LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

17 October-2 November

Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society’s next horrifyingly exciting production is the Little Shop of Horrors and opening night is Friday, 17 October. Running over three weekends at the Little Theatre, tickets are available now at www.parkesmandd.com.au. The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" - after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it, BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II's out of this world origins and intent towards global domination! This is going to be a show you won't want to miss.

LIGHT UP PARKES: SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS

20 October-30 October

Over two weeks this October Parkes Shire Council is bringing free, expert-led workshops to the business community. Designed to give you practical skills, fresh ideas and inspiration to help your business thrive. From digital marketing and visual merchandising to budgeting and business growth to AI and emerging technologies, there's something for every business owner. Spots are limited so register now to secure your place. See the full program and book via council's website: www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Community/Events-and-Festivals.

ACTIVE AFTERNOONS

Starts 21 October until the end of Term 4

Active Afternoons with the Parkes PCYC are returning to Holy Family School for Term 4. It will take place on Tuesdays from 3.15pm-4.15pm, packed with sports, games and fun. It begins in Week 2 of the school term and those who register before Week 2 receive the first two weeks free. Cost is $100 per term and includes a one year PCYC membership. Head to the Parkes PCYC Facebook page to register or call 6862 3825.

OPEN GARDENS 'N MARKETS

Sunday, 26 October

The Parkes Que Club is once again holding their biggest fundraising event the Parkes Open Gardens with markets returning to the Parkes Racecourse. There will be four gardens to explore this year. More details to come very soon.

FEMALE TENNIS CARDIO

Sunday, 26 October

Get ready for a fun-filled morning of tennis, movement, and connection in support of the McGrath Foundation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. From 9-10.30am at the Parkes Tennis Club participate in cardio tennis for ladies with Helen Magill, off-court leadership activities for girls with Asha, Ella and Tia and enjoy light refreshments, music, raffle prizes and fun activities. There are prizes for best dressed so make sure to dress in your best pink outfit. Registration is $5 per person with proceeds donated to the McGrath Foundation. Register via https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfa6a-sLMiFleufCTz2RdNjxqlY3TbYWtA_UotxYnK5LRsdIw/viewform

DOUBLES FOR A DIFFERENCE

Sunday, 26 October

The Hey Sis Project will be holding their next event to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation. Serve up some fun and make a difference from 1pm to 4pm at the Parkes Tennis Club. The event aims to bring the community together for an afternoon of doubles tennis, good vibes, and pink spirit. Grab a friend and register as a pair for the competition - or come along to cheer, enjoy the festivities, and join the fun. There’ll be something for everyone including delicious food, music and giveaways, exciting raffle prizes and more. There is a $5 registration fee with all funds going directly to the McGrath Foundation. Register via www.theheysisproject.com

FASCINATING SCIENCE

Now until 31 October

The ‘Fascinating Science’ exhibition from Questacon is still on at the Parkes Shire Library and Cultural Centre, until the end of the month. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage in scientific principles relevant to everyday life.

WASTE 2 ART REGIONAL SHOWCASE

Now until 2 November

The Waste 2 Art Regional Showcase is on at the Western Plains Cultural Centre in Dubbo. Entry is free. The annual community art exhibition and competition features winning artworks from around the region, including Parkes, and this year's theme is Toys.

HANDMADE TOY CHALLENGE

Entries close 31 October

Craft Corner Parkes is inviting creative entries from people of all ages for their Crafted Joy: The Handmade Toy Challenge. Everyone is encouraged to participate, and they particularly welcome submissions from junior artists (school-aged children), who are encouraged to showcase their creativity and imagination. Participants can enter handmade toys in the following categories:

Stuffed animals and dolls, wooden toys, crochet and knit toys, musical toys, fantasy/role-play/decorative, and junior’s corner. At the end of the competition you’ll have the option to keep, sell or donate your handmade toy. Entries are due by 31 October, judging will take place on 7 November and entry is $2 per item. More information and entry forms are available at Craft Corner Parkes and on their website /www.craftcornerparkes.au.

HALLOWEEN DISCO

Friday, 31 October

Parkes PCYC is having a Halloween Disco! Get ready to get spooky and bust some moves in your absolute best Halloween costume. From 6.30pm the night will feature DJ Sammy spinning the scariest (and best) tracks, best dressed competition and games like a mummy wrapping race. Snag your tickets now, head to the Parkes PCYC Facebook page to scan the QR code.

GOODNESS GRAVEL CYCLING EVENT

Saturday, 1 November

Get ready for an unforgettable experience with the first Parkes cycling event. Parkes' tourism team has teamed up with the talented crew at Goodness Gravel to bring this exciting event to life, a thrilling new adventure in the scenic landscapes of Parkes. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking to experience the beauty of the region, this event offers something for everyone. Event highlights include: Challenging gravel trails that showcase the rugged beauty of Parkes, beginner-friendly routes, post-ride festivities including live music, food trucks, and local brews. For more information, pricing and to book visit www.goodnessgravel.com/parkes. Bookings close 8am the Thursday before the event.

PA GAMES

Saturday, 1 November

The ultimate one-day partner throwdown is coming to Parkes Athletic (PA) in Boyd Circuit this November. Whether you're seasoned competitors or rising stars, there's a spot for you on the floor. Running from 7am-3pm, there will be four events with five scoring options throughout the day. Divisions are Open M/M, Open F/F, Open M/F and Emerging (any combo: M/M, M/F, F/F). There is a cost to enter, cash prizes will be awarded to Open Division first place and prize packs for all podium winners. Grab your partner and bring the heat to PA Games!

GARAGE SALE TRAIL

8-9 and 15-16 November

The Garage Sale Trail is back in Parkes on 8-9 and 15-16 November for two big weekends of secondhand treasure hunting and community fun. Thinking of decluttering and making some extra cash? Whether you’re a household, school or community group, it’s the perfect time to host a garage sale and give your pre-loved items a new life. For more information and to register visit www.garagesaletrail.com.au.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Tuesday, 11 November

The Parkes RSL Sub-Branch will commemorate Remembrance Day on 11 November at the cenotaph in Cooke Park from 10am-12pm. Each year on this day Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

Want to add to this list? Email mblackstock@midwestmedia.com.au