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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.
This week, we are launching a new, easy way to enter our regular competitions that will make things a little easier for us here at OC Life as well. As I mentioned before, we’ve concluded that we need to streamline things a bit. Currently, competition entries flood our email inbox and come in written on envelopes or scraps of paper. It’s a fair bit to sort through on a busy deadline day. Starting this week, we are moving to a more simplified and mostly paperless entry system. To enter, simply scan the QR code on our competition page, which will direct you to a form where you can enter your name, contact details, and competition answers. Don’t panic! You can continue to enter as before if you wish, but as a little incentive for those who do enter via the QR code, we are offering a chance to win another great prize! You can read more about it inside this week’s edition. For those of you who like to submit entries in person, we are more than happy to walk you through the process.
Until recently, we’d had a prett y good run of good health here in the OC Life office, but just as I was feeling over a cold from two weeks ago, I seem to have been struck down again. Here’s hoping that things don’t always come in threes!
Until next week!
By STUART LLOYD
In World War 2, over 22,000 Aussies were taken as prisoners of war, mostly in Singapore. They endured a hellish 3.5 years of captivity under the Japanese, with around 8000 dying in captivity. Then came August 15, 1945: the Japanese surrender, the end of the war. Finally!
Capt Hugh Pilkington, who survived the rigours of Hellfire Pass (north of the bridge on the River Kwai), was back in the Officers’ Quarters at Changi, Singapore, where there were three illegal wireless sets in operation.
“At about 2:30 am on the morning of August 11 I was asleep on my bed on the little balcony of our coolie quarter when an undue commotion from the Australian officers’ hut over the road woke me up. Intrigued by the noise from the Australians, I walked across and looked in to see them feverishly sorting their belongings, and, when I asked what it was all about, I was told, ‘We cannot tell you but you will hear soon’.
“At 7:45 am when our Colonel Commanding woke up, I suggested to him that the Australians had some news. Colonel Harris went across and came back a few minutes later: ‘Gentlemen they have capitulated, but the Japanese themselves have not yet been informed’. No one spoke for several minutes, and then we all made a concerted rush for our little hoards of dried beans, fish, etc. and made fires to cook them on. By now we were really starving and food dominated our thoughts. ‘At last’ and ‘Thank God’ were the only expressions heard.”
Going home meant different things for different soldiers.
One of those lucky to make it home from the Thai-Burma Death Railway was Lance Sgt Cyril Gilbert of the
Australian 8th Division, who’d had a torrid time in the worst upper reaches of the railway, where he ‘celebrated’ his 19th birthday with one sardine. On his release, back in Queensland, it was a different matter: “For two years it was wine, women and song, and I never sang a note!” he says, as he nurses another cold Tiger Beer on a visit to Singapore. Around the house, he said, “I would always be looking in the fridge for more food, having meals in between meals in between meals.”
What about revenge on their captors when they were freed? Gunner Dick Lee of the Royal Artillery was part of a work gang around his camp in Singapore digging “tunnels” for the Japanese, which turned out to be intended as their own graves, because of a plan to dispose of the POWs when the surrender came. Lee said: “Yeah, I would love to have got stuck into that little bastard who give me a right doing with a bamboo stick, because I had a bleedin’ sore back for weeks. Thought he’d broken my back, little bastard. But then you quickly forget about all this wanting revenge, you were so pleased to be free again.”
Many POWs were still up in Siam (now Thailand) at camps on the Death Railway. “Some in my hut went off and got hold of Takamine, the guard who’d bashed my face a few days earlier,” said Gunner Fergus Anckorn, who -earlier in the war -- had been bombed by a Japanese plane. “They said, ‘Right, come on, kill him now.’ Someone passed me a spade and said, ‘Go on, knock off his head, and we’ll bury him under the bed shelf. No one will know or care.’ But I told them if we did that we’d be the same as they were. I said I didn’t want to kill him -- I just wanted to go home and forget everything. I wrote to my parents: ‘I am free – free – free! After three and half years’.”
In those days, there was no counselling, no diagnosis as posttraumatic stress disorder. Everyone was told not to talk about it and just get on with life. Worse for those from the Far East was that there were long delays in getting them back home, compared to those from the European theatre, where the German surrender had come earlier in May, 1945. Many POWs ˗ listed ‘missing presumed dead’ ˗ arrived home to find their girlfriends had married someone else, compounding their misery and detachment. In other more confusing cases, one POW’s fiancée had two children with another man but was still “waiting” for him, and another POW’s girlfriend had married his father!
Proving that the suffering never ends with the surrender.
“People who read history always talk about learning the lessons, but so help me God when the situation arises they forget about the lessons, ” said Australian Rear-Admiral Guy Griffiths, who was aboard the HMS Repulse when it was bombed and sunk off Malaya at the very start of the war.
“Every time I go to a veterans gathering I think how futile conflict is. You lose a lot of people. In the end, what did that all solve that couldn’t have been solved with talking or diplomacy or different understanding... and it goes on till today, right now. Conflict is a futile pastime.”
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the surrender and the end of WW2, a PDF download ‘The Bleedin’ War’s Over!’ (15 pages of first-hand reflections by Allies and Japanese on the surrender) is available free: go to www.stuartlloyd.net
By EMILY THOMPSON
What do you do for a living and what do you love about it?
I’m currently a baker, but I’ve been a chef most of my life. I started in Sydney, worked on the South Coast and the Whitsundays, and I was head chef at Highland Heritage Estate for six years. I now co-own Orange Pie Company with my good mate Ben. It started as an absolute fluke. We decided to try our hands at baking pies and selling them at the markets, but the very first market we signed up for was the first day of lockdown, and it was cancelled at the last minute. So, we had pies to sell, and turned to Facebook to offload them all, offering good prices and home delivery. The local news station picked up the story as their “fluff piece” and that was enough to really launch our business. We opened our first shop at the homemaker’s centre before expanding and moving into our current premises at The Village.
I love being my own boss, I only answer to my best mate and vice versa which is cool. We love our customers, and attending different events such as our trailer at Badlands Brewery every third Sunday of the month, Food Week and others. Where is your favourite quiet space in Orange?
I love Nelson Park in Hill Street. I have two young girls, and I love taking them there. We play on the playground, and there’s a bike track that goes under the bridge, behind James Sheehan and along the creek that runs through the park. The girls ride their bikes along the track. It’s always super quiet and we love it there.
Who are your top three dinner party guests of all time?
Marco Pierre White is my ultimate chef idol, because he’s proper old-school, not a new celebrity chef who’s famous for gimmicks. So definitely him, my beautiful wife Helen, and honestly? I think just a normal dinner party with my group of friends. I like hanging out with my family and friends more than anyone else really. Where would you go for the ultimate birthday dinner?
Well, this is the part where I say I’d head to Orange Pie Company for a pie! But also, I love The Union Bank, or maybe Badlands Brewery. I think we’re spoiled here; we are lucky to have such a great food scene in Orange, and I like quite a lot of the food businesses in town. But I’d probably head to Badlands for a beer, because they’re such great guys there, then UB for dinner. What is your proudest achievement?
Apart from my wife and two beautiful daughters, it’s probably winning Best Gourmet Sausage Roll last year for our maple, bacon and hazelnut roll at the 2024 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. Again, it was a total fluke. We had a big bag of hazelnut meal and I was trying out different flavour combinations. We put the first batch in the oven and my business partner Ben walked in and he said, “What the hell is that? It smells incredible!” And we knew right away we were onto a winner. If you were running for mayor, what would your campaign slogan be?
“Pies for all!” Or something like that - I have no political aspirations. I’ll stick to baking!
By JONATHAN ROE
This past week, Orange commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and remembered the bravery of Australians who served through the Vietnam War.
On Friday, August 15, a small crowd gathered at the Cenotaph in Robertson Park to mark Victory in the Pacific Day, this year being the 80th anniversary of the day Imperial Japan surrendered in World War II. Giving the Occasional Address was Orange High School student Akash-Rei Taylor who said the VP Day is not a celebration of conflict, but a day of reflection on human endurance, of solemn tribute to every sacrifice made in pursuit of freedom and peace.
“Eighty years ago today, on the 15th of August 1945, the long and bitter war in our region came to an end… and the guns that thundered for years finally fell silent. In that moment, a chapter of fear, loss and unrelenting struggle closed, and a new chapter - one of peace began.
“We remember the courage of all who served from
jungles in New Guinea to the shores of Borneo. From ships on the Coral Sea to prisoner of war camps in Asia. We reflect on those who came bearing visible scars and those who carried wounds no one could see.
We think of those who never came home and those whose final resting place remained unnamed.
“May these stories both heard and unheard ever guide us to teach our children remembrance as a living legacy, inspiring them to nurture a world truly worthy of what was given.
“To those who served, to those who didn’t return, and to those carrying the memory of loss, we offer you our deepest gratitude. Lest we forget.”
Fellow Orange High School Natalia Wisse gave a rendition of “Amazing Grace” and led those gathered in singing “Advance Australia Fair”. Orange East Public School student Alexis Wynne recited the poem “Kokoda”.
On Monday, August 19, local Vietnam Veterans and their families gathered once more at the Cenotaph to commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day, held on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
Almost 60,000 Australians served during the decade of conflict in Vietnam between 1962 and 1972. About 3,000 Australians were wounded during the war, and 524 died during their service in Vietnam or as a result of that service.
By JONATHAN ROE
When Orange’s Vinnie Van volunteers head out on their twice-weekly night patrol, they will now do so with a little reminder of the woman whose amazing efforts created the service 17 years ago.
Orange’s new Vinnies Van was officially commissioned into service last week, with Fr Greg Bellamy giving a special blessing for the vehicle, which has been named “Rosie” to honour the work of Rosie Frecklington in founding our local Night Patrol service.
“Rosie was the driving force to create the service,” Vinnies Van Service Coordinator Keith Dowling said.
“She recognised the need at the time to help community members doing it tough and single-handedly she gathered together a number of different people through Vinnies and advocated for a service to be established here.”
When Rosie first began the then fortnightly service, she and her volunteers were distributing free meals to those who needed it from the back of a ute, Keith said.
“Which was successful, but wasn’t satisfactory. So she lobbied Vinnie’s for a vehicle and got the old van. She went to Cadia mines, which funded the fit-
out of the old vehicle and she gathered together volunteers to be able to go out at that stage every fortnight on a Monday and Wednesday.
“So Rosie had a lot to do with the formation and startup of the service so that’s why we wanted to be able to recognise her for the efforts that she made by naming the new vehicle after her.”
Rosie, who suffers from Parkinson’s Disease and is now in full-time care, was joined by family members at the service to see the christening of the new vehicle, which now bears her name.
“Rosie has a very difficult time with her condition to be able to express
relief but a holistic referral service and most importantly, companionship to those doing it tough in our community.
herself these days. She does find it difficult to talk, but she was very pleased and absolutely thrilled about attending last Sunday,” Keith said.
Rosie was also know for always wearing flowers in her hair, Keith said, and along with the name “Rosie” the new van also bears a pink hibiscus flower, which is her favourite.
From those early beginnings 17 years ago, the Orange Vinnies Van Service has expanded so that the Night Patrol now hits the streets each Monday and Wednesday night every week, stopping at five locations around Orange to offer food, snacks and beverages to anyone who approaches the van.
Volunteers provide not only food
Keith said the new vehicle will ensure the continuation of this critical service, but also gives them the ability to develop daytime hubs or “pop-up” shops with other local service providers to deliver a real wrap-around referral for those in need.
“Just as important is the capacity to respond directly to an increasing likelihood of natural disaster events in the communities and towns surrounding Orange,” he added.
But to do so, the service needs both financial support and new volunteers.
On Friday, August 29, is the Orange Vinnies Van Community Sleepout, the service’s major fundraiser for the year. The sleepout offers a glimpse into the reality of our vulnerable community members who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, while also enabling you to make a real difference by supporting the Van service.
This year’s ambassador and guest speaker is Dr Gregory P Smith OAM.
To register or to donate, visit https:// bit.ly/4kuw4sa
If you are interested in volunteering with the Vinnies Van, call Keith Dowling on 0403 102 681.
By JONATHAN ROE
As locals gathered in Robertson Park on Friday to commemorate the 80th Victory in the Pacific Day, Bob McNeill wanted to make sure there would be at least one World War II ‘veteran’ present for the historic occasion.
“The vehicle is a 1943 Chevrolet C15A,” Bob said of his restored World War II era truck.
The body of the truck was made in Australia by Holden to a Canadian pattern, Bob said, but the chassis and running gear all came out of Canada.
These Chevrolet trucks saw service all over the world during the war, but this particular truck remained within Australia and was used by the army until 1954 when it was bought by a farmer in Forbes.
“As far as we know, it wasn’t sent overseas, because he doesn’t have any rust in it,” Bob said.
“When we picked it up in ‘93, it was an absolute wreck! But it is the “sunshine roof” - canvas doors, canvas roof - unlike most of the others, which have got a steel roof with the hatch in them.”
“But until mum died in 1992, he would not talk about the War, what he did and and where he was… we knew he was artillery by some of his photographs
“In ‘92, he came with me to a War Memorial celebration and he then returned every couple of years to Canberra by invitation - we even towed the guns down there to be part of the ‘95 Memorial… he was in attendance with his medals on, and in his original uniform.”
Bob’s interests in these vehicles stem from his first job working for a firm selling ex-military equipment. But it was only when his father began to open up about his own war experiences that Bob began his collection of trucks and artillery pieces.
“My father, Richard Blade McNeil, was 2/9th Australian Field Regiment artillery and served in the Middle East and Dutch New Guinea,” Bob said.
Bob’s Chevrolet truck may not have been overseas during the war, but shortly after restoring it, he had it shipped to England for the 50th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
“We took two trucks to England. I drove one, the wife drove the other, and we had the kids with us,” Bob recalled. “We had two months, kicking around England and France and it was an absolutely magic tour!
“We had three-and-a-half thousand restored military vehicles, all built between ‘39 and ‘45... Wow! You could only get them together once!”
Last week, our Year 5 students embarked on an unforgettable educational journey to Canberra, Australia’s capital city. The excursion provided an excellent opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of Australia’s history, government, and culture through immersive, hands-on experiences.
The adventure began at The Royal Australian Mint, where students learned how Australian coins are made. They then visited Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre, engaging with interactive exhibits that sparked curiosity and enthusiasm for science and innovation.
The group toured Parliament House, gaining insight into the workings of the Australian government and the democratic process. At the Museum of Australian Democracy (MOAD), students explored the power of people’s voices in shaping the nation. They also wandered through the National Portrait Gallery, soaking in the stories behind the faces that have helped shape Australia. The day concluded with an evening of orienteering after dark at the National Arboretum, enhancing teamwork and navigation skills.
Adding to the excitement, the students visited the National Zoo and Aquarium, encountering native and exotic animals while learning about conservation and biodiversity.
Beyond the educational benefits, the excursion fostered friendships and teamwork as students navigated the city and participated in group activities like laser tag. Teachers praised the students’ enthusiasm and maturity throughout the trip.
This Canberra excursion not only enriched the Year 5 curriculum but also inspired students to become informed and active citizens. We are grateful to all the staff and parents whose support made this unforgettable experience possible.
Our students returned with new knowledge, unforgettable memories, and a greater appreciation for Australia’s capital and its significance.
I’ve been a parent for 16 years, eight months, and 24 days (how good is ChatGPT at doing maths for us?), and I have learnt surprisingly few things in that time. But I DO know, with absolute certainty:
Every word to every Wiggles song from the rarely-spoken-of “Sam era”. It’s not often I get to break out in song while singing about ‘Rock-a bye Your Bear’, but I could if I wanted to. This is however where my musical parenting ended. My kids are currently faithful disciples of K-Pop Demon Hunters, and I refuse to engage. If they need me, I’ll be at the kettle humming about ‘Rosy Tea’.
The names of all of my children’s friends. I pay careful attention to their stories so I am connected to them, they know I’m interested in their lives and hopefully they are learning how much I care about them, and they will continue to talk to me as they turn into
teens and adults. I know only one of my children’s friends’ parents’ names. The rest are saved in my phone as “Hannah’s Mum” and “Alex’s Dad”.
How to catch vomit in my hands. This is a skill honed as you parent toddlers and, although it’s disgusting, it’s so much easier than cleaning it out of the carpet. This is an invaluable skill, yet rarely mentioned in job interviews, at awards ceremonies, and on resumes. Be proud, fellow parents.
How to sneak carrots and other vegetables into meals. My rissoles are 50 per cent veggie these days, my lasagne barely qualifies as a source of protein, and even my brownies have beetroot in them. At this point I reckon I could get carrot into bechamel, undetected. I’m THAT good.
How to read stories out loud, while doing unique yet culturally sensitive voices for each individual character. I was a parent before audio books, and
I’m old school. Clifford’s owner Emily Elizabeth is a bit stuck up, Billie B. Brown is wild, and the king of all wild things talks sternly and with authority to those monsters. Again, there should be awards for this.
That’s a complete list.
Things I HAVEN’T learned:
A single marketable skill that would translate to a decently-paying job with good hours and a respectful career path.
A discipline technique that works consistently with all of the children. Be strong, but understanding. Show compassion, but stay firm. Try not to say “What the f***” out loud. Cry in short efficient bursts, such as the bathroom at work, the drive to work, and as you brush your six-yearold’s hair while they scream like a banshee. Crying in the shower is no longer recommended due to a lack of
water security moving forward. What worked today with your kids will not work tomorrow.
How to make friends with the other parents. (This might just be me, my overwhelming exhaustion and my resting b**** face, though.) I’ll continue to work on this. I might text Hannah’s mum and see if she wants to get a coffee tomorrow, actually.
However, the simple truth is that parenting is hard and you can’t do it alone. I would quit without my husband, group chat, friends I actually see in person semi-regularly, and everyone else out there in the same boat as me. I absolutely love getting your feedback and emails at the office... I stop and read every single one. So, thank you, kind readers, for letting me know I’m not alone in this ongoing learning process called parenting.
By DANIEL MCGREGOR, WEALTH TRAIN, ORANGE
When was the last time you got in the car to drive somewhere you hadn’t been before without looking up directions or having a map to follow?
Our financial futures are the same, yet most of us don’t have a financial roadmap to follow. Instead, most of us make regular financial decisions without really knowing where they are leading us.
For starters, where would you like your financial journey to take you? What is the financial future you would like to work towards? Once you know that, the steps can start to be put in place to work out how to get there.
When it comes to our finances, often we’ll need to take detours and sometimes use more fuel than at other times. Sometimes our financial ‘vehicles’ will need a few ‘repairs’ along the way. And sometimes we’ll need to
make a few upgrades.
They key is to know the destination you are trying to reach.
That’s why financial planning is so important. The reality is that most Australians put more effort into planning their last holiday than they put into planning their financial futures. And that is why when it comes time to retire - the ultimate destination for financial freedom – so many people end up regretting not having had a financial plan to get them to the retirement destination they were hoping to reach.
Most of us have hobbies and interests that we’d happily be doing rather than working. Unfortunately, the reality is that once most people reach retirement, they have to reduce their lifestyle because they don’t have the money to fund the lifestyle they had while they were working. In a lot of cases, that lifestyle reduction is dramatic.
Often, financial planning is new territory for most people. The first step is getting started. And as is the case with many activities people might do while on holidays, it is useful to have a guide to help you navigate the best way to get to the destination you would like to reach. When it comes to money, that guide is a financial adviser.
Money isn’t hard, it’s not actually complicated at all.
The difficult part is getting hold of the map and then getting started. Sadly, too many people don’t challenge the status quo and are slowly but surely veering further and further off course as each year passes.
The airline industry has a rule of thumb known as the 1 in 60 rule: for every 1 degree a plane veers off its course, it misses its target destination by 1 mile for every 60 miles you fly. This means that the further you travel, the further off course you are.
The flight distance from Sydney to Melbourne is 713 kms. Veering off course by just one degree would see the plane miss the airport by more than almost 12 kms!
In a plane, veering off course can be life-threatening… a mountain might end up being in the way! When it comes to your finances, veering off course is unlikely to be life-threatening, but it is almost certainly lifestyle-threatening.
Don’t keep going through life on autopilot in potentially the wrong direction. If you are potentially veering off course, now is the time to start following the map to the destination you want to reach!
Do you have a roadmap for your finances or are you flying blind? Either way, perhaps now is the perfect time to book a free initial appointment and check where your journey is taking you.
Lung cancer is a serious disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs. It is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia despite being only the fifth most
common cancer.
Catching lung cancer early, before there are any signs of symptoms of its presence, is critical as treatment is more effective when the disease is identified in the initial stages.
On 1 July 2025, Australia launched its first-ever National Lung Cancer Screening Program— an ambitious initiative designed to detect lung cancer early, improve survival rates, and ultimately save lives. With lung cancer ranking as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country, the program marks a vital step forward in national cancer prevention strategy. Without screening, only about 16% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage, but with Australia’s new National
Lung Cancer Screening Program, that figure is expected to jump to 60%, potentially reducing late-stage diagnoses and ultimately saving lives.
The screening program is tailored for Australians aged 50 to 70 who do not have any symptoms of lung cancer, but have a history of smoking—specifically, those who have a significant history of smoking and currently smoke or quit within the last 10 years. These individuals will undergo regular low-dose CT scans to identify lung cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. Early diagnosis greatly enhances the likelihood of successful treatment. While early lung cancer can often be treated surgically, later stages typically require more intensive care, and outcomes tend to be poorer. By catching cancer early, the program is expected to save hundreds of lives annually.
Based on scan results, individuals may receive reminders for future scans ranging from three months
to two years or be referred to specialists if high-risk findings are detected. The screening program also accounts for findings unrelated to lung cancer, ensuring participants receive appropriate care and remain eligible for continued screening where safe.
With evidence showing that lowdose CT scans can detect up to 70% of early-stage lung cancers—and that early-stage cancers have a treatment success rate above 65%— Australia’s National Lung Cancer Screening Program could reshape the cancer landscape for years to come.
In order to access this free service you must have a referral from a GP. If you think that you might benefit from lung cancer screening, talk to your GP.
On Monday 18 August, our region and country came together to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War and 59th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
At the Orange Vietnam Veterans Day service, I was honoured to deliver the address, alongside Chris
proudly showed me his beautiful piece Magical Light, and Year 6 finalist Connor was excited to show off his outstanding clay artwork. Nice work all around!
A big shout-out to Principal Jo Flynn, the talented Stage 3 teachers, and all the students for creating such incredible works. Your creativity and
are certainly something to be proud of!
Colvin, President of the Orange RSL Sub-Branch.
The Rev Gary Neville led the prayers, with moving performances by students from Orange High School, and the proud presence of cadets from the 252 Army Cadet Unit.
The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th Century. Over a decade, 60,000
Imet two young gun kart racers last weekend –Charlie and Stanley – plus Stanley’s dad, Richard. They were at Orange Kart Club with competitors from all over the state for the Dunlop Kart Stars Championship! Keep up the great driving boys, and all the best for the rest of the comp!
Thanks for showing me around the kart!
Australians served, with 3,000 wounded and 523 never coming home.
As I said in my speech, words will never be enough, but on behalf of a grateful community, to all Vietnam veterans and their families - a heartfelt thank you.
They are great Australians.
Lest We Forget.
Tuesday was a special day for the Borenore community!
I had the honour of cutting the ribbon at the opening of the Borenore CWA Memorial Hall amenities block, a project the CWA has been working on for a long time.
Yep those old long drops are finally a thing of the past!
This wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of CWA members, who put in a mighty effort to prepare and manage the grant that made today’s opening a reality.
The weather kept us inside, but we still cut the ribbon in true style in the warmth of the hall in front of a capacity crowd!
A highlight of the day was the performance from the Borenore School kids. Their recorder rendition of Mary Had a Little Lamb and lively version of Iko Iko had everyone smiling.
We then joined together for the annual Soup Day fundraiser, complete with Dawn’s famous apple slice which was a perfect way to round out a wonderful celebration of community spirit.
Thank you Borenore CWA for the wonderful work you do for the Borenore community, our region and country!
By JONATHAN ROE
The school library at Bowen Public School has been the gateway to the magical worlds of the imagination for thousands of students over the years, but now those worlds have been brought to life on the library walls, thanks to a stunning new mural unveiled just in time for Book Week.
“This is the final piece to finish our library,” explained Bowen School principal Marianne Pankhurst.
“We have worked on our library space all last year, we’ve furnished and upgraded it, and this is the final piece.”
Created by the Brookvale-based Edugrafix Group, the mural depicts renditions of numerous popular children’s book characters from the BFG and Pig the Pug to the Gruff alo and the Wild Robot - all set upon a
background of Orange landmarks with Gaanha Bula-Mount Canobolas in the centre.
“Originally, the design started as Alice in Wonderland and then it totally transformed,” Mrs Panjkhurst said.
“We said, ‘Can you add Mount Canobolas?’ and then the concept just changed and the background became all of the Orange surrounding area.
“So the waterfall represents Federal Falls, Mount Canobolas in the background and the water here is out at Ophir. Even the trees, originally, were deciduous, and that transformed as we wanted more natives to represent the local area more.”
Mrs Pankhurst said the mural has been in the planning for some time now and it was great to have it finalised in time for Book Week.
“It’s fantastic that it’s here now. This is the completion of our library. We’ve been waiting all year for it, so we’re all very excited – and the kids are excited as well!” Mrs Pankhurst said.
Year 2 student Gracie agreed and said she loved seeing her favourite book character on the library wall.
“It has lots of my favourite book characters!” Gracie said, adding that Pig the Pug and Matilda were particular favourites.
“It’s really colourful, and I really like it that you can see Mount Canobolas!”
Parents and other visitors had a chance to see the library transformation after the school’s Book Week celebrations last Wednesday.
Specialised hearing and balance assessments you’d normally travel to Sydney for are now available right here in Orange with the opening of Central West Audiology.
Located at the Bloomfield Medical Centre, Central West Audiology was founded in January by Megan Price, a highly experienced audiologist with over 20 years in the field.
A resident of Orange for the past 12 years, Megan brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to her new practice, offering a range of specialised diagnostic tests unavailable at your average hearing aid provider.
“We really go beyond the standard testing to try and help the ENTs and GPs to better diagnose what might be going on,” Megan says.
“For example, I do a full hearing test plus extended high frequency testing and what that means is, sometimes we can detect conditions a lot earlier than what you would in the standard testing range.”
Other specialised services Megan provides include
reflexometry to test the auditory system’s neural pathways in reaction to loud sounds, objective “echo” testing, and specialised ear pressure assessments, which she says are essential for diagnosing children.
“Basic assessments just tell you if the eardrum’s moving or not, but here we go beyond that and tell you what’s happening behind the eardrum,” she explains.
“The ENTs find this beneficial as we are able to determine if a child has a temporary problem, or something more severe, which may require further surgical intervention. This assists us to triage those patients a lot quicker, which is particularly beneficial when ENTs currently have a six to ninemonth wait list.”
Central West Audiology also offers vestibular or balance assessments for patients with debilitating dizziness, using advanced eye-movement and electrode testing as well as brain stem testing for other conditions.
“That service isn’t normally available unless you go to Sydney,” Megan said. “So people are often commuting quite a way to come and get the test done, and we routinely see people from Parkes, Canowindra, Dubbo, and Nyngan.
Megan is one of the only audiologists in the region providing children’s hearing assessments with Medicare rebates. She regularly works with paediatricians to rule out hearing loss before further assessment for speech delays, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder or other developmental concerns.
And Central West Audiology can also offer independent advice on hearing aids.
“We don’t sell or fit hearing aids, so people are often coming in looking for a second opinion and an independent opinion,” Megan said.
“We do provide and fit hearing implant devices, so encourage those who have tried hearing aids and feel they have been unsuccessful, to come in for a discussion about implant possibilities”.
To see Megan, get in touch by contacting Central West Audiology on (02) 5335 6565 or visit their website, www.centralwestaudiology.com.au
Patients must be referred by a GP to access Medicare rebates, but private bookings are also available.
Central West Audiology is located in the Bloomfield Medical Centre, Level 5, 1521 Forest Road, Orange.
Diagnostic Audiology can make all the difference.
How we differ
- Otoacoustic Emissions Balance Assessments
Central West Audiology - Bloomfield Specialist Group Level 5 / 1521 Forest Road, Orange NSW 2800 Ph: 02 5335 6565 - Option 5
Every Eagles tribute show will attempt Hotel California, however, none will do it as well as Desperado The Eagles Show!
This tasteful Australian tribute show to the world’s topselling band, The Eagles, have been performing in Sydney’s largest venues for over 10 years and have established a loyal following which continues to grow show after show. Come and see why! You will be assured of an awesome Eagles experience not to be missed.
“If you closed your eyes, you would be forgiven for thinking you were listening to the real Eagles,” have said punters after a show.
OrangeCityLife has two tickets to give away to one lucky reader. All you have to do is scan the QR code and enter your details before 5pm Monday, August 25 and you and a friend could be going to see Desperado The Eagles Show at the Orange Bowlo on Friday, August 29. For more information on everything coming up at the Bowlo and to purchase tickets, visit ocbc.org.au/ entertainment
Cast: JAustin Butler, Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber
Hank Thompson, a burned-out former baseball player, is unwittingly plunged into a wild fight for survival in the downtown criminal underworld of ‘90s New York City.
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Comedy
Cast: Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, Robert Shaw, Murray Hamilton, Lorraine Gary
When an insatiable great white shark terrorizes the townspeople of Amity Island, the police chief, an oceanographer and a grizzled shark hunter seek to destroy the blood-thirsty beast.
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Thriller
Cast: Mohanlal, Malavika Mohanan, Sangita, Sangeeth Prathap, Siddique
Hridayapoorvam (transl. Heartily) is a “sliceof-life” drama with a focus on interpersonal relationships and emotional realism, directed by Sathyan Anthikad from a screenplay by Sonu T. P., based on a story by Anthikad’s son Akhil Sathyan.
Special Event: This session is a special eventnormal ticket prices/conditions may not apply, see Prices & Deals August 28
www.orange.nsw.gov.au
Orange City Council is encouraging residents to consider volunteering with the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS).
ACVVS matches friendly visitors with older people wanting social connections. It is seeking people to volunteer for a minimum of one hour a fortnight to provide friendship and companionship for older people living in Orange.
Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee
Chair Marea Ruddy encouraged people to consider making a difference in an older person’s life.
“Just an hour a fortnight could bring joy to someone feeling lonely or isolated, and improve their quality of life,” Cr Ruddy said.
“It’s not just a nice thing to do, it’s fun, rewarding and interesting. Plus, you could make someone’s day.
The free Australian Government scheme is delivered by Orange City Council and is available to anyone on a Home Care Package or living in residential aged care.
Orange City Council has received a Highly Commended award in the RH Dougherty Award for Excellence in Communication, recognising the success of its marketing and communications campaign for Zest Fest 2024.
The award, presented by Local Government NSW, recognises and encourages excellence in communication between councils and their communities. Council’s entry was judged in Division B – for councils serving populations between 30,000 and 100,000 people.
The award recognises the campaign used to promote Zest Fest as a free, communityfocused music event, distinct from the region’s established premium food and wine festivals.
Volunteers can visit the older person in their own home, their aged-care residence or a public venue.
To be a volunteer visitor you must:
• Be over 18 years of age
• Be available for one hour a fortnight
• Have access to transport
• Undergo an application and orientation process
• Obtain police checks as required.
To find out more about becoming a volunteer or recipient of the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, contact ACVVS Program Support Worker Levon Fisher at Orange City Council’s Community Services on 6393 8600.
Volunteers will receive training from Orange City Council and must complete a police check and volunteer induction.
The campaign was developed and delivered in-house by Council’s marketing, branding and communications team.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said the award was recognition for the team’s creative and targeted approach.
“Zest Fest was designed to bring people together and showcase our local talent. The inhouse team delivered a campaign that captured that spirit and reached the right audiences,” Cr Mileto said.
Zest Fest will return on Saturday 1 November 2025, bringing another day of free live music and community celebration to the heart of Orange.
The Gruffalo’s Child
CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT
Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in this magical musical adaptation of the much- loved picture book.
The team behind The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and The 13-, 26-, 52-, 78- & 91-Storey Treehouses return with The Gruffalo’s Child, bringing together physical theatre, music and puppetry to deliver songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up, and their adults.
Orange Civic Theatre 135 Byng Street
Wednesday 27 August, 6pm
Bookings: www.orange.nsw.gov.au/theatre/
Educator Evening at Orange Regional Museum
INFORMING OUR EDUCATORS
Teachers and educators – join us at Orange Regional Museum for our free ‘Educator Evening’ in Term 3. Discover what’s in our exhibition program for the rest of 2025 and through 2026, and new opportunities in our school visit program.
We’ll also give you a curator’s preview of our new permanent local history exhibition, which is still in development and scheduled to open in late 2026.
Orange Regional Museum
151 Byng Street
Wednesday 27 August 6pm-7.30pm
Bookings: Eventbrite
From Figaro to Phantom
HIGH CALIBRE MUSIC THEATRE
Experience some of the most magical musical moments of international song with one of Australia’s leading acts, sensational Australian group Pot-Pourri. Featuring most-loved highlights from Broadway, music theatre and opera including Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Carmen, La Traviata and Madam Butterfly, to name a few.
These talented artists hit those high notes, belt out Broadway, seduce with song, dance up a storm, create magic and stir your soul with haunting didgeridoo and ballads.
Orange Civic Theatre
135 Byng Street
Sunday 31 August, 2pm
Bookings: www.orange.nsw.gov.au/theatre/
BUSINESS MASTERCLASS
Running a business solo can be challenging. Business Roundtable is a no-pitch, no-fluff discussion evening for solopreneurs, side-hustlers, and freelancers to share experiences, swap ideas and explore the realities of solo business ownership, from finances to marketing, burnout to boundaries.
Facilitated by Emily Mann of Mann Power, this is a chance to connect with like-minded business owners, gain valuable insights, and build meaningful connections through open, respectful conversation. Presented by Regional Development Australia Central West, with support from Newmont Cadia and Orange City Council.
Orange Visitor Information Centre
151 Byng Street
Thursday 18 September, 6pm – 8.30pm
Bookings: Humanitix
By CEC TILBURG
Central West Comedy hosted wellknown comedian and TV star Luke McGregor for a big night of laughs at the Orange Function Centre on Saturday, August 16. It was a fantastic turnout, with more than 400 people filling the venue. And there will be more to come, says promoter Nick Gleeson, with Mel Buttle appearing at the Function Centre on November 28 as part of the inaugural Orange Comedy Festival!
reception@oclife.com.au Have something of interest to share?
There is something very special about watching young lambs at play. It can be a sign of spring seeing them leap around, playfully butting heads and crying ‘maa’ for their mothers.
But cute lambs grow into adult sheep, who only leap when it’s essential and who don’t want to go through an open gate they haven’t been through before.
Some people say sheep are dumb but really they are just being stubborn. The grass in the next paddock might be greener and longer but why would you go through that gate?
They need a farmer who cares enough to open the gate and then lead them through it.
The Bible describes people as having stubborn hearts and as sheep in need of a shepherd. Wandering around our life paddock we can miss the bigger picture. We are actually lost. The Bible also describes Jesus as the shepherd, who laid down his life for his sheep to change their hearts and be their gate to eternal life.
So, as spring draws closer it’s a good time to consider asking Jesus to take you by the hand and lead you now and into eternity – he is the Good Shepherd.
Suellen Milham
If you have any questions you would like answered, ideas for articles, or would like to find out more about Jesus click this QR code
1- Scan the QR code
2- Enter your name and contact details. 3- Submit your competition answers.
Automatically go into an additional draw for a chance to win a $20 food and beverage voucher from the Orange City Bowling Club!
As a trusted regional financial services provider for 60 years, Bank Orange invites all of our valued members, customers and the wider community to join us for a free community Stay Safe Financial Wellness information forum on September 23 to increase prevention of scams and highlight the importance of financial literacy and online banking.
Similar to previous educational forums, Orange is partnering with NSW Police as local security and crime prevention experts to explore the latest trends, types of scams, what to look out for and simple ways to stay safe online.
Latest ACCC Scamwatch research reveals scams are becoming more common and sophisticated, costing the community hundreds of millions of dollars every year.
Tuesday, 23 September 5:30pm – 7pm Hotel Canobolas – Summer Street, Orange Light supper provided Free for members, customers and the community.
When suspicious activity is reported to financial providers quickly, every effort can be made to recover funds, however the victims are often left out of pocket as scammers are using complex emotional and psychological manipulation to convince their victims to give the scammers access to their bank accounts.
Situated in a tranquil neighbourhood, this delightful three-bedroom house is the perfect blend of comfort and style, boasting an impressive 597 sqm land area, providing ample space for your family to grow and thrive.
The combined kitchen and meals area is a great space and leads out to the sunroom with its views over the securely fenced backyard. The three bedrooms are generous in size, featuring built-in robes, ceiling fans in Bedrooms 2 and 3 and a split AC in the master. The main bedroom is also able to directly access the two-way bathroom with a separate WC. Enjoy the versatility of the living room, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy movie night, while staying
comfortable year-round with split airconditioning and gas heating, ensuring a cozy atmosphere no matter the season. The backyard is a manageable size and boasts both an alfresco and a handy garden shed. With near new carpet throughout and fresh paint and window treatments, this home is neat and tidy.
Boasting a solid rental history and currently tenanted until the end of January 2025 with great people who are happy to stay, this is a great investment property to augment your portfolio.
Situated in a friendly neighbourhood, it is approximately three blocks from the CBD and offers easy access to local schools, parks, and shopping centres, making it an ideal location for families.
Stylish modern living ready to enjoy.
This 4 year old property combines quality craftsmanship with stylish design to deliver comfort, functionality, and elegance.
• Four generously sized bedrooms, all with built-in storage
• Two well-appointed bathrooms, inc. a private ensuite to the master suite
• Spacious open plan living & dining areas
• Double lock-up garage with internal access. For Sale
1:15pm - 1:45pm
Estate
Marty Lyden 0404 070 391 martin.lyden@elders.com.au
Katie Christopherson 0400 637 559 katie.christopherson@elders.com.au
seems like the perfect rural lifestyle setting. The location, 20 km from the centre of Molong, offers a balance of privacy and accessibility.
•
Productive mixed grazing enterprise.
• 1,167* Acres of highly efficient backgrounding and finishing country.
• 1,194 ML Bore and river irrigation entitlement
• Three-stand StockPro shed, Prattley yards, loading ramp & dual covered race
• Extensive working infrastructure
• Two renovated homesteads.
Approximately
•
•
•
1:15
10:30 - 11:0020 VALENCIA DRIVE 422CONTACT AGENT 11:30- 12:00 11 THE OVERFLOW 835CONTACT AGENT
12:00- 12:3040 HILL STREET, BLAYNEY 531$750,000 - $800,000
2:00 - 2:30 2/99 BATHURST ROAD 211$695,000
2:00 - 2:305/99 BATHURST ROAD322$850,000
2:00- 2:306/99 BATHURST ROAD311$729,000
2:00 - 2:307/99 BATHURST ROAD321$899,000
10.30 - 11.006 BURREBURRY CRESCENT 321$820,000 11.30 - 12.00 2 ALAN RIDLEY PLACE 311$699,000
12.30 - 1.008 BARDIA AVENUE ORANGE 31 $459,000 1.30 - 2.00 9
11.00 - 11.3022 MOUNTAIN VISTA ORANGE 422$1.38M -$1.43M RAY WHITE
10:00 - 10:3089 Sale Street, Orange 31 $820,000 - $850,000
10:45 - 11:15117 Dalton Street, Orange311Contact Agent
11:30 - 12:00253 Byng Street Orange423$890,000
11:30 - 12:003/335a Anson Street, Orange211$525,000
ONE AGENCY
10:00-10:30 16 Kooronga Avenue, Orange311$660,000
11:00-11:301/25 Hughes Street, Orange422$1,300,000 - $1,325,000
11:00-11:3051 Kooronga Avenue, Orange522$800,000 - $850,000
12:00-12:304/71A Moulder Street, Orange321$825,000 - $850,000
Today at Orange City Life, we are launching a new, easy way to enter our regular competitions and giving readers another chance to win each and every week!
We previously mentioned that we would be making a few tweaks to our entry process, as recent staffing changes highlighted the fact that we really need to streamline things a little bit.
Currently, we accept competition entries via email, regular mail and in person, with entries coming in to us written on envelopes or scraps of paper. It’s a fair bit to sort through on a busy deadline day, plus we end up with a pile of paper entries that go straight to the recycling bin.
Just keeping on top of the email entries is nearly a full-time job. So starting this week, we are moving to a more simplified and mostly paperless entry system.
To enter, all you do is scan the QR code you’ll find on our competition page, and it
will take you to a form where you can fill in your name, contact details and competition answers - it’s that simple! We have run many popular one-off competitions like this over the past two years (like our recent ticket giveaway to The Fire Set), so we know you are familiar with how it works.
Don’t panic! We don’t want to stop any of our readers from being able to enter, and for now, you can continue to enter as before if you wish.
BUT, as a little incentive for those who do enter via the QR code, we are offering a chance to win another great prize!
Every entry submitted via the QR code will go in the draw for a chance to win a $20 food and beverage voucherat the Orange City Bowling Club (gaming excluded).
That means whether you are putting in an entry for Find Pinny, What Am I Watching?, Face In The Crowd, or Name That Business, you will also go in the draw to win $20 to treat yourself to a great meal at the Orange Bowlo Bistro We will also pin a link to the
competition entry form on our Facebook page.
If you have any trouble placing an entry, feel free to get in touch with us. For those of our readers who prefer to enter in person, we can walk you through the process in our office and will even have an entry point set up for you.
New way to enter our regular competitions
How it works
1. Scan the QR code you’ll find on our competitions page.
2.Enter your name and contact details.
3.Submit your competition answers.
Automatically go into an additional draw for a chance to win a $20 Orange Bowlo Club Voucher!
Submit your competition entries via our online form for a chance to win a $20 voucher to spend as you choose at the Orange City Bowling Club.
1- Scan the QR code 2- Enter your name and contact details. 3- Submit your competition details.3- answers. Automatically go into an additional draw for a chance to win a $20 food and beverage voucher from the Orange City Bowling Club!
If you are thinking of buying or selling property, need a Will, or would like to update your existing Will or Power of Attorney, then call me for a chat or send me an email to discuss your situation
Name and age: Rose, 7
Who is your favourite teacher? Mrs Papich, she gives me big hugs.
What is something that makes you really, really happy? Being funny!
If you were principal of the school for one day, what’s the first thing you’d do? Make everyone eat fruit and veggies. What is your favourite food? Mango.
What’s your favourite thing to do at school? Play with my friends.
What’s the most important job in the world? Being a firefighter.
If you could open a shop, what would it sell? Fruit and veggies. I go to the fruit and veggie shop with my parents.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
Invisibility. I’d sneak into my brother’s room. He’s three. I’d go and see what he’s doing.
1- Scan the QR code 2- Enter your name and contact details. 3- Submit your competition details.3- answers. Automatically go into an additional draw for a chance to win a $20 food and beverage voucher from the Orange City Bowling Club!
LastWeek’sAnswer: Page 17
By CEC TILBURG
Soccer players of all grades faced frigid conditions on Saturday, August 16, and it wasn’t the most enjoyable conditions for outdoor sports, but it is winter in Orange after all.
Our photographer braved the cold to catch some of the action at Jack Brabham Park, with the CSU Cockatoos taking on Barnstoneworth United FC in the Female Open Division. Both sides put in strong performances, with the game finish a 1-1 draw.
By HENRY DEROOY
It was a big weekend of motor sport in the Colour City with the Orange Kart Club hosting Round 5 of the Dunlop Kart Stars Championship. Hundreds of competitors from across the state travelled to Orange for the two-day karting event, which is the largest on the local club’s calendar. OC Life stopped by on Saturday to catch some of the action on and off the track.
Once again there are several Stars to be mentioned, so let’s get going with a look at the Monday 10am league where Justin Smart bowled 185 over average, and he was followed by Travis McMahon from the Monday 7.30pm league with 166 over average, and he was ahead of Steven Randell from the Thursday 6.00pm league with 128 over average and then there was Steven Eslick from the Tuesday Scratch Singles with 116 over average for the series.
Not to be ignored there was also Alan Lickiewicz from the Thursday 7.30pm league with 116 over average, to be followed by Lachlan Turner from the Junior Singles Challenge with 102 over average and he was followed by Hannah McClennan from the Friday juniors with 101 over average and finally there was Hugo Belmonte from the Monday juniors with a neat 100 over average for the series.
Star Bowler of the week and winner of the Auto Wash compliments of Race Track Car Wash was Justin Smart, who bowled magnificently with that score of 185 over average for the series.
This week’s High Roller champion and winner of the three free practice games was a very familiar name, and that was Justin Smart, who scored a great 268 (PB). As that score was 81 over average and part of his 185 over average for the series, Justin was named the second Man of the Moment for August and next in line hoping for the voucher from Guys Cuts.
There were plenty of other bowlers hoping to beat Justin, among them being Steven Eslick 214, Jacob French 264, Jason Brown 246, Julie Swallow 200, Travis McMahon 268, Alex Gaeta 206, Brody Jadezak 210, Josh Downey 210 (PB), Josh Johnstone 210, Hugo Belmonte 256 (PB), Isaac Perry 208, Patrick Govier 249, Tyler King 221, Joshua Harman 213, Alan
Star Bowler of the week and this week’s High Roller champion was Justin Smart.
Lickiewicz 236, Garry Hildebrandt 202 (PB), Gary James 203, Jack Webb 257 and Josh Thornton 224.
The Almost Made it Hero and winner of the open order from Kings Takeaway at Greengate was Leanne Corbett , who scored 173 (PB), As this score was 52 over average, Leanne was named the second Female of Note for August and next in line hoping for the Gift Certificate from MJ’s All Hair-All Occasions.
Others feeling hungry included Jasper Duncan 117, Gypsy Marley 117, Lani Gouge 177, Marilyn Brouwers 122, Graham Culverson 155, Rob Ebert 154, Callum Reilly 124, Kobi Bailey Furner 134, Harrison Bailey Furner 154, Gae Claydon 170, Isaac Clifton 145, Jenny MacDouall 149, Charlie Banham 168 (PB), Charmaine Ward 134, Nick Miller 191, Lisa Everett 171, Anne Maree Johnstone 188, Chris English 117, Jeremy Jones 171, Nadia Murray 171 (PB), Evan Veitch 171, Nick Culverson 179, Steven Randell 180 (PB), Xavier Mason 196, Janine Formby 170 and Liam Whitton 197.
Junior of the Week and winner of the free game compliments of Orange Tenpin Bowl was Hugo Belmonte, whose score of 256 (PB) was 78 over average.
A sunny but cool Tuesday greeted Orange City bowler’s last week. Four rinks of social triples were played on the day with some close scores.
The team of Lynn Wittig, Pat Nokes and Jenny Lowe defeated Toosje Webster, Pat Stedman and Jean Kennedy in a close game with only a three-shot margin.
Cathy Wright, Maria Crawford and Robyn Doyle defeated Tony Ruggiero, Claire Portass and Mary Carr in another close game with a two-shot margin.
Adel Seppelt (Tweed Heads ), Jan Selwood and Trevor Baker defeated Kristeen Oates, Robyn Wright and Marianne Boers, also by a two-shot margin.
Sheryl Jenkins, Jenny Macdouall and Gus Pro
defeated S. Toss, Roslyn McGroder and Bev Brown.
The winners of the day drawn from the cards were: Cathy Wright, Maria Crawford and Robyn Doyle. The lucky losers also drawn from the cards were: S. Toss, Roslyn McGroder and Bev Brown.
A big thank you to our wonderful Social Club members, who always provide us with morning tea and a two-course lunch each Tuesday.
Thinking of taking up lawn bowls? If so, we have free coaching for beginners by an accredited coach on Wednesday mornings at 10am or by appointment, text Sue on 0409 522 099 or contact The Orange City Bowling Club. Happy bowling everyone!
Hello Bowlers! Jim Finn thanked everyone who helped in the running of our social bowls, whilst he and Peter Wright were away on holiday.
A big thank you to the volunteers and Umpire Neil Higgins who helped over last weekend’s running of the Rookie singles. It was greatly appreciated.
NSW State Pairs entries are now available on BowlsLink. If you have trouble accessing the portal, please see Neil Higgins for more information.
We hope that our members on the sick and recovery lists are on the mend. Our thoughts are with you all.
Tuesday 19th August - please call Jim Finn on 0418 651 382, Peter Wright 0427 8113 220, or the club 63613210. Names in by 11:30pm for a 12:30pm start. Thursday, 21st August - winning rink takes all. Please call Peter Brooking on 0407 662 171 or the club 63613210. Names in by 11:30 for a 12pm start and will be finished, well before 3pm.
There are NO SOCIAL BOWLS on Saturday, 23 August, as the Restricted Triples Tournament is on.
The second round of the Minor/Major will be played Saturday, 30th August 2025, and the Mixed Pairs 2nd round, starting Sunday, 31 August. Play starts 12:30pm, can players please at the club at least half an hour before.
Restricted Triples, 3 Bowls Open Gender Tournament Saturday, 23rd August 2025.
This tournament has now closed.
Our sponsored Mixed Pairs event by Adia Care begins on Saturday, 13th September 2025.
Nominations for the club’s Major Singles are now on the board. Players who played in the Minor Singles are eligible to play in this championship event.
All Nomination sheets are on the shelf in the alcove.
Tuesday socials had 40 bowlers on another lovely winter’s day.
Raffle winners were: P.A. Baker, Mick Doyle and John Hedger.
Lucky rink winners were: Garry Pearce, Peter Brooking and Wayne Carr.
Unfortunates were: Paul McFarlane, Darcy Warren and Bob Jenkins.
Lucky consolation winning rink: Marie Haigh-Cole, Jim Clemow and John Hedger.
Saturday was a mixture of socials and Minor/Major Championships.
Raffle winners were: Jim Finn and Peter Wright.
Lucky rink winners were: Peter Griffith and Jim Finn.
Unfortunates were: Jan Fenwick and Greg Campbell. If there are people interested in gaining their umpire or markers accreditation, please contact the President, Phil McGarity, on 0418 277 418.
Bowls Etiquette tips: Avoid dropping bowls. Stand back while others bowl. Shake hands before and after the game.
Happy bowling!
The winners of the 2025 Orange Sports Awards were announced at a ceremony at Odeon 5 Cinemas last week, celebrating outstanding achievements in sport across the Orange region in the previous year.
This year’s Sportsperson of the Year was awarded to Cody Burcher, whose exceptional performance in motorsport has earned him recognition both locally and beyond.
The Junior Sportsperson of the Year was awarded jointly to April Gardiner and Sam Hill, both of whom have demonstrated remarkable talent and sportsmanship in touch football.
The Sporting Team of the Year was awarded to the Orange under-12’s Boys Soft ball team, whose teamwork, discipline, and competitive spirit have
made them stand out in their category.
The 2025 Sports Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Penny Fisher for her tireless work and commitment to rugby union over more than 20 years, helping
to grow the sport and support young players in the community.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto, Deputy Mayor Tammy Greenhalgh, and Councillor Graeme Judge, were on hand
to present the awards and congratulated all finalists and winners.
“Sport is the heartbeat of our community, and these awards are a celebration of the passion, perseverance, and community spirit that our athletes and volunteers bring to Orange,” Cr Mileto said.
“I’m incredibly proud of all the finalists and especially our winners, who continue to inspire us with their achievements both on and off the field.”
Finalists for the 2025 Sportsperson of the Year were: Zanna Dolbel (martial arts), April Gardiner (touch football), Sam Hill (touch football), Dallas George (martial arts), Basil Baldwin (orienteering), Jason Whitney (touch football), and Cody Burcher (motorsport).
Personal Best Congratulations!
Jack Daintith is on fire at the moment! Jack recorded the second fastest overall time on Sunday, 10 August at Spring Creek Dam, completing the 9.6km event in 33:18. He also notched up another PB last Wednesday at Elephant Park with a time of 9:12!
Catt Player also smashed her previous Elephant Park PB with a time of 14:42! Well done to you both!
ORC Results – Sunday 17 August 2025
A great morning at Berrilee Forest with 45 runners last Sunday – well done everyone! Huge shout-out to Jack Daintith, who set a new 2nd fastest Male time over 12km with an impressive 49:40! We’d also like to give a big cheer to all our members running at Mudgee – stay tuned, a post is coming soon about their achievements!
ORC Results – Wednesday 13 August 2025
A fantastic 56 runners hit the track at Elephant Park last Wednesday –
great work everyone!
Achievement Medals
Neil Ingram – 25 runs
Lani Roberts – 25 runs
Meta Thorn – 25 runs
Personal Bests
Jack Daintith – 9:12 (15 sec PB)
Catherine Player – 14:42 (21 sec PB)
Top Women: Kinisha Roweth –13:04; Lacey Curran – 13:21; and Isobel Curran – 13:48.
Top Men: Jack Daintith – 9:12; Hugh
Daintith – 10:39; and Oscar Blacklow – 11:23.
Lonely Mountain Ultra (LMU) Test Run. While the LMU weekend is a little way off (September 27) the ORC committee would like you to join them for a test run of the course.
If you’re interested in running the 11km course this at 7am Sunday, August 24 please contact Phil Cranney on 0481 569 560 to RSVP or for more information. Check them out on Facebook too!
07.09.1932 ~ 22.08.2017
My beautiful little wife my beautiful little mate. I think of you in silence. I often speak your name. What would I give to hear your voice and see your lovely smiling face again.
You are the rose of my heart
Sadly missed by husband Barry, son Christopher, daughter in law Sue. Granddaughters, Nicole, Kristy. Great granddaughters, Ellenore, Lilian, Aylah. Great grandson, Taylor. Nephews, and nieces. In
(nee Coulson)
10.02.1941 ~ 15.08.2025
Aged 84 years
Passed away at Orange Health Service after a short illness. Dearly loved husband of Carolyn. Grandfather of Mitchell (little buddy). Loved brother of Paulene, Eva, Lillian, Violet
“Rest In Peace”
Aged 80 years
Steve passed away at Wollongong Hospital Dearly loved son of Margaret and Bevan of Orange. Loved husband of Michelle, Father of Brandon, Adam and Jessica, Grand pop to Marley, Matilda, Cylix, and brother in law to Paula and Kelly, late of Orange, Sydney and Barrick Point. your cheeky smile and loving big heart is what we will always remember, and you will live within our hearts, as a true gift forever.
Be at Peace. In loving memory of STEVEN
Passed away peacefully at Orange Grove. Wife of Barry (deceased). Much love mother of Carolyn and Denese. Loved grandmother and greatgrandmother. A loved sister and sister-in-law of Colin and Gwen (deceased), Brian and Pat, Rhonda and Gordon (deceased), Garry and Julie, Shirley and Andrew. A loved aunt and great aunt to all her nieces and nephews.
The family and friends of Marie are kindly invited to attend her Funeral Service to be held at The Penhall Memorial Chapel, 33 William Street, Orange on Tuesday August 26, 2025 commencing at 2.00pm.
33-35 William Street, Orange Phone 63623751 Mail@penhallfunerals.com.au
The family and friends of Jack are kindly invited to attend his Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving to be held at The Salvation Army Church, Cnr of Kite and McNamara Street, Orange on Friday, August 29, 2025 commencing at 11.00am.
33-35 William Street, Orange Phone 63623751 Mail@penhallfunerals.com.au
Thomsons Garden Centre WOULD SUIT GAP YEAR STUDENTS
17 to 21 year olds in gap year required for casual positions in a garden related retail outlet. Applicants will need to be reliable and have good communication skills. Business operates seven days and hours are rostered and flexible. The work will include maintaining shop displays, sales and unpacking stock. Some heavy lifting is involved so the applicant needs to be fit and strong and have the ability to follow correct lifting procedures. Resumes to be emailed to: office@greenwest.net.au or printed copy delivered to 213 McLachlan St, Orange
Hours: 7 days a week - 8am – 7pm www.angelaocallaghan.com.au appletreeflat@activ8.net.au - 0427 120 597 8 Cedar St,Orange NSW 2800
Philippa Mitchell
Bra Fitter By Appointment Mob: 0499 991 650
Congratulations to our August 14 winners:
THUMBS UP and thank you to Julie at Douglas Hanly Moir Pathology for being so lovely to me when I had a recent blood test. I have to admit I really didn’t feel much at all!
THUMBS UP to Amanda Dietiker and the other women inducted into the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll. Amanda has done a wonderful job helping new mums, and it’s well deserved.
THUMBS UP to the organisers of the Orange CYMS Football (Soccer) Club 50th Anniversary Dinner. A great night was had by all. Lots of memories to share. Well done!
THUMBS DOWN to the large retailer who sold an elderly neighbour a new phone that he doesn’t understand or is able to use. You should have asked him how he uses his phone, not told him he can learn to use things he won’t. It left him unable to use his emergency numbers and “silent calling” people on his list multiple times over two days. He’s had to go back to his old phone, but is left with a phone he won’t use and on a contract he was told he can’t break.
THUMBS DOWN to the guy in the driving instructor vehicle who illegally “parked” to drop his kid off at school on Monday.
What am I Watching Winner: Judith Clarke
Bras for all women through every stage of life BLOCKED EARS?
Specialist Clinicians - Gentle - No syringing - All Ages MICRO-SUCTION WAX REMOVAL CLINIC
Visiting Dates for October 14th, 15th, 16th Pinnacle Dermatology. 272 Anson St, Orange contact@ear2ear.com.au 0455 629 905
Answer: The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Name That Business Winner: Lily Bangert Answer: New Golden Bowl
PINNY
Winner: Benjamin Gibson Answer: page9
FACE IN THE CROWD Winner: Carole Thompson Answer: page17
THUMBS UP also to the wonderful ED doctors, nurses and Janelle. We are so fortunate to have these incredible professionals looking after our community. Greatly appreciated.
THUMBS UP to the amazing Paramedics Jackie, Marisa, Tennai, and Alisa. Very caring and kind!
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. 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.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE LISTED AMONG OUR LUCKY WINNERS?
Each week, we have a range of great competition prizes to give away, but you have to be in it to win it!
See our competitions page for all the details on how you can be a winner!
The Thumbs represent thoughts and opinions of readers and do not necessarily reflect those of Orange City Life. Every care is taken not to publish thumbs that are considered derogatory or defamatory in nature . Please note that thumbs may be edited for clarity, space or legal reasons.
ACROSS
1 Dessert made with milk and eggs (7)
5 Large printed pictures (7)
9 Short pistol (9)
10 System of principles (5)
and
11 Perquisites (6)
12 Confirming (8)
14 Playing cards (6)
15 Brand of car, Mercedes – (4)
19 US state (4)
20 Governing body (6)
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in ‘s’.
17 words:
Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?
24 Compelling charm (8)
25 Indian deity (6)
27 Establish by law (5)
28 South American (9)
29 Completely (7)
30 Screw in (7) DOWN
1 Club (6)
2 Spray of liquid (6)
3 Lively (8)
4 Excavates (4)
5 Buying (10)
6 Inveigle (6)
7 Kitchen time measure (8)
8 To daydream (8)
13 Very likely though not known for certain (10)
16 Most rapid (8)
17 Clouded eye lens (8)
18 Featuring as a principal performer (8)
21 Female organ of a flower (6)
22 Economy (6)
23 Large piece of artillery (6)
26 Truth (4)
5
aced, acid, acme, caddie, calm, calmed, came, camel, cede, ceded, clad, claim, claimed, clam, clime, dace, decade, decide, decimal, declaim, DECLAIMED, dice, diced, iced, ileac, lace, laced, laic, lice, mace, malice, medical, mica, mice
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
appears in which 2023 rom-com?
2. What three colours appear on the Armenian flag?
3. Which country borders Nicaragua to the north?
4. Who played Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird?
5. Where was the 1976 Summer Olympics held?
6. US television personality Michael Strahan (pictured) played which sport professionally? 7. Is the
