In an energetic display of glitz and dance, Bjorn Again will bring the stage to life playing all the much loved ABBA hits, as part of the 2024 Canowindra International Balloon Festival.

2024 marks fifty years since ABBA first burst onto the music scene with their Eurovision winning song, ‘Waterloo’. Their music and style changed the landscape of the music industry, and their impact still permeates today, with audiences young and old enjoying the vibe of the show.

Roundbox Events Director, Debra Clarke, said, “It is such a pleasure to be able to bring this renowned international performance to the Canowindra region. Bjorn Again’s show is spectacular, and for them to be here performing is a real coup. Whether you are an ABBA die hard fan or simply enjoy a great show, we truly believe this brings an additional layer of entertainment to the Balloon Festival we haven’t seen before and we hope the greater community gets behind it.”

Tickets are available at:

www.123tix.com.au,

Canowindra Services Club (cash only),

Balloon HQ at Canowindra Phoenix Office, 84 Gaskill Street, Canowindra

At the gate on the day (card only).

Noted Cultural Heritage Consultant and Museum Curator, Susan Bravery, will be in Forbes on Thursday 7th of March, to discuss writers and wool growers Paul and Hettie Wenz’ collection of books, photos and artifacts largely from their lives at Nanami Station, near Gooloogong.

Community members are invited to come along and meet with Ms Bravery, share a meal and talk about the collection at the first ever Heritage in the Pub event in Forbes.

Ms Bravery has curated collections at the National Museum and managed historic homes such as Elizabeth Farm, Elizabeth Farm House, Vaucluse House, Rouse Hill House and Farm, she is currently also a lecturer at Melbourne University. She will be in Forbes to complete a heritage assessment of the Wenz Collection, a first stage in developing a strategic overlay to create a vibrant and engaging exhibition to be a part of the Forbes Museum.

The Wenz Collection is an exciting array of books, photos and artefacts from Paul and Hettie’s lives before and while they built the Historic Nanima Homestead and may be of particular interest to High School students studying french, those interested in history and creative writing are also urged to attend.

The collection itself reveals many secrets about the intriguing couple’s lives at Nanima Station – giving insight into Hettie running the farm while Paul wrote.

Organised by the Forbes District Historical Society, Heritage in the historic Vandenberg will be held Thursday, March 7, 6.30-9.30pm. The event is free with steak and other menu options available for $15 – held in the Van Cafe. Bookings at https://www.123tix.com.au/events/42585/who-was-hettie-wenz

Our Forbes Garden Club has been active for 70 years with Open Gardens giving members, friends and visitors so much pleasure and raising much needed funds for various charities in need. October 2023 Open Gardens raised almost $6000 for the garden owners chosen charities.

A very big thank you goes to members and non-members who have opened their gardens to host a meeting thereby inspiring others.

Sadly this is all going to come to a close shortly if some other members don’t step up to the plate to take on the Executive positions being vacated. Many of the Executive have served in these positions and worked tirelessly for a very long time and it is time now to close that era, move on and have time for themselves.

I am asking , step up, share a position if needs be just to keep the Club afloat. I know from many conversations of late that there are many who do so enjoy the monthly outing, listening to the varied speakers, gathering hints for the garden , enjoying a cuppa and in particular socialising.

To my mind it will be sad to see a closure on something that is so worthwhile with so many charities benefiting to the tune of thousands of dollars over the years.

Our Annual General meeting is scheduled for February 22nd , 2pm at the Forbes Mens shed. Please bring a mug and Flower of the month.

All suggestions are greatly appreciated. See you there. Happy Gardening.

Elvy Quirk/President

Join in Birth to Kinder Rhyme Time during School Term each Friday morning at Forbes Library at 10.30am.

During Birth to Kinder Rhyme Time we read books, sing songs and play to encourage engagement with language and literacy.

We use nursery rhymes, action songs, finger plays and stories in a fun and interactive way. Sessions are lively and stimulating for both children and adults.

Rhyme Time is held during the school term for children from birth – 5 years old.

Rhyme Time is free and each session lasts approximately 40 minutes. Rhyme Time is held every Friday during school term time.

Evidence shows that reading regularly to a child from birth gives them a head start once they start school.

Reading stimulates brain development, builds confidence and communication skills, and helps create stronger resilience and adaptability as they grow and develop.

That’s why the library is passionate about their early childhood reading programs.

Rhyme Time is supported by the Forbes Birth to Kinder. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForbesBirthtoKinder/

Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow the event to be able to run on time.

Please bring your enthusiasm, but leave your mobile phone in your bag – turned off or down. For more information, please call Forbes Library on 6852 1463.

Forbes Library Opening Hours:

Monday – Thursday 10am – 12 noon, 1pm – 5.30pm.

Friday: 10am – 12 noon, 1pm – 5pm.

Saturday: 10am – 12 noon.

Event Booking Link: http://tinyurl.com/ForbesLibraryFridayMornings

Nickyra Burley, was the Parkes Elvis Festival 2023 Miss Priscilla. Nickyra is a 19 year old Apprentice Hairdresser at Mica Hair Traralgon. Born in Sale and raised in Stratford Victoria. Nickyra is also a Rock n Roll Dancer at Lakeside Rockers, who has a huge passion for anything vintage pinup or retro style in hair and clothing. I have always been a big fan of Elvis and Priscilla Presley 

Q. What and who were your influences growing up? 

My first influencers were my parents who I used to watch as they danced at rock n roll dances. It was there I discovered my love for Elvis’ music and was inspired to learn rock n roll dancing, trained by Andrew Camp at Lakeside Rockers. 

Q. When was your first visit and/or performance at the Parkes Elvis Festival? 

My first visit to Parkes Elvis Festival was Speedway 2022 and I was amazed by the huge crowds. I entered the dance competition with Andrew Camp and we ended up winning the dance category. I also participated in the street Parade dressed in a chequered jumpsuit, with white gogo boots. Whilst seated on the back of a trike bike waving a chequered flag with friends. 

Q. What was the path you took (in career/life) that led you to the Parkes Elvis Festival? 

My passion for rock n roll dancing, dressing up and hairdressing led me here to Parkes. I first met my stylist Vicky Sheild at cooly rocks 2019. She held A Vintage Pinup Hairstyle Workshop that I attended in 2022. From that moment on we were convinced that I would be a good candidate for the Miss Priscilla Competition. 

Q. How many Festivals have you been to/performed at and what brings you back? 

This will be my 3 rd year in a row returning to Parkes Elvis Festival. I keep returning because of the overwhelming energy that vibrates from within the crowds and the friendships that we all create. 

It’s a fantastic environment for my family and I to start The New Year. It’s amazing to be around so many people who also share the love of Elvis. 

Q. What was your first memory of Elvis and what makes him so memorable? 

My first memory of Elvis was at a Lakeside Rockers Elvis Dance, where I had my first dance with my beautiful loving Dad. Who now watches me from heaven continuing with my love for Rock n Roll and endeavouring in my passions and dreams. 

Q. Describe the atmosphere that the crowds bring when you are performing on stage? 

I have been told I have a natural stage presence and look very similar to the young Priscilla. The crowds become more engaged when I’m up on stage with Elvis Tribute Artists. I hear the audience singing with passion and all I see is an ocean of bright lights and cameras capturing the moment. 

Q. If you had to pick an Elvis song that lifts the crowd more than any other what would it be? 

After experiencing the Parkes Elvis Festival After Party, I can now say that Viva Las Vegas is the song to get the crowd up on their feet dancing and singing loud and proud. 

Q. Give us a shout out to the people of Parkes or the Festival goers? 

I would like to thank my beautiful and amazingly talented stylist Vicky Sheild. The totally cool Tony Fisher for being my Escort at Parkes. Shout out to Anne, Bob and Tiffany Steel for all there dedicated hard work and passion for making this spectacular Elvis event. My biggest thank you goes to my Mum, Family and Friends for all the hard work and effort that goes on behind the scenes. 

This experience has been an amazing honor and a wonderful journey. It has allowed me to be a guest speaker at The Kids Foundation Charity Fundraising Event, Followed by a Charity Fundraiser Limo cruise around Melbourne. I joined the Elvis Tribute Artists On Stage whilst I was on the P&O cruise that I won. I personally received a recognition letter from Tim Bull Member for Gippsland East. I attended a live radio interview with ABC News. I was interviewed by The Gippsland Times and local Stratford Town Crier who published a story about my Miss Priscilla win. I also participated in the Maffra Mardi Gras Parade and the Sale Christmas Parade promoting Parkes Elvis Festival. I recently attended the preview screening of the new ‘Priscilla’ movie at the Astor theatre at St Kilda Melbourne. 

The advice I give to future Miss Priscillas is the quote the king himself once said “You’ve got to follow that dream, wherever that dream may Lead…” 

Sharyne Jewell is a performer, choreographer and dance educator (as well as an award-winning artist). Sheryne runs Dance Like A Diva classes and workshops. Her performance career spans over 40 years and has taken her to the UK, Europe and the US where she has performed with iconic entertainers like Sylvester, Divine and Prince and at venues like the Casino De Paris. Over the decades, Sharyne has performed under many names and embodied many characters and many dance genres. 

Sharyne said “I am passionate about using dance, in particular burlesque, to empower people to feel beautiful, sexy, strong and valid regardless of their shape, size, race, gender, age and experience.” 

“I believe as Marilyn Monroe famously said “We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle.” 

Q: Where were you born and raised? 

I was born and raised in Melbourne. 

Q: What and who were your influences growing up? 

Growing up, I was heavily influenced by Marilyn Monroe. As a younger performer, I was often asked to “do Marilyn” in shows in Europe and America. Initially, I didn’t think much of Marilyn as I accepted the blonde bimbo media persona. The more I read and learnt of her over the years the more I grew to love and respect her as the iconic, game-changing woman she was. I went on to direct and produce the world’s first Marilyn Monroe Festival. 

Q: What was the path you took (in career/life) that lead you to the Parkes Elvis Festival and what brings you back? 

I initially attended the Parkes Elvis Festival in 2017 with friends who share my passion for vintage and for 50s style. I have loved Elvis’ music since I was a teen and often used it in performances so it seemed like an excellent idea. I had a wonderful time that first year but I noticed that there weren’t many activities for those people who love Elvis but may not want to watch Elvis Tribute artists. 

After my initial visit, I spoke with then director Kathy about the possibility of bringing the kind of workshops and shows that had been successful at my Marilyn Monroe Festival to Parkes. Kathy welcomed the idea of vintage showgirl, burlesque and Marilyn workshops. 

As a dancer nearing 60 years of age, I have had to continuously reinvent myself to keep performing. Dance is notoriously a youthful pursuit. In recent years, I have turned to drag as a vehicle for my creativity and love of performing. This paid off when my character, Elle Virus, was selected to be one of the hosts of WorldPride 2023. And for the first time in Parkes Elvis Festival history Elle Virus will be hosting Drag King Trivia!!! You can celebrate “The King” with a drag king! 

Last year we started Stretch To Elvis classes using many of the beautiful ballads of Elvis to relax and unwind. These were a hit at the last festival and are happening again this year. People party hard and these classes are a great way to rejuvenate for the next day of revelling in Elvis! 

What brings me back each year is the sense of fun and celebration of the festival. It attracts all ages, social groups and cultures and often some rather kooky Elvis fans and I love that. Mostly, I return for the festival regulars who attend my workshops and shows every year. I am enormously thankful for their enduring support. 

Q. Give us a shout out to the people of Parkes or the Festival goers? 

I have three big shout outs for the beautiful people of Parkes. 

Firstly, all my events this year are happening at the Parkes Services Club. I want to give a huge shout out to Chloe and the Services Club team. Chloe has demonstrated a strong commitment to embracing inclusivity and diversity. I appreciate her allyship and support greatly. 

My second shout out is to Krista Wakefield and the Federation Motel. Krista and her team take care of us every year and make the stay in Parkes perfect. 

Lastly, and most importantly, huge thanks to local business Colouby Creations. Kristy Berry has supported me from the start. I cannot imagine a Parkes Elvis festival without her. She really is the life force of Parkes. 

Q. If you had to pick an Elvis song that lifts the crowd more than any other what would it be? 

I find the cabaret and burlesque audiences respond best to the sexier Elvis songs like Steamroller Blues, Reconsider Baby and of course my personal anthem Trouble. My private favourites are inspirational songs like Walk A Mile In My Shoes and If I Can Dream 

 

Lonnie’s new show is receiving great reviews because the change allows him to freely relax, sing, chat and give back to his many fans, the love and support he feels they have given him over these years 

In 1956 at the very start of Rock’n’Roll, a young country boy stood on stage alone with his guitar, introducing Rockabilly to Australian audiences. Now 66 years later, as the last superstar from his era, his iconic career has come full circle. As we draw to a close on this rather difficult time, it has been one of reflection for our team to look at a new and exciting direction for this iconic legend. He and his team have decided to disband his band The Leemen to concentrate on his new personal ‘up close ‘ shows. 

I was born and named David Laurence Rix but in 1959 adopted the stage name Lonnie Lee. 

Q: Where were you born and raised? 

Born in a private hospital on September 18th 1940 in Chatswood from a sheep station just outside the tiny North West NSW hamlet of Rowena. 

Q: What and who were your influences growing up? 

Anything to do with living on a sheep property but in the early 1950’s music became my primary influence. Church and School Choirs and popular music pre Rock’n’Roll. 

Q: What was the path you took (in career/life) that lead you to the Parkes Elvis Festival? 

Over the years, I have taken many shows to Parkes since 1960 including a Line Dance Show when it was popular in the early 1990s. I have performed twice before at the Elvis Festival and have been inducted into the Wall of Fame. 

Q: When was your first visit and/or performance at the Parkes Elvis Festival? 

I guess it would be at one of the very first festivals, 2002 to be exact. 

Q: How many Festivals have you been to/performed at and what brings you back? 

I have performed at two. One at the Services Club in 2002 and one in a massive tent in 2013. 

Q: What was your first memory of Elvis and what makes him so memorable? 

My first audio memory was hearing him in early 1956 on my home made Crystal. At that time Johnnie Ray was my favourite artist and it was in a way the similarities between the two that attracted me. The way they sang with emotion unlike any others and the way they both moved on stage. As I also liked the new Rock’n’Roll of Bill Haley and His Comets from 1954, as well as some American Country music, Elvis with a guitar and the back beat of new Rock’n’Roll sealed it. 

Q: Give us a shout out to the people of Parkes or the Festival goers? 

As a country boy myself, towns like Parkes and Forbes still feel like ‘home’ to me. In my early recording career, 2PK was one of my great supporters and every time we were on tour in the area we would call in and say hi as they played our hits. It is wonderful to see that the council gets behind the Festival and realise the massive international promotion potential the Festival brings to the area businesses. I hope they continue it into the future for that reason as well as for the fun it brings to visitors and town folk. 

2024 Parkes Festival Shows 

In his Wall of Fame 30 minute Cameo show, Lonnie will present his solo performance of, ‘The Hillbilly Cat’ which features many of the songs a young unknown Elvis recorded at Sun Records. These are the same songs that Lonnie sang when he became Australia’s Elvis’ in Jan 1956. There is also a video to accompany his performance. At 5pm he will present his 90 minute ‘Last Man Standing’ Show which features his own rockabilly Gold hits and those of his friends and peers. Over 35 songs from country to rock and rockabilly this show has toured Australia to rave reviews. It also features an amazing video. After the show Lonnie will be available for signing, photographs and merchandise at his ‘Meet’n’Greet’ 

Having made their mark on Australian audiences during the last two years, the Gold Coast band has built a huge following! 

Incorporating some of the finest talent in the Australian entertainment industry, the band is led by singer, Vince Gelonese, Italian born, who had a #1 hit on the USA Billboard charts in 2013, head-lined in Las Vegas in 2006 and in 2019 received a Lifetime in Music Award in LA! 

The band oozes cheeky charisma, as they entertain the crowd with world-class show appeal and energy, their repertoire inspired by the iconic southern sounds of Nashville & Memphis, with a showy, Vegas edge! 

Renowned for it’s diverse repertoire, the Memphis Cowboys are most famous for it’s rock, rockabilly, swing and rock n roll genres, playing covers from all the greats including; Stray Cats, Shakin’ Stevens, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, and many more! 

VINCE GELONESE 

Having joined his first band at 16 as a guitarist, Vince pursued 6 years of classical and opera vocal tuition. He then made the transition into a career as a solo-pop/rock artist and a covers tribute artist, before transitioning as an original artist in country and country rock. 

Italian born, Vince spent time in Las Vegas but grew up in Canberra, before moving to the Gold Coast in 2016. 

Whilst in the USA, he was asked to tour with many headline acts including Tom Petty. He was also offered his own Las Vegas show room at the Flamingo and the Monte Carlo Casino. 

In 2013, Vince’s original song, “Every Dream” actually hit number 1 on the USA Billboard charts! 

In 2019 he received an award for outstanding song writing in the Hollywood music and fashion awards. 

Vince is more recently known for his charismatic performances, and exceptional vocals with his country/rock band “The Memphis Cowboys.” 

Vince and the Memphis Cowboys are certainly a favourite feature of the Parkes Elvis festival, where they entertain the crowd during 2-3 performances per day at the Cambridge hotel. 

Vince will follow on after Parkes with a number of gigs with the band at Tamworth country music festival. 

Vince is releasing 2 new original songs with a debut at Parkes, and also a CD 1 of many to follow each year, called Parkes anthems, choosing to highlight some of the songs that the crowd loved the most at Parkes 

Answers by Vince: 

Q. When was your first visit and/or performance at the Parkes Elvis Festival 

A. 2008 

Q. How many Festivals have you been to/performed at and what brings you back? 

I’ve been at the Parkes festival every year since 2008. Each year our following grows substantially. Many book the band throughout the year for their events after seeing us perform at Parkes. 

Q. What was your first memory of Elvis and what makes him so memorable? 

A. My mother enjoyed listening to Elvis, she still has the original copy of the album”Flaming Star” I was drawn to Elvis because he sang songs of the heart land and he was a kind and giving human being. 

The excitement of the festival becomes more inspirational more me year after year. The staff at the Cambridge hotel are an amazing team! And we are so appreciative of our regular followers who continue to support us!