M&D stalwart our Volunteer of the Year

While in the middle of planning one of the biggest celebrations in the history of the Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society, long-serving director Lyn Townsend has been named the Central West Adult Volunteer of the Year. The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, are an annual celebration of volunteering in NSW that also recognises the outstanding work of volunteers in every region across the state. The 2026 award winners for the Central West region were announced on 23 September at the Orange Ex-Services’ Club, with Parkes volunteer Lyn among the recipients for her life-time involvement with the M&D. Bathurst policing volunteer and community advocate Elizabeth Jane Talbot was named overall 2026 Central West Volunteer of the Year, for two decades of giving and community service across the region. Lyn has been the driving creative and organisational force behind the Parkes M&D for the past four decades. She has given thousands of hours to produce high-quality productions, while also supporting the development of the next generation of performers and creative leaders in regional NSW. Upon her recognition there was also specific mention of Lyn's role in introducing subtitles for hearing impaired audience members and pioneered autism-friendly performances, ensuring the theatre is welcoming and accessible to a broader cross-section of the community. Proudly representing Parkes at the Central West Volunteer of the Year Awards in Orange were Lisa Bicket from Parkes CWA, Lyn Townsend from Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society, Julie Macaulay from Parkes CWA and councillor Marg Applebee. PHOTO: Marg Applebee'S Facebook page The Parkes CWA Branch was also acknowledged at the awards in the team category and were represented by Lisa Bicket and Julie Macaulay. Lyn said her award win was so unexpected but very exciting. "There were so many amazing volunteers nominated for this award. Having my daughter Kate with me made it even more special," she said. "The Theatre has been part of my life for so long that it’s hard to imagine who I would be without it. "For me M&D has never just been about putting on shows, it’s about the people, the memories, the laughter, the challenges, and being part of something that brings so much joy to so many people." Lyn reflected on what she loved so much about being part of the M&D family. "I love the friendships that grow here, the way people support and encourage one another, and the wonderful sense of belonging that comes from being part of the theatre family," she said. "I especially love watching our younger members find their confidence, discover what they are capable of and grow both on and off the stage. "There is something very special about bringing together people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, each with something different to contribute, and creating something wonderful together." Lyn has been president of the Society for about eight years now, first voted-in in 2016 for a four-year term and then elected again in 2023 still holding the position. "I was 15 when I was cast in Fagin's gang in Oliver. Bill Jayet was Fagin," Lyn reflected. "Times were so different back then. We were put on strict diets, so we could all 'thin down' for when the production went on and we weren’t allow to wash our hair for the entire show season. "We got dressed in tents pitched on the lawn out the back." She said she never would have imagined how important theatre would become in her life. "I have always loved taking on new challenges. So I just moved from position to position really," Lyn said. "On stage, backstage, costuming, lights, box office, direction, executive. Though I haven’t done sound. Might try that next," she laughed. "I was asked in an interview the other day who has inspired me the most in theatre, and the truth is, I couldn’t name just one person. Every single person I’ve worked with has inspired me in some way. "It’s the children who are so eager to learn, have a go and try something new; the exceptionally talented adults whose performances on stage take my breath away and make me extremely emotional with pride. "The set builders who create masterpieces, tech crews who dedicate so many hours to ensure the actors are lit and heard; the backstage crews who somehow make the impossible happen in a matter of seconds; the band members who bring such beautiful music to our productions; and the production teams who volunteer countless hours so that others can experience the joy and magic of theatre. "Inspiration comes in so many different forms, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by people who continually inspire me with their talent, generosity, passion and commitment. It really is one big family." The regional finalists will be invited to a gala state ceremony in December in Sydney where the overall NSW Volunteer of Year is announced. The recipients for the NSW Volunteer of the Year are also announced across the seven categories.