OCLife20230119

The Music Group presents Bjorn Again

Premier Entertainment presents Frankie Valli and The Beach Boys

Orange Civic Theatre

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EDITOR’S note

Issue number two for the year, and it’s starting to feel like there’s a little more life around the town as people return to work from their holidays. It certainly makes chasing stories easier, when you actually are able to get in contact with people rather than just receiving ‘out of o�ce messages’ in your inbox.

I’ve been absolutely loving the weather we’ve been having these past couple of weeks! Warm, sunny days and mild nights; near perfect in my opinion!

Perfect weather for a Middleton’s ice block too! I’m embarrassed to admit, I only had my �rst this week, but I’ve been making up for lost time in the days since. I got to sit down with the Middletons and have a chat about their muchloved traditional ice block business and how recent publicity has seen a rush of people seeking out their popular (and very tasty!) selection of ice blocks.

The Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival is also fast approaching. It’s been interesting to see bush poetry gaining popularity around the country, and by all reports, there’s strong interest in the festival events this year. Chatting with organiser, Len Banks, he advised people to book a spot at their preferred event to avoid missing out.

Our o�ce will be closed for the Australia Day public holiday on Thursday, January 26, but you will still �nd your free issue of OC Life in the stands as normal!

Jonathan Roe

Growing appetite for Orange’s iconic summer treats

For Marie Middleton, the summer brings with it a routine she has lived out for the past 40 years, ever since she bought the local ice block business from founder Max Muir.

“We filled the freezers there this morning and we will probably work again tomorrow,” Marie says, gesturing to the small factory building in the backyard of her Hill Street home.

“We haven’t missed a day for a while,” adds husband, Dick Middleton, who joined his wife in the business in the 1990s.

“It’s the heat that brings them in mainly; in the summertime it’s go all the time… and then in the winter time, you’re probably making once a month,” Marie continues.

“We try to, now, see if we can really work ourselves well through the week and have Saturday and Sunday off, because you need a bit of a break.”

The ice blocks are made today, just as they always have been. The ingredients are measured and mixed by hand in the small backyard factory, poured into moulds which are then placed into a brine tank, where the below-zero liquid quickly freezes the treats.

Sold unwrapped individually or in bags of 40, the water or milk-based ice blocks come in flavours such as lime, orange, raspberry, cola, blackcurrant, lemonade, pineapple, chocolate, caramel, strawberry, banana, vanilla, coconut, mango and spearmint.

“We haven’t changed it at all,” says Marie, “When we took it over from Max, we today still have the same flavours that he had… Well, we’ve got rockmelon, mango and

blueberry now that probably wasn’t in there when Max had them, but they’re beautiful flavours.

“We tried coffee, but coffee wasn’t a hit, so it just went by the wayside. We don’t sell something that’s not going to be liked by the people.”

Far from just being ‘liked’, Middleton’s ice blocks are a nostalgic obsession for generations of Orange locals and former residents, who make a pilgrimage down the Middleton’s driveway whenever they are back in town.

“Yeah, it’s many generations have grown up with these, many,” says Marie. “You get people coming back now that remember buying the ice blocks for a tuppence! And then they’ve got their kids and their grandchildren, they’re all coming back, it’s incredible.

“And we’ve had people come and get them and take them far away from here,” continues Marie, who assures us that the bags of ice blocks can travel surprisingly far wrapped up in paper or even a doona.

The Middleton’s even had a customer who organised for a bag of the ice blocks to be shipped to Brisbane for her 60th birthday party. The theme of the party was ‘memories’, explains Marie, and for this women, her fondest memories of her childhood in Orange were of Middleton’s ice blocks.

“A lady came here and bought a bag of ice blocks, took them to the airport and they flew them up to Brisbane! So she bought a bag of ice blocks for $20 at the time and paid $86 or something to have them arrive there frozen,” Marie says.

When Marie took over the business in 1984,

she says there were something like 45 local corner stores that they supplied with their ice blocks. Today, there are just five, but surprisingly they are still selling just as many as they ever have.

“They are stronger now than I’ve ever seen it!” says Dick. The people here a couple weeks ago… It was all day!”

The Middleton’s have seen sales boom this month after a story was published on the news website, Guardian Australia.

“That was a big day, they were coming up and down here all day,” says Dick. “It wasn’t one or two — bloody hundreds of them!”

“It wasn’t hundreds,” corrects Marie, “but they were coming down well and truly… a couple came here on that day — they were

just holidaying in Orange — and they had a niece or nephew over in San Francisco who’s said, ‘You’re in Orange. You’ve got to go and see Middleton’s go and check them out.’ And a lot of people said, ‘Oh, we’ve been in Orange for 12 months or been in Orange for a couple years and we didn’t know you’re here.

“We gave a lot of ice blocks away on that day, just samples, and they all went out the driveway liking our ice blocks.”

Fortuitously, the timing of the story being published brought Middleton’s ice blocks to the attention of the numerous visiting cricket squads attending the recent Western NSW Junior Cricket Carnivals.

“They’re all from Sydney and all over and a lot of these people read about it in the Guardian Australia and they’re in Orange, so they came to Middleton’s to see what the article was about and bought bags of ice blocks to take back to the kids playing cricket — it was a hot week,” says Marie.

“So it’s incredible… and I didn’t even know about the Guardian Australia, I didn’t even know it existed!”

Next year will be Marie’s 40th year in the ice block business, but she has no plans to hang up the tools and retire just yet.

“Oh, we’d get lynched if we stopped anytime soon! But it just remains to be seen how long we can actually cope and go on with it,” she says, whose son Glen also works with her and Dick in the business.

“He’s annoying us here every day, which is a wonderful thing,” says Marie fondly. “So the answer to that is: one day, down the track, probably we’ll have to, but at the moment, definitely not!”

The secret’s out! Middleton’s Ice blocks have been a summer staple in the Colour City for more than 75 years, but recent national attention has seen a growing appetite from further afield for the traditional icy treats.

Marie and Dick Middleton with son Glen

Australia’s best bards and yarners to battle it out in the Colour City

Bush poets and storytellers from all around Australia are preparing to make the trek to Orange next month for the 10th annual Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival.

Kicking off on February 17, this year’s festival program is packed full of opportunities for poets, performers and storytellers of all abilities to get up and entertain, Organising Committee Chair and Rotary Club of Orange member, Len Banks, said.

But a real treat for poetry lovers this year is the inclusion of the National Bush Poetry Performance Championship. Hosted by the Australian Bush Poets Association, this highly entertaining performance competition draws poets from around the country, each reciting four poems: an original humorous, original serious, a contemporary poem (post-1950), and a traditional (pre-1950) poem.

“It’s a very good opportunity for us because it will attract the best bush poets from around Australia,” Len said, adding that due to COVID it’s now been quite a

few years since they have been able to hold the national competition.

“And they’re all keen to get into it now, having not been able to travel for the last couple of years, so it’ll be good!”

For young budding poets, or those who are not interested in entering the national competition, Len said there are plenty of other opportunities to perform their favourite poem or original verse.

“On Saturday, February 25, we’ve got the youth competition and then also an open competition, which is for those adults who are not entering the national championship. So it gives people who feel that they’re not up to the standard of the national champions a chance to enter a poetry competition,” Len said.

“Again, that’s original poetry, in both the youth and the open competition, so its people perform their own poems, which is really quite entertaining.”

Poems can be about (almost) any topic, he added.

“So long as it’s family-friendly. Banjo and all the Australian poets, they wrote about their life and what they experienced.

“So we tell kids to write about your pets, or your holiday, or your sport, or whatever interests you!

On top of that, there are a number of ‘walk-up’ performance opportunities for poets throughout the festival, as well as the popular Poetry Brawl at Molong’s Freemasons Hotel on Saturday, February 18, Wrath of Grapes at Heifer Station on Wednesday, February 22, and the inaugural ‘Cargo Cup’ poetry competition at the Cargo Inn on Saturday, February 25.

Make sure you book ahead for those events, Len advised.

A new addition to the festival line-up this year is a yarn spinning or storytelling

competition, which gives the raconteurs a chance to ‘hold court’ at the Metropolitan Hotel on Friday, February 24.

“There will be a five-minute time limit, and again, any topic as long as it’s familyfriendly; just pretend that you’re talking around a campfire, or over the dinner table, or at the bar telling a yarn,” Len said

For those interested in participating, or watching, there will be two Friday night practice run events at the Metro on February 3 and February 10.

“It’s a chance to test it out, let people practice and stir a bit of interest — there should be some entertaining sort of stories to come out of that!”

The 2023 Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival takes place from Saturday, February 17 until Sunday, February 26.

For the full program of events, visit: www.orange360.com.au

Small town revving for a big day out

Cumnock’s now annual Muscle Car and Bike Showis being held on February 25, from 10am to 2pm. It’s the third year the show has been held in the village and in previous years the event has brought travellers from all over the region to experience the country vibes and take in the beautiful cars.

Organisers of the event, Baden Hart and his wife Dee have always had a passion for all things motor-related, and they were excited to share their passion with the town.

“I’ve got three brothers and all of us were just really into motorbikes, cars, and speedboats from a very young age,” Baden said.

“Mum and dad had a passion for cars, motorbikes and boats as well, so that’s

where it came from. We just always grew up around it — always working in the shed, doing stu with our hands, fixing cars and lawnmowers. Just motors. It was a hobby I guess, from a very young age, and I just never grew out of it!”

Baden clearly remembers his first-ever car, a Holden Tarana, that he got for his 17th birthday.

“The first thing I did was pull it apart and put it back together!” he said.

“I don’t have a favourite car. I like all sorts of cars. I’m a Holden person, but then again I’m bringing three Ford utes [to the Cumnock show]. I just like nice cars.”

Baden’s keen to see a lot of new cars and bikes exhibiting year, and is hoping that events like this will inspire people to dust o their old vehicles left sitting in the garage and get them out into the

world again.

“It’s not about how much money you’ve spent on your cars – if it’s your passion, your pride and joy, then bring it along. It doesn’t have to be a $100,000 vehicle,” he said.

Putting together their own car show was not something Baden and Dee had ever done before, but the event has been a roaring success these past two years.

“The first one we had took about six weeks to organise and it just skyrocketed from there!” Baden said.

“Four hundred people turned up! Unfortunately, COVID a ected the second one — and there were other events on the same weekend — but we’re expecting a big turnout this year.”

In past years, the event has been held

in the carpark of the local Bowling Club, but this year there’s a change to a larger and more shady venue – the Cumnock showground.

“There’ll be a barbeque on, ice cream truck and face painting for the kids — we really want it to be family-friendly,” Baden said.

“It’s just going to be a fun, family-friendly event. It only goes for four hours. It’s just a quick come out, show your car o , catch up with people kind of event.

“We want people to come out to visit the town. We want them to come out and see that it’s not just a town o the back road. Drive through the town, go to the store or the Bowling Club, have a look at the place, do the ‘Animals on Bikes’ [paddock art] tour and just enjoy yourself,” Baden enthused.

Delicious cakes

“Where our customers are the heart of the community”

A decadent range of cakes and desserts that will tempt the sweetest of tooths

A quick look at Australia Day around the Central West

We’ve taken the burden o you, and compiled a list of events to choose from in Orange and around our wonderful surrounding villages to help you get the most out of your public holiday.

Australia Day Award ceremonies will be conducted in most towns around the area, it’s our annual opportunity to shine a light on the many unsung heroes in our local community.

In Orange, the o cial Australia Day festivities kick o in Cook Park from 8am with a barbecue breakfast, followed by the o cial award ceremony at 9am.

Stick around and enjoy the live music, good food, and market stalls.

Blayney will hold celebrations at Heritage

Park from 8am with a free barbecue breakfast from Blayney Rotary and then the award ceremony kicks o at 8.30am.

Club Millthorpe will be celebrating the day with live music from the Millthumpers from 1pm, yabby races and free social bowls all day. Get there at 12pm to enjoy a barbecue lunch.

Molong’s Australia Day celebrations centre around the Dr. Ross Memorial Park where there will be a damper competition, children’s activities and entertainment, lunch and an afternoon of cricket. Or just up the road at the Freemasons Hotel you can try your luck at the yabby races.

Enjoy a day of fun and excitement with the Lachlan Valley Railway and travel at a leisurely pace from Orange to the small town of Manildra on one of their historic trains. During your visit to the “Gem of the

West” stop by the famous Amusu Theatre for the showing of a classic Aussie short film or enjoy lunch at The Royal Hotel.

Australia Day award ceremonies will also be held in Borenore, Cargo, Canowindra, Cumnock, Cudal, Eugowra, Manildra, Molong, Mullion Creek, and Yeoval.

Don’t forget to get in quick and nominate the people you believe deserve to be recognised for their e orts.

At Cumnock, the party gets underway a day early on January 25 with an Australianthemed dress-up trivia night at the Cumnock Bowling Club. Prizes will be given for best dressed, as well as the trivia champions.

Whatever your interests are, there’s an event for everyone. So grab your families, get out and enjoy this beautiful country of ours!

ReptileKymtheMan

“When I was a kid, I had three older brothers and they always would bring animals home and I just ended up following that passion. “As I got older, my older brother and myself, we'd go out in the bush catching snakes during the summer time and we'd bring them back home — Mum, would hit the roof!” he recalls with a laugh.

From chasing snakes and lizards in the Central Coast bushland, Kym has turned his obsession with reptiles and amphibians into a full-time career, today travelling all over the state with his animals and giving anywhere up to 500 shows in a year.

“I've been doing displays for about 18 years, I started off when my son was a baby and I couldn't stand in front of a crowd to save my life!” says Kym, which is hard to believe if you see him perform today.

With quickfire jokes and banter Kym captivates his audiences with ease, and has people of all ages laughing throughout his well-polished performance.

But it’s about more than just entertainment for Kym, who sees it as a way to get people thinking differently about the environment we live in — and think differently about snakes in particular.

“I just want to break down those stereotypical images we have that snakes are vicious animals, or that ‘the only good snake's a dead snake’,” says Kym.

“It's not true, they serve a purpose and as you get older you learn more about their welfare, their habitats and then you learn about the destruction of their habitats and so it took me on a path of conservation.

“It became more about wanting to make people aware of the wildlife that we have, that we need to appreciate it, and give people an opportunity to see that these animals are not aggressive as they have been portrayed to be.

“So that's basically what I want to get out to people and schools and childcare centres and shopping centres… I want to try and change that mindset with the younger generation, because that's where our future lies — with them.”

“I grew up with reptiles,” explains Kym Beckton, better known by his working handle ‘Kym the Reptile Man’.

...I just want to break down those stereotypical images we have that snakes are vicious animals...

LOCAL COUNCIL AT WORK

Orange City Council will celebrate the older people in our community by hosting 12 days of events for the 2023 NSW Seniors Festival from 1-12 February. The NSW Seniors Festival is the largest celebration of its kind in the southern hemisphere and the theme for this year is ‘Celebrate Together’.

Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee Chair, Cr Mel McDonell said the festival was a chance for older people to have a great time, try something new and meet new people at a range of events.

“This is a great opportunity for us all to celebrate the huge contributions older people have made, and continue to make, to our local community,” Cr McDonell said.

Orange City Council received funding from the NSW Government Department of Communities and Justice to host the event.

Council’s Community Services team has a bumper program of free or discounted

activities planned for seniors and their carers to enjoy, including high tea, guided walks, cooking demonstrations, music, dance and trivia, as well as a bus trip to Canberra’s National Museum of Australia.

A highlight of the event will be the official launch of the Seniors Village Hub, which offers a range of programs that aim to increase wellness and reduce social isolation often experienced by people as they get older.

“I encourage all Orange seniors to get out there and enjoy the activities on offer, and connect with others in a fun and supportive environment,” Cr McDonell said.

See the program for Seniors Festival activities in Orange below or on the council website at www.orange.nsw.gov. au/older-people/events/. For more information or to book your spot for an event contact the Community Services Centre on 6393 8600

Seniors can enjoy a guided tour of Cook Park as part of the Seniors Festival in February. s

Major reno to put croquet court ‘on the level’

Orange City Croquet Club’s Hill Street facilities will soon be at an all-new ‘level’ thanks to a major renovation of their eastern turf court.

Over the past few days, club members and local trades have removed the turf surface, laser-levelled the court, and re-laid the grass once more.

“A court renovation is designed to take the low spots and the high spots out of the croquet court to allow balls to run true,” croquet club lawn committee member, John Mills said on Monday.

“It is a project we’ve been looking at for some time; we managed to get some [Australian Government] Stronger

Communities funding to help us fund the project. They’re doing $6,000 and the club is putting in the balance of the project, which is something over $13,000.”

He said the next six weeks would be about reestablishing and topdressing the grass court, which should hopefully be ready for play in autumn.

“Probably the end of March, but a lot depends on the weather,” John said. “And hopefully, at the end of that, we’ll have a court that runs true!”

Until then, club play will continue on the western court (which was renovated and levelled in 2016), John said, adding that the greatly improved standard of their facilities means they can attract a higher standard of competition to future tournaments.

breath? There dental hygiene can not tell us dental checkups are and to protect any dental anaesthetic is given probe and needed. In January, FREE dental treatment which mosquito is all it takes Tiny larvae are dog’s bloodstream the heart restricted to the new research has Central West.

Dogs can treatments – chews, injections followed by new puppy can injection FOR injections for you going to the cattery show proof of until the last or book online special offers for you soon!

John Mills overseeing the renovation and re-levelling of the Orange City Croquet Club court in Hill Street.

Women’s Rugby League

Countryside chicken fideuá on a frypan

INGREDIENTS

100ml olive oil

400 g chicken thighs, chopped small 200g snow peas, chopped in 1/2 3 garlic cloves, chopped finely 1 tsp Spanish sweet paprika

1 pinch of local sa ron

2 tomatoes, freshly grated 300g Angel hair pasta 900 ml chicken stock Fresh thyme

Lemon wedges Seasoning to taste

Suggestions: served with freshly made aioli (See Orange City Life issue August 25 — 31, 2022 for recipe)

METHOD

Countryside chicken fideuá in a frypan

Now, one of the most common questions I have had from so many of you is: how can you make paella in a normal frypan, for two people, with everyday and economical ingredients available at an Australian supermarket? Well fideuá is going to be your answer. But what is it?

Well, fideuá is a traditional seafood dish originally from the coast of Valencia. It is very similar to paella (same flavours actually), but instead of rice, you use pasta noodles. We call these noodles ‘fideos’ and purists prefer to use the

‘number 4 fideos’ to achieve the perfect result. Unfortunately, we can’t find them here, so I’m going to show you how to make this recipe using angel hair pasta instead, which is available in any supermarket. I know that many of you are not so keen on seafood, so I’m going to prepare a chicken version of it here, even though it is not traditional in Spain.

All the steps to the right are the same that I use when making a Valencian paella and we can use local ingredients like olive oil, garlic, sa ron, chicken, etc..

1. Place the olive oil in the frying pan on high heat. In a separate saucepan, add the chicken stock and heat to a simmer. 2. When hot, add the chicken and cook it until you get a golden-brown colour and remove (don’t turn it too much, let it be). 3. Reduce the heat, then add the snow peas and cook for 5 minutes until caramelised and remove. 4. Still on low heat, add the garlic and cook it for a minute or so until it starts changing colour.

5. Add the smoked paprika, stirring it constantly to avoid it getting stuck to the bottom and burning. 6. Add the sa ron and keep stirring for 30 seconds. 7. Add the grated tomato and cook it with the spices and garlic until it starts getting brown. Reduce slowly as much as possible. 8. Add the angel hair pasta now, along with the chicken, and snow peas and mix it all together. 11. Add the boiling chicken stock 12. Spread everything out evenly (it all must be under the liquid). And let it reduce on high heat. When you start seeing the pasta, turn the heat down to a simmer. 13. Cook it until there’s no liquid and you start hearing the pasta getting crispy at the bottom. 14. You can finish it o by placing the fresh thyme on top. 15. Let it rest for 5 minutes! Serve with a lemon wedge and freshly made aioli.

Roy Martin

Where were you born?

I

was born in Huntley

What is your favourite childhood memory?

I still remember how Dad and Mum used to set up the horse and sulky, and we went into town. And I used to go out with my Dad along this long stretch and we’d set up rabbit traps, and we’d catch rabbits — lots and lots of rabbits! — and go into town and sell them.

Where did you go to school?

I started o , in Kindergarten, at one that’s not there anymore. It’s now the Woolworths carpark. I was knee-high to a grasshopper! Then I went to, I think, junior school… there was a cruel man there, with a cane, and one day I took his cane o him and whipped him! That was it; I left. My Uncles came and got me and I went out to the shearing sheds and did a bit of wool pressing. That was a good job — and good, good money!

What were some other good jobs you’ve had?

The best job I ever had was, I went out

to Barrett’s. They used to have a truck, a big truck — a fridge mobile. And I got the job driving trucks and I loved it. I used to go out to Molong, Cumnock, Yeoval, Bathurst, other places, right up to shops that wanted to take frozen stu . I was with Barrett’s for a long time. It was unbelievable.

I see by your shirt you’re a fan of the V8 Supercars, do you have a favourite car that you’ve owned?

The best car I ever owned was a Mercedes. Then I had trucks, mainly.

Tell me a bit about your family.

My wife’s name was Mavis. We ended up moving to Manly and we had a son. When my son was born I was so proud! He’s the father of my three grandkids. They live in Adelaide now.

What do you do for fun?

Occasionally, I go downtown. You gotta go sometimes; you can’t just sit around like a zombie!

What are you most proud of?

My son. He’s got a great job.

Congratulations on your recent publication. Such an interesting collection of articles, puzzles and stories. The items by Bob Holland were also interesting and inspirational. Keep up the good work.

– John Benfield

Thumbs up to the new Seniors Happy Life magazine. So much great and enjoyable reading. It’s really quite refreshing to be able to now buy a magazine like this.

– Text form anonymous reader

Congratulations on Seniors Happy Life. Well done!

– Ramon Williams

My name is Meryl Ward and I am a Recreational Activities Officer in Aged Care, and I have just been reading through your magazine (large print) and I want to congratulate you on such a wonderful newspaper. This is a fantastic idea and truly a godsend especially for residents in facilities. Again, Congratulations!

– Meryl Ward

Thank you to all those who have had a hand in the production and distribution of this amazing newspaper. I have thoroughly enjoyed this positive, humorous, respectful and educational publication. I have encouraged many people within our Village to read and enjoy - you will not be disappointed.

– Ian

Congratulations on your pilot issue. I look forward to reading the first issue which I understand is due for publication in February. Best wishes for Seniors Happy Life during 2023.

– John Walker

Hello Bob and other members of the Seniors Happy Life team. I was interested to receive and read a copy of Seniors Happy Life, I found it quite impressive.  You were correct when you said on page 2, “I’ll bet you’ve never seen anything like it before!” Most of the general newspapers and magazines targeted at older Australians are essentially commercial advertising. It was clear from your introductory article on pages 2 and 3 that this is not the case with Seniors Happy Life. Thanks to you and your colleagues for the great amount of thought and effort that has gone into producing Seniors Happy Life. I wish you the greatest success in your endeavours.

– Tom Slocum

This week, Orange City Life’s Michelle Peters sat down for a chat with Wontama resident, 84-year-old Roy Henry Martin.

The goodenough parent

with Emily Thompson

GRANDMA TO THE RESCUE

For Christmas, our beautiful neighbours gifted Miss Eight a flower press. She was thrilled with this, because she adores picking roses for everyone from the bush near her swing set, and some of our loveliest time together is spent crafting.

So she picked a dozen stunning roses, and in true youngest child style hands them to me along with the kit and turns to leave. I told her I’d help her, but she had to stay. She looked at me with a pained expression, instructions in hand, and said, “but I don’t know hoooooooooow to dry flowers.”

Helpfully, I point out that she can simply read the instructions she’s holding. She looks around for someone to do it for her like her Dad (at golf) or Miss 14 (out walking the dog) but sadly she slowly realises she’s out of luck and will have to do it herself.

After reading the instructions she starts by tightening the wingnut in an attempt to get it o .

“Lefty loosey, righty tighty,” I say cheerfully.

This is met with a withering glare and the announcement that I am obviously wrong. She knows more than me.

“See mum? It’s righty-loosey, I’m undoing it,” she explains, as she tightens the flower press closed.

“Oh,” she says sadly, “these screws must be wrong.”

This is the point I suggest a break to call Grandma and see what she’s up to for the week (and maybe suggest a visit from her granddaughters). Grandma answers and lovingly invites the girls to stay, but only until Sunday because Miss Eight needs to be back for swimming intensives on the Monday. Having scheduled this myself, I have nobody else to blame and accept these terms.

Miss Eight is thrilled because, due to COVID, she hasn’t seen any family for Christmas yet and assures me there’s probably a mountain of presents waiting for her, and can we leave now? I send her o to pack and break the news to our homebody/just-got-a-new-gaming-PC-forChristmas Miss 14 that she is going away for a week.

“But, you get to take the dog!” I cheer her up by announcing, while simultaneously getting out of a week of solo feeding duties.

Miss Eight returns with a bag packed with sleepwear, undies, shorts, a twirly dress, four socks that don’t match, no shirts and a bow, nine arrows, a “decorate your own jewellery box” and her harmonica.

“Good packing!” I say as I add actual clothes. “Your grandparents are going to LOVE your music! Remember not to shoot your sister”. She looks concerned at the amount of room I’m wasting with sensible clothing choices and suggests a bigger bag, or a second bag for her present haul. We have a quick chat to manage her expectations and remind her that less is more, family is the true gift and gratitude for what you do get is important.

All of this is wasted on her because the second she arrives she is smothered in kisses and handed a bag of presents as big as her. “Thank you so, so much! And here are the presents I chose just for you guys,” says Miss Eight, handing over the gifts that I have carefully chosen and wrapped, so there is absolutely no way she knows what they are).

We gratefully leave them to it and head home for a week of peace and quiet… But not before Miss Eight gives us strict instructions about her drying flowers. As usual, she’s somehow conned us into doing it all for her while she spends the week guzzling ice cream at the beach.

LIFEandTIMES with

ANGUS GIBB

New Year, Same Story

Happy New Year to all of you readers out there. I trust you have had a refreshing break over the holiday season. As we enter a new year, I wonder how you are feeling. Is the lethargy of the holidays still hanging on? Or perhaps you are feeling excited about the new opportunities that 2023 will bring. Perhaps you are feeling anxious about what lies ahead. But will this year be any di erent to the last for you personally? Certainly, there will be many changes and challenges that will no doubt happen on a local or global scale. But for you personally, is it a matter of new year, same story? It can be easy to find yourself in a rut. The same patterns and routines bog you down. The issues and di cult circumstances from 2022 still linger in the air. Does that mean that there is no chance of a change in the year to come for you? In a way, each new year o ers a fresh start of sorts. A chance to hit the reset button in our minds. But what does a reset look like? We make new year’s resolutions, and for the first couple of weeks we seem to be going well, but by about now the shine has gone and the momentum has died. Come February these resolutions are shelved until next January. So what might a fresh start look like this year? Maybe this is a moment where you can reassess or think through those questions about life that niggle in the back of your mind. A chance to confront those existential questions that you find yourself thinking about at night when you can’t sleep. Maybe you want to explore life’s big questions. That is what this column is about; a chance to pause and think about these sorts of questions. To think about life from another perspective. To give yourself a chance to think about things from a di erent perspective. You may not always agree with what I say and that is okay. So as we embark on a new year where it may feel like the same story, I’d like to o er this word of advice to you. In our ever-changing world where it can be hard to know if there is any constant that we can rely or hope on, ‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever’ (Hebrews 13:8). You may wonder what that might mean for you, but for me, this means that no matter what each new year brings, with all its ups and downs, I can have hope and peace through it all because of Jesus. It is a new year, but it is the same story – Jesus remains a constant. Maybe this is the year that you begin to ask questions about our life and times. I hope that as you do, you will find rest in the one who gives it. So I look forward to a new year of writing and I am excited for the journey that we can take together.

Summertime at the Greenhouse of Orange

Katrina Massey and Alex Batho

Sonia and Milan Falvey, Tina Gould and Lee-anne Wheeldon

Mitch Thirkettle and Katie McFawn

Harry Taylor and Connor Dawson

Graham and Leeanne Batho

Beth, Barbara (in front), Ian, Rachel and Nick Masling

Taeler, Tom and Mia Batho

— CEC TILBURG — What better way to spend a hot summer afternoon than listening to live music while enjoying a cold drink and a tasty meal with family and friends. Orange City Life couldn’t resist stopping by the Greenhouse of Orange on Saturday, January 14, to take in the sunshine and atmosphere of the popular rooftop venue.

MUSIC TAKES PHYSICAL FORM IN NEW EXHIBITION While the World Waits

A new exhibition opening at The Corner Store Gallery this weekend showcases a unique partnership between local musicians and visual artists.

Born out of the COVID lockdowns, While the World Waits saw Arts OutWest commission 15 Central West songwriters to each write a track reflecting their experiences of 2020.

eleased as a compilation album, visual artists were then asked to use the music as a jumping-o point and inspiration resulting in an exhibition of new work from 20 artists, each responding to one or more tracks, titles or words on the album.

Opening with an informal networking event this Saturday, January 21, 2 – 4pm, at The Corner Store Gallery, the While the World Waits exhibition features work in a range of mediums: painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, moving image, animation, photography, glass and textiles.

“It was just a really, really clever and creative and inclusive way of involving musicians and songwriters. I felt like it was something that started with great momentum and just kept growing,” said Canowindra musician, Nerida Cuddy, whose song ‘Virtual Folk Club’ has been brought to life in a drawing by Orange artist Heather Valance.

Nerida extended her gratitude to Arts OutWest for this incredible way to support artists during what was a di cult time.

“I think Arts OutWest were really creative, and thoughtful about what they could do to really help during the COVID time and so to be approached and asked to be a part of a project when everything was shut down was a really great thing,” Nerida said.

Artists featured in the exhibition include: Gus Armstrong (Rylstone), Laura Baker (Blayney), Helen Carpenter (Grenfell), Steven Cavanagh (Hill End), Gemma Clipsham (Bathurst), Bev Coe (Condobolin), Heather Dunn (Bathurst), Lise Edwards

(Lithgow), Harrie Fasher (Portland), Robert Hirschmann (Portland), Cate McCarthy (Yetholme), Hugh McKinnon (Orange), Christine McMillan (Kandos), Shani Nottingham (Cowra), Timothy Seager (Bathurst), Henry Simmons and the River Yarners (Bathurst), Bridget Thomas (Bathurst), Jane Tonks (Orange), Heather Vallance (Orange), Stephan de Wit (Parkes).

While the World Waits will remain on exhibition at The Corner Store Gallery until Sunday, February 5. Opening hours are 10am – 4pm Thursday to Saturday, and 10am – 1pm on Sundays.

Canowindra musician, Nerida Cuddy, whose song ‘Virtual Folk Club’ has been brought to life by Orange artist Heather Valance for the While the World Waits exhibition opening this Satruday, January 21.

What’s happening

Friday January 20

Orange Ex-Services’ Club

Dallas Webb live

Greenhouse Orange

Gary Johns in the Piano Bar from 6pm Jet Set live on the lawn from 6pm

Australia Day, January 26

Victoria Hotel

Justin Landers in the beer garden from 2pm - 5pm

SUNDAY JANUARY

The Greenhouse

22

Jack Daintith live on the lawn from 12pm

UPCOMING EVENTS

Wednesday January 25

Cumnock Bowling Club

Australia themed Trivia and dress-up night

Thursday January 26

Cumnock Bowling Club

Award presentations and morning tea

Freemasons Hotel Molong Australia Day Yabby Races

Borenore Public School

Award Presentations and morning tea

Cargo Village Green

Official party attending, award presentations and cutting of Australia Day cake

Cudal Community Centre

Guest speaker, Peter Worsley OAM and award presentations

Eugowra Showground

Community barbecue, award presentations and kids’ activities

Victoria Hotel

Justin Landers in the beer garden from 2pm - 5pm

Saturday January 21

Metropolitan Hotel

Live music every Saturday from 8pm

Victoria Hotel Terry Lovett’s Rock and Roll Disco from 8pm

The Blind Pig Live and Local - Lueth Ajak from 8pm

Greenhouse Orange

James Sutherland live on the lawn from 12pm Lionel in the Piano Bar from 12pm Barrabas live on the lawn from 7pm

Sunday January 22

Greenhouse Orange

Jack Daintith live on the lawn from 12pm Musical bingo on the lawn from 12pm Gabe in the Piano Bar from 6pm

The Lennon Songbook in Concert

John Lennon was the voice of a generation whose songs and albums remain as poignant and relevant today as they were half a century ago.

For the past 30 years, John Waters has explored and honoured his relationship with Lennon’s music with co-creator and musical director Stewart D’Arrietta.

This February at the Orange Civic Theatre, Waters and D’Arrietta are back with the fabulous Liverpool Band, bringing you the latest instalment of their hugely successful interpretation of Lennon’s music — The John Lennon Songbook.

London born, Waters, spent his teenage years as a singer and bass-player in blues band, The Riot, before travelling to Australia, where he landed the lead role in the Sydney production, Hair. From

that moment he was thrown into the world of acting and appeared in a variety of movies and television series.

It was in 1992 that Waters and D’Arrietta, a renowned pianist and composer, came up with the idea of Looking Through a Glass Onion, later renamed Lennon: Through a Glass Onion, as a theatrical interpretation of John Lennon’s life and music.

With an intimate take on classic hits, including the Imagine album favourites, come and experience the latest evolution of this iconic showThe Lennon Songbook in Concert.

It’s Lennon like you’ve never heard before. All the songs you love, and even some you didn’t know you did, in a dynamic show for all the generations.

See The Lennon Songbook in Concert at Orange Civic Theatre, Saturday, February 18, 7.30pm. Tickets viaTicketek or call 6393 8111

COMMUNITY DIARY

ART/MUSIC/DANCE

CANTAR WOMEN’S CHOIR meets at the Church of Christ, every Monday from 7.30pm - 9:15pm. Enquiries: Margaret 02 6369 1333.

EVERUPWARD CRAFT GROUP holds craft groups at Everupward Church, every Monday morning from 9.00am - 12.00pm. Enquiries: Mary 02 6361 0514.

OLD TIME ACOUSTIC JAM SESSION is held at The Blind Pig Sound Lounge & Bar, last Sunday of every month from 4.00pm. Enquiries: Kenneth 0408 619 235.

ORANGE ART SOCIETY INC. meets at the Orange Cultural Centre, every Monday from 10.00am. Enquiries: David 0407 627 092.

ORANGE CROCHET / KNITTING GROUP meets in the bistro at the Orange Ex-Services Club, every Saturday from 12.00pm - 3.00pm and every Tuesday 10.00am -12.00pm. Enquiries: Karen 0419 616 251.

ORANGE LACEMAKERS meet at the front of the Orange Cultural Centre, each Wednesday from 1.00pm. Enquiries: Sandy 02 6362 7938.

ORANGE MALE VOICE CHOIR meets at Orange Regional Conservatorium, every Monday from 7:15pm – 9:15pm. Enquiries: David 02 6362 8218.

ORANGE OLD TIME DANCERS meet at the Senior Citizens & Pensioners Centre, every Tuesday from 7.00pm - 9:30pm. Enquiries: Alan 0407 062 979.

ORANGE SOCIAL DANCE GROUP meets at the Orange City Bowling Club, every Thursday from 6.00pm. Enquiries: Audrey 02 6362 0068 or Richard 02 6361 7718.

ORANGE SPINNERS & HANDCRAFT meets at the Orange Cultural Centre, every Thursday from 10.00am - 2.00pm.

THE CANOBOLAS HIGHLAND PIPE BAND meets at Legacy House, every Wednesday from 7.00pm. Beginners are welcome. Enquiries: Zoe 0421 379 423.

THE COME TOGETHER CHOIR meets at the Orange Regional Conservatorium, every Tuesday from 10.00am - 12.00pm. Enquiries: Vicky 02 6361 8156 or 0424 008 350.

ORANGE COLOUR CITY LINE DANCERS meet at the Orange City Bowling Club every Monday from 5pm till 7.30pm and Wednesday from 5pm until 8pm.

CITY OF ORANGE BRASS BAND, 62-64 Endsleigh Ave, Orange. Players of all levels and enquiries welcome. Enquiries: 0491 707 979. Facebook and www.cityoforangebrassband.com.au

CLUBS

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF ORANGE meets at Duntryleague, every second Monday of the month from 1:30pm. Enquiries: Tricia 0410 600 869 or iiw.au.orange@gmail.com

THE ORANGE SUB BRANCH OF THE NAVAL ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA meets at 11am on the third Sunday of every month at the Orange RSL Enquiries: Barry 0407 259 2756 or Peter 0438 413 531 or bcynical24@bigpond. com or peter.furguson12@hotmail.com

ORANGE LIONS CLUB MEET AT DUNTRYLEAGUE

Golf Club, on the second and fourth Thursday of every month from 6:30pm Enquiries/Membership: Pat 0407 217 600

ORANGE COIN AND STAMP CLUB meets at the Orange Community Centre, on the last Tuesday of every month from 7.30pm. Enquiries: Howard 02 6362 2368 or 0427 107 554.

ORANGE LADIES PROBUS CLUB Meets every 4th Wednesday of the month. 10:00am to 12:00pm Duntryleague Club. Enquires: Marlies 0418 440 512

IONIAN CLUB OF ORANGE (Women new to Orange) meets at Duntryleague, every second Thursday of the month, from 11.00am. Enquiries: Helen 0417 749 152.

ORANGE LEGACY CLUB o ce hours are 10.00am - 3.00pm Tuesdays to Thursdays at 58 McNamara Street, Orange. Enquiries: 02 6362 1205

ORANGE BRIDGE CLUB. Enquiries: Murray 0418 206 485.

BRIDGE LESSONS from 1.00pm - 3.00pm, every Wednesday. Enquiries: Chris 02 6362 3029 or Dorothy 02 6362 8218.

ORANGE CANOBOLAS LIONS CLUB meets at Duntryleague Golf Club, on the first and third Tuesday of every month from 6:30pm Enquiries: Lisa 0419 641 282.

ORANGE CAMERA CLUB meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Senior Citizens Centre, from 7.30pm. Enquiries: orangecameraclub@gmail.com

ORANGE EVENING VIEW CLUB meets at the Orange Ex-Services Club, on the last Thursday of the month from 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start. Enquiries: Anne 0478 124 276

ORANGE LAPIDARY & MINERAL CLUB INC meets at the Orange Cultural Society, every Wednesday from 9.00am - 12.00pm & 7.00pm - 9.00pm. Enquiries: Kathy 0437 917 074.

ORANGE COIN AND STAMP CLUB meets at the Orange Community Centre, on the last Tuesday of every month from 7.30pm. Enquiries: Howard 02 6362 2368.

ROTARY CLUB OF ORANGE meets at the Ambassador,every Monday from 6.00pm for dinner. Enquiries: Len 0428 459 117 or contact@rotarycluboforange.org.au.

SCRABBLE CLUB MEETS at Giyalang Ganya, Community Services Building on the first and third Sunday of each month from 2.00pm. Enquiries: Audrey 02 6362 0068.

SOUTHERN CROSS STREET CRUISERS is a family oriented car club that would like to welcome any new enquiries for membership. Enquiries: Jason 0431 456 889 or Mick 0427 856 427 .

THE EUCHRE CARD CLUB meets at the Orange Ex-Services Club, every Wednesday from 7:30pm. Enquiries: 02 6362 2666.

ZONTA CLUB OF ORANGE INC. meets at Lord Anson Hotel, every second Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm. Enquiries: Frances 0407 952 675.

ORANGE BIRD SOCIETY meets at the Senior Citizens Centre, on the third Wednesday of every month from 7:30pm. Tony 0409 912 370 or 02 6365 8441.

THE ULYSSES CLUB OF ORANGE conducts weekly motorbike rides, leaving the Railway car-park, Peisley Street, on Wednesdays from 9.30am. Social dinners are held on the second Friday of every month. Enquiries: Lee 0414 881 178.

ORANGE BASIC DOG OBEDIENCE meets every Sunday during school terms at Waratahs 8.45am -10am. BYO dog, lead, treats and patience. Enquiries via Orange Basic Dog Obedience Facebook page.

ORANGE GARDEN CLUB

Meets the first Friday of every month at 11.00am. May-Sep (Orange Ex-Services Club) Oct-Apr (Local Gardens) Enquiries: Vicki 02 6362 1257

EVENTS

THE AMUSU THEATRE in Manildra has regular movie screenings. The Movie Museum is open every weekend by appointment. Enquiries: Joan 0418 452 902.

THE COMMITTEE OF ADFAS ORANGE & DISTRICT holds lectures at 6:30pm once a month in the main auditorium at the Orange Regional Cons. Enquiries: Anne 02 6361 3923.

FOR THE KIDS

ORANGE DISTRICT GIRL GUIDES meet at 365 Peisley Street, on a weekly basis, during School Terms. The units meet Mon - Wed from 5pm -6.30pm. Enquiries: Yvonne 0412 736 700.

THE MINIATURE RAILWAY PUBLIC RUNNING DAY takes place on the second Saturday every month at Matthews Park, Corner of Moulder Street & Anson Street, from 1pm4pm. Enquiries: Shane 0414 887 005

ORANGE STORYTIME is held at the Orange City Library, every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during school terms from 11.00am. Storytime and Craft. Bookings are essential. Enquiries: 02 6393 8132 or library@cwl.nsw. gov.au or eventbrite.com.au.

3RD ORANGE SCOUT GROUP. Meeting dates for Joeys, Cubs, Scouts, Venturer & older ages call for details. 3 Icely Road Orange. Enquiries: Scouts NSW, 1800 SCOUTS (726887)

HEALTH & FITNESS

BLAYNEY SMOKING CESSATION CLINIC at the Blayney MPS. By appointment only. Enquiries: Pam 02 6368 9000.

CHAIR YOGA for those who can’t get on the floor, meets Mondays at the Senior Citizens & Pensioners Centre, from 10:20am for a 10.30 start, until 11:30am. Enquiries: Kerrie 0418 235 495.

ORANGE TABLE TENNIS meets every Tuesday from 6:30pm at the Canobolas High School Recreational Hall, 142 Icely Road. Enquiries: Mark 0468 308 705.

THE O’BRIEN CENTRE at Bloomfield Hospital has activities each Thursday during school terms, from 10.00am - 2.00pm. $5.00 for the day. Enquiries: Je 0423 277 788.

TAI-CHI CLASSES Wednesdays at 6.00pm Enquiries: Tony 0409 285 807

CENTRAL WEST MEDIATION meets second Saturday of every month at Senior Citizens Hall 8:30am - 10:00am Enquires: 02 4315 2763

MARKETS / FAIRS

ORANGE COIN AND STAMP FAIR is held on the first Saturday of every month at the Orange Cultural Centre. Enquiries: Howard 02 6362 2368.

ORANGE FARMERS MARKET is on the second Saturday of every month, at Northcourt, corner of Peisley Street and March Streets (October to May), and the Naylor Pavilion, Orange Showground, Leeds Parade from (June to September). Gold coin upon entry.

Enquiries: Holly 0418 654 226.

BLAYNEY ROTARY MARKET is held on the third Sunday of every month at CentrePoint Sport and Leisure Centre, Corner of Osman and Church Street, Blayney, rain, hail or shine from 8:30am.

Enquiries: rcblayney@gmail.com

COWRA COMMUNITY MARKETS is held on the third Saturday of every month at Sid Kallas Oval, from 8am until noon. Phone 0473 346 046 for more information.

CUMNOCK MARKET Is held on the third Saturday of every month from 9.00 a.m. to 12 noon at Crossroads Park Cumnock (opposite General Store) Enquiries: Pat Gilmour – 6367 7270

MEETINGS

FOODCARE ORANGE is open Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 10.30am1.00pm and Thursday from 4.30pm - 6.00pm, at 142 March Street. Enquiries: 0447 577 884

ORANGE CAKE DECORATORS GUILD meets the second Saturday of every month at 1.00pm at the Senior Citizens & Pensioners Centre, 77 Kite Street. Enquiries: Janelle 0438 618 483 or 0427 659 194.

ORANGE RSL SUB-BRANCH OFFICE HOURS

Tuesday & Friday from 9.00am - 12.00pm at Orange RSL Sub-Branch (next to the Orange Ex Services Club). Enquiries: (02) 6362 1735

RAILWAYS RETIREES meet the last Friday of every month, at the Orange City Bowling Club, at 12.00pm. Enquiries: Lindsay 02 6362 5959.

VIETNAM VETERANS meet every Friday from 10am - 1pm at the Orange Ex-Services Club. Enquiries: Lindsay 02 6362 5959.

ORANGE TOASTMASTERS meets every second & fourth Monday of the month from 6:45pm for 7.00pm - 9.00pm, at the Orange Ex-Services Club. Enquiries: 0439 568 752.

THE META-COACH FOUNDATION (MCF) Orange Chapter meets on the first Wednesday each month at Shop 15 / 212 Anson Street from 6.00pm - 8.00pm. Enquiries: Shawn 0439 194 323.

ORANGE BRANCH OF RSPCA meets quarterly from 7pm at Orange City Bowling Club. All interested parties are welcome to attend. Enquiries: 02 6362 6171 or orangesupportergroup@rspcansw.org.au

ORANGE RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm at the Orange Ex-Services Club. Enquiries: orra2800@gmail.com

SOCIAL GROUPS

BORENORE / NASHDALE MENS’ SHED meets every Tuesday from 9.30am, at the Orange National Field Days site, Borenore. Enquiries: Max 0418 498 708.

ENVIRONMENTALLY CONCERNED CITIZENS of Orange (ECCO) meets on the 4th Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm at the Environmental Learning Facility. Enquires: Neil 0419 224 461.

FRIENDS OF THE ORANGE BOTANIC GARDENS run a guided bird walk at the Orange Botanic Gardens, on the first Sunday of every month from 8:30am.

ORANGE WOMEN’S SHED meets every Friday at 9:30am - 1:00pm at Riverside Centre, Forest Road, Orange. Enquiries: 0439 609 849 or orangewsinc@gmail.com

ORANGE MEN’S SHED meets every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 9.30am3.00pm, now at the Lucknow shed venue. Enquiries: Alan 0475 250 779.

ORANGE TROUT ACCLIMATISATION SOCIETY meets the third Tuesday of every month from 7.00pm at Orange Ex-Services Club, in the Boronia Room. Enquiries: Barry 02 6362 0096 or 0427 620 096.

ORANGE & DISTRICT 40+ SOCIAL GROUP meets every Tuesday at Orange Ex-Services Club, from 7.00pm. Enquiries: Brett 0427 462 887.

ORANGE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meets the first Wednesday each month from 1:30pm. Enquiries: Janet 0427 450 346.

ORANGE WOODWORKERS ASSOCIATION INC. meets every Wednesday from 8:30am - 3.00pm, on the second & fourth Sunday of every month at the Old Coach House. Enquiries: Chris 0407 129 934.

THE CENTRAL WEST AMATEUR RADIO GROUP meets on the first Sunday of each month, except for January. Due to COVID 19, we have been meeting on air. Enquiries: Garry 0413 358 037 or arcwg@hotmail.com.au.

HEARTS & HANDS - CAFE CHAT. A place to meet others & practice spoken english, meets twice a month on Mondays at St James Presbyterian Church Matthews Ave, Orange. Enquiries: Margaret 0428 835 866 or Vicky 0401 292 335

SUPPORT GROUPS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ORANGE meets at the rear of Kenna Hall, 84 Hill Street, from 5.00pm Sundays, and from 7.00pm Monday & Tuesday. We also have meetings from 6.30pm - 8.00pm Thursdays at The Leisure Centre Bloomfield. Enq: Graham 0447 839 026.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP ORANGE meets every Monday 6.00pm - 7.00pm at St. Barnabas Church Hall. Enquiries: 1300 252 666.

ORANGE SENIORS CITIZENS & PENSIONERS groups meet regularly. Various classes are held. Enquiries: 02 6362 6592.

THE ORANGE PARKINSON’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP meets fourth Wednesday each month, 10.00am - 12.00pm at Giyalang Ganya, Community Services Building. Enquiries: Bernie 0434 504 414.

RED CROSS CLUB MEETINGS currently on seasonal recess. For any enquiries please call 0498 815 229.

ORANGE STROKE SUPPORT GROUP meets on the third Monday of every month from 10.30 am - 12.00pm at the Giyalang Ganya, Community Services Building. Please call before attending the group. Enquiries: Michelle on 1300 650 594 or info@strokensw.org.au.

ORANGE PROSTATE CANCER GROUP Meets 3rd Tuesday of the month (Except January & December) at Cafe Connect 107 Prince Street, Orange at 6pm Enquiries: Ray 6362 5257 or Charlie 6361 1830

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS (BEREAVED PARENTS) meet every third Thursday of the month at the Orange City Council Community Service Centre, 286 Lords Place, from 7.00pm to 8.30pm (odd mths). Every third Sunday 1.30-3.30pm, Duntryleague (even mths) Enquiries: Donna 0419 357 431 and Tammy 0417 482 688.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

ORANGE GROW GROUP (Mental Wellbeing Programs) meets every Friday from 1pm-3pm at the Orange City Council Community Service Centre, 286 Lords Pl, Orange. Enquiries: 1800 558 268.

LIFELINE provides all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to online, phone and face-to-face crisis support and suicide prevention services. Enquiries: 13 11 14 Email: info@lifelinecentralwest.org.au.

HEADSPACE ORANGE is a youth-friendly FREE service for anyone aged between 12 and 25 years who are having a tough time. Enquiries 02 6369 9300, or email hs.orange@marathonhealth.com.au

ORANGE REGIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION Networks, Berevement Group. Have you lost a son / daughter to suicide?. Do you need support or someone to talk to?

Enquiries: 02 6369 2030.

Register: Jane.Passer@health.nsw.gov.au

LIKEMIND ORANGE, STRIDE MENTAL HEALTH, 122-124 Kite Street. LikeMind is an innovative mental health service providing a ‘one-stop’ hub o ering support for all adults with mental health concerns, under one roof. No referral required.

Enquiries: 02 6311 1700.

LIKEMIND ORANGE hosts a free Mindfulness group with an experienced facilitator on Mondays during school terms. 9:30am –10:45am. Enquiries: 02 6311 1700 .

OPEN ARMS & ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITAL, RICHMOND holds a free workplace trauma PTSD support group at Legacy House, 58 McNamara St, Orange on the second Wednesday of the month from 10am – 1pm. Also a group for family members available. Enquiries: 0439 048 344 or sean.fitzgerald@dva.gov.au

Blue Ribbon Sophistication in the Heart of Orange

This fabulous unit is situated in one of Orange’s best locations on leafy Warrendine Street, just across the road from the lovely walking paths in Moulder Park. The CBD is just a short stroll away and the unit is at the back of the complex, meaning it is private and whisper quiet.

The property has undergone a full renovation to the highest specs, with new flooring, lighting, paint and a fabulous kitchen and bathroom. The three bedrooms are all a great size and have built-in robes & large windows facing out to the lovely backyard. The living area features plantation shutters and has a split system to ensure year-round comfort and takes full advantage of the northerly aspect. Glass doors lead out to the enclosed deck, perfect for an afternoon beverage & barbecue.

The backyard is bathed in sun and is the perfect size for easy maintenance but also for those who like to potter in the garden, with raised garden beds and a good-sized shed.

The single car garage has internal access and features an additional room which is perfect for a workshop, hobby room or could be converted into a fourth bedroom.

Properties of this calibre and in such a fabulous location do not come up often, so make sure to call to book an inspection today, as this one won’t last long!

Take Control of Your Money in 2023

A survey of Australians by Finder last month found that more than 4 in 5 (83%) people say they have set financial goals for 2023.

etting goals is really important! Sadly, the reality for most people is that after setting financial goals, they then don’t put a plan in place to achieve them. This likely leads to them failing to achieve the set goals, which leads to discouragement. Over time, the failure to put in place a financial plan early on, costs people the financial freedom they could have achieved.

In many ways, I see the job of a financial adviser as being to awaken people to the costs of inaction. The longer people take to start implementing a solid financial plan, the harder and harder it gets to play catch up. I’ve been lucky enough to work with thousands of people over almost two decades of being a financial adviser. In that time, I’ve noticed there are certain things that have usually held people back when it comes to taking control of their money:

Most people simply don’t know how to get started when it comes to things financial. There is just too much information and there are too many options.

A lot of people prefer to just hope things will work out over time. Hope is not a plan!

Many of us get stuck in the struggles of our day-to-day existence, trying to juggle work, family and social lives. It’s easy to delay putting in place strategies for long-term financial success.

People often focus on saving rather than investing. While saving is the important first step, the biggest investment mistake is not investing.

Often, people fear investing. Many of us are scared of losing money, meaning that fear can override what are sensible investment strategies and lead us to not take action (Hint: there’s crazy, silly investing that has a high likelihood of

failure, and then there’s sensible investing… the get rich slowly plan).

While some people are paralysed with fear of making a mistake, others are overconfident, believing they know what they’re doing. Sometimes they are working on incomplete information (or completely wrong information) that is taking them in the wrong direction.

These are some of the things that I’ve found have prevented people from being more financially successful.

A financial adviser can guide you through these hurdles and mental barriers and help you come up with a plan that suits you. At the end of the day, it’s your money and it’s your life, so it is up to you how you choose to handle your finances. If you feel you’ve been treading water when it comes to money, perhaps feel you haven’t achieved as much as you should have, or

are unsure of whether or not you are on the right track, then investing in financial advice is something that can pay handsome dividends.

One of the common new year’s resolutions people have is to get better with money. If you want to take control of your money in 2023, then book yourself in for a free initial meeting and find out how a financial plan can make a world of difference to your financial future.

My job is providing truly independent financial advice to help my clients make informed financial decisions and put them on the path to financial freedom. If that’s the path you’d like to be on, let’s have a chat and see what we can do to improve your financial fitness.

Cheers, Daniel

PARADISE

surrounded

overlooking neighbouring

with

Canobolas,

Helping young people get a start is just good business

As any small business owner in Orange knows, getting the right sta is vitally important and only getting more and more challenging in the current environment.

But did you know Australia’s largest notfor-profit specialist employment services provider is right here on our very own doorstep?

OCTEC has been delivering training and employment services to young people in Orange for the past 47 years. Now with more than 270 service locations across eastern Australia and five major programs, OCTEC still hasn’t lost sight of its hometown roots, working with local employers like Smoking Brothers’ Ben and David Allcock to get young people a start

in the workforce.

Twin brothers and qualified chefs, Ben and David Allcock, run the popular Lords Place restaurant and takeaway, Elwood’s Eatery, along with Ben’s wife, Ellie.

Over the years they have employed numerous young people through OCTEC’s Workforce Australia Transition to Work program – an employment program for 15 to 24-year-olds who are looking for employment, including apprenticeships and traineeships, or to connect with ongoing training and education.

It’s been a winning partnership and one that is set to continue well into the future.

“Most of the time (Workforce Australia Transition to Work Participants) have a better attitude and are ready to work,” said Ben Allcock, who was particularly

appreciative of the support OCTEC provides for training.

“They mean that we don’t need people to always hit the ground running on day one. There really is that flexibility that we can get the guys in for a good month or two and really their job is to just learn our business,” he said.

“Sta ng has become extremely hard now. It’s not just hospitality, it’s a broad factor. The more help that’s out there to help you find great sta like Michael, the better,” Ben continued, referring to employee and former Transition to Workforce participant, Michael Bloomfield.

National Program Manager, Charissa Mossop, said that OCTEC’s Transition to Work team (based in the Lands O ce Building on Kite Street) has really valued

“Ben is brilliant to work with as an employer. He appreciates what Transition to Work o ers, as well as how it can work for him and potential sta . In return, we benefit from working with an employer who knows what they want and sees the potential in our participants,” Ms Mossop said.

“We appreciate forging long-term relationships with local businesses. We are able to adapt to meet business needs as they change, with the COVID pandemic having a considerable impact on how business is done.”

She said anyone interested in learning more about the Workforce Australia

Transition to Work program can contact the team on 6363 1975.

Our philosophy is simple: To look after your property as if it were our own

the partnership with Smoking Brothers.

Smoking Brothers co-owner, Ben Allcock, with employee and former Transition to Workforce participant, Michael Bloomfield, and OCTEC National Program Manager Charissa Mossop.

27 Plumb Street, Blayeny - Your Private Oasis Awaits

A stunning property on a 1888.3sqm freehold in a spectacular location. This home has so much appeal and offers something for the whole family. Lavish manicured gardens and a wrap-around verandah are fine features

• Large covered alfresco area provides an amazing space to entertain all year round

• 10x2m inground swimming pool

• An enormous 12x8m lock-up garage with enough room for 4 cars or to store your caravan and or boat, loads of storage space

Agents

James Taylor 0457 792800 Lucy Nell 0400 726 897

19a Hamer Street, Orange

Only minutes to town, we offer the public a rare opportunity to purchase not one but two properties on the same lot, 19a Hamer Street, Orange. This unique investment opportunity features mirror imaging 2 x two bedroom townhouses with no Strata fees!

• The potential return of $3,500 per month if Air BnB’d

Auction Friday 17th February, 10.30am

Open Thursday 19th January, 5.30pm - 6pm

James Taylor 0457 792 800

10 Summer Street, Orange

Opportunity awaits at this perfect CBD location to secure a strong investment. 3 x two-bedroom units each with plenty to offer for either a short-term stay, rental or Air BnB. 1 x 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit and 2 x 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom units

• The potential return of $6,000 per month if Air BnB’d

Auction Friday 17th February, 10.30am

Open Thursday 19th January, 5pm - 5.30pm

James Taylor 0457 792 800

OPEN

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Canobolas.

Other of the many features include a double garage with internal access, central heating and a cosy gas log fire in the family room.

Set on an elevated 926.6 m2 block in a quiet cul-de-sac just a few minutes stroll to the Orange Botanic Gardens.

Make your move to a much more comfortable lifestyle today.

Great start for the first home buyer at Cudal

with its convenience store, coffee shop, playgrounds, bowling club and great community feel. It is located 38km from the large city of Orange via The Escort Way and approximately 15 kms (a less than 14 minute drive) to Manildra Mill with its large employment opportunities. There is a school bus to Orange.

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This great property has just been FULLY renovated and is located in one of the most tightly held locations in Orange which is Westlea. Only an inspection will confirm the high quality renovation of this property.

• Four bedrooms, master with en-suite and all bedrooms have built in robes

• Both bathrooms have beautiful floor to ceiling tiles and stone bench tops

• Main bathroom has a bath and shower, separate toilet, also toilet in the laundry

• Great new modern kitchen with stone bench tops and soft close cabinetry

• Great storage in the hallway, laundry and living area, ducted heating and cooling

• New floor coverings, new paint, new lights, new blinds, new everything!

• Attached drive through double garage, secure back yard, Orange High zoned

OPEN INSPECTIONS

9.30-10.00 15 Anson Street 4 1 2 $660,000-$680,000 9.30-10.00 16 Wirruna Avenue 5 3 2 Contact Agent 10.15-10.45 6 Bowen place 3 1 1 $589,000 10.15-10.45 6 Sophie Drive 4 2 2 $839,000 -$869,000 10.30-11.00 22 Spring Street 3 1 0 $699,000 11.00-11.30 18 Prince Street 3 1 2 $965,000-$1,050,000 11.00-11.30 6 Parnoo Place 4 2 2 $950,000-$980,000 11.15-11.45 33 North Street 2 1 1 $409,000 11.45-12.15 1 Rawle Avenue 3 1 1 $589,000

12.30-1.00 20 Maple Avenue 4 3 2 $829,000 1.15-1.45 1/24 Emmaville Street 2 1 1 $529,000 2.30-3.00 10 Forbes Street, Cargo 3 1 3 $690,000

10.00-10.30 161 Spring Street 3 1 2 $439,000.00 10.00-10.30 148C Sampson Street 3 1 1 $599,000-$629,000 10.15-10.45 7/36 Autumn Street 2 1 2 $500,000-$539,000 10.45-11.15 47 Sundew Circuit 4 2 2 CONTACT AGENT 10.45-11.15 89 Edward Street 3 1 0 AUCTION 11.00-11.30 90 William Maker Drive 5 2 2 $935,000-$965,000 11.30-12.00 46 Tynan Street 3 1 3 $529,000 11.45-12.15 15 Benelong Place 3 1 1 $589,000 12.30-1.00 129 Gardiner Road 3 2 1 $670,000

for more details on these great properties scan the qr code

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Quick Crossword Quiz

ACROSS

1 With regards to the university, what did RMIT used to stand for?

2 President Joe Biden was born in which US state?

3 See What You Made Me Do is a 2020 non-fiction book written by which Australian journalist?

4 What type of fruit was the heaviest recorded fruit, at more than 1000 kilograms?

5 The two Australian pigeon species that have an erect crest are the crested pigeon and what other species?

6 Which podcast won Podcast of the Year at the 2020 Australian Podcast Awards?

7 Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer (pictured) star in which US TV comedy?

8 Do emperor penguins live in the Arctic or Antarctica?

9 The Richter scale was developed by which US seismologist?

10 Which city has the highest population density in the world?

1 Well pleased (9) 6 Japanese mountain (4) 10 Disrespect (coll.) (3) 11 Formal statement about another’s character (11) 12 Former US first lady, –Obama (8) 13 Counterreply (6) 14 Bird’s home (4) 15 Showing symptoms of a high temperature (7) 20 Wariness (7) 21 Festivity (4) 25 Positive (6) 26 Being admitted to a church (8) 28 Prioritising material possessions (11) 29 Prefix meaning new (3) 30 Divine beings (4) 31 People living together in communities (9)

No. 067

DOWN 1 Lees (8) 2 Case that sets a precedent (4,4) 3 Person who looks after children (6) 4 Bankrupt (9) 5 Speaker’s platform (4) 7 Accord (6) 8 Water-surrounded land (6) 9 Supervisors (7) 16 Pathological self-admirer (9) 17 Morbidly repellent (7) 18 Capital of Finland (8) 19 Useless person or thing (4,4) 22 A spice (6) 23 Subsided (6) 24 Filibuster (6) 27 God of war (4)

tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw below to create four six-letter words going across and down. Wordfind

No. 067 Edgeword Place each of

TS

GE

NK ER

reading down.

As

“Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”

Do you know all the lines? Come and relive this cinema cult classic at Orange City Library this afternoon (Thursday, January 19) at 5pm.

Based on the novel by William Goldman, The Princess Bride is a homage to the fairytale genre. It’s a perfect blend of humour, wit, action, fantasy, and romance and a story within a story.

Released in 1987, fans have been quoting it, practising their fencing, and building up a

tolerance to iocane powder ever since.

Orange City Library invites you to come enjoy all the magic of The Princess Bride on the big screen at the back of the library.

Feel free to dress up, and bring a picnic blanket or beanbag — although chairs will be provided.

Want popcorn and ice cream too? As you wish! There will also be prizes for the best costumes.

This movie is rated PG. Bookings are essential as spaces are limited.

6393 8132.

If your New Year’s resolution is to try a new sport and meet new people, then why not give dragonboating a go!

Colour City Dragons are holding a “Come and Try Dragonboating” day at Lake Canobolas, 9.30am Saturday, January 21.

It is your chance to experience what it is like to get outdoors and into a dragonboat, paddling to the beat of a drum, Colour City Dragons President John Moss said.

It’s a lot of fun, he said, and local club members have represented the club at regional, state and national levels.

“Dragonboating is a fast and furious paddle-driven water sport that is all about fun, fitness, teamwork and family,” John said.

“We regularly attend regattas with events coming up in Canberra, Sydney, Parkes and Forbes. It is a competitive sport and we’ve had club members represent the Western Region, NSW and Australia.

John said the club have all the equipment you will need, such as paddles and life vests, but please wear covered footwear and clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.

“Come and enjoy a paddle on the lake,” he urged, adding that they will be hosting other opportunities to come and have a go regularly at the end of each month.

“See you on Saturday morning. Just look for the orange club shirts,” John concluded.

For more information about the Come and Try Dragonboating sessions, please contact Colour City Dragons President John Moss on 0417 894 411.

position vacant

CAREER OPPORTUNITY – ANDREW GEE MP OFFICE MANAGER

Your chance to play a vital role in the future of Calare

Key duties and responsibilities:

• Oversee day to day management of the electorate office.

• Manage all office budgets.

• Oversee administrative arrangements for staff, including rosters, leave, training, travel and other claims.

• Work alongside the Federal Member to manage his diary and appointments, and act as the first point of contact for constituent and stakeholder meetings.

• Make and oversee all travel arrangements for the Federal Member.

• First point of contact for Ministerial and Parliamentary Services, IT, security and other service providers.

• Induction of new team members.

• Plan and assist with the running of electorate office events.

• Prepare for and participate in regular team meetings and other shared office duties.

• Further tasks complementing the requirements of the office.

Selection criteria:

• Experience as an Office Manager and/or Executive Assistant, including the ability to manage office administration and finances.

• Excellent communication and organisational skills, with close attention to detail and emphasis on good time management.

• Strong office IT literacy – including Microsoft Office and Adobe.

• Familiarity with PEMS, ParlICT and other Parliamentary platforms preferred, but not required.

• Capacity to work both independently and cooperatively as part of a team.

• Ability to manage an extensive range of stakeholders, including external providers.

• An enthusiastic, positive, flexible, and peopleorientated approach to work.

• Well-developed critical thinking skills.

Job details:

This position is offered on a full-time basis under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 and conditions are outlined in the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement 2020-23.

A commencing salary will be paid commensurate with experience and an optional allowance will be payable in recognition of, and as compensation for, overtime.

A probationary period of three months will apply.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Applications are invited for the full-time position of Office Manager (EOB) in the Orange office of the Hon. Andrew Gee MP, Independent Federal Member for Calare.

TIME WARP

with ORANGE AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The allure of steam engines

Twelve model train enthusiasts were in sooty paradise one day back in October 1957 when they visited Orange Railway Station. They got up close to the C-36 Class steam engine 3606 while district engineer J H Irwin (in hat) explained its workings. Nine of the visitors were from Sydney and three from Orange.

Photo courtesy CWD Negative Collection, Orange and District Historical Society.

The society holds a working day at Heritage Cottage (148 March Street) each Wednesday from 1 February from 10.30am to 4pm (with a lunch break from 1 –1.30pm). Members are available to answer inquiries at this time.

Awe and Wonder

With Stef Overhall

There are so many things on this blue planet that make me marvel. The sheer height of the Andes that border my home in Chile, or our sweet new kittens. Things big and small give me cause to stop and wonder. In moments like these, a sense of amazement breaks through the mundane routines of everyday life. As we take in the beauty, vastness, detail or even terrible power of the world around us, we are prone to feeling small and insignificant. And yet the Bible reminds us that we are the pinnacle of God’s creation, made to reflect Him in the world. Despite our smallness, we are deeply loved and valued by our Creator. The wonder of creation can also drive us to a sense of deep thankfulness. We feel grateful for this moment, this fragile life on earth. It seems sad to feel grateful to no one in particular. It’s one of my great joys as a Christian to express my gratitude to the Creator and Sustainer of all things. I wrote this article after reading Psalm 8. Please take a moment to read it for yourself!

THUMBS

THUMBS UP On December 14, I had an accident at the school crossing on Sale Street. Thank you to everyone who came to my aid – the sta members, parents and the nurse who checked my skull. And thank you for the lovely card making sure I was okay and wishing me a Merry Christmas.

DOUBLE THUMBS UP to Dr Alex Elder’s surgery for their follow-up phone calls. Very caring and e cient. Thank you.

THUMBS UP to the Special Orders Team at Orange Bunnings for their relentless e orts to find a piece of outdoor furniture and have it delivered in-store. Really appreciate your e orts.

THUMBS UP to all the sta at Chemist Warehouse on Monday, January 9. I went in to buy some supplies and was approached by numerous sta o ering to lend me a hand. Everyone I encountered was polite, professional, and friendly. Well done team!

THUMBS UP to all the lovely ladies at the Molong BP. It’s so nice to stop in, in the morning, have a chat before work and have my co ee order remembered every time.

THUMBS UP to Orange City Council for the festoon lights down Summer Street and Christmas fairy lights around many of the trees in the CBD. They look great. It was lovely ending our Christmas lights drive.

THUMBS UP to the person who found the unstamped Christmas card that I dropped on the way to the post o ce and took the time and e ort to drive to my home and put the card in my mailbox so I could then post it. Thank you!

HUGE THUMBS UP to the Orange Health Service Dental Clinic. Thank you so much for lowering this nurse’s nervousness in having my tooth pulled once again.

DOUBLE THUMBS UP to the Metropolitan Hotel for their support of live music every weekend, with triple thanks to Scarrs Entertainment.

THUMBS UP to Cath in Medical Oncology. What a delight of a nurse you are. So diligent, respectful and kind. Thank you for your care!

THUMBS UP to Simon, one of the wardsmen at the hospital. So helpful and nothing is a bother. You’re a real credit to the hospital!

HUGE THUMBS UP and thanks to the sta at Orange Hospital. Every sta member I encountered during my stay, from the emergency department through to the surgical ward were great, competent, kind and e cient. Especially Grace and Lachlan! Thanks.

THUMBS UP to the people at table three dining at Hog’s Breath Café on December 19, 2022. My husband and I were celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary. When we went to pay our bill these thoughtful and lovely people had paid for our meal on leaving the restaurant before us! This beautiful gesture made me cry and has made me aware that there are people out there who truly care about others.

THUMBS UP to community nurses Katie, Sinead, Chelsea, Kylie, Kerrie, Virginia, Bryce, Gary, Dani, Olivia, Sally, Mei, Becky, Sue and Carmen for their kind and caring nature while attending to my mother’s wounds recently. It is reassuring to have such caring people while in a vulnerable situation!

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The Thumbs represent thoughts and opinions of readers and do not necessarily reflect those of Orange City Life. Every care is taken not to publish thumbs that are considered derogatory or defamatory in nature . Please note that thumbs may be edited for clarity, space or legal reasons.