TV show “Four Corners” recently created an uproar by showing young criminals in restraining chairs, spit hoods etc.

Politicians and experts responded with suggestions: Royal Commission, one-to-one social workers, more adoptions — even more contraceptives (!).

No doubt well meant – but all pretty much tinsel to camouflage the tips of an iceberg that nobody wishes to acknowledge.

Nobody wants to hear that our whole Australian way of life is geared to breeding youth uncontrollability.

Or that improvement would demand change in all our lives – our personal lives, our families and our social assumptions.

Who wants to consider that extramarital sex, alcohol-drinking, pornography, out-of-family child-care and gambling all must go?

To be replaced by a new enthusiasm for marriage, motherhood and fatherhood – on the part of individuals and the community at large. This problem is something spiritual. Are such changes too much to ask?

Perhaps we don’t care enough.

Parkes PCYC recently held a fundraising raffle with the winners being drawn in the presence of staff and committee members.

Ladies first prize went to J. Day and second to Melissa Beuzeville. Men’s first prize went to Andrew McGrath and second to Melissa Ingram. The children’s first prize went to Jake Onnies and second prize to Taye Mallison.

The club would like to thank everyone who provided prizes, purchased tickets and supported the facility.

And special thanks goes to local businesses for their support and supplying all the prizes: Nailz n Beauty by Janice, THD Hair Studio, Nangar Gems, A Moments Peace, Jess Martin at Scentsy, Top Town Traders, Kylie’s Cakes, Ron Dunford Chemist, KicXstart Motorcycles, EB Games, NRMA, Rach Lynch at Younique, Power Tools Plus, Byrnes Clothing, Leading Edge, Parkes Services Club and Hays Hardware.

PICTURED (ABOVE): Austin Macrae, Tim Ricther, Jack Tanswell and Jo Robson with the PCYC raffle.

(RIGHT): Alfie, belonging to Melinda Bryden of Parkes, is among many cats featured in the regional gallery on our website.