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Orange City Life is grateful to the following sponsors for their ongoing support over many years. These sponsorships, among other things, have enabled us to bring our readers a lot more enjoyment to our publications than would otherwise be possible. In return, we ask you to please support them as often as you’re able.

Until next week! SCAN ME FOR A DIGITAL READ

I’m back in relatively good health this week after a little bout of Covid and back in the OCL office. Already I am missing the easy access to my coffee machine and the relaxed dress code in my home office, but here we are with another issue for you to enjoy.

Having missed out on a planned school holiday trip to family in Dubbo, I took the kids for a quick trip on the weekend, which of course always involves a visit to Western Plains Zoo. With family quite close to the zoo, we tend to visit quite a bit and the kids love it. But so often when I mention it to people they tell me they haven’t been in years. Well, here is a recommendation to make the trip! There’s been quite a lot of work done at the zoo over the past few years and the platypus rescue centre is a great new exhibit.

We know you all love our competitions out there! We are still being inundated with entries for our new “Let’s Feast” promotion that could land you $75 to spend at one of our supporting venues. We are always looking at ways to shake things up and so some of you may have noticed that our “I Love IGA” and “Face in the Crowd” are missing. All I can say is “watch this space” as we will have something new for you to enjoy soon!

Spoil Mum this Mother’s Day at Hotel Canobolas, featured in this week’s “Let’s Feast”...

TRSPCA rescues treated to home-baked doggie treats

here was not a dry nose in the house at the Orange RSPCA on Tuesday morning, as dogs in need of their forever home were given a little bit of love in the form of home-baked doggie treats.

The delicious, and healthy, dog treats were lovingly handmade and beautifully packaged by animal-loving members of the BaptistCare Social Club here in Orange.

At the beginning of the year, the social club members decided they wanted to be

able to help the community with the craft they make at their social club events. So they declared one Tuesday a month a “community craft donating day.”

“A lot of joy, laughter and thought goes into the crafts that the group creates,” said Tanya Caputo, care worker with BaptistCare Orange.

“The clients wanted to share that with people and animals who may need it and with so much love for their own furry friends, we didn’t need a vote to decide that our very first craft donation would be the wonderful RSPCA in Orange.”

With thoughts of their own dogs in mind, the social club wanted to make

sure any treat they made was delicious and good for the dogs as they waited for their forever home.

“We began to research recipes in February and with everyone coming together over a cup of tea in March, the special ingredients were chosen and the baking began,” explained Tanya.

Made from banana, organic peanut butter, and wholemeal flour the doggie treats were certainly a hit with sevenmonth-old Boxer-cross “Cadbury” who came out to accept them from social club members Dorothy Ridley, Marie Macindoe, Jill Barrett and Anne Buckley,

“It’s been absolutely amazing and so

very appreciated,” Tiarna Chappel, animal attendant at the RSPCA Orange, said.

“The dogs love and adore their treats and it’s such great enrichment for them and good to change it up and expose them to new and different things,” she said.

“Especially for some of the dogs in care that have never had the opportunity to have these kinds of treats.

BaptistCare’s Social Club is held five days a week, Monday to Friday, for over-65s who are still living at home to come together for a range of activities to stimulate physical movement, social contact and cognitive engagement.

RSPCA Orange animal attendant Tiarna Chappel and “Cadbury” meet with BaptistCare Social Club Members and care workers: Dorothy Ridley, Alexis Holland, Josh Benson, Marie Macindoe, Jill Barrett and Anne Buckley.

Major youth basketball tournament bound for Orange

Basketball NSW and Orange City Council have announced plans for Orange to host the U16s and U18 Spalding Waratah State Cup this August and again in 2026.

The State Cup showcases the state’s top-tier junior basketball talent, with the event drawing the best boys’ and girls’ regional teams from across NSW.

Under the agreement with Basketball NSW, Orange will host the tournament twice, on August 17-18 this year and again in 2026.

Basketball NSW, CEO, Maria Nordstrom thanked Orange City Council for their dedication to fostering grassroots sports in the region.

“We are thrilled to partner with Orange City Council for the U16s and U18 Spalding Waratah State Cup,” Ms Nordstrom said.

“This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to fostering youth development, promoting healthy lifestyles, and celebrating the love of basketball within the community.

“Through our collective efforts, we aim to maintain an environment that fosters inclusivity and warmth, honouring the ideals of sportsmanship, teamwork, and fair competition. Basketball is a sport for all,

and we take immense pride in the talent present in our junior leagues throughout the state.”

Orange City Council’s Sport and Recreation Committee chair, Cr Tammy Greenhalgh welcomed the State Cup announcement. The event, scheduled to be held at the Sir Neville Howse Indoor Stadium at Anzac Park on August 17-18, could bring up to 1000 people to Orange for the weekend.

“The Council continues to look for opportunities to host major sporting tournaments in Orange and I’m delighted to hear the State Cup will be played in Orange both this year and again in 2026,” Cr Greenhalgh said.

“Basketball is hugely popular in Orange and our rep teams have had great success in recent years. This event will give our local youngsters the chance to see the best of regional teams up-close.”

“Orange has a great track record when it comes to hospitality and we’re looking forward to putting out the welcome mat for teams and their families.”

Basketball NSW expects 32 teams to participate during the weekend in Orange, with top teams coming together from both metro and country leagues to compete.

Would you fly from Orange to Newcastle?

Orange City Council is investigating an opportunity to establish a new direct flight route between Orange and Newcastle and asking residents to indicate how likely they would be to use the new service.

Orange City Council’s Airport Community Committee Chair, Councillor Jack Evans says there’s interest already.

“From conversations I’ve had with a number of local business owners and the support letters Council has received, it’s clear that people would utilise this service if it was available to them,” Cr Evans said.

“Quite a lot of people are already frequently travelling between Orange and Newcastle for a range of reasons, so it makes sense for the two cities to be connected by air.”

Council has launched an online survey and is asking resident to share their thoughts on a new service. It asks people to indicate the likelihood of using the service, the reason to travel and the preferred time and day of travel.

Once the Council gauges thoughts from the wider community, they will begin conversations with regional airline carriers to see if there is an opportunity to add an additional flight route from Orange.

“Council, along with the New South Wales and Federal governments has invested significantly in the airport over the last decade, now making it one of the best regional airports in NSW,” Cr Evans said.

“We already know there are some strong connections between Orange and Newcastle in education and industry. We also know there are some similarities across sectors such as mining and winemaking.”

The survey is open until Tuesday, June 4. Visit: yoursay.orange. nsw.gov.au/orange-to-newcastle-flight-link

Titles at Towac: Toby Wright defending Australian title in front of a home crowd

Local fighter Toby Wright and Emmanuel Rodriguez will each be contesting titles this Friday night as boxing returns to Towac Park.

Hosted by Mobsport Boxing Gym under 99 Promotion, Friday night’s 15-bout fight card at Towac will see Mobsport’s Toby Wright defend his Australian Global 78kg Title against Mercy Tameifuna of UTC St Marys.

The night will also see Mobsport’s Emmanuel Rodriguez take on Griffith City Boxing’s Tai Mita for the vacant Western District’s 81kg title.

“Toby won the title last year at Nyngan, he defeated a really good boy named, Clayton Chatfield.. it was a good hard fight,” said Mobsport founder and head coach Jake Kenney who’s predicting another great match on Friday night.

“Toby’s had 11 fights with nine wins and two losses,

seven stoppages and those two losses were split decision losses, they could have gone either way,” he said.

For Toby, this will be his final fight in the amateur ranks. He achieved his dream of an Australian title last year, but has long wanted to step out onto the canvas in his hometown.

“So Tobes was a sparing partner for Sam Ah-See and he said he can remember going to the Sam fight nights and that the crowd’s going off,” Jake said.

“Toby said to me, before I have my last amateur I have it at home, Coach! So I just went and saw a few guys and we’ve got this together.”

The two title fights will be four two-minute rounds, with the rest of the card fighting three two-minute rounds, Jake said.

Mobsport Gym has seven fighters competing on Friday on a card featuring mostly locals.

ORANGE PRODUCE MARKETS

“ Your opportunity to meet & buy direct from local growers and producers and go home with the freshest produce!”

Foodies of Orange enjoy a delicious day out at the Orange Producers Markets every Saturday.

The weekly markets, held in the courtyard next to Bills Beans is an opportunity for local growers and producers to bring their freshest produce every week. COME and JOIN US

Farmer Fruit and Veg New seasons apples & pears plus pumpkins & rhubarb

“Emmanuel Rodriguez, he’s been with me for the last three-and-a-half years. This will be Emman’s, first first crack at Western District’s title. He’s quite excited and it should be a really good fight,” Jake said.

“There’s a master’s boxer, Leslie Venner, he goes under the pseudonym ‘Bam Bam’ and he’s well known locally around Orange and he’ll be fighting there.

“And then we’ve got young Oscar Cheney, he’s a really good young kid trying to break through into the junior ranks and other young guys that have just come through like Darnel Thompson.

“Dave Littlefield, from Littlefield’s Boxing, is supporting us as well, United Boxing have got two nominations in… It will be a great night and there are some really high-level quality fighters in there.”

Titles at Towac takes place on Friday, May 10 from 6.30pm. General admission tickets are $50 and available from www.123tix.com.au

Melissa Young PRIMAL ALTERNATIVES by Melissa Y. Gluten free products, grain free products, eg bread, premixes

Robin Marshall JUST HOMEGROWN; Relish, Chutney, Sauces, Jams

Doug Dagg Farmer Doug’s Gourmet Potatoes

Molly’s Grove Olive Oil

Edellen flowers from CARGO alison “the strawberry lady”

The Hairy

Fourjay Farm Hazelnut products

“Bam Bam” Venner

Emmanuel Rodriguez

Toby Wright

Celebrating family day care in Orange

It’s National Family Day Care Week when we recognise the thousands of amazing educators around Australia and the incredibly important role they play for so many families.

Running from May 6--12, National Family Day Care Week is now in its 12th year in 2024. Here in Orange, local family day care provider, Orange Family Day Care, celebrated with a number of activities, treating children to a day of Sensory Play at the Mudhut Playground, Clifton Grove on Monday and then a visit to the Heifer Station petting zoo on Tuesday.

“It is really just acknowledging and celebrating that valuable contribution, that vital place in the early childhood

education and care landscape, that family day care plays and raising the profile, because some people may not actually know what it is,” Orange Family Day Care coordinator Megan Dawson said.

Family day care is where qualified educators provide education and care to up to four children under school age and three school-aged children in their own homes, Megan explained.

Child care is not a “one size fits all” situation and family daycare is an important alternative to centre-based services, she said.

“It is a small environment so it is really personalised and we form great partnerships with the families because we really get to know them,” Megan said.

“It is a bit smaller, so we can cater for the needs of children who might not be ready to go into a long day care setting… It can be a great thing for children who are new to childcare as it is not so overwhelming if it’s the first time they have been away from the family home. It is still a familiar environment because it is in a home.

“We can also cater for their needs and work in partnership with parents to maintain their home routine.”

Orange Family Day Care currently has 12 educators providing care across the week but they are looking for more to join their team.

“We do have a waiting list of children who are looking for family day care and having that option of a different type of childcare

service,” Megan said.

Educators need a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care qualification at a minimum to become a family day care educator and to open a business in their own home, Megan said.

“But it can be really good for people wanting to stay home with their own children, people who have a qualification and who may want to look after children in their own home and their own children at the same time,” she said.

If you would like to know more about becoming a family day care educator, contact Orange Family Day Care on 63938670 or email

familydaycare@orange.nsw.gov.au

Friday 10 May is Do It For Dolly Day, a national day dedicated to bringing the community together by spreading kindness, raising awareness and vital funds, and going blue to end bullying.

Dolly Everett was only 14 years old when she tragically took her life in January 2018, following relentless and sustained bullying and cyberbullying. Sadly, six years later the problem is not going away.

A recent report from the eSafety Commissioner has shed light on a troubling trend: cyberbullying is on the rise. According to the report, there has been a staggering 40 per cent increase in cyberbullying reports, with eSafety receiving 2,383 reports in 2023 compared to 1,700 in 2022.

What is particularly worrying is that two-thirds (67 per cent) of these reports were concerning children aged 12-15 years old – just like Dolly - highlighting the vulnerability of young people to online harassment and abuse.

Determined that no other family would suffer from the same devastation, Dolly’s

been incredibly passionate about,” said Kate Everett.

“We don’t want other families to ever have to go through the heartache we have experienced. We are proud that Beacon provides easily accessible support and information to families, especially in our rural, regional, and remote communities, that we wish we had.”

Go Blue To End Bullying on Do It For

Dolly Day this Friday, May 10

parents Tick and Kate Everett established the anti-bullying organisation Dolly’s Dream. They have committed to changing the culture of bullying by addressing the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression, and youth suicide, through awareness, education and direct support to young people and families.

Dolly’s Dream supports Australian families by providing crucial services such as their free 24-hour support line, antibullying and online safety workshops in

schools, mental health first aid training in communities and more recently (in partnership with Telethon Kids Institute) the free Beacon cyber safety app - a trustworthy resource for parents and carers to help them confidently navigate their family’s technology use and reduce associated harms.

“Since starting Dolly’s Dream, having an app in our program offering to further support parents and carers in navigating the online world is something we have

Each year in May, communities come together to remember Dolly by going blue (Dolly’s favourite colour), donating and participating in fundraising activities to help support the important anti-bullying work of Dolly’s Dream, sharing the message to be kind and speak even if your voice shakes.

Join them on May 10 for Do It For Dolly Day and “Go Blue to End Bullying.”

To donate or find out more, visit www.doitfordollyday.org.au

www.orange.nsw.gov.au

Find us on social media @ Orange City Council

YOUR LOCAL COUNCIL AT WORK

ORANGE ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND UPGRADE TO REJUVENATE POPULAR FACILITY

A $2.4 million upgrade to the Orange Adventure Playground is set to begin in the next couple of weeks.

Daracon Landscaping will carry out the project, which includes dismantling the old playground and constructing a new playground and splash park.

Orange Sport and Recreation Community Committee Chair Tammy Greenhalgh is looking forward to seeing work begin on upgrading the popular facility.

“The Adventure Playground has provided decades of enjoyment, but after 22 years of use and exposure to

the elements the timber structure is deteriorating and community demand for an upgraded facility has increased,” Cr Greenhalgh said.

“I can’t wait to see local families enjoying a new and improved playground.”

Due to the deteriorating condition of the existing playground the first stage of the project focuses on upgrading the main play areas and central meeting area, as well as the installation of a splash park.

Funding for stage one has come from three NSW Government grants and Orange City Council:

Orange in the running for state’s top tourism town

award

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Canobolas, the Orange region provides an unforgettable experience for visitors.

From the spectacular scenery and natural environment, abundant local produce and delicious food and wine to its rich history, booming cultural scene and unique boutique stores, the Colour City is one of the state’s most popular destinations.

Orange has been named a finalist in the 2024 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards for communities with a population of more than 5000 residents.

Run by Business NSW, the awards showcase the value of tourism to towns and communities across NSW and celebrate the diversity and outstanding regional destinations of our state.

Members of the community are encouraged to head online to show their support and vote for Orange to take out the award. Every vote counts!

Head to the Orange City Council website or visit https://www.businessnsw. com/events/2024-nsw-top-tourism-town-awards to cast your vote.

Voting closes at 5pm on Monday 13 May.

$1.256 million - NSW Government’s Resources for Regions Program

• $400,000 - NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund (splash park)

• $485,280 – NSW Government’s Places to Play Grant

• $ 292,506 - Orange City Council

Most of the improvements will be delivered in the first stage of the project and further stages of the design will be delivered depending on future funding availability. Parts of the original playground that are suitable for reuse have been included in the new design,

including the Liberty Swing, wooden turrets and other timber features.

Fence pickets engraved with the names of residents who donated to the original playground will be available for collection once they have been removed. Council will advise the community on the process for this when the time comes. Any pickets not collected and in suitable condition will be reused in the new playground.

The first stage of the upgrade is estimated to be finished by the end of the year, weather permitting.

‘ ank you, Orange!’

ollowing a day of nearperfect autumn weather and a bumper crowd, the Orange Show Society is already beginning preparations for an even bigger two-day show in May 2025.

Peter Naylor, President of the Show Society thanked the people of Orange for their continued support for their local Show.

“It was really heartening to see the work of our volunteers and Stewards rewarded with such a bumper crowd having such a wonderful time,” Peter said.

The Show Society, he said, would like to thank Show Patrons Andrew Gee and Phil Donato for their continued support and attendance on Show Day as well as Orange Mayor Jason Hamling and the councillors who back the Show as an important local event.

“We aim to build on the success of the 2024 Show – encouraging more people to enter the competitions, more local producers to exhibit to involve as many people as possible in the activities on offer to ensure that the Orange Show continues to offer something for everyone in the community,” Peter said, adding

that it was heartening to note that the Stewards reported entries up with strong participation in all sections at this year’s show.

The Show Society has already turned its attention to the 2025 Show, Peter said, which is scheduled to be held as a twoday Show on 17–18 May 2025.

“It is a lot of work to set up for only one day and you know with all the sports on Saturday… we are hoping that we can have a two-day show so we don’t miss out on the people with sport,” Peter said.

“[This year] we had the horse section

going on Sunday so it was virtually up and going anyway, it was only that there wasn’t the public.

“But we’ll chase some more things to be put on and see if we can get some new things for Orange to have a look at at the show.”

But putting a show together is not possible without volunteers, he said, inviting anyone interested to contact the committee or attend one of their meetings, which are held on the first Monday of each month, 7pm at the Showground.

PRE-1931 VINTAGE CAR WEEKEND

Photos by HENRY DEROOY

Orange was treated to an incredible exhibition of motoring history last week with nearly 120 pre-1931 vehicles touring the Colour City. The car rally was hosted by the Central Tablelands Historic Car Club, with about 300 visitors coming from all over for the four-day event.

Marianne Gatt, Veronica, Annette and Pauline Sultan

Bob Boaden, Bob McNeil, Kerry Risstrom, Keith and Nancy Packham, Robert, Chris Gray, Bruce Heinrich and Dave Gray

Graeme and Sharin Gill from Casino with Jann and Andrew Gill from Newcastle

1929 Buick

1915 - Ford Model T

1929 Chevrolet LG Capitol Table Top

1928 Chrysler 72 Tourer

Paul, Frank, Michael and Peter Sultana with John Gatt

Maggie and John Saddington

Ursula and Paul White

Rod and Therese Neilson from Figtree, Wollongong

1929 Graham, 1929 Cadillac La Salle Coupé and 1926 Chevrolet Superior V Coupe

Kerry Sawyer from Sussex Inlet with Kerry Risstrom

You love timber! There’s a wide range of beautiful, quality timber in stock waiting for you. Four generations of timber knowledge and experience sets us apart from the rest! Large constructions to small projects, create it yourself or have our skilled joiners create it for you. You’ll be so happy you worked with us!

Visit our Drive through Retail Timber Warehouse, order some yummy timber furniture & architectural features made by our talented team in our Custom Timber Joinery, then peruse the fantastic solid timber furniture and artworks on display in our Timber Lifestyle Showroom. Have a ball – you deserve it! Visit us at site 21 in the pavillion for a chat and pick up a beautiful solid timber gift for MOTHER’S DAY!

z RAMIEN’S TIMBER CO.’s STAND 21, Ray Clarke Pavilionat the DUBBO SHOW z RAMIEN’S TIMBER CO.’s Showroom z DUBBO GOLF CLUBHOUSE at the TRIPLE M, DUBBO BUSINESS CHAMBER GOLF DAY, Friday the 10th of May. Ramien’s Timber Co are sponsoring holes 6 & 14 at the event and have a team of 4 playing on the day. YAY!

1-15 Cobborah Road

Site 21 at The Dubbo Show in the Ray Clarke Pavillion OR

Life experience helps Jeremy craft awardwinning story of Belief

ABY DALLAS REEVES

story idea that evolved through his working life and then put into words during his free time has won Jeremy Maddison the 2024 Cabonne Women Writers Group Open Writing Competition.

Jeremy’s piece titled Belief took out the competition, which was open to male and female writers 16 years or older, who had the choice of entering poetry (no more than 30 lines) or a short story (no more than 500 words). The theme for entrants this year was ‘The Two of Us’.

As many writers understand, it’s crafting and refining a piece to fit a word limit that can pose the greatest challenge.

Jeremy’s wife Belinda sent him the entry form.

The idea came straight away and the first version of his short story only took around 30 minutes to put together. But then followed an intense week-long process to edit the story.

“Belief follows the journey of someone who feels incomplete, that something is missing,” Jeremy said.

“And so, they’re searching for someone to fill that void, a partner… But then they’re faced with losing that person and going through the understandable grief that this can bring, only to find the partner opening up to them, and giving them a completely di erent perspective on what it means to be whole and complete.”

Jeremy said he leaves a little to the imagination in the exact ending because the key point is the message.

“It’s open-ended because you are facing that grief and the actual question was well: ‘What will I be without you?’” he said.

“What she is saying to him is that you were always enough. That is the main theme of it.

“The most certain thing in life is uncertainty. You can’t predict what’s going to happen. All you can do is live your life and live it as fully as you can, he continued.

“We can get caught-up holding onto things, but you can’t always hold onto things. And that can often leave us with questions about who we are and the meaning in life.”

Jeremy has been writing short stories since 2010 and has entered lots of competitions in his time.

He came third in the 82nd Annual Writer’s Digest Writing Competition for a play called A Life in Review. A major competition, that was a huge result for Jeremy.

His short story Bluebirds is due for publication in an American online literary and art magazine called Mulberry Literary on May 30.

Jeremy has also written a novel that is in the editing phase.

So, to win this award and the $300 first prize?

“It was lovely,” he said. “I was very excited that I won it. It was amazing.”

His work in mental health since the 1990s has helped shape his writing, Jeremy added.

“It’s a role in which you support people who are struggling, who have some doubts about their own self-worth… or some issues in their lives where things haven’t gone as well as they would have hoped,” he said.

“It’s about helping people recognise their potential, finding their feet and finding a sense of hope.”

You can read Jeremy’s award-winning story on page 41.

Phil DONATO MP

State Member for Orange

Molly Mattered

Heart Week 2024 BIRDS IN THE BUSH 2024

Your heart matters every day, not just during Heart Health Awareness Week. Prevention beats cure, so assess your lifestyle and medical history. If you're 45+, consider a Heart Health Check with your doctor. Earlier checks are advised for specific groups. Stay proactive with physical activity and know how to respond in emergencies like cardiac arrest. I've taken steps, including installing an AED and hosting training events. Let's prioritise heart health for a longer, healthier life.

Fantastic evening at Birds In The Bush last week, raising vital funds for our community's domestic violence support. Special guest, former Australian tennis champion Jelena Dokic, delivered an inspiring keynote. Kudos to the incredible committee behind Birds In The Bush for surpassing $150,000 in donations. A remarkable achievement! Huge congrats and thanks to the generous sponsors and attendees for their invaluable contributions toward this timely and important cause.

National Road Safety Week 2024

Annually, 1200+ die and 40,000+ are injured on Aussie roads. It's the top cause of death for kids under 15 and the second for 15 to 24-year-olds. Let's prevent these tragedies: Drive So Others Survive!

JoininawalkaroundLakeForbestohonourthelifeof MollyTicehurst.

Amorningforourcommunitytowraptheirarmsaroundeachotherin ashowofsupportandsaynotoviolenceagainstwomen.

Date:Sunday,May12|8.30amto10am

Walkcommencingat8.30amfrom LionsParkForbes. Pleasewearsomethingbright.

NSW Cabinet Visit

Live in Orange?

Join the NSW Premier and Cabinet Ministers for a Community Forum on May 17. It’s the first time since 2007 the cabinet has made the trip out west. Register at nsw.gov.au/communitycabinet or call 02 9228 5188. Limited spots available.

EVENT DETAILS: Orange Ex Services’ Club, 231-243 Anson Street, Orange, 11:45am–12:45pm. Free registration.

Mel, Nichole, Sally

Claire, Kylie, and Brooke

Will and Maggie

Sound squad group

Sophie, Jessica, Lisa, and Mel

Photos by CAREY BURNS

It was a night of glitz and glamour on Saturday, May 4, with the local Stars of Orange putting on performances to remember in front of a sold-out Orange Function Centre. The annual Cancer Council fundraiser sees business and community leaders spend weeks learning a dance to perform at the gala event. This year’s Stars of Orange smashed the fundraising target raising more than $300,000 to support the lifesaving work of the Cancer Council.

Jimmy and Anne Maree

Caoimhe Morris and Jack Churchill

Amy and Sandro

Stars of Orange judges

WHAT’S HAPPENING @

LEARN FROM INDUSTRY LEADERS AT CADIA –2025 APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM OPENS

Applications for the Newmont Cadia (Cadia) 2025 Apprenticeship Program are now open. The program enables apprentices to kick-start their mining career at Cadia, learning from industry leaders about worldclass mining techniques and methods, including the development of Australia’s largest block cave.

Cadia’s General Manager, Tom Lukeman, is encouraging tradespeople wanting to begin an exciting career in mining to apply.

“Cadia is the perfect training ground for those wanting to learn from industry leaders and embark on a diverse career in mining,” Mr. Lukeman said.

“Our Apprenticeship Program provides the skills and experience to develop high-quality tradespeople who are across the latest cutting-edge technologies and best practices in mining operations.”

Cadia’s Apprenticeship Program has been running for over a decade, with more than 137 apprentices successfully completing their trades at Cadia. In 2025, Cadia will offer apprenticeships in the following trades: Auto Electrical, Boilermaking, Electrical, Fitter Machinist, Heavy and Light Vehicle, Technology and Innovation.

Apprentice Auto Electrician, Max Hunter, said he has been fortunate to work with some of the most knowledgeable tradespeople in the industry.

“Every day I am learning something new, whether that is working on a 793 haul truck or a land cruiser, the wealth of knowledge and experience my team has shared with me is second to none,” said Mr. Hunter.

Apprentices at Cadia are given the opportunity to experience both underground and surface environments, working on a diverse range of machinery.

Apprentice Heavy Vehicle Mechanic, Annalise Brouwer, who is a finalist for the 2024 Western NSW Apprentice of the Year, said the program has helped build her confidence servicing and maintaining vehicles.

“As you get further along in your apprenticeship, you will gain a lot of independence and confidence to complete tasks autonomously,” Ms Brouwer said,

“I have learnt how to work in a team of people from all different ages and backgrounds who are always willing to share their tips and tricks of the trade.”

Both Junior (16-20) and Adult (>21) candidates are eligible to apply.

Applications are open and will close at 23:59 on Sunday, 26 May 2024. For more information, scan the QR code.

Any dispute whether it be as a result of court proceedings or as an effort to resolve potential court proceedings can be a cost effective way of dispute resolution.

The mediation process involves the disputing parties agreeing to engage in negotiations which are confidential. The process is supervised by a qualified mediator whose job it is to assist the parties in reaching a compromise in their respective positions.

Compromise is the important word. Both parties coming to a mediation must be prepared to move away from their best position towards the best alternative position. Best alternative position means a compromised solution which both parties can live with. In most cases, the best alternative position also avoids the parties being potentially involved in litigation or if litigation has already commenced, saving themselves the continuing legal costs.

It is not the mediator’s job to make judgements on the merits of a party’s position but to offer the parties alternatives which neither of them may have considered.

If at a mediation, the parties can reach agreement, they have done so as a result of their own efforts and ability to reach a compromise of their respective positions. They therefore have ownership of the result. Often when parties proceed with litigation to obtain a decision by a court it is often the case that neither of them are particularly happy with the result and it has cost them a lot of money to achieve that result.

Parties participating in a mediation must sign a confidentiality agreement which prevents them raising any issues or settlement offers or compromises offered by the other party in later legal proceedings or in any other way.

Should advice as to the mediation process be required, Blackwell Short can assist with such advice from our qualified mediator, John Carpenter. Please call 6393 9200 or email jcc@blackwellshort.com.au.

This article does not constitute legal advice and provides general information only.

John Carpenter

Alaina Bishop - Auto Electrician

Orange.

The event raises awareness and much-needed funds for local domestic violence services.

The guest speaker was tennis champion Jelena Dokic, who spoke passionately about her time on the court, and as a domestic violence survivor. Thank you to founder Vanessa Vazquez and her team who are dedicated to supporting those in need.

Funds raised will go towards The Orchard in Orange, a dance scholarship for the daughters of Kristy Armstrong, and a Country Education Foundation of Australia (CEF) donation to Cowra and Grenfell Foundations to support a Central Western family affected by domestic and family violence.

If you would like to donate, please visit: www.housingplus.com.au/donate

To learn more about Birds in the Bush, head to: www.birdsinthebush.com.au.

Australia has the highest rates of melanoma in the world. Detecting it early can be the key to survival.

LAUNCH OF SKIN CANCER SCANNER

On Friday I attended the official launch of a brand new 3D skin cancer imaging scanner in Orange at Pinnacle Dermatology.

It’s cutting-edge technology with 92 cameras that build a 3D image or avatar of the body. Melanoma researcher Professor Pablo Fernandez-Penas officially opened the site.

It’s part of the world’s largest melanoma imaging trial. The aim is to build a database that AI can transform into the world’s best early detection tool.

This will be a gamechanger in melanoma diagnosis.

MY MELANOMA STORY

Believe me, I know how important early and accurate detection can be.

A number of years ago I went to a skin cancer doctor and told him I had a mole that looked like melanoma. He told me it wasn’t melanoma but that if I really wanted it taken off, he would do so. I told him I really wanted it removed that day and it turned out to be melanoma.

Seven years later, in 2010, it was only by chance that I noticed a lump on my beltline and got it checked out. That cancer had got into my lymph nodes and I was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma.

After the operation to remove the lymph nodes, I was given a 50/50 chance of survival. I went on an immunotherapy trial for four years after that.

EARLY DETECTION IS VITAL

Early detection can save your life and this machine and the technology that will come from it will help take the guess work out of diagnosing deadly melanomas.

If you would like to volunteer for the trial and have a free scan and check you can call (02) 6398 7733 to make an appointment. You’ll not only be

looking after your own health but also making a contribution to saving the lives of others for years to come. Well done Drs Michelle McRae, Doug Lenton and the team at Pinnacle Dermatology for hosting this vitally important world-leading trial. There are four other sites in NSW hosting a scanner.

The Australian Centre of Excellence In Melanoma Imaging & Diagnosis is supported by Australian Cancer Research Foundation, Sydney University, the University of Queensland and Monash Uni.

•

13

STORM & FLOOD INSURANCE INQUIRY VISITS OUR REGION

The public hearings of the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Response of Insurers to the Floods of 2022 are well underway.

HEARINGS IN EUGOWRA AND MOLONG

This week, on the 7th and 8th May, the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Response of Insurers to the Floods of 2022 visited our region.

On Tuesday, there was a public hearing in Molong where we heard from representatives of Cabonne Council, and a number of Molong business owners and residents.

Their stories about mistreatment at the hands of insurance companies were shocking. It included widespread knock-backs, low-ball settlement offers and the deliberate dragging out of claims decisions.

On Wednesday, the Inquiry travelled to Eugowra to hear from the Eugowra Promotion and Progress Association & Eugowra Flood Recovery Committee, as well as many local residents.

Thank you to everyone who presented at the hearing, participated in the community panel, gave a community statement, or who showed their support by listening to their fellow community members.

The aim of the Inquiry is to put the behaviour of insurers under the microscope. By sharing our local stories of the 2022 storms and floods, I am hopeful that we will bring lasting change to the insurance industry. Recently, the Parliamentary Inquiry travelled to areas of Queensland and Victoria which were hit by the storms and floods of November 2022.

I have also attended public hearings in Melbourne and Lismore, where I visited a pod village and got a real insight into the difficulties that residents are facing rebuilding their lives across the east coast of Australia. Later this week, I will travel to public hearings in the Hawkesbury and outer-Sydney.

If you would like to share your story, the submissions portal and the online survey remain open. To complete the survey, head to: www. aph.gov.au/floodinsurance

Tuesday

Andrew at Molong’s Insurance Inquiry hearing on

Let’s Feast @ Hotel Canobolas

Hotel Canobolas have all the ingredients for a great dining experience

When the winter chill sets in there’s no better dining destination in Orange than Hotel Canobolas and its Famous Rotisserie.

Settle into the newly renovated family friendly bistro and indulge in succulent roast chicken cooked to perfection on the imported French Rotisol rotisserie. Savour the flavoursome slowroasted porchetta with crunch crackling, sourced from Berkshire pigs reared in Northern NSW by free-range specialist farmers.

Grab a chicken or porchetta and gravy roll for lunch, or bring the whole family and enjoy a rotisserie banquet meal with your choice of meats, served with all the trimmings: rotisserie potatoes and seasonal vegetables; pork, sage

and onion stuffing; and, of course, deliciously smooth gravy.

Hotel Canobolas knows the key to a great grill is the produce, which is why they visit familyrun farms across the country to source only the best all-natural, pasture-reared beef. Dry-aged and grilled over charcoal for that unmistakable flavour, steak doesn’t get much better than this!

It’s no secret that the Canobolas Pizzeria is home to the best wood-fired pizzas this side of the Blue Mountains. Their pizza range is based on classic Italian flavours, all made to order on a 72-hour fermented dough base, topped with fresh mozzarellas and premium ingredients, and then cooked to crusty perfection in their state-ofthe-art Marana Forni Italian Pizza oven.

In the mood for something different? The delicious new premium fresh pasta range

includes authentic Italian classics like the king prawn linguine, lasagne, salsiccia busiate and spaghetti carbonara.

Looking for a top-notch feed where you don’t have to pay top dollar? Look no further than the weekly specials available all day at Hotel Canobolas. Keep an eye out for the ‘Burger of The Week’ and Sunday Roast which changes from week to week.

Hotel Canobolas has numerous private spaces available and can cater for your event no matter what the size or occasion. Whether you want to book a wedding, conference, birthday, or sit-down dinner, let them take care of it for you.

The Hotel Canobolas is centrally located in the heart of the Orange CBD. Their bistro is open for dining from 12pm–9pm, seven days a week.

Cnr of Summer Street and Lords Place ORANGE

Call 6362 4995

Call: 0493 235 619

7 DAYS Mon-Fri: 8.30am-4.30pm Sat: 8.30am-4pm Sun: 8.30am-3pm FIND US

to

WHAT’S ON May

Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine returns to Orange

May 21

By popular demand, the Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine is returning to Australia, making a special one-night-only appearance at the Orange Civic Theatre on May 21.

Formed in 2014 by the premier dancer of the National Opera of Ukraine, Oleksandr Stoianov, the Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine is known for its diverse range of classical and contemporary repertoire.

Presenting a double bill of Forest Song and Don Quixote, the audience response in 2023 was met with standing ovations at every performance.

On their return to Australia, the company is set to reprise these two legendary ballets:

Act One – The Ukrainian showpiece… Forest Song

This ballet has remained the pride of Ukraine for over 75 years. Forest Song is a magical love story, full of mysticism alongside the conflict between the human world and nature. It tells a tale of love and the fearless and brave Mavka, who longs for peace in her world, just as Ukraine longs for peace in her country today.

Act Two – Don Quixote

This flamboyant and festive Spanish ballet is a much-loved romantic comedy. It tells the story of a courageous but troubled man’s quest for love. Gypsies, bullfighters, lavish costumes, breathtaking dancers and an inspiring music score ensures that Don Quixote is a not-to-be-missed experience.

See the Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine perform at the Orange Civic Theatre on Tuesday, May 21. Tickets at Ticketek or call 6393 8111.

The Battle Of The Millenium! Eighties v Noughties

May 17

Does the best music of all time only come from the 80s? Or did a new millennium bring pop hits worthy of challenging the greatest decade ever?

Find out at the Orange Ex-Services Club on May 17, when Never Ending 80’s presents “The Battle Of The Millenium!” Eighties v Noughties.

Will it be Madonna or Pink, Bon Jovi or Robbie Williams, INXS or The Killers, Cyndi Lauper or Britney Spears, Prince or Justin Timberlake, Whitney Houston or Beyoncé, Queen or Lady Gaga.

Head along and party like it’s 1989 or... 2009, while the hottest band in the land plays the biggest hits of both decades live!

Witness The Battle Of The Millenium! Eighties v Noughties at the Orange Ex-Services’ Club on Friday, May 17. Doors and bar open 7pm, show begins at 8pm.

The Addams Family opening night this Friday, May 10

It’s a witty classic that has stood the test of time, The Addams Family is a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family.

The new musical comedy, presented by Orange Theatre Company, hits the Orange Civic Theatre this Friday, May 10 for the first of seven performances.

This new production features an original story, and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family—a man her parents have never met.

And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before– keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia.

Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

The Orange Theatre Company’s production of The Addams Family will be brought to life (or death) at the Orange Civic Theatre between May 10 and May 18.

Tickets at Ticketek or call 63938111.

Whether you preferred ‘Another Brick In The Wall’, ‘Wish You Were Here’, ‘Comfortably Numb’, or ‘Time’, Pink Floyd’s hits shaped the psychedelic, progressive rock genre.

Now just shy of 60 years since their formation, a tribute show honouring their legacy is coming to Orange.

Dark Side of the Moon - A tribute to Pink Floyd, will feature all of the classics, as well as explore, as they did, the passage of time and our inability to control it.

For one night only, on June 14, the Orange Civic Theatre will travel back in time to talk all things money, greed, conflict, losing touch with reality, and death. All through of course, the fourth highest-selling album of all time.

On the back of sell-out shows in 2022-23, seven-piece band Run Like Hell meticulously recreate the album from start to finish, taking you back to when you first heard it

and marvelled at the sonic experimentation, exceptional production, and the visceral feelings evoked by the lyrics and lush melodies.

After leaving you spellbound, Run Like Hell will return to the stage with a second set of classics including ‘Echoes’, ‘Comfortably Numb’, and ‘Another Brick in the Wall’.

Complete with searing guitar solos, sassy saxophone, backing vocalists, video montage and a laser light show, Run Like Hell are a Floydian experience not to be missed.

NOTE: theatrical haze, strobing lights and laser will be used throughout the concert.

Experience Dark Side of the Moon - A tribute to Pink Floyd, June 14 at Orange Civic Theatre. Tickets at Ticketek or call 6393 8111.

HISTORY TALKING

HELEN MCANULTY

Telephones

Paterson was remembering his early experiences in the Post Office which he apparently found unutterably boring but it was obviously necessary for an employee in those days to be familiar with the geography of Australia.Over a century later things have changed dramatically.On the morning of September 11 , 2001, more than twenty calls were made from United Airlines Flight 93 as it flew over Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.These mobile calls were from terrified passengers to alert family and friends that the aircraft was being hijacked. Tragically the plane crashed, killing all on board in the worst act of terrorism the world had yet known.The calls that were made that day were part of a complex web of communication that encircles the earth.Many elements are woven into that web, from telephone poles on country roads to hi-tech communication satellites, from buried cables and relay towers to pocket-sized devices that carry voices and images around the world in an instant.Since he began to walk the earth, man (and woman) have used all sorts of ways to communicate, from grunting and gestures to words and speech.When Samuel Morse invented a way of sending his code through electric impulses, telegraphy was born. Then Alexander Graham Bell came up with an entirely different idea by sending his message using the human voice.And

“As I pondered very weary o’er volume long and dreary–For the plot was void of interest – ‘twas the Postal Guide in fact. There I learned the true location, distance, size and populationOf each township, town and village in the radius of the act.”

~ A. B. Paterson

so the telephone made its debut.This revolutionised communication as much as the printing press had done centuries before. Manners and customs and even social relationships changed to the extent that today, many people are permanently attached to their mobile phones.The Oral History Group thought back to a simpler time when not everyone had access to a phone and when they did there could be quite a few problems.Most of the people in our group had no telephone at all when they were growing up.”There was a big red phone box on the corner when I lived in Maroubra,” said Dee. “It cost tuppence for a phone call.”

“When I lived in Cargo as a girl no one had a phone,” Barbara told us. “If there was an emergency people rang the Post Office and they ran to deliver the message.”Dot, who lived on an isolated farm out of Eugowra, would go to a neighbours if a phone call was essential.Tom was one of the fortunate ones who actually did have a phone but there were drawbacks.”We were the only people with a phone in a small town,” said Tom. “We kids hated it when the phone rang at night and we would have to run in the dark to deliver the message.”Dick’s family had a phone because his father ran a garage.”It was on the wall in a wooden cabinet. You had to turn a handle before you spoke and you could adjust the speaker to your height,” he said.And then there were party lines which meant sharing your line with others in the district.Tim, who has long experience living in the bush knew all about this.”People

would often listen in to your conversation. We used to call it ‘earwigging’ and you would shout: ‘Someone is listening in!’“And you would hear ‘click click click’ as all the phones were being put down,” he continued.

“We had about 120 miles of line and after a flood you would ride your line to make sure you had. contact with other people. I was straining up the last break when someone used the phone. The magnetos put out a lot of volts and delivered quite a shock!”Telephonists on manual phones were a great help in so many ways. Often if you wanted a certain person they would say: “I’d try later if I were you. They’ve just gone down to feed the pigs.”

Dee was working on an Information Desk of a big hotel in the city when she was rung by someone who obviously was not aware of what sort of information she gave out.”Can you tell me how many nuts and bolts are in the Harbour Bridge?” asked a childish voice.”The telephonists on the manual phones were the unsung heroes,” said John Bowler. “If there was an emergency like a flood or a fire they put in endless hours”Our newest member, Audrey, delighted us all by revealing that she had been one of those telephonists in Milthorpe.”I was at the Manual exchange and we had 150 subscribers. All our trunk calls had to go through Orange,” she recalled.

“There was a bushfire near Blayney and all the local ladies were making sandwiches for the firefighters at the School of Arts.“It

was late in the day and I was on my own at the exchange when a call came from a party line subscriber to say that she was not long out of hospital with twin babies and a fire had broken out near her house.“She was nearly hysterical because her husband was away and she didn’t know what to do. I told her to put the babies in the car and I rang around the three pubs to find if anyone could help.“The butcher gathered a few people, got some 44-gallon drums of water and a few potato sacks and went out to her.“Just as they were leaving the Fire Captain rang to ask me to tell the ladies that they needn’t cut any more sandwiches. I was able to tell him what had happened and they joined the others and saved the house from being burnt down.”We all agreed that advances in Communication were mostly beneficial in this modern world.However, we did decide that we have lost a lot of ability to read people’s body language because of the constant talking to unseen people. Many seem not to be able to cope with conversations in restaurants as judged by the phones we see waiting at the ready on the table.Many phone calls are about trivial things that hardly warrant the cost of a call.As John summed up: “We are losing the skill of communicating with the written word and are relying on texts and instant photographs.”

As usual, the Oral History group is looking at the modern world with eyes that have seen the past and sometimes it can be a little hard to adjust to the future.

Copyright Helen McAnulty 2024

New format for men’s Premier League Hockey in 2024

‘It’s a shorter competition, but we’re expecting it to be more intense’

Top-tier men’s hockey in the Central West is undergoing a transformation in 2024 with a new format for Premier League Hockey Incorporated.

Premier League Hockey Incorporated president Andrew Kelly has confirmed this year’s men’s competition will be played across eight weekends.

Teams will only play every three weekends during a six-round, eight-match regular season.

Six gala days will be held with teams playing at one venue on the following regular season competition dates (May 11, June 1, June 22, July 13, August 3 and August 24).

A top-three finals series will be held over consecutive weekends (August 31, preliminary final and September 7, grand final).

The men’s competition will be a five-team league after Bathurst United confirmed their entry to join Parkes United, Orange Wanderers, Dubbo and Lithgow Workies Storm.

The gala-day system and playing every third weekend was an idea raised by Parkes

initially, then considered further, before teams voted on it.

Mining rosters were one consideration as well as studies that showed injuries occurred more in the middle of seasons which was reducing player capacity at the top level. Reducing travel was another factor.

One positive of the new format is Dubbo returning to the men’s competition after a long absence.

“It is an interesting format,” Andrew said. “The committee is always looking at various ways they can improve the competition. One, to keep things fresh, and two, to keep adults engaged in sport.”

Andrew said the idea behind it is to alleviate travel as well as ensure that players who may not be able to play every weekend will still be able to play at a high level.

“It’s a shorter competition, but we’re expecting it to be more intense,” he said Discussions started last year about the format change for the men’s competition.

Different methods were considered including a draw arrangement where some teams would meet home-and-away before they played certain other sides.

However, this format was settled upon

because not only the practical benefits but also because it allows for all matches to be played at the one venue.

“It will create more of a spectacle. The more eyes we can draw to this level of the game, the better,” Andrew said.

One other benefit is that players can play locally as well as in the Premier League.

Andrew said the Orange Hockey Association first grade is strong (ExServices, CYMS, Confederates Jets and Orange City).

“Every other association has gone to a combined team (for the men’s Premier League competition),” he said.

“This is going to be a boon for local competitions. To keep your skills up, it’s a benefit to play every week. The majority of the Premier League Hockey players are playing locally as well.”

Andrew Kelly is also president of the Orange Wanderers club that fields a Premier League side and also assists with the development of juniors.

The women’s Central West PLH competition started last Saturday, May 4.

It remains in standard format with six teams playing each other three times across 15 rounds. Matches will be held weekly.

The women’s competition has become more eastern-centric after Parkes United elected to withdraw from the women’s competition in 2024 despite making the grand final last year. This was a shock to the league.

This year, three clubs in Bathurst (Bathurst City, Souths and St Pat’s), two from Orange (CYMS and United) and one from Lithgow (Panthers).

Andrew said that change in the structure of the women’s competition could be considered.

“The pressures that have been on the men’s competition are now happening in the women’s competition,” he said.

“There is a lot of competition from other sports generally … and just life as women get older where they have other priorities.

“We’ll be chatting with the teams and with the associations about what the women want and what we can do to make their competition the way they want it to be. If that means keeping the format the same, then that’s what it will be.

“We are certainly open that if they want to move to a different competition format similar to the men they only have to ask and vote on it.”

The Orange Wanderers will play in the revamped Central West Premier League Hockey men’s competition in 2024. The coaching staff includes (l-r) Darryl Kennewell, Andrew Kelly (president), Robert Laffin and Mark Pengilly (manager). Photo: Supplied.

UNDER 10S NETBALL

Photos by CEC TILBURG

The Orange Netball Association kicked off its winter competition on a rainy Saturday, May 4th. Teams for the U10s division took to the courts, with those fortunate enough to secure the indoor courts enjoying their matches, while the others will have to wait until next week.

AROUND THE GROUNDS with DALLAS REEVES

Orange clubs start well at home in 2024 PMP

Orange clubs Hawks and CYMS started their new seasons strongly at home recently in rugby league’s Peter McDonald Premiership (PMP).

CYMS hosted last year’s grand finalists Mudgee at Wade Park on Saturday, April 27 and won 46-22. In Ladies League Tag CYMS won 28-10.

Hawks also featured at Orange’s home of senior rugby league on April 28, beating Lithgow Workmen’s Club 26-4 in first grade and 36-22 in league tag.

In round two last weekend, Hawks travelled to Wellington to play the Cowboys while CYMS hosted Forbes at Wade Park.

CYMS won 18-12 in first grade to sit in second place on points difference and 44-4 in tag while Hawks lost to ladderleaders Wellington 42-12 in first grade and 16-10 in tag.

The 2024 PMP season began back on Saturday, April 20 with Bathurst Panthers defeating Lithgow Workmen’s Club 44-24 at Carrington Park. Played as the curtain-raiser to the NRL clash between Penrith Panthers and Wests Tigers that the three-time defending champions won 22-6, it was a chance for both clubs to play in front of a big crowd as a sell-out audience of 12,000 attended the annual Bathurst NRL event.

Lithgow Workies also hosted Nyngan on Saturday, May 4. It was the first time the two clubs 417km apart have met in a regular season round. Workies defeated the Tigers in first grade 28-16.

In Woodbridge Cup action, Orange United started 2024 with every result possible across four rounds in first grade.

Round one against Peak Hill was washedout, United had a 30-all draw with Blayney in round two, lost 40-22 against the wellcredentialled Oberon in round three before grabbing an important away win 38-36 in round four against Grenfell. In round five United went down 26-10 to Eugowra.

Orange United’s Blues Tag side is mid-table with two wins and two losses to start 2024.

The Woodbridge Cup has a general bye this weekend as its representative teams take on the George Tooke Shield at Cowra’s Sid Kallas Oval on Saturday, May 11.

Orange’s two top-tier rugby union clubs have bounced back from round one losses to both grab two straight wins in the Blowes Cup.

Both clubs impressed in round one despite losses so it wasn’t a huge surprise they now have 2-1 win-loss ratios.

In round one, Emus went down 26-17 to defending champions Bathurst Bulldogs in Bathurst while the Lions lost a thriller 26-25 against Dubbo Kangaroos at Dubbo.

So wins didn’t seem far away.

In round two, Emus defeated Dubbo 27-10 while Orange City pipped Cowra 29-22. And then both Orange clubs grabbed narrow home wins on Saturday, May 4 in round three.

Emus pipped Cowra 24-23 at Endeavour Oval while the Lions defeated Forbes Platypi 23-19 Pride Park.

In women’s action, Orange City went down 61-nil in round one against Dubbo Kangaroos while Emus lost 33-5 to Bulldogs.

Back at home, the Lions defeated Cowra 64-15 while Emus lost again, this time 48-5 to Dubbo Kangaroos.

In round three women’s action, Emus broke through for win number one of 2024 with a 10-5 success against Cowra while Orange City went close in a 10-5 loss to Forbes.

Orange Tigers got their 2024 Central West AFL Tier 1 men’s campaign underway with an away trip to Bathurst on Saturday, April 27.

It was a tough day on the road, the Tigers going down 19.15 (129) to 1.15 (21). Andrew O’Brien was Orange’s solitary goal-kicker.

In the Senior Women’s fixture, Orange lost a low-scoring encounter 2.7 (19) to 1.5 (11) against the Bushrangers.

In round two last Saturday (May 4) in Parkes, Dubbo defeated Orange 8.10 (58) to 4.3 (27) in Tier 1 while Orange’s women had a bye.

Orange Waratahs Senior FC will be the only side in the Western Premier League representing the colour city after Barnestoneworth FC elected not to play in the 2024 top-flight.

Waratahs had a trip to Parkes on Saturday, May 4 to take on the Cobras at Woodward and won 6-1.

Seven teams will contest the league in 2024, namely Panorama FC and Bathurst ’75 from Bathurst, Parkes Cobras and three Dubbo sides Dubbo Bulls, Orana Spurs and Macquarie United as well as Waratahs.

Central West Premier League Hockey commenced on Saturday, May 4 in Bathurst with both Orange sides in action in the women’s competition.

Orange CYMS beat Souths 3-1 while Bathurst St Pat’s had a strong 4-nil win against Orange United. Bathurst City and Lithgow drew 1-all in the final match.

The new-look men’s competition, where teams will play every third weekend, commences on Saturday, May 11.

THE GOOD ENOUGH Parent

with EMILY THOMPSON

Healthy Harold

Poor Miss Nine recently had the “worst day of her entire life” because she was made to hold a lettuce while in the supermarket.

Let me explain for those without children, or with only one (perfect) child: this is how second children are born. They don’t “do things”. They have older siblings who do everything for them and parents who try their hardest but are very tired and have realised that the youngest child means a whole lot of lasts. So they baby them a tiny bit. This is generally fine until they are seven, and that’s when peak regret hits and you realise how badly you messed up.

I tried explaining this to Miss 15 at breakfast, as she gave up waiting for her sister to feed the chickens and went to do it herself. “Stop!” I said. “Miss Nine is never going to do things for herself if we keep doing them for her. She needs to learn that she’s capable and there are chores that she’s responsible for,” I explain desperately as I completely undermine myself by peeling, segmenting and removing all of the pith from Miss Nine’s recess mandarin. She’s agreed to “try to eat it” if I do this. Miss 15 shoots me a withering stare that lets me know she sees just how much of a failure I am in this moment, so I hatch a new plan and announce that I’ll pick them up after school and we’ll run to the supermarket together.

In the car on the way to IGA Miss Nine tells me about her visit with Healthy Harold. “We learned about empathy and respecting our parents,” she begins, and I manage not to veer into oncoming traffic despite my shock that she’s admitting this to me. “They also taught us about respecting ourselves and I think that you all could respect me a bit more.”

Can I just say to anyone from the Education Department reading this that my youngest doesn’t need any more encouragement to demand things from her family? WTF… focus on getting them to listen to their parents please.

“Wow, it sounds very different to my experience in the Healthy Harold van,” I tell her. I grew up in the 80s you see, a time before anti-bullying policies and Working With Children checks. In 1988 I learned the facts of life in the back of that dingy van from a giraffe puppet who slurred his words a little bit, and his tale of a man watering the lady’s garden with his hose lead to a decadelong fear of gardening.

Once inside the supermarket I hatch my devious plan and ask Miss Nine to grab a lettuce. She immediately returns and hands her sister a tiny withered one, and announces she’s off to choose herself a Bluey milk. I march her back to the produce and tell her to get a fresh, big one. “But it will be heavier to pick up!” she replies, aghast at my audacity. I explain it’s just a lettuce and she can carry it for the whole shop. Her face switches from shock to horror and she spends the next eight aisles devolving from complaining, trying repeatedly to put it in the basket her sister is carrying to a complete breakdown with tears and wails about how unfair life is.

Obviously I was originally only shopping for bread and cheese to make toasties for dinner, but my pettiness propels me to purchase enough annoying ingredients to make a full-blown salad for everyone to complain about. The best bit is as she takes tiny bites while sobbing and recounting the whole thing to her Dad, I’m able to blame the entire experience on school and that bossy giraffe. Vindication.

HAPPY 30TH ALLYSSIA!

Photos CONTRIBUTED

Happy Birthday to Allyssia Fisher who was joined by family and friends on Saturday, May 4 to celebrate the end of her twenties with a rainbowthemed party. Congratulations Allyssia!Amidst the thrilling matches, the ladies relished drinks and delightful platters, celebrating their club’s prowess on the field.

At back: Alaina, Allyssia, Ivy, Evelyn, Tara, Isaiah and Isobel. In front: Wyatt, Maliah, Maddison, Emerson, Peyton, Chloe, Kyree, Callum and Xavier

Allyssia, Chloe and Maliah

Allyssia and Howard

Allyssia, Belinda, and Maliah, with Peyton and Kyree

Maegan, Theresa, Allyssia and Amanda

2 11

Fox t. 0412 166 132 $459,000

Welcome to your dream home in the heart of convenience. Strategically located with easy access to schools, parks, cafes, shops and the Aquatic centre and a seamless commute to the CBD making your work or leisure trips a breeze. Nestled in a quiet and well-maintained complex you can escape the hustle and bustle without compromising on accessibility.

Thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and cozy retreat after a long day, features include.

Key Features:

• Well-designed layout, that maximises space and functionality.

• Sun-filled open plan living areas that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

• Two generous bedrooms, each boasting built-in wardrobes for ample storage space.

• Split systems both upstairs and down stairs makes for year-round comfort.

• Second toilet downstairs for added convenience, ensuring ease of use for both residents and guests.

• Fully fenced courtyard, providing a private outdoor space, perfect for gatherings or enjoying a peaceful moment.

• Attached lock-up garage with internal and courtyard access.

• Secure and friendly community atmosphere within the complex. Whether you are looking for your first home or an investment property don’t miss the chance to inspect this free-standing central townhouse. Embrace the convenience and comfort it has to offer. Rates $507 Per Quarter Strata $415 Per Quarter 4/67 KENNA STREET, ORANGE

Situated on a huge 2493m2 elevated block, this classic weatherboard home boasts all that country life has to offer including 3 good sized bedrooms, two woodfires, large laundry/utility room and functional kitchen. The meals area flows through to the rest of the house, many rooms boastng a lovely outlook. The ample-sized loungeroom has an adjacent formal dining area which also features views over the garden. Enjoy a morning cuppa on the screened front verandah that captures the Easterly sun while surveying the gorgeous established garden replete with bulbs, blossoms and citrus trees. At the rear of the house is a public reserve offering even more open space to view, along with a cute garden feature and undercover barbeque area, reflecting this property’s history of being a much-loved family home set on a usable block with plenty of space. It also has evaporative air con. This home is connected to the town water supply for convenience. Handy outbuildings including a large shed and carport which add to this home’s appeal and it is only approximately 800m from the town centre of Eugowra with its pub, stores, park and picturesque setting.

FEIJOA Exotic edible delights

There is only one species in the Feijoa genus, which is F. sellowiana It is also sometimes referred to as Acca sellowiana. It resides in the family known as Myrtaceae.

Native to South America, it is incredibly popular in New Zealand with many cultivars having been developed there.

Whilst it is often considered a plant suited to warm/subtropical climates, it grows well in our region as it needs a good blast of cold weather to enable the fruit to develop. It is frost-hardy down to around -8 C and is also drought and wind-tolerant.

Feijoa prefer full sun to semi-shade and rich free draining soil but will put up with

clay soil if they must. They are relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to scale so keep an eye out for that. Overall, it is a very robust plant and a worthy addition to your garden.

A lovely evergreen flowering shrub with a rounded growth habit it can easily grow to a tree reaching between 3-5m. However, they are easy to prune to shape which should be undertaken after fruiting has finished. It makes a good hedge or windbreak, a stand-alone specimen and can also be collar lifted if you have a strong central leader and desire a tree rather than shrub (which also makes harvesting the fruit much easier). The leaves are oval and a delightful silvery-green.

Fertilize with a slow-release fertiliser

in early spring and it will reward you with stunning flowers not long after. The flowers are not self-pollinating so require pollinators such as bees and birds to enable development of the fruit. To my mind the flowers look like a cross between a callistemon and a magnolia. They are ever so pretty. The fruits will start appearing in autumn and in some cases can last through winter. The skin of the fruit is toxic to dogs.

About the size and shape of a mediumsized kiwi fruit, the skin of the feijoa is green so it can be tricky to determine ripeness. The best way to do this is to wait until they drop from the tree as by then they are likely to be ready. I never actually pick the fruit from the tree. Ripe Feijoa

will be slightly soft to the touch. If they are rock hard, they are not quite ready but will continue to ripen in your fruit bowl. The fruit is sweet and tart. The scented flesh tastes like a cross between a pineapple and a guava and can be a little gritty near the skin. The skin is edible, but I find it slightly bitter. The fruit is rich in Vitamin C and has mild laxative properties so will help keep you regular. It is a polarising fruit; people either love them or hate them.I fall into the former category and challenge you to give them a try! You can simply scoop out the flesh and eat although they also make a great jam, chutney, or salsa. They can also be used in baking and make delicious muffins, cakes and pastries.

Until next week.

Caro Webster is a passionate gardener, author, award-winning blogger, and committee member of the Friends of the Orange Botanic Gardens.

Charming Country Cottage

184 Belubula Way, Mandurama NSW

Discover the tranquility of rural living with this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home set on a sprawling 2.51hectare parcel in the peaceful locale of Mandurama.

Perfectly positioned to embrace the scenic beauty of the countryside, 184 Belubula Way offers a unique opportunity for those seeking space, privacy, and a relaxed lifestyle.

The home comprises three well-proportioned bedrooms, each offering comfortable accommodation and capturing plenty of natural light.

Outside, the property continues to impress with its vast expanse of land, providing a blank canvas for those looking to establish gardens, orchards, or even a hobby farm.

Enjoy the serenity of country living while being just a short drive 15 Minute drive to Blayney, 25 Minutes to

Sophistication and timeless elegance

12 Piggott Place Blayney NSW

Discover unparalleled luxury and prestige in this magnificent five-bedroom brick home, nestled within the exclusive confines of a prestigious street renowned for its quality and status. From the moment you arrive, the grandeur of this residence commands attention, exuding sophistication and timeless elegance.

Two separate living areas offer versatility and comfort, providing ample room for relaxation, entertainment, and everyday living. Whether unwinding with loved ones or hosting guests, these inviting spaces cater to every occasion with grace and ease.

The heart of the home is a well equipped kitchen that will delight the culinary connoisseur within. Equipped with premium appliances, ample storage, and sleek countertops.

Meet

Camryn

New Residential and Lifestyle Sales Agent

Having had a passion for the real estate industry from a young age, Camryn brings a renewed outlook and fresh perspective, driven by her eagerness to learn and excel in the field.

Camryn brings a range of experiences to the Ray White Townsend Real Estate team, with years of hospitality and retail expertise under her belt. Her main goal is to surpass expectations and deliver top-notch customer service to all clients she interacts with.

With her passion for outstanding customer service and proficiency in marketing coordination, Camryn plays a crucial part in ensuring a smooth experience for both buyers and sellers. Her dedication to client satisfaction and thorough understanding of the real estate sector make her an indispensable member of our team.

Sale $780,000 - 830,000

Open for Inspection By

Call Camryn today for a no obligation free appraisal!

Camryn Adams 0411 175 829 camryn.adams@raywhite.com

Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Experience a rare opportunity to secure three adjoining properties in the Bathurst CBD, offering fantastic development potential. Positioned in a prime location, this unique offering comprises of two duplex dwellings and a standalone property, presenting a blank canvas for investors, developers, or those seeking a distinctive family compound.

92 Piper Street boasts four spacious bedrooms and two generous living spaces, providing ample room for customization or renovation. Meanwhile, 94 Piper Street offers three well-proportioned bedrooms and two separate living areas, ideal for flexible living arrangements or potential conversion.

96 Piper Street is a standalone property featuring four comfortable bedrooms, two modern bathrooms, a spacious living area, and a beautiful sunroom. Auction

'Deebar'

We have a cash buyer looking to purchase a modern easy to maintain 2 or 3 bedroom unit with ensuite and attached garage in the vicinity of the Orange Public School. Should you have a property that meets with the above criteria, please contact John Stevenson on 0417 887 738

OPEN INSPECTIONS

‘Bethune’

• Ducted a/c, wood heaters + open fire in fml lnge • R/w

Triangle’ Byng Road, Guyong NSW Centrally Located Small Acreage

‘The Triangle’ is a 42.47* acre property with building entitlement, back bone power and sealed road frontage.

•

• Established perennial pastures, 1 dam & large gum trees

• Fencing is in good condition

•

OCL ifeCOMPETITIONS

Congratulations to last week’s winners

Loony Lotto: Allan Hall

Find Pinny: Tanya Austin

Adams Family: Claudia Smith, Joanne Smith, John Visser

WATCH THIS SPACE FOR EXCITING NEW COMPETITIONS

Find Pinny

We have a voucher for Orange Tenpin Bowl valued at $60 to give away each week, so the family can go bowling!

Each week we’ll hide a small version of “Pinny” (pictured) somewhere in OCLife. It could be anywhere. To enter, simply find him, write your name and phone number on the back of an envelope, along with the page number you found him on, and send in...

Looney Lotto

Win a voucher to the value of $20, to use at Coco’s Cafe or Paul’s @ Coco’s

TO WIN: If you have a personal or business phone number with these 4 numbers appearing in any order within it, put in an entry and we’ll draw a winner from among all correct entries each week.

Deliver or post entries to: Orange City Life Suite 3/241 Lords Place, Orange or Email: reception@oclife.com.au and mark each entry with the competition name, your name and phone number. Entries close 12 noon Tuesday.

THE DEATH OF A KING: LIFEandTIMES

I woke up to the news on Monday morning that acting legend Bernard Hill had died at the age of 79. He was a gifted actor who will be remembered for his portrayal of Captain Smith in James Cameron’s Titanic and more famously as King Théoden of Rohan in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings. I am a huge Tolkien fan and King Théoden is one of the standout characters in the books. His portrayal of courage, honour and love of others is quite something. Bernard Hill managed to capture this almost perfectly. For those who have read the books or seen the films will know the famous scene where the Rohirrim finally arrive as dawn breaks over the Pelennor Fields to scenes of despair and carnage. The forces of Mordor are battering down the gates of Minas Tirith and all seems lost. What the films do not portray is a moment in the book where there is a hesitation on the part of the Rohirrim as to whether they will go and fight. It is Théoden who shows courage and honour to his word and rallies the host. He then gives the famous and wonderfully stirring speech about how they are riding to their death, then leads the charge on his great white stallion Snowmane, in what is one of the best pieces of cinematic glory. This is how he will most likely be remembered: as the one screaming ‘Death!’ as he charges on his horse. But I will remember Bernard Hill’s Théoden

with Angus Gibb

for another scene shortly after. As he lies on the battlefield and his life is fading, he says to his niece Eowyn, ‘I go now to my fathers, in whose company I shall not be ashamed.’ These lines capture something powerful. Up until this point, Théoden was battling with feelings of failure. That he had not been a good king. That he had led his house to decay under the sorcery of Saruman the White. He had to be rescued by Gandalf. Even though there had been a mighty transformation in him, and that he had led his people to a stunning victory at Helm’s Deep, there was a nagging doubt. Had he been good enough? But now, in his final moments, he realises that he dies with honour. Honour because he did not abandon his allies. Honour that he faced death willingly. Honour in that he led his army on a mission of rescue. And with this realisation, he dies with honour as a great king. It is an emotional scene and one that I find hard to watch without tears welling up in my own eyes. In the books there is an immense outpouring of grief and mourning for their beloved King. It is a moment of sacrifice for others which takes me to the heart of what I hold fast to as a Christian. The sacrifice of Jesus for others. Of the one who faced death willingly to rescue. The death of the one who is in fact a King yet came to serve and to save and in whose resurrection, offers life to all.

I believed we were two, but you told me there’s no such thing. For so long I searched for you, cried myself to sleep, not knowing where you were.

“You’ll be okay,” said a friend. “We’ve all got someone waiting for us somewhere. You just have to be patient, that’s all.”

I was patient, but not really. It’s so hard when you feel like half. Half a man, half a woman. I watch others, their hands together, their eyes softly whole. Magazines, music, television – everywhere they say you’re only half of who you are – go find the one. And then I did, Katie.

She was at the beach, the sea visible in her eyes, blues and golds. Walking on the sand together, the scarf she had covering her head,

Guest

Speaker:

billowing in the breeze, and then my hat blew away. I chased after it, running into the sea, Katie laughing as seagulls scattered in fright. Then, wet and covered in sand, we looked at each other and kissed. My hat blew away again, and I let it.

She was only here for a short while, just over a year. Lying beside her in the hospital bed, not knowing what to do, she smiled at me, and wiped my tears.

“It’s good to love,” she said, “because that’s who we are.”

“But I don’t want you to go.”

“I know,” she said. “But, do you know what else I know?”

“What?”

“There is no two,” and she pointed at the sun, shining through the

window. I could see trees, their canopies so beautifully green, and birds appearing to dance, swooping this way and that.

“What makes that?” she asked.

“I have no idea,” I said, bringing my attention back to the room. The smell of disinfectant, white sheets, and machines beeping. On her bedside table were the lilies I bought her. She’d loved them since she was eight, her Gran’s favourites she said. Symbols of re-birth, not death. She was connected to the system now, and her face seemed happy, but pale.

“Well, in my mind,” she said, “there’s just one thing, and everything’s part of it – including you and me.”

She was looking at me. Her

beautiful green eyes looking directly into me.

“You were never half,” she said, “and neither was I. Nothing is, nothing can be. We just forget, that’s all. When this goes,” she said, pointing at her body, “I’ll still be here. You’ll find me in the birds, the trees, the sun, the clouds. You’ll find me in the pen you use, the grumpy man next door, the children laughing, the sea, the gusts of wind – but most of all, you’ll find me in you.”

I was holding her hand when she said this, and her eyes changed in front of me. I could see the sea again, blues and golds. And I swear I saw seagulls, and the two of us on the beach. Then my hat blew away, and I let it.

18th

HARRY WESTCOTT

at this month’s Orange City Christian Men’s Breakfast on Saturday, May 18, at the Duntryleague Golf Club.

The monthly event is about enabling men to connect around some fun, fellowship and sharing of life and faith over a very tasty breakfast, in a wonderful setting.

RSVP by phone or SMS your name and those you want to come along with by 7pm Wednesday, 15 May, to: Michael Middleton on 0418 435 250; or Mal Rankin on 0427 200 453.

Please inform us of any dietary requirements.

Orange Evangelical Church would like to welcome adults with an intellectual disability of any kind to attend our Jesus Club. This group provides friendship and fun while learning about God.

A typical meeting includes socialising, games, singing, craft, supper and a story taught from the bible, which is discussed in smaller buddy groups. We provide a supportive and caring environment and tailor our evenings to provide our members with activities that suit their preferences. Carers and support workers are welcome to stay and join us for the evening. All of the leaders have been screened and have completed safety training.

The group meets once a fortnight on Tuesdays, 6pm-8pm. For more information and registration details go to www.oechurch.org.au/jesus-club

Original Fiction by Jeremy Maddison

position vacant

Today

And

The

Where

We

I

So

Race Track Car Wash (Orange) is looking for a new team member (One or two days per a week).

The position involves customer service, keeping the site clean and tidy, and some repairs and maintenance. The position would be ideal for a semi-retired/retired, active, enthusiastic, well presented, practical person.

Please talk to staff on site for further information or call 02 6361 8338.

ACROSS

1 Most senior (6)

4 Ovine insecticide (5,3)

9 Improves (7) 11 Finality (7)

12 Domineering (11)

PUZZLES…. PUZZLES…. PUZZLES….

22 Pixie (3)

24 Fake (money) (11)

26 Supervise (7)

27 Indirect (7)

29 Evade (8)

30 Climb (6)

DOWN

1 Possessive pronoun (3)

2 Distinct (9)

3 Low woody plant (5)

5 Feverish (6)

6 Extended (9)

7 Percussion instruments (5)

8 Plight (11)

10 Time of the year (6)

12 Pungent (11)

15 Predictions (9)

17 Ballet position with one leg raised (9)

18 Cave (6)

21 A nozzle through which air is forced (6)

23 Father of psychology (5)

25 Parts (for actors) (5)

28 Termination (3)

13 Snow runner (3) 14 Flood (8) 16 Jewelled head ornament (5) 19 Bury (5) 20 Person with a degree (8)

9-LETTER 3

4 LETTERS

5 LETTERS AISLE

6

8 LETTERS

7

2003 film stars Julia Roberts,

THUMBS UP to Luke from Guzman Y Gomez. A wonderful manager!

THUMBS UP to Rodney at the Cheeky Barista Cafe. The Thai Chicken Chilli Burger is one of the best burgers in town. Nice and juicy, it’s worth the money and tastes really good!

THUMBS UP and a big thank you to Luke who works for “I’ve Got Wood”. Nothing is a problem for Luke, he stacks the wood in my shed every time. What a lovely young man, he is so caring.

THUMBS UP to Frank the paramedic at the Orange Base Hospital. He was amazing when I broke my ankle. Such a lovely and genuine person, thank you, Frank!

THUMBS DOWN again to Orange City Council for a waste of money at the Adventure Playground. The Lions Club built this playground for Orange, surely some of it could be updated, but no, replace the lot and use out-of-town builders.

THUMBS UP to Alex from Orange Cellars great customer service, always nice to go into the bottle shop and a friendly help with anything.

THUMBS UP to the people who organised the fireworks at the Orange Show. They were wonderful — and on time too!

THUMBS UP to the group of young lads who attended the Rally in Robertson Park on Sunday, highlighting violence against women. It was so impressive that these boys went to the rally, they stood quietly and respectfully and listened to all the speeches. They gave me hope for the future.

THUMBS DOWN to the black SUV

driver who thought that I had to give way to her at a traffic light when I’m turning left and she was trying to turn right from the other side. She then tried to road rage me in my brand-new car. Read the road rules, lady, don’t be an entitled driver. You are the one that has to give way!

THUMBS UP to Jacqui and Ryan at Tennessee Tucker in Cudal. Great service and food. Worth the drive.

THUMBS UP to all those who helped me when I accidentally dropped my car remote/keys down the stormwater drain outside Centrelink last week: The young lady who stopped to help me; the Centrelink staff; security staff; the gentleman in Centrelink who advised me to contact Council; the lady on the switchboard at Council; and, finally, the two council men who came to help. A special thanks to the young man who (dangerously) entered the stormwater drain via a manhole to retrieve my keys. Many thanks and a huge thumbs up to all who helped.

THUMBS

THUMBS UP to Mal from Mal’s Handyman Services for the wonderful job he did for me. He came so promptly, and he fixed the problem so quickly - and I can’t thank you enough, Mal! You are wonderful!

THUMBS UP to Mrs Mac’s Springhill School 4 x 50 relay team that won gold at the recent NSW Primary Schools Swimming Championship meet. Fantastic effort, fantastic result!

THUMBS UP and thank you Orange City Life for supporting local community groups by promoting their activities – CWA, Riding for the Disabled, Rotary, Cancer Council and Probus, just to name a few. These charities really appreciate it.

THUMBS UP and well done to Maxx who gave a wonderfully entertaining interview in “Kids Talk”. Maxx you clearly are a football fanatic. Thank you for sharing your enthusiasm for the game, it made me smile. I hope your dream of playing for the NRL happens for you. Good Luck!

THUMBS UPand a sincere thank you to the kind shippers of Aldi Orange who helped me raise $36.15 for Doctors Without Borders during my busking session. Thank you one and all!

THUMBS UP to Dr Andrew Wong and the staff at the Orange Specialist clinic, for making me feel so extremely comfortable in such a stressful time. Thank you!

The Thumbs represent thoughts and opinions of readers and do not necessarily reflect

General disclaimer: Whilst every care is taken in preparing this publication, we cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The publisher accepts no responsibility for letters, notices and other material contributed for publication. The submitter accepts full responsibility for material, warrants that it is accurate, and indemnifies the publisher against any claim or action. All advertisers, including those placing display and classified or advertorial material, warrant that such material is true and accurate and meets all applicable laws and indemnifies the publisher against all liabilities that may arise from the publication of such material. Opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Senior Journalist, Jonathan Roe, accepts responsibility for election comment. Articles contain information of a general nature – readers should always seek professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances. Complaints: Orange City Life has a policy of correcting mistakes promptly. If you have a complaint about published material, contact us in writing. If the matter remains unresolved, you may wish to contact the Australian Press Council.

© Copyright 2024 Orange City Life Pty Ltd. Copyright in all material – including photographs and ads – is held by Orange City Life Pty Ltd or its providers and must not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the Publisher. Printed for the publisher at the News Print Centre, 26-52 Hume Highway, Chullora 2190.

575 333

CROSS purposes

REFLECTIONS ON THE HUMAN CONDITION

Joni Mitchell, the 60s/70s iconic folk-pop singer, reflected that in the sixties they felt they could change the world and in the seventies they realised they couldn’t, so they said ‘Okay, let’s change ourselves’. They discovered they couldn’t, so in the 80s they decided to become rich and it was the worst decade of their life. Is it possible to change either ourselves or the world? The Bible is clear about the basic problem. Every one of us has decided that we want to live life our way and not God’s way. In making this choice, the first humans alienated not only humanity from God but also alienated humans from humans and from creation itself. Our first step in changing the world and changing ourselves is to return to God through accepting Jesus Christ, who is God’s answer, and his offer of restoration.

THUMBS UP to Kylee, Simone, Olivia, Ev, Lucy and Jacob in the garden centre at Bunnings Orange for the beautiful presentation, friendly smiling faces and outstanding service you all provide. I love shopping at Bunnings again.

THUMBS UP to Ian from Coles Home Delivery. Pleasant and helpful. However, covering both within and outside of Orange needs more than one person and one truck surely.

THUMBS UP to the kind-hearted people who took care of my son after he came off his scooter on Thursday afternoon last week. They applied first aid, called an ambulance and didn’t leave him until I got there and we left for the hospital. Beautiful to see such wonderful people in our community. We are very grateful for your support.

THUMBS UP to the staff at Orange Hospital who took such good care of my son after he came off his scooter. To all the nurses who looked after him, the surgical team and especially the dental team, your support and kindness are greatly appreciated.

THUMBS UP and thank you Orange City Council for having Robertson Park looking extremely well for Anzac Day. Thank you also to the workers at the Orange Cemetery for making it look so good.

THUR 9 10.00*, 1.00*, 5.00*, 7.30* FRI 10 10.00*, 1.00*, 5.00*, 7.30* SAT 11 10.45*, 2.00*, 5.00*, 7.30* SUN 12 10.00*, 1.30*, 5.30*, 7.30* MON 13 10.00*, 1.00*, 5.15*, 7.30* TUES 14 10.00*, 1.00*, 5.00*, 7.30* WED 15 10.00*, 1.00*, 5.00*, 7.30*

TAROT

8.30

THUR 9 10.00, 12.45, 5.00, 7.45 FRI 10 10.00, 12.45, 5.00, 7.45 SAT 11 10.30, 1.45, 5.00, 7.45 SUN 12 10.30, 1.45, 5.00, 7.45 MON 13 10.00, 12.45, 5.00, 7.45 TUES 14 10.00, 12.45, 5.00, 7.45 WED 15 10.00, 12.45, 5.00, 7.45

3.30*, 8.30*

13 12.30, 4.00, 8.15

14 10.00*, 4.00, 8.15 WED 15 12.30, 4.00, 8.15