Parkes Phoenix Editor

Last week Riverina Nationals’ MP and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack lauded the efforts of volunteers as “champions of their local communities”. The praise came as events rolled out to acknowledge the hard work of volunteers during National Volunteer Week.

“Volunteers are so important to the social fabric of our local communities,” Mr McCormack said.

“Every day, we should be thanking those who sacrifice their time to make our regions even better places to live and work. Having a dedicated week to show our appreciation is the least we can do to show the pillars of our local communities that we care about what they do for the Riverina and Central West,” continued Mr McCormack.

“Volunteers are champions of their local communities and whether it is helping out the local sporting club, assisting our most vulnerable or putting time in recovery efforts after a significant storm, these selfless individuals play an essential role in helping to shape rural and regional Australia as well as helping to build resilience in our towns and regional capitals,” continued Mr McCormack.

The Liberal and Nationals’ Government recognises these efforts by providing grants through its Volunteer Grants Program.

“In the most recent round, 40 grants were given to well-deserved organisations including $3,550 for Forbes Cancer Patients Assistance Society, $4,750 for Forbes Fins Swimming Club Inc, $4,959 for Forbes Rugby Union Club Inc and $1,500 for the Forbes Toy Library,” Mr McCormack said.

“These grants, which range from $1,000 to $5,000, seem small but they make such a tangible difference for volunteer organisations to be able to continue the invaluable work they do in our communities.”

Last Thursday Phil Donato met with young emerging leaders of the community who travelled to NSW Parliament from seven different schools in the Orange electorate including Red Bend Catholic College, as part of the Student Leadership Program.

During the visit students had the opportunity to ask questions of attending MPs about leadership, making decisions and representation.

“It was wonderful to have Year 12 student leaders from across the Orange electorate spend the day at Parliament and see what happens during a sitting week,” Mr Donato said.

“The Student Leadership Program is a great initiative which aims to inspire and foster the development of student leaders toward post-school leadership in our community,” continued Mr Donato.

Attending on the day were students from Parkes High School, Orange Christian School, Red Bend Catholic College, Canowindra High School, Molong Central School, Yeoval Central School and Peak Hill Central School.

Parkes, Forbes and Condobolin held their Annual Bridge Day at Bogan Gate on 7th April, with players from West Wyalong joining in. The CWA catered for everyone for the 12th time making it a thoroughly enjoyable day.

President Marion McIntyre laid a wreath on behalf of the CWA at the local Anzac Day Dawn Service. Ten members attended the May meeting. International officer Heather Veal provided interesting information on the country of study this year, Papua New Guinea. Some members have started writing their life stories after attending a workshop at the Parkes Library.

As this drought is still crippling the community, the CWA will be helping Bogan Gate and Gunningbland farmers and their families by hosting a free bbq night at the Railway Hotel in Bogan Gate on 29th June at 6:30pm.

“We hope many will come to this night as it is very important in these times to mix with friends and all help each other,” said the organisers.

The next meeting is on Thursday, 20th June at 1:30pm at the hall. Visitors are always most welcome.

This 48cm Yellowbelly was caught by Tom Townsend at Windamere Dam using a Lure.

Riverina Nationals’ MP Michael McCormack is encouraging rural and regional students to apply for Government-funded scholarships to assist with their tertiary education costs.

Students are invited to apply for scholarships under the expanded third round of the 58.1 million Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships program.

Mr McCormack said eligible students could benefit from up to $18,000 which could go towards the cost of their university or vocational education. “I believe a student’s postcode should not limit their potential,” Mr Mc- Cormack said.

“We know regional students face a number of challenges which their city counterparts take for granted. The Liberal and Nationals in Government is ensuring that every Australian has access to a world-class education,” continued Mr McCormack.

The scholarships cover courses including certificate IV through to a PhD and can offer support to those seeking flexible study arrangements. “I urge and encourage all eligible students throughout the Riverina and Central West to apply,” Mr McCormack said. For more information or to apply, visit www.education.gov.au/rural-and-regionalenterprise-scholarships Applications for the third round close on 14 June 2019.