The Star of Parkes

The mayor presented Rhonda Brain OAM with a Star of Parkes at the 9th National Early Literacy Conference held in Parkes from 7-9 September 2023.  Rhonda instigated the Birth to Kindergarten reading initiative which encouraged reading, talking, singing, and rhyming to children right from birth.

The concept grew to an organisation now known as Paint the Town REaD which is a National Organisation with communities in five (5) states participating.

Her vision 27 years ago has brought great benefit to our children and enormous kudos to the Shire of Parkes.  She is a most worthy recipient.

Awarded 19 December 2017

In recognition of Alan's outstanding achievement in, and contribution to, the NSW Local Government sector.  The Star recognises Alan's long service and dedication, ability and the sacrifices made to reach the pinnacle of his career in Local Government, retiring as General Manager of Parkes Shire Council in 2010.

Awarded 2 April 2022

In recognition of Gary's outstanding achievement in his chosen field, as a music educator, academic and musician, who has researched and published numerous books on musical development, performance science and psychology.  The Star recognises his dedication, ability, and desire to succeed and the sacrifices he have made to reach the pinnacle of his career.

Awarded 15 June 2023

In recognition of his dedication, ability, and desire to succeed and the sacrifices that he has made to reach the pinnacle of his career in the sport of go-kart racing.

John Pizarro has led an exciting career as an outstanding kart racer, with over 15 Australian Championship titles across several classes, competing in five World Championships, an international team win in the Japan Kart Grand Prix, a Dubbo track record and participation in international races including Hong Kong, New Zealand, Japan, France, America, Philippines, Italy, Germany, Portugal and Belgium," Cr Westcott said.

A Parkes local, John started racing in 1964 at the age of 19 years old, with a career that went on to span more than 30 years. He started in a homemade Go-Kart fitted with a small motorcycle engine, four years later winning his first National Championship at Sunnybank QLD in 1968. In the years following he has received a number of awards and achievements including Parkes Sportsman of the Year in 1973 and 1978, Central West Sportsman of the Year in 1979, the Australian Sports Medal in 2000, Life Member of Karting NSW in 2011, inducted into the Karting Hall of Fame in 2011, inducted into the Australian Motor Sports Hall of Fame in 2017 and awarded the OAM in 2019.

In addition to his successful career, John's contributions to motor sports continued off the racetrack. He was involved in the design and/or accreditation of many kart tracks across NSW, trained young drivers on tracks around the Central West and designed, manufactured and sold Go-Karts from his home in Parkes.

John has been a Parkes Rotarian since 1971, having served as President twice during that time. In 2005 he was named a Paul Harris Fellow, which is both an award for exemplary work in community service or helping those in need, or a method of recognising a substantial donation to The Rotary Foundation. He was later awarded an Outstanding Service to Rotary in 2008 and 2009.

Awarded 13 January 2017

In recognition of Bob and Anne's dedication, ability and desire to succeed and the sacrifices made to initiate and to grow the Parkes Elvis Festival, which celebrates the life and music of Elvis Presley. 

Awarded 19 May 2017

In recognition of Scott's outstanding achievement in sport at an international level, following his appearance at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.  The Star recognises Scott's dedication, ability and desire to succeed and the sacrifices made to reach the pinnacle of his chosen sport, track athletics.

Awarded 16 September 2016

In recognition of Mariah's outstanding achievement in sport at an international level, following her appearance at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.  The Star recognises Mariah's dedication, ability and desire to succeed and the sacrifices made to reach the pinnacle of her chosen sport, hockey.