What's happening in and around Parkes

Book now for this night of food, wine and entertainment with Cowra farmer and author Harry Treasure at the Parkes Library on the release of his first published fiction novel inspired by history, King's Spur, set in the Dargo High Plains last century. Call the Parkes Library on 6861 2309 to book.

Last day July 1

The Waste to Art Community Exhibition is on again. All the entries in this year's Parkes Waste to Art competition are on display for all to see in the Coventry Room at the Parkes Library and Cultural Centre. This year's theme is textiles and fast fashion.

Saturday, July 15

The Northparkes Mines Frontline Charity Ball returns this July 15. It's another black tie event with this year's theme masquerade, so start getting that fabulous gown and tuxedo ready to wear! In 2022 organisers held the very first Frontline Services Ball to acknowledge the hard work of our emergency services across the community. The event was very well received and a total of $64,734 was raised. Due to its huge success it's back for 2023 with Northparkes Mines the major sponsor and a focus this time on youth mental health support. Funding raised from this event will go towards a Youth Mental Health Program at the Parkes PCYC and the Central West Ronald McDonald House in Orange. The Central West Ronald McDonald House supports rural and regional families from the Western NSW Health District, and for the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit (CAMHS), families come from five health districts or 86 per cent of NSW. The CAMHS unit in Orange is the only dedicated child and adolescent mental health unit in NSW outside of Sydney. Majority of the families utilising the House come from our local area including Parkes, Forbes, Trundle, Narromine, Eugowra, Dubbo, Cowra and Condobolin. This event will be a fabulous night with a live band, great food, dancing and fundraising auctions. It all takes place at the Parkes Leagues Club from 6pm. Tickets are $100 and can be found on 123Tix.

July 22-23

The 2023 CWAS AstroFest is returning to the Central West an they have an exciting program of events spread over two days. The Central West of NSW boasts some of the darkest skies in Australia, and as such it is a wonderful place to appreciate the wonders of the night sky. In an effort to foster, encourage and promote astronomy in the region, the Central West Astronomical Society is holding its annual festival of astronomy, or AstroFest, this July. The festival endeavours to bring to the people of the Central West world renowned astronomers, both professional and amateur, so they may share their enthusiasm and love of the heavens. AstroFest will incorporate a one day conference in the Starlight Room of the Parkes Services Club on the Saturday and a program of associated events such as the David Malin Awards astrophotography competition, civic reception hosted by Mayor Ken Keith OAM and a conference dinner. In a series of lectures, guest speakers will provide fascinating insights into various aspects of modern astronomy. On Sunday, events will move to the CSIRO Parkes Observatory Visitors Centre with a program of daytime astronomy and talks. To register visit https://www.cwas.org.au/astrofest/.

During school term

Playgroup takes place at St George's Anglican Church on Mondays during the school term from 9.30am-11.15am.

July 4, 7 and 12-13

Bookings are now open for K-6 school holiday activities in July at the Parkes Shire Libraries. There will be activities across the Parkes, Peak Hill and Tullamore branches. In Parkes on July 4 there will be a Paint Like a Pro workshop from 10.30am-12pm and one in Peak Hill on July 13, 2pm-3.30pm. Cost $2. On July 7 there is a family board games day all day for the whole family. It's free and no booking required. July 12 is Kids Flicks 10.30am-12pm and it's free. Picasso Faces is coming to Tullamore Library on July 12, 11.30am-1pm, cost $2. Spaces are limited, bookings are essential. For more information contact Parkes Library on 6861 2309.

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