John Pearce: It is a great idea. We’ve been interested for a while, and Lake Endeavour is much closer as we live out this way. It is a fun sport, pleasurable and sociable. We are keen to join the club.

Bernadette Clowry: It is great and a lot of fun. I had a go today and enjoyed every minute of it. I would like to join the club.

Helen Standen: It is a great initiative. Congratulations to the people who got if off the ground. It is exhilarating and relaxing at the same time. I love being out and seeing the ducks flying across the water. I think I will join.

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Have You ‘Hubbed’ A Burger Yet? Livestock branding is a common practise in a town like Parkes surrounded by cattle farmers, but have you ever seen burger branding?

If you have not been to the Burger Hub at 263 Clarinda Street, you have missed out according to loads of accolades bestowed on this establishment as satisfied customers rave on its Facebook page.

“This is just what Parkes needs, something different, something top shelf gourmet food; Best food and best people; Food was so good and service was amazing.”

Only three weeks after opening, and owners Jason McGuire and Sophie Meek are still completely overwhelmed by the response of the public. “We returned to Parkes with the idea of starting a business.

We decided on doing burgers on our way back from Canberra one day,” said Jason.

Over his 18 years of being a chef at the Parkes Services Club to the Whale Bone Wharf in Port Macquarie and a few others in between, Jason has gained valuable experience and ideas and these came to good use when creating the Burger Hub’s menu.

“We are more American style influenced and have special sauces, but most important for us is to make everything in-house

Owners of the Burger Hub Jason McGuire and Sophie Meek.

or source locally as far as possible. We are not a fast food restaurant, and make every single patty by hand, as well as all our sauces, while the bread rolls are baked locally.”

All tastes, diets and appetites are catered for with gluten free options available, a herbivore burger for vegetarians, and a double

up option for everything between the two bread buns for only $6 extra.

The industrious couple has many plans up their sleeves to keep the Hub humming, but for the time being make sure to get in early from Tuesdays to Saturdays to lay your hands on one of those branded burgers as they are still selling out regularly.

The best burgers in town

PHONE 5808 9631

263 Clarinda Street Parkes

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GET READY FOR THE

Parkes Picnic Races A Day Of Style And Elegance Next weekend is not only a long weekend, but also time for the social highlight on the Parkes calendar.

On Saturday, 9th June the gates will open at 11:30am at the Parkes Racecourse for the annual Parkes Picnic Races. The first race of the five-race program will start at 12:30pm.

One of the Central West’s most prestigious Fashions on the Field competitions will take place once again with fantastic cash and prizes on offer. The guest judge this year is Julie Herbert of Julie Herbert Millinery Creations from Orange. The categories this year are Contemporary, Elegant Lady, Stylish Man and Millinery.

The Contemporary category is your chance to show your unique style with that race-day look for those who dare to be different. It’s a category for both men and women! The Elegant Lady category is the most prestigious of the day for those who showcase pure style and elegance.

The Stylish Man category is for gents who consider extra detail and stand out in the crowd. The Millinery category is for ladies who turn heads with their headwear. Go the Parkes Picnic Races website or Facebook page for more details and requirements to be competing in the different categories.

The judging of Fashion on the Field will start at 3pm at the Picnic Stage.

There will be loads of entertainment including live music provided by local band Gerholm Jonson.

The racecourse provides full bar and betting facilities along with a range of catering services available on course throughout

the day. A range of catered marquees will be on site offering packaged food and beverage tickets with seating available.

You are welcome to bring along your own food hampers and picnic on the grass, however the racecourse is a licensed venue so no alcohol is to be brought onto the grounds.

“We are expecting a good crowd,” said Stafford Orange of the organising committee. He said entry tickets were still available at the Cambridge, Parkes and Railway Hotels, as well as the Tourism Office, or at the gate on the day.

Start planning your outfit, gather your group together for a great day out and possibly catching up with long lost friends.

WIN A DOUBLE PASS to the Parkes Picnic Races on Saturday 9th June

Complete the below entry form and return it to PO Box 251 Canowindra 2804, or enter online via our website www.parkesphoenix.com.au for your chance to win.

Entries close 2pm, Tuesday 5th June Name: Address: Email: Phone:

Julie Herbert from Orange is the guest judge for the popular Fashions on the Field event at the Parkes Picnic Races.

As well as lots of outfit options for the races!

We have all your last minute Races accessories...

• Millinery • Winter Hats • Gloves • Jewellery

Open until 12 o'clock Saturday 9th June

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Delivering The 20 Million Trees Promise

Ostini Wool Weekly Market Update The unprecedented rise of the Australian Wool Market has continued in Week 47.

30,053 bales were put before the trade this week and despite the offering again consisting of many lower yielding, lesser style wools, the market continued its bullish trend, as buyers continued their aggressive approach, perhaps due to concern over upcoming supply. Merino wools received strong support with all types and descriptions posting solid gains. 17.0 micron all the way through to 22.0 micron, generally sold at levels 40-80 cents above those achieved at the previous sale.

The NRI was already sitting at an all-time high, after considerable rises over the previous few sales, this week it added a further 38 cents, pushing it to a new record of 2033 cents. The NRI has now added an impressive 453 cents Y.O.Y, an increase of 29%, while it has gained 54% or 712 cents on the past 2 years. Another point worth noting, the Individual Micron Price Guides (MPG) for 17.5 all the way through to 22.0 micron, are all sitting at previously unseen levels.

Source:AWEX

The 20 Million Trees Program is in the final phase of nearing its completion with the latest round of investment approved.

The Australian Government has invested more than $14 million to deliver 12 largescale tree-planting and revegetation projects. Assistant Minister for the Environment, Melissa Price, said the projects, delivered by CO2 Australia, Greening Australia and Landcare Australia, would see approximately 5.2 million native trees and associated understory planted across more than 4,800 hectares.

The 20 Million Trees Program is an Australian Government initiative which supports local communities, and taps into local knowledge, to plant trees that will help to deliver environmental conservation outcomes, including those which benefit threatened species and threatened ecological communities.

“These projects will generate real environment and conservation benefits for our local communities, and contribute more than a quarter of the 20 million tree target on a national scale,” said the Assistant Minister.

“This funding brings the total Australian Government investment in 20 Million Trees Service Provider projects to more than $37.7 million, with the projects delivering approximately 14.46 million trees towards the 20 million target.

“The remainder of the trees are being funded through competitive community grants.”

More information, including links to each of the 20 Million Trees Program Service Provider projects, can be found at www. nrm.gov.au/national/20-million-trees

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• Servicing most Fuel Injection Systems • Common Rail Filter Kits • Brassware • Glow Plugs • Make Injector and Brake Pipes

LVR No: 45676 (Licenced Vehicle Repairer)

PARKES NSW & ST GEORGE QLD Ostini Wool specialises in wool marketing and can advise growers in all aspects of your wool clip preparation. We can market your wool through a number of different options.

• Sale by Auction – Flat Rate per Bale • Private Treaty Marketing • VOT Marketing

• Electronic Marketing • Forward Contracts • Oddment & Door Trade

No lot too big or too small Head Office – Woodward St Parkes NSW Ph: 02 6862 5196 A/Hrs Graeme Ostini 02 6862 2615 • 0428 650 191

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Friday 1 June 2018 Page 7

‘With Every Job To Be Done, There’s An Element Of Fun’

A multilingual IT teacher who allows his students to go on fantastic adventures through building and programming Lego models might sound like a modern day version of Mary Poppins, but this is a real life movie playing every day at the Parkes Christian School (PCS).

It is recess time and the computer lab of Clarence Goh, or Mr Goh as the students call him, is packed with kids in their element.

It feels more like a hands-on high tech toy shop, but as the only Google Certified Trainer and Innovator in the Central West, Clarence is helping PCS move towards more project-based learning in the IT and Robotics department.

“The best way to learn is through play,” says Clarence. “Students need to know, see and feel when they learn, only then will

learning become tangible.”

The biggest project so far is an automated city built with Lego by primary students, and programmed by the more senior students to make it work on voice commands. The cinema, playing real movies, is programmed with the world’s smallest computer. It has been in the making for about a year and involves over 100

students.

This is the project Clarence will be taking to show in Sydney next week where he was asked to represent Google at EduTECH Australia 2018, the largest education exhibition in Asia-Pacific and the Southern Hemisphere.

As the students proudly display projects they have been working on, Clarence points out several that will be entered into the Young ICT Explorers Competition for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) related projects held in August. The Lego City will be entered, as well as the Rubik Cube Solver, built and programmed by Caleb Hill and Brayden Varcoe.

“It took us two months to build and then another year of problem solving to make it work properly,” said Caleb. “It was hard to

build, and we had so many problems, but it felt so good to finish it,” said Brayden.

While Alek Smith plays the Lego guitar he built and programmed, and Aaron O’Rourke demonstrates a Lego gear system he designed that can lift up to 100kg, Johnny the dancing robot shows off his gymnastic moves and Bellah Hewett fits a virtual reality device on her head to explore a new environment. “I love coming here as I am learning so much about technology and other subjects,” says Bellah.

In August Clarence will be taking hands-on learning outside with a very special project.

“We will launch a robot, called a Raspberry Pi with a GPS, temperature and humidity sensor, into near space to an altitude of 50km using a high altitude balloon and broadcast live images to earth via telemetry.”

With his eyes glinting just talking about this space project, Clarence says: “It makes me very happy to see the students so engaged. It gives me a lot of job satisfaction.”

In addition, his lab is providing a challenge for students to prove themselves and this has brought about a significant reduction in anti-social behaviour and an improvement in other subjects too as students see the purpose of learning and attending school.

The computer lab, connected to wi fi, also doubles as a language classroom where Clarence teaches Japanese with the help of technology. At the mention of Japanese a student jumps up and asks Google: “How do you say supercalifragilisticexpialidocious in Japanese?” … every school needs a high tech ‘Mary Poppins’!

Sow Crops Safely Essential Energy is urging farm machinery operators to stay safe when sowing crops near the electricity network following warmer than average autumn conditions across NSW. Regional manager Northern, Mark Summers, recommended assessing work sites for potential electrical hazards before undertaking sowing activities. “The hot and dry weather we’ve experienced this summer can alter network infrastructure conditions,” Mark said.

“Prolonged heat can cause powerlines to sag and reduce line clearance heights from the ground. Be aware of the height and voltage of overhead powerlines in the work area and always transport machinery in the lowered position.” Essential Energy recommends appointing an onsite safety observer to plan traffic paths and monitor machinery movements.

“If machinery does contact overhead powerlines, operators are advised to stay in the cabin and contact Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80.”

Access Essential Energy’s free overhead electricity network maps by calling 13 23 91 or visiting essentialenergy.com.au/overhead.

100 CLARINDA ST, PARKES • 02 68622060 • E: sales.tsm@live.com.au

• WHEEL ALIGNMENTS • PINK & BLUE SLIPS • SERVICING

Page 8 Friday 1 June 2018

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IT & Robotics

Don’t Keep History A Mystery

Year 9 Parkes Christian School students Caleb Hill and Brayden Varcoe started building a Rubik’s Cube Solver from Lego when they were in Year 7. They also programmed it to not only complete a Rubik’s cube in 42 seconds, the fastest time so far, but to also finish every side in a checkerboard pattern among other functions. (See full story on page 7.)

Michael McCormack Opens Parkes Office The Nationals’ Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack, will open an electorate office in Parkes on Monday, 4th June.

“The northern part of the Riverina electorate, which includes Parkes, Forbes, Peak Hill, Trundle, Tullamore and Cowra, is a vibrant region and deserves an accessible office to provide the best representation possible,” Michael said.

“I am in this part of the electorate frequently and the office will allow me to meet constituents in a private and comfortable environment.”

“Having an office with a full-time staff member in the region will also provide a face-to-face service for constituents.”

The Parkes office will be located at 207A Clarinda Street and will have one full-time

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staff member. The office telephone number will be 6862 4560. “I am really delighted to have created a full-time job in Parkes and to have supported local trades in the outfitting of the building,” Michael said.

An official opening of the office will be held today at 5pm.

“From about 4.30pm I will take a walk through the central business district and would love to catch up with as many people as possible for a quick hello.”

Parkes Mayor, Councillor Ken Keith, welcomed the decision to open the new office.

“We are delighted the Federal Member has decided to locate his office in Parkes in the northern part of the electorate to make it easier and more convenient for his constituents to meet with him and to discuss their issues,” the Mayor said.

Parkes is celebrating National Reconciliation Week with a very special exhibition that was opened at the Parkes Library last night and will be on display until 7th June.

The Galari-Lachlan Reconciliation Group and Parkes Library invite the community to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, to share that knowledge and help us grow as a nation.

Eileen Newport from the Galari-Lachlan Reconciliation Group said, “This special week is a time for all Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements as we are invited to join the national reconciliation effort. The Wiradjuri nation have a rich cultural history in the Parkes area. Evidence of their occupation has been found in many areas in the shire.”.

The ‘Don’t Keep History A Mystery: Learn. Share. Grow’ exhibition showcases both contemporary and ancient Wiradjuri history.

National Reconciliation Week started as the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation in 1993 and was supported by Australia’s major faith communities. The Week commemorates two significant milestones – the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.

Michael McCORMACK MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR RIVERINA

NEW OFFICE OPENING IN PARKES I am delighted to open an office in Parkes from Monday, June 4, to better serve the Central West community.

As your Federal Member I am pleased to offer assistance with Commonwealth Government matters.

My staff are more than happy to help with your inquiries.

Get in touch 207A Clarinda Street, Parkes NSW 2870 02 6862 4560 Suite 2, 11-15 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 02 6921 4600 michael.mccormack.mp@aph.gov.au michaelmccormack.com.au MichaelMcCormackMP M_McCormackMP Authorised by Michael McCormack MP, National Party of Australia, Suite 2, 11-15 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650.

DE LI VE RI NG FO R

R E G IO N A L AU ST RA L IA

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OUR Bloke Tim Watts

WIN A FAMILY PASS

to IWA Pro Wrestling Wild West Tour at Forbes Services Club on 22nd June Complete the below entry form and return it to PO Box 251 Canowindra 2804, or enter online via our website www.parkesphoenix.com.au for your chance to win.

Entries close 2pm, Tuesday 19th June Name: Address: Email: Phone:

NOW AVAILABLE

CAR CLEANING SERVICE Wash, Waxed, Vacumed and Chamoised Starting at $45 eftpos available.

RING BEN 0407 171 711 OPEN 24 HOURS • 28 Welcome St

"You like it clean we like it dirty"

CLASSIFIEDS

PARKES PHYSIOTHERAPY Linda Reilly APA Titled Sports Physiotherapist 25 Clarinda Street Parkes Ph: 6862 5005 PARKES PICNIC RACES entry tickets now available at Cambridge Hotel, Parkes Hotel, Railway Hotel and Tourist Centre $20.

CANASSIST GARAGE SALE Saturday 2nd June Parkes Showground Pavillions. Doors open 8am-5pm $5 box sale, Lamingtons & Raffle (Both sheds/sat ONLY) Enquiries: Adrianne 0412777134 Cleaning of Carpets * Hard Surfaces * Upholstery

How long have you lived in Parkes and what do you like most about living here?

I have lived in Parkes on and off for around six years. A lot of my family grew up and still live in Parkes so I have been coming to Parkes every year since I was born. I was also born here.

Where do you work or what do you do currently and what do you enjoy about it? I am the Manager of the Police and Citizens Youth Club (PCYC). I absolutely love this job and am passionate about what the PCYC does as an organisation. There aren’t many jobs around where you can be stuck behind a personal computer for most of the day then go and join in gymnastics class, play basketball or help kids with an art project. On top of the sports and activities, the work our Police do in the club and around the community incredibly valuable.

I am also a Rotarian which is a great organisation to be a part of.

What do you do in your spare time and on weekends? I have a beautiful daughter Tilly and my wife Lizzie and I spend most of our weekends with Tilly… trying to keep up with her. In summer I enjoy water skiing, camping and fishing. I also try to take on the odd project. At the moment I am experimenting with an indoor veggie garden based on aquaponics.

What are you really good at? Annoying my wife, blowing bubbles off my tongue and I like tinkering with electronics and programming. I am currently putting together a program that if all goes well PCYC will take up state wide to give staff more time to concentrate on activities with kids rather than paperwork.

What is your pet hate? People who judge before taking the time to understand the other side of the story.

Tell us about your best holiday. The best holiday was our honeymoon. Lizzie had no idea where we were going until we showed up at the airport in Sydney. We spent a week in Cambodia, which was amazing.

Then to Thailand for a week. The people, food and the sites, particularly in Cambodia, were fantastic. My ideal holidays in Australia is a trip to either Narooma or camping at Burrendong with the family.

Friday 1 June 2018 Page 9

WHAT’S ON @ The Library BOOK SALE

Time again for Parkes Library’s annual book sale from 4 to 9 June 2018. Prices start at 50 cents. Many bargains!

AUTHOR VISIT

Julie Frank “Call Me Frank” Tuesday 19 June, 10am, Parkes Library Call me Frank is a collection of autobiographical stories of men over 50 telling it like it is at this stage of their lives. The stories are honest, sometimes confronting and always inspirational. It is a companion book to Feisty, Fabulous & 50+, a collection of 21 ‘warts and all’ autobiographical stories of women navigating their way through their 50s. Please RSVP to parkes.library@ parkes.nsw.gov.au or on 6861 2309 by 17 June.

TOURING DISPLAY

May Gibbs 15 to 28 June, Parkes Library Its 100 years since May Gibbs’ adorable characters found their way into the homes and hearts of Australians. We are celebrating with a display from the State Library of NSW featuring May Gibbs’ iconic artwork.

May Gibbs was Australia’s first full-time, professionally trained children’s book author and illustrator, and the display features reproductions of some of her most beloved characters including the gumnut babies and the brothers Snugglepot and Cuddlepie.

PERFORMANCE

Sydney Symphony Orchestra Thursday 21 June, 6pm, Parkes Library In celebration of international Make Music Day, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra will share a global broadcast of its performance of Verdi’s Requiem live from the Sydney Opera House. With the support of Create NSW, ABC Classics, Sydney Opera House Creative Learning, Music Australia and the Australian Music Association. RSVP by 19 June on 6861 2309 or parkes.library@ parkes.nsw.gov.au

Discover + Learn + Connect Parkes Shire Library Bogan Street Ph 6861 2309 Peak Hill Library Caswell Street Ph 6869 1078 Trundle Library Forbes Street Ph 6892 1569

Tullamore Library Carey Street Ph 6892 5115

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Telstra Store Young 141 Boorowa Street Young 02 store 6382parkes 2900 telstra | 290 clarinda st | 02 6862 6200

As you probably know, NBN fibre is coming to Parkes.

At the Telstra shop Parkes we’re here to answer all your questions. Pop in for a chat and one of our team of local experts will answer all of your questions.

Telstra Store Young

BE Seen

141 Boorowa Street Young

WHAT’S On

02 6382 2900 31 May 7 Jun 3 Jun

4-9 Jun 4 Jun

Councillor Bill Jayet tried out the drummer’s position and was impressed he had a full crew paddling to his beat at the launch of the Parkes Dragon Boat Club at Lake Endeavour on Saturday.

14 Jun 15-28 Jun

19 Jun

21 Jun

22 Jun Dr Alan Duffy, who featured at Parkes for the Stargazing Live programme on ABC TV last week, was present for the Parkes contribution to the Guiness World Record. He is with local fans (L-R) George Henry (4), Oscar Henry (7) and Ashlee Trim (8).

Ongoing

Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Stuart and Kerry Peden explored the night sky with the help of Les Dalrymple and his magnificent telescope at the Stargazing event last Wednesday.

Ongoing

Reconciliation Week - Don’t Keep History a Mystery. A must see exhibit showcasing both contemporary and ancient Wiradjuri history at the Parkes Shire Library.

Orange Male Voice Choir will perform at the Bogan Gate Memorial Hall at 1.30pm. Admission is $20 and includes afternoon tea. Tickets to be purchased by 28th May from Bogan Gate Railway Hotel, Parkes Real Property, Forbes Betta Electrical, Trundle GS Insurance.

Parkes Library's annual book sale. Prices start at 50 cents. Many bargains!

Free meal at the Uniting Church Hall from 5:15pm to 6:00pm. Doors close as 6:30pm Everyone Welcome.

Craft Corner meeting at 227 Clarinda St at 10am - newcomers welcome.

May Gibbs at Parkes Library. It’s 100 years since May Gibbs’ adorable characters found their way into the homes and hearts of Australians. The display from the State Library of NSW features May Gibbs’ iconic artwork, including brothers Snugglepot and Cuddlepie.

Author visit by Julie Frank at the Parkes Library at 10am. Call me Frank is a collection of autobiographical stories of men over 50 telling it like it is at this stage of their lives. Please RSVP to parkes.library@parkes.nsw.gov.au or on 6861 2309 by 17 June.

Global broadcast of a performance by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Parkes Library at 6pm. In celebration of international Make Music Day, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra will share a global broadcast of its performance of Verdi’s Requiem live from the Sydney Opera House. RSVP by 19 June on 6861 2309 or parkes.library@parkes.nsw.gov.au Parkes College for Seniors Yarn Display at Masonic Hall (Short Street) from 10am – 12pm. Opportunity to learn basic knitting or crocheting. Bring knitting needles or crochet hook and 8 ply wool.

The Adult Survivors of Child Abuse - Cowra Support Group meets on the first Friday of each month at 12:30. Open to all survivors. Contact Pascale on 6342 1612. Members come from Canberra, Temora, Forbes, Eugowra, Parkes.

Details at http://recover.itmatters.com.au Parkes Camera Club meets every 1st and 3rd Tuesday night of the month at 7pm at Neighbourhood Central on the corner of Bushman and Currajong Streets. All welcome. Contact email address cameraclubparkes@gmail.com

Parkes Day VIEW Club Luncheon meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at the Astro Dish Motor Inn. Call Pamela on 6863 4552 to book.

Lachlan Area Suicide Prevention Network (LASPN) meets at 6pm on the first Wednesday of the month at the Uniting Church, Court Street.

Free evening meal the first Monday of each month from 5:30 – 6:30pm at the Uniting Church Hall. All welcome.

Probus Club of Parkes meets every second Friday of the month at Parkes Leagues Club at 10am for a cuppa and chat, then the meeting at 10.30am. New members welcome.

Parkes Rd, Forbes (next to Hozpots) PO Box 586, Forbes NSW 2871 Phone: 02 6852 4288 Fax: 02 6851 1151 Email: 97.9fm@westserv.net.au Website: www.valleyfm.org.au

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Friday 1 June 2018 Page 11

PARKES SPORT

Parkes Dragons Endeavour To Become A Great Club The Parkes Dragon Boat Club could not have asked for a better launch at Lake Endeavour last Saturday when about 300 people turned up on a glorious autumn day.

Supported by members of regional dragon boat clubs from Bathurst, Orange, Forbes and Dubbo, a queue started forming after the official proceedings as just about everyone wanted a turn to paddle on the shimmering blue water.

Town Crier Tim Keith started the official launch calling the large crowd together.

Mayor Ken Keith led the welcome saying: “We are absolutely delighted to be here for the launch of the Parkes Dragon Boat Club on Lake Endeavour.”

Geoff Anderson’s did a special Wiradjuri welcome to country and said the closest translation for dragon in Wiradjuri was Miirin gadhang - angry lizard. Fortunately there were only beaming Parkes Dragons, and happy “new recruits” as they stepped off the boat after an exhilarating paddle.

The traditional Chinese ceremony of Awakening of the Dragon was read by steering committee member Debra Tooley, with Leisal Walters dotting the eyes of the dragon and wishing well to its crews. Parkes

DRAGON SPIRIT… The first dragon boat race on Lake Endeavour last Saturday at the end of a very successful inaugural launch of the Parkes Dragon Boat Club.

Dragons’ coach Warren Edwards read the ancient paddlers’ oath: “I promise to take part in this sport showing mutual respect and abiding by the rules that govern, with the dragon spirit in heart and mind, for the glory of the dragon boat and the honour of all teams.”

To conclude the ceremony, the awakened dragon was ‘shown around’ in a circular paddle to introduce it to the spirits of the water in its new home of Lake Endeavour, that is coincidentally shaped like a dragon.

Parkes Dragons’ President Bill Thomas

thanked the Parkes Steering Committee for their great work in hosting such a triumphant day. He also thanked the Parkes community for their interest and support and the regional Dragon Boat community for their help.

The Parkes Dragons will train on Lake Endeavour on Sunday mornings. It is wise to check in with the Parkes Dragon Boat Club Facebook page each week before heading out to the Lake, or get on the mailing list by emailing billnbeth@bigpond.com.

By Beth Thomas

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Page 12 Friday 1 June 2018

BIRD

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BOWER ( CLINTON BRADLEY & THE ART OF COLLECTING

BIRD

BROOK ANDREW GLENN BARKLEY MITCH CAIRNS MARLEY DAWSON BRIAN FUATA AGATHA GOTHE- SNAPE RYAN HANCOCK CHRISTOPHER HANRAHAN ANASTASIA KLOSE RYOTA MIYAHIRA MICHAEL PAREKOWHAI JASON PHU SARAH RODIGARI KOJI RYUI CHARLIE SOFO GEOFF THOMAS LOUISE WEAVER

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locally first!

CLINTON BRADLEY & THE ART OF COLLECTING

OFFICIAL OPENING FRIDAY 8 JUNE 2018 6PM to be officially opened by

ANNEKE JASPERS Curator Contemporary Art, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney

CONVERSATION SATURDAY 9 JUNE 11AM

)

) ((()))

Join Clinton Bradley, Marley Dawson, Koji Ryui, and Agatha Gothe-Snape with WPCC Curator Kent Buchanan as they discuss collecting and being collected.

WESTERN PLAINS CULTURAL CENTRE 76 WINGEWARRA STREET DUBBO

9 JUNE TO 26 AUGUST 2018 image verso: Koji Ryui (Australia, b.1976), Cloud 2 2014, steel, enamel, polystyrene, Fimo clay, 104 x 65 x 70 cm, Art Gallery of New South Wales. Gift of Clinton Bradley 2016. Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program. © Koji Ryui. Photo: Jenni Carter, AGNSW.

) ( (()) westernplainsculturalcentre.org open seven days 76 Wingewarra Street Dubbo westernplainsculturalcentre.org a facility of Dubbo Regional Council