Roxane Manley

New Art Exhibitions On The Way For Forbes Art Gallery

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Art Society has secured $250,000 from the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s Creative Capital Program to cover the costs of installing a new heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system. NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway, said, “This system is the final puzzle piece in the renovations to the Gallery which will soon see world class artworks being exhibited right here in Forbes.The new air-conditioning and humidity control system will bring the Gallery up to national exhibition standards and will improve the ability for the Gallery to borrow and display paintings and sculptures from major institutional collections,” said Mr Farraway.

Forbes Art Society Chairperson Helen Mallick thanked the NSW Government for supporting greater access to a quantity, quality and diversity of exhibitions, events and activities in regional communities.

“Not only will this infrastructure allow us to partner with state and national exhibition touring agencies to bring major artworks and collections to Forbes, it will also safeguard our permanent collection, as well as enhance the overall visitor experience,” said Helen.

Further details on the Creative Capital program are available on the Create NSW website at www.create.nsw.gov.au.

Fundraising Auction To Support Eugowra Community

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE, SOLD: Just a few of the high value sporting items that have been donated to go under the hammer at the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night being held next Friday, 3rd February at The Coachman Hotel Motel in Parkes.

Local Parkes resident, Michael Dumesny is pulling out all stops in his efforts to raise funds for the flood stricken Eugowra community, which he holds dear.

Michael has spearheaded multiple fundraising efforts to support the Eugowra community following the devastating flood that destroyed the small town late last year.

Last year, in the early stages of recovery following the disaster, Michael initiated “Team Flood Relief” which raised cash donations of over $23,000. The money was used to buy goods that were directly donated to flood victims and to purchase gift cards that were passed on to the relevant government agencies to be distributed amongst the community.

Michael’s latest fundraising effort will be the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night being held next Friday, 3rd February at The Coachman Hotel in Parkes.The auction will begin at 7.30pm sharp, please arrive early.

The auction will include 14 high value donations including highly collectable rugby league items, as well as a money can’t buy experience. Carlton United Breweries have donated two giant eskies for the raffle which will be filled with beer and there will be many other items coming in over the next week in the lead up to the event.

Michael is urging people to come along to help rally to raise as much as possible for the Eugowra community. “Dust off your cheque book, up the daily limit on your card and come ready to bid. Every item will be sold on the night with no reserve prices set,” said Michael.

Local businesses have also shown their support and vouchers have been donated by Cooke Park Cafe, Parkes Leagues Club, Parkes Services Club and Cambridge Hotel, to name a few.

Michael is extremely grateful for the support of the Coachman Hotel in organising the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night.

“Tony and Terry from The Coachman Hotel have been a huge support of the event and have also donated items for the auction,” said Michael.

It is sure to be a great night out for the entire family. There will be lucky door prizes, a raffle and play equipment for the kids. The crowd will also be entertained on the night with live music by Greg Hush. Grab a meal, have a few drinks and enjoy the auction. There is accommodation available at the venue so please call Tony or Terry at The Coachman to make a booking.

Michael is encouraging people to show their support on the night by “wearing something Eugowra.” This may be a Eugowra Bowls shirt, footy guernsey or something black and gold, which are the colors of the local Eugowra Rugby League team.

“There will be many Eugowra residents and flood victims in attendance on the night, so please turn up and lets show some real fair dinkum support and have a great night.”

There is still one week until the Eugowra Auction and Fundraiser Night and donations are still being received. If you or your business would like to donate an item or a service to be auctioned on the night, please contact Michael directly via Facebook at www.facebook.com/michael.dumesny.1

The Forbes and Parkes Phoenix will post all the action from the evening across our Phoenix socials.

Critical Infrastructure Upgrades On The Way For Forbes Shire

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Cr Margaret Duggan, Forbes GM Steve Loane, Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway, Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, NSW Nationals Candidate for Orange Tony Mileto and Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance.

Great news for Forbes with NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway this week announcing the Apex Riverside Tourist Park in Forbes has received more than $125,000 to make upgrades to critical infrastructure including electrical works.

Mr Farraway said that it was part of a suite of investments across Forbes and surrounds that are aimed at improving the community facilities for families and visitors.

“It is fantastic that the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government are supporting the Forbes Shire by putting a $125,000 investment on the table,” Mr Farraway said.

“The funding can go towards electrical upgrades and repairs to power, water and television connections as well as increasing street lighting in the area.

“It will support Forbes as the town gets back on its feet following the extensive damage caused by rainfall and flooding events last year.”

The grants are part of $16.48 million being offered to support 264 projects on Crown Land Reserves across NSW to benefit many thousands of people and the cultural, sporting and recreational life of hundreds of local communities.

The NSW Government previously provided over $479,000 under its Showground Stimulus program to Canowindra, Trundle and Peak Hill showgrounds to upgrade Canowindra’s tea-room, install underground power, replace the pavilion, and repair drainage; for Trundle to replace old stables and upgrade hospitality facilities; and for Peak Hill to replace its sheep pavilion.

It’s Back To School Time – Remember Road Safety

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

The school zone in Bushman Street, Parkes, is operational all day from 8am – 4pm.

The new school year is set to resume for thousands of local students next week and Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are reminding local drivers and parents about children’s safety around schools.

Councils Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said “Road crashes account for over half of all accidental deaths among children aged 5 – 14 years old. Children are vulnerable road users. They are at risk in the traffic environment because of their size, their inability to judge speed and distance, as well as the fact that they may behave unpredictably.”

Parents and carers should:

• Please make sure your children wear a seatbelt or use a child restraint when travelling in a car. Child restraint laws require children up to seven years old to be restrained in an approved child restraint. For more information visit www.childcarseats.com.au

• Drop-off and pick-up your children on the school side of the road. Make sure children use the footpath-side door when getting in and out of a car – this is called the safety door.

• Use a pedestrian crossing where possible and avoid being distracted by friends, mobile phones or listening to music through headphones whilst walking.

• Children aged up to 10 years old should always be supervised when near traffic. Children aged up to eight years old should always hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road or walking near traffic.

• Make sure your children always wear a helmet when riding a bike.

• If your children catch a bus, always walk with them to the bus stop.

“Road safety around schools is everybody’s responsibility,” said Melanie.

NSW Central West Farmers Urged To Register For Hay Bales In Flood Recovery

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Rapid Relief Team bringing donated hay bales to flood affected farmer.

Local charity Rapid Relief Team (RRT), charity arm of the Plymouth Brethren Church, is encouraging flood-hit farmers in the NSW Central West to register by 30th January 2023 to receive free bales of hay ahead of a community event in Eugowra next month.

The RRT Farmers Community Connect event taking place in Eugowra on 3rd February will see hundreds of bales of hay gifted to local farmers in the region who have been devastated by floods.

RRT Director Lester Sharples said the floods had devastated the State’s Central West – a region still battling like much of Australia to recover from bushfires and the crippling impact of the pandemic.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult time and it’s important that as a community we give each other the strength to get through,” Mr Sharples said.

Farmers Community Connect is an initiative designed to bring local communities together by donating feed stock to farmers and offer a range of support services over a free BBQ lunch.

Mr Sharples said RRT’s volunteers from the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church hope to serve their local community with Christian values of care and compassion.

“It’s an opportunity to sit down for a coffee, grab a bite to eat with each other and offer a listening ear to those that need a chat,” said Mr Sharples.

The Farmers Community Connect event includes:

• Free barista made coffee and BBQ lunch cooked by RRT volunteers.

• Veterinary support

• Rural Financial Counsellors

• Mental and community health support.

• All members of the local community are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Farmers can register for bales of hay by 30th January via: https://rrtglobal.org/operations-appeals/farmers-community-connect-eugowra/ or email action.au@rrtglobal.org for more information.

Rapid Relief Team went on to say “The small town of Eugowra is still recovering after last year’s catastrophic flash flooding, so the Rapid Relief Team want to do our bit towards helping our flood affected farmers get back on their feet. RRT are heading to Eugowra, NSW on 3rd February to donate bales of A-grade hay, connecting the community over a free BBQ lunch, barista coffee and access to local support services. For more information, or to register for support, go to https://rrtglobal.org/operations-appeals/farmers-community-connect-eugowra/

We can’t do a lot on our own, but together with your support, we can. Your donation will go on to support communities in need. From providing emergency relief, to supporting the homeless on our streets, your support will empower people in crisis.

• $10 Can provide a meal and refreshment to a recipient in need

• $24 Can help bring joy into a child’s life through Cookie the Kookaburra, RRT’s global mascot.

• $55 Can help a family in crisis with an RRT Food Box

• $100 Can feed 10 Emergency Service personnel responding to a disaster

RRT delivers hope and relief to people across the globe. Whether it be fire, flood or humanitarian need, RRT expands their support services to meet the need at hand.

Upgrade To Judges Towers At The Parkes Racecourse

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

NSW Nationals Candidate for Orange Tony Mileto, NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway and Parkes Jockey Club Vice President Alex Proud at the announce-ment of $37,000 funding to upgrade the judges towers at the Parkes Racecourse.

Some fantastic, welcomed news for Parkes Jockey Club. NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway today announced over $37,000 has been awarded to the Parkes Jockey Club to upgrade and maintain the Judges Towers at the Parkes Racecourse.

Mr Farraway said the funding, which was secured under the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, would not only ensure the towers are up to safety standards but will also improve the race day experience for the community.

“The $37,460 awarded in this grant will ensure that the Parkes Jockey Club has the means to upgrade their facilities so that they are safe and modern.

“This funding will be a welcome boost for the club as they move forward after being impacted by the floods in November.”

Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said it was important that the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government continue to provide funding to support upgrades to show grounds and facilities in local towns.

“Crown reserves provide land for sport and recreation, homes for community organisations, open space for healthy lifestyles, and protect our environment including sensitive habitat for native plants and animals,” Mr Anderson said.

CWCU Monthly Sports Achiever

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Andy McMahon pictured holding the award that was presented to him by CWCU.

Central West Credit Union (CWCU) are pleased to announce the latest recipient of the (CWCU) Monthly Sports Achiever Award. A big congratulation goes to Andy McMahon, who is the award recipient for December, 2022

Andy is a 10-year-old Forbes Public School student who is an exceptional athlete, representing his school and community at many levels of competition. Some of his very impressive accomplishments include:

Forbes Public School Achievements

• Junior Boy Age Champion for athletics

• Lachlan District Athletics representative in 100m, 200m, senior boy relay, high jump and long jump

• Qualified as a member of the Western Cross-Country team

Forbes Little Athletics Club (FLAC) Achievements

• 10 Years Boy Age Champion

• Represented FLAC at the State Championships in 70m, 100m, long jump and high jump

Andy was also a member of the U/10 Magpies Junior Rugby League team that were Minor Premiers in the competition.

What a fantastic all round sports person and an asset for the local Forbes sporting community, we look forward to following your future sporting endeavors. Keep up the great work Andy, we are sure to be hearing more about you.

Mayoral Notes

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Welcome to the new year, although it is hard to believe we are already more than halfway through the first month.

What a way to bring in the new year than with all the Elvis celebrations in Forbes and Parkes. The Elvis breakfast in Templar Street on Friday morning was so energetic and it was wonderful to see an even bigger crowd than last year, jiving, slipping on their blue suede shoes and enjoying our boutique retail centre.

The Lakeside Luau on Lake Forbes absolutely rocked – perfect weather, perfect location, perfect food and drinks, and of course perfect company and entertainment. I cannot wait to see what next year’s festival brings, make a note in your diary not to miss it.

A special congratulations to our Amazing team for all their hard work, and innovation in celebrating visitors in what could be considered one of the quieter times of the year.

Make sure you look up this week as the Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding Championships grace our skies once again. We welcome the return of our national, international visitors – competitors, drivers, organisers, support crew to our beautiful town and wish them all the best in their endeavours. The competition kicked off with a practice run on Wednesday (17 January), and the last day of competition is on Thursday, January 26, Australia Day. Australia Day celebrations were enjoyed by all.

Enjoy your week, and God bless.

Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor

Victor, One Of Best In the World, Here For First Time

January 4, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Victor Trevino Jr is 27 and grew up in Texas. He is rated as one of the top Elvis Tribute Artists in the world, and will be performing every day of the festival.

Victor Trevino Jr. is the current International Champion for the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competition awarded by Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) in August 2022. For the first time in its history the Parkes Elvis Festival will have two feature artists: Victor Trevino Jr and Dean Z, both from the US.

Have you ever performed in Australia? I’ve worked and performed for audiences all over Australia for many years in a show called “American Trilogy”. I’m no longer part of that production but I always enjoyed the love of the Australian fan base.

How do you feel about performing at the Parkes Elvis Festival? I’m excited to come and perform. Many of my colleagues have many wonderful things to say about the experience. From the band, the venues, the administration, the festivities, the weather, area and the fans. I heard there is no other Elvis Festival like it.

What can fans expect from your shows? The fans can expect me to give my all in every single performance. Some performances will be the 100% Elvis Tribute. Full hair and costume, dance moves, voice, which is a lot of fun. Obviously I love it….that’s how I make my living. Other shows will be myself performing Elvis songs as me, not as ‘Elvis’, which is a lot of fun too and audiences really appreciate the authenticity and honesty in those types of shows.

I will also be premiering a new show called ‘Elvis reimagined’ performing some of my favourite Elvis songs in my own way. Some have a vintage feel and others have a modern feel. But all of them will be different from Elvis’s arrangements. Very excited to show a different way of sharing the music of Elvis to this audience.

When did you get interested in Elvis’s music? When was the first time you heard it? I always loved older music. Music of rock ‘n roll, blues, rhythm and blues jazz of all arrows. I went through a phase where I loved 80s music and then I got into 70s music and then I got into 60s music in the 50s and that’s when I really got more into Elvis in the mail and dollar quartet. Of course, I really have a huge love for the music that influenced Elvis. Late 40s and early 50s rhythm and blues. Rock ‘n roll before it was rock ‘n roll.

The first time I ever heard Elvis was when I was a kid as my dad played all kinds of music. I grew up in a very musical family. Many of my uncles were mariachis on my father’s side and my grandfather played bass for the legendary BB King many times touring around Texas. I really enjoyed Elvis but it wasn’t until later when I really got into it and discovered what an influence he was. What he did for music and how he crossed the boundaries and brought ‘white’ and ‘black’ music together has really changed the world.

I thought his style was cool, I thought he had a cool swag about him. Great hair, stylish wardrobe, and what a voice! At first, I didn’t know too much about him, but I knew he was different and what he did was important. I only became an Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) into my 20s. I was already a musician and an actor and I kind of stumbled upon being an ETA. I really began to do more and more research and met fellow fans and colleagues of Elvis himself. It really opened up a new and interesting world.

Do you think the younger generations will keep on listening to him? I do hope so. I feel the Elvis movie is going to help that. I think it’s interesting how in the movie they mix modern music with Elvis‘s music. It is called sampling and it has been happening for many years in hip-hop and rap music. It was done in a way that was very well executed. Times, entertainment and music will always change and evolve, whether we like it or not. So I think it was very smart to mix modern pop sounds with Elvis music in the movie.

Any more thoughts on the Elvis movie? I thought it was great. Was it historically accurate? Absolutely not. But it did have a lot of good information and it was very entertaining. It was shot in the iconic Baz Luhrmann style which made it even more interesting. It has brought a whole new audience and love to Elvis from a younger generation. I’ve heard many people in the Elvis tribute community say that an ETA should’ve played the role. I highly disagree. I think Austin Butler did a great job and it was best that an idol and heartthrob, who already has a big fan base, play the role. Not only to boost ticket sales, also to boost interest in Elvis. Graceland is now doing wonderful and is having more and more visitors thanks to the movie. Baz Luhrmann has always been one of my favourite directors ever since I saw his first film Strictly Ballroom. I love every single one of his movies. When I heard that Baz Luhrmann was reading an Elvis movie.… I knew it was gonna be magic.

Do you have a favourite Elvis song? I cannot pick just one. If I had to pick just one it would probably change every day because I love so many of them. That is what makes his music so unreal and so amazing because everyone in the world can relate to it, no matter where you’re from no matter who you are.

Meet the Parkes Elvis Festival Volunteers

January 4, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Gail Richardson

When did you get involved with the Parkes Elvis Festival? I started back in 2007 as an Elvis Revival Inc committee member, and also served as vice-president and president.

Which year was your favourite festival and why? To be honest all have been great, from when the committee was running it to now. For an Elvis fan it is the perfect festival to be involved with and I have truly enjoyed it.

What is your fondest memory of the Parkes Elvis Festival? Fondest memories were of just standing in the middle of Cooke Park and watching all the visitors’ faces and seeing all the smiles. Knowing we had put together another successful festival.

What has the festival meant for our community? I think it’s really important as it helps kick start small businesses at the beginning of the year, which then has a two or three-fold back onto other businesses. It also puts a wonderful spotlight on our town from all over the world even if it’s just for five days. It really does help to promote our town.

What is your favourite Elvis song? I have two: If I Can Dream and Edge of Reality.

Elvis Lennox

When did you get involved with the Parkes Elvis Festival? I joined the Elvis Revival Inc committee with my wife Deb in 1994, the year after the very first festival. We received lifetime membership after ten years, and both of us served as president.

Which year was your favourite festival and why? The first one – as an Elvis fan I will never forget the thrill and excitement. I was just great as there were never any Elvis-related shows happening before the festival.

What is your fondest memory of the Parkes Elvis Festival? Making jumpsuits with my wife for the first five years. She did all the sewing and I did the designs. As Elvis fans, we really bonded doing that.

What has the festival meant for our community? It helped Parkes to boom and it put our town on the map. People have come here from all over the world, and many of them have visited my private museum. They have left such wonderful comments in my visitor’s book. I plan to reopen my museum for next year’s festival.

What is your favourite Elvis song? Little Sister – I like the story it is based on.

Gail Richardson

Elvis Lennox

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