What a lovely evening for a BBQ and thank you to all the families who joined.

Thank you P&C members for providing the annual Back to School BBQ.

Parkes Public School are so lucky to have you as part of their community.

Deputy Principal Mr Martino, with School Captains La­chlan Kupkee and Ruby Arnott, and Principal Mr Dwyer welcomed students back to the College for 2025.

Mykel Coe and Aboriginal Education Officer, Miss Harris, conducted a traditional smoking ceremony.

The entrance of the cross, candles and Brass Heart by Cooper Holloway, Lara Smith, Camille Murru and Blake Reeves.

What a special time was had by all who attended this year’s Blessing Service.

It was a wonderful opportunity to bless and pray for people, and to be encouraged.

Everyone is welcome to come along on any Sunday, located at 25 Dalton Street, Parkes.

Community members at Berryman Oval for the Australia Day awards.

It was great to see a strong turnout for the opening of the Forbes Street precinct upgrade.

The official opening of the Trundle Gym, which was supported through the Evolution Mining Community Investment Program.

Young Citizen of the Year: Kirbie Mongan. Whether leading the 2024 ANZAC Day service, lifeguard­ing at the local pool, or excelling in representative rugby league and league tag teams, Kirbie demon­strates outstanding leadership and teamwork.

Citizen of the Year: Sean Haynes. Sean exempli­fies unwavering dedication and leadership.From heading recovery efforts after the devastating 2022 floods to securing grants for community projects, Sean’s tireless work has significantly advanced Eugowra’s recovery and growth.

Community Group of the Year: Eugowra Junior Sports Club Committee. Through soccer and swimming initiatives, the committee has created opportunities for children to engage in healthy ac­tivities, fostering teamwork and community spirit.

Those who attended the Amazing Forbes Street Break­fast on 10 January were warmly welcomed by Parkes Mayor Neil Westcott, Parkes Deputy Mayor Marg Ap­plebee, Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller and Federal Member Michael McCormack.

It was a bright and early 7am start for breakfast but the fun went on for hours. if you have never attended the AMAZING Forbes Street Breakfast during Parkes Elvis Festival week, then it is a must for next year.

The Forbes Shire Council do an AMAZING job each year to put on this great event. A big shout out to all who helped plan the morning and those who were on hand to help it run smoothly.

Well Done Parkes, you put on another fun filled festival. Festival goers flooded Parkes from 8 – 12 January as anticipated. We captured this local family strolling down Elvis Presley Boulevard, do you recognise them?

The time and effort that goes into planning outfits for each day of the festival must be phenomenal, but what a treat it is each day to see everyone celebrating the different eras and themes each year with such amazing attire.

Thanks firstly, always, to Bob and Anne Steel the founders of the festival, and a massive shoutout to Parkes Shire Council for such a well organised and well run festival that could not be any more jam packed full of fun and everything and anything Elvis.

Band members were privileged to perform for Southern Cross residents, with beautiful Mia dancing. The appreciation they were shown was overwhelming.

A few members experienced the amazing Nine Lessons and Carols Orchestra. Gratitude is extended to band member Kirsty Cairney for organising and leading at Parkes Anglican Church, thanks to Rev. Ben Mackay.

The Parkes Shire Concert Band Christmas party was a wonderful time for all thanks to Rhonda who organised the event. You can see the PSCB’s at their next gig which is the Parkes Elvis Festival.

The Forbes community got into the Christmas spirit at Carols by Candlelight in Victoria Park on Saturday 14 December.

The community came together to sing along to the carols and enjoy music from the Forbes Town & District Band and enjoy a great night with their families and friends.

The Forbes heat did not stop Santa from making a special visit from the North Pole and bringing joy to the children.

Generocity Church held a lovely service on Sunday, as we move towards Christmas.

Everyone got into the spirit, singing some classic Christ­mas carols.

Everyone is looking forward to the thankfulness service and nativity play this Sunday.