Living & Lifestyle Archives - Page 3 of 52

New Anglican Minister Commissioned For Parkes And Peak Hill

February 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Reverend Steve Cimarosti pictured with hi wife Louise and children at the Parkes Radio Telescope.

The Anglican Parish of Parkes and Peak Hill will formally commission the Reverend Steve Cimarosti as its new minister at a special service on Saturday 7 February at 10.00am, to be held at St George’s Anglican Church, Parkes.

The commissioning marks the beginning of Steve’s ministry across the Parkes and Peak Hill communities. The service will be attended by parishioners, local clergy, and invited guests, and will include prayers, readings, and the formal commissioning by the Diocesan Bishop, Mark Calder.

Parish representatives have welcomed Mr Cimarosti’s appointment, noting his commitment to pastoral care, community engagement, and faith expressed through service.

Mr Cimarosti commented, “Louise and I are looking forward to meeting you and serving our Lord together with you!” Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the commissioning service and join in welcoming Steve, Lou and their family to the district.

2026 Community Recognition Awards

January 29, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Member for Orange Philip Donato MP hosted the Orange electorate’s annual Community Recognition Awards at the Australian National Field Days Function Centre, honouring the dedication and achievements of local individuals and organisations.

Ninety seven Recognition Award recipients were acknowledged for outstanding service to the community or for significant personal and professional accomplishments. Mr Donato personally presented certificates to each award recipient.

“Our region is built on the strength of its people, and these awards are about recognising those who give their time, skills and energy to make our community a better place,” Mr Donato said.

“Whether through volunteering, leadership, service or personal achievement, each recipient has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

Each certificate presented was formally endorsed with a speech delivered by Mr Donato in the NSW Parliament.

“Every year, this event highlights just how fortunate we are to live in a community where people genuinely care about one another.

“Many of those recognised go about their work quietly and without expectation of acknowledgement, which makes it especially important that their efforts are celebrated by the community they support.” Mr Donato said.

Snap The Pic, Save The Memory, Skip The Overshare This Back-To-School Time

January 29, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Families are being encouraged to put child safety first and hit ‘stop’ on oversharing as back-to-school time approaches.

Leading child protection organisation Act for Kids warns that the excitement of a new school year often prompts family members to post photos of children on social media – sometimes revealing far more information than they realise.

Images that include small details such as a child’s school uniform logo, age or first name can be used by online child sex offenders to build profiles and groom both children and their families.

Act for Kids Executive Director Tom McIntyre said the risks have intensified with the rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence, which can be used to manipulate innocent images into illegal child abuse material.

“The moment an image is shared publicly online, it is no longer within your control and you may never know where it ends up or who has access to it,” Mr McIntyre said.

“That’s why Act for Kids is encouraging families to snap the photo, save the memory and skip the overshare this back-to-school season,” Mr McIntyre said.

“Children’s safety should always come first, and parents and carers can play a positive role by modelling safe online habits at home.”

Forbes: 2026 Australia Day Awards

January 29, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Australia Day award recipients Chloe Little, John Schrader and Maureen Field.

The 2026 Forbes Shire Australia Day Awards were announced at the Citizen of the Year Gala Dinner on Sunday evening.

Each of the following award recipients has made a meaningful contribution to their community, embodying the strength, pride, and spirit of Forbes Shire.

Forbes Citizen of the Year, John Schrader: John has long been a pillar of numerous organisations in and around the Forbes region. A dedicated volunteer, he contributes his time and expertise across a wide range of sporting, agricultural, and charitable committees.

He works tirelessly for many local organisations, including Forbes Junior and Senior Rugby League, Veteran Car Rallies, CanAssist, Anzac Day ceremonies, and various Forbes motorcycle charity events.

John’s unwavering commitment, reliability and community spirit make him an invaluable and deeply appreciated member of the Forbes community.

Forbes Senior Citizen of the Year, Maureen Field: Maureen joined CanAssist in 2001 and has served as Treasurer for an impressive 25 years. Her contribution extends far beyond managing finances. Maureen works tirelessly to secure wider, fairer and more accessible benefits for country patients. Her efforts help ensure that rural residents, especially those who travel long distances for cancer treatment or other essential medical services, receive the support they need.

Maureen is an active member of several local organisations, including the Parish of Forbes St Laurence O’Toole and the View Club, where she contributes generously to their ongoing work.

Forbes Young Citizen of the Year, Chloe Little: Chloe is an emerging young leader within the Forbes community. Chloe is a member of the Forbes Youth Action Team.

Since joining, she has taken on a natural mentoring role. Her leadership is evident through her willingness to step up for key responsibilities, including being nominated as the emcee for the Teddy Bears Picnic.

In addition to her work with FYAT, Chloe serves as School Captain of Forbes High School, further reflecting her strong leadership qualities. She has also represented the Youth Action Team at the Tidy Towns Awards. Chloe’s combination of leadership, mentorship and initiative makes her an inspiring role model for young people.

Nominees Announced For 2026 Australia Day Awards

January 22, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Shire Council is proud to announce the nominees for the 2026 Forbes Shire Australia Day Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions and achievements across the region. These awards recognise individuals who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact in our community. Congratulations to the following nominees:

2026 Citizen Of The Year Nominees

• Paul Findley

• Sam Parish

• Greg Ridge

• John Schrader

• Shane Wode

• Kristen Woods

2026 Senior Citizen Of The Year Nominees

• Maureen Field

• Michael and Denise Jelbart

• Sue-Anne Nixon

• Susan Stewart

• Rex Toole

• Elvy Quirk

2026 Young Citizen Of The Year Nominees

• Chloe Little

• Elly Mackinnon

Forbes Shire Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM said, “Australia Day is a time to celebrate the incredible people who make our community stronger, kinder and more vibrant. These nominees represent the very best of Forbes, and we look forward to honouring their contributions and achievements at the Gala Event.”

The winners will be revealed at the Citizen of the Year Gala Dinner on Sunday 25 January 2026 at Forbes Town Hall commencing at 6pm. This special evening will feature presentations, entertainment and an opportunity to honour the incredible efforts of our nominees.

Tickets are free but essential and can be booked via 123tix or by phoning Council on 02 6850 2300 by Wednesday 21 January 2026. For those unable to attend the Gala Dinner in person, the award ceremony will be live streamed to Council’s Facebook page.

For more information about the 2026 Australia Day program of events, visit www.forbes.nsw.gov.au or follow @ForbesShireCouncil for updates.

Skyward Bound – Canowindra’s Balloon Festival Delivers Biggest Program Yet In 2026

January 7, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge Festival, running from 11 April – 19 April, 2026, as hot air balloons take to the sky in a stunning display of colour and excitement. This week-long balloon festival is not to be missed, offering a mix of breathtaking aerial views, vibrant events, and a community atmosphere like no other.

A Warm Welcome Awaits
The festivities kick off on 11 April with the Canowindra Welcome Street Party, a fantastic evening to meet locals, fellow visitors, and enjoy the market stalls and live entertainment. Participate in the much anticipated BBQ Masters Competition and pitch your BBQ skills among the region’s best BBQers.

As the balloons begin to rise in the early mornings and late afternoons, you’ll witness one of the most visually captivating spectacles, as dozens of hot air balloons fill the skies, creating a kaleidoscope of colours against the rural landscape. It’s a sight to behold!

Festival Highlights – More Than Just BalloonsWhile the hot air balloons are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the Canowindra Balloon Festival offers so much more. Flicker Fest, a celebration of short films, will light up the screen at Rosnay Organic Winery, test your trivia knowledge with a fun trivia night, and enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere as the town comes alive throughout the week. Along with art shows, the boutique stores of Canowindra and the array of other events during the week – it is truly a festival not to be missed.

Thursday 16 April – come along to a star studded evening with NRL greats as they tell their stories from playing at the highest Rugby League level in Australia.

Friday, 17 April is set to be one of the festival’s standout nights with the Home Ground Sounds Live Music Concert. Featuring incredible live performances, this event promises to be a great way to enjoy the evening under the stars with friends and family. The music will have you dancing the night away.

On Saturday, 18 April, the festival will host a spectacular Street Parade that will wind its way through Canowindra’s vibrant historic main street – Gaskill Street. Be sure to grab a front-row seat for the parade, and then get ready for the highlight of the weekend – the Cabonne Community Glow on Saturday evening. Gates open at 3pm, so come early to secure your spot and enjoy the festivities.

The Glow will light up the night sky as over 100 stallholders set up shop with delicious food, handcrafted goods, and unique finds. Live music, entertainment for the kids along with an array of other activities will entertain throughout the afternoon and into the night. As dusk falls, the hot air balloons will take part in a glowing display, lighting up the evening sky – an absolute spectacle for all ages.

Convenient Camping and Caravan Areas
Festival fans travelling with caravans will love the Tilga Street camping area, conveniently located close to the Main Street – Gaskill Street, offering a comfortable base for the entire festival. The area is available for 10-day bookings, so you can fully immerse yourself in the festival’s offerings without missing a moment of the action.

Tickets – Don’t Miss Out!
With so much to see and do, tickets for the festival events are available through www.canowindrachallenge.org.au, where you can secure your spot at the most popular events. Whether you’re attending a concert, the Cabonne Community Glow, or any other event that is part of the festival, be sure to grab your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Dancers Saddle Up For An Elvis-Inspired, Country-Flavoured Festival

January 7, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Cheer on the amazing School of Dance students as they perform across the Parkes Elvis Festival.

Get ready to shake, rattle, and yee-haw! as dancers aged three to adult bring a bootscootin’, hip-swivellin’ celebration to this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival.

Parkes School of Dance Inc is a community-run regional dance school established in 2013. Committed to providing ageappropriate dance education in various styles, fostering creativity, and celebrating cultural icons like Elvis Presley through performances at events like the Parkes Elvis Festival is part of its bespoke DNA.

Parkes School of Dance Inc will be performing across multiple festival locations, showcasing line dancing, feel-good family routines, and a whole lot of rhinestonesparked fun. With everyone from tiny tots to dance parents hitting the dance floor, it’s a true all-ages, all-in family shindig.

“Our performers have embraced the country vibes this year — expect plenty of line dancing, classic Elvis charm, and the biggest smiles in town,” says President Catherine McQuie.

“It’s such a joy to bring our community together in a celebration of music, movement, and pure festival fun.”

Audiences can catch the dancers throughout the weekend at several festival hotspots, adding colour, movement, and feel-good rhythm wherever they go.

Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan, a country-music lover, or simply chasing a good time, these local dancers are ready to make your festival experience better when you’re dancing.

You can see Parkes School of Dance performing across the Parkes Elvis Festival during the following days and times, Wednesday 7 January 2026: Wall of Fame 9.30am-10am, Friday 9 January 2026: Memphis Stage 9am-9.25am, Saturday 10 January 2026: Street Parade 9am, Cooke Park Main Stage 11.15am-11.30am and the Dance Showcase Cooke Park Main Stage 4pm.

Graceland’s Ultimate World Champion Elvis: Jay Dupuis

January 7, 2026 by Roxane Manley

“JAY DUPUIS is the most authentic tribute of Elvis’ concert years.” Image: ELVIS PRESLEY ENTERPRISES – GRACELAND – THE ESTATE OF ELVIS PRESLEY –

Jay Dupuis won Elvis Presley Enterprises Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, beating out over 300 of the best Elvis Tributes from around the world.

Jay was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Growing up in a house where his father was a professional musician made it easy for Jay to follow in his Dads footsteps. It was no surprise that Jay had an ear for music.

At the early age of three, his mum played a record of Elvis Presley singing ‘Hound Dog’. As he listened, his eyes lit up, he smiled with excitement and his hips started to move. Begging his mum to play it over and over again, Jay soon became a huge fan of the King of Rock “n” Roll.

“Because of the love that I have for the king, I knew very early on in life that I wanted to perform as Elvis. I would perform for guests that would come to our house and pretend to be Elvis. At the age of 3 or 4, I would perform for anyone, pretending to be Elvis at any given chance” Jay said.

Awarded the Most Authentic and Closest Thing To The King Award from Graceland, Jay Dupuis is the only Elvis Tribute Artist in the world hand picked to perform as Elvis with members of Elvis’ TCB Band.

2026 will be Jay’s first visit to the Parkes Elvis Festival, performing in eight main shows on the main stage at the Parkes Leagues Club “Pure Elvis”, “Down in The Jungle Room”, “If I Can Dream”, “Jukebox Heaven”, “That 70’s Show”, “Elvis After Dark”, “The Lost Performances” and “The Final Curtain”. Jay said “I’m extremely excited to be at the Parkes Elvis Festival, it is my first time being there. I’m excited to be performing for the Australian Elvis fans”.

Damian Mullin Is One Of Australia’s Most In-Demand Elvis Tribute Artists

January 7, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Damian first performed at the Parkes Elvis Festival in 2010 and has come back every year since.

Often described as “a brilliant entertainer”, Damian Mullin is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most engaging live entertainers. With a natural stage presence and exceptional musical ability, Damian connects with audiences of all ages wherever he performs.

Damian was just seven years old when he first heard Elvis sing on the radio. “My mum loved his music, and I was instantly captivated not only by his voice, but by the way people reacted to him. There was a sense of awe around Elvis: his looks, his sound, his presence.”

Standing 6’2” and delivering the unmistakable voice, energy and humour of the King himself, Damian continues to tour extensively with his acclaimed Elvis Forever Tribute Show, sharing his passion for Elvis and timeless music with audiences across Australia and beyond.

Performing for 16 years at the festival now, and every single one of those years Damian has been proudly performing at The Parkes Leagues Club where he is one of the main attractions. “That kind of loyalty comes easy when you’re treated as well as I have been. I absolutely love the audiences, the electric atmosphere, and the chance to entertain Elvis fans who travel from all over the country. Seeing everyone singing along, smiling and having the time of their lives gives me enormous pleasure and that’s what keeps me coming back year after year”

“One thing that truly shines at the Parkes Elvis Festival is the incredible sense of community. It’s amazing to watch everyone come together to ensure the festival runs smoothly, especially the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly so every patron leaves with a positive and memorable experience. I’ve had the privilege of watching the festival grow year after year, and it just keeps getting better. Well done, Parkes, you should be incredibly proud.” said Damian.

The Sydney Swing Katz Bring The Dance Moves

January 7, 2026 by Roxane Manley

The Sydney Swing Katz either attend or perform at almost any and every “50s” nostalgia festival, but they said “Elvis has to be the biggest and most fun festival we attend.”

The Sydney Swing Katz are a professional dance troupe who dance and perform 40s and 50s style dances. At the ages of 17 and 18 respectively, in January 2020, the Sydney Swing Katz officially started their dance troupe with just four members.

Years later, the troupe has grown significantly and still enjoys performing together, always taking the opportunity to encourage the vintage style to bright young talent.

The Sydney Swing Katz love performing at The Parkes Elvis Festival and have been coming back every year since 2019.

Justin Agustino Dipaola, one of the founding members of the troupe said that The Parkes Elvis Festival is “Easily one of the most fun, carefree, unique festivals running in NSW. Plus we have made good friends with the locals and the volunteers, they are always a highlight too.”

“The crowd plays a significant role in how we perform. The dancers will lift the energy and intensity as the crowd does, it’s this circular concept of the more they give the more we will too.”

There is an incredible amount of time and effort that goes into preparing such amazing and energetic dance routines.

“We usually train 3 days a week all year round, but for Parkes specifically we start creating ideas, costumes and routines in September, and the really serious training starts four to six weeks out when we try to fine tune everything and get fitter to perform in the Parkes heat,” said Justin.

The Sydney Swing Kats will be performing at the Amazing Forbes Street Breakfast again this year. Arrive early to see the troupe perform at 7.30am and in a more casual set around 9am. Otherwise you can catch them in Parkes on Friday, Memphis Stage 1.40pm and Main Stage 2pm. Then on Saturday, Memphis Stage 12.30pm and Main Stage 3pm.

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