Special guests John and Brenda Sullivan, Councillor Ken McGrath and Bev Colley were also joined by Life Members Mick Bonham and Michael Greenwood and a number of sponsors and supporters to see a very surprised Dennis Moran take out the Fred and Julie King Parkes Spacemen First Grade Best and Fairest Player for 2015.

In his acceptance speech, Moran said that while he was surprised at winning the award this year, he was also honoured to have his name on the trophy as he valued his association and friendship with Fred King and his family. 

Paul “Hedder” Hetherington presented the trophy on behalf of the King family.

“I think there were other players more deserving of this award this year, but I thank those who voted for me,” Moran said.

As the captain-coach of the Spacemen for 2015, Moran expressed his gratitude to the committee, sponsors and supporters for sticking by him and all the other players during a year which he described as a very successful one, despite not coming away with the silverware.

Moran also confirmed he intends staying on with the Club and hopes that his application for captain-coach will be accepted by the Club (applications for the position close today).

Craig “Freddy” Edwards presented the Brian Usher Memorial trophy for Rookie of the Year to James Clyburn who showed his high talent in both first grade and Under 18s. 

He is another young sportsman destined for better things.

There is no doubt that one of the most satisfying achievements for the Parkes Rugby League Football Club was the rise of the womens League Tag team who made it to the grand final, only to be beaten by Dubbo Westside.

Louise McAneney was the recipient of the Reflection Jewellers Best and Fairest while Nat Gardiner was named the Parkes Leagues Club Most Improved Female Player for the Space Cats.

Parkes Policeman Ben Nash was named the Wayne and Bev Colley Most Improved Male Player in the Club.

It was only by chance that he was on hand to collect his trophy which was met with great applause.

In reserve grade, the underestimated Matt Clarke took out the Telescope Tyres Best and Fairest Player and was also announced as the Players’ Player by his coach and teammates. 

An excited Jed Rauchle took out the Don and Joan Setree Memorial trophy, an Encouragement Award which is presented to a junior player each year. 

Josh Amberge edged out Jesse Parker by just one four pointer for the Mick Bonham Trophy for the most tries in Under 18s.

It was a popular announcement when Tina Nash was named the Parkes Furniture One Clubman of the Year, presented by Ali Creith for her parents John and Karen Creith. 

Tina has worked tirelessly for the Spacemen for many years including alongside her late father Terry cleaning up Pioneer Oval after every home game.

Both Tina and her partner Epi Sadrodro appeared a little overwhelmed with the honour, one that was hugely deserved.

The signed Penrith Panthers jumper which has been the major raffle run throughout the year was drawn and local lady Zoe Johnstone, a huge Panthers fan, was the lucky winner. 

Terri Parker was excited to win the major lucky door prize.

The annual general meeting of the Parkes Rugby League Club is scheduled to be held on Wednesday week, October 14.

President Lionel Harris, who has done a fantastic job at the helm in the last year, will not be seeking re-election.

Harris said he has thoroughly enjoyed the year, but he and his wife Salva have travel plans and he now works out of town.

The positions of secretary and treasurer are also being vacated with the current incumbents standing down due to work commitments.