The Innovation in Special Events category was awarded to council for its supporting efforts and promotion of the of the Apollo 11 moon landing 50th Anniversary celebrations held last year. The RH Dougherty Awards are held annually during Local Government Week, recognising and encourage greater understanding and communication by councils to their local communities.

The CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope was recognised for its cultural and scientific contributions to Australian history, added to the National Heritage List this week. 'The Dish' holds a very special place in Australian history, as well as the hearts of our community, so it's with great pride that we celebrate this announcement.

A big congratulations to Parkes Potters Group, Parkes M&D and Peak Hill Leisure Art & Craft Council - the three successful recipients of the 2020 Parkes Shire Council Cultural Grant Program. The annual grants program aims to increase cultural activity in the community, encourage innovative creative events and workshops, help artists, crafters, musicians to develop their skills and to provide funds to maintain or develop facilities.

In response to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, our library team has been working to adapt its services and programming to meet the changing needs of our community and library members.

The digital collection has been expanded to include more than 3000 online resources, enabling library members to read, listen and watch anywhere, anytime. To access the Parkes Shire Library online collection, head to the My Online Library page on council's website. You will be asked to enter the barcode number on the back of your library card. It's free to become a library member. Simply contact the Library team on 6861 2309, or pop into a branch.

Work has commenced on the Peak Hill Memorial Park upgrade this week. The project includes installation of a drinking fountain, construction of an undercover shelter area, new footpath & three new aluminium table settings.

The project will take approximately 3 weeks to complete, weather permitting. The park will remain open during that time although access from Ween Street will be closed, and temporary safety fencing is in place throughout the park. The project is funded through the Drought Communities Program.

Council acknowledges that many members of our community have been affected by COVID-19 financial pressures. With that being said, council has extended the due date for payment of the first quarter rates notice until 30 September. You should be receiving your rates notice in the mail over the coming days and weeks. Residents experiencing difficulties paying their rates are encouraged to contact our rates team on 6861 2333 or email payment.help@parkes.nsw.gov.au.