Emilio Santoro has been an Elvis Presley fan since the age of four. “This is because of my mum listening to Elvis music con­stantly around the house. I would go see the local Elvis tribute acts from a young age and remember thinking that I wanted to do that one day.” said Emilio. He’s been an Elvis tribute artist since the age of 13, and now at 22, he has been lucky enough to have travelled the world singing the best music ever made.

“I have been to Australia a few times within the last year. Every time I come to Australia, I absolutely love it. The first time I heard about The Parkes Elvis Festival must’ve been when I was around 15 years old. Ever since then it has been a dream to headline the festival, so I am so fortunate that my dreams are coming true. I person­ally believe that other than Memphis, this is the biggest and craziest Elvis festival you will find” said Charlie.

The Parkes Ultimate Tribute Artist com­petition is a great stepping stone for any ETA who wants to get into the Ultimate in Memphis. Australia has so many great ETA who I have met along the way and each of them deserve their chance at a shot in the Ultimate, and that’s what Emilio did, winning the Elvis Presley Enterprises Ulti­mate Tribute Artist in August 2024 “It has changed my life completely so I would highly recommend it to any Elvis tribute”.

“The best way to describe winning the Ultimate is it being the Super Bowl of the Elvis tribute world. The thing that makes it so special to me, is I personally believe that this is the closest thing any Elvis tribute can get to a thumbs up from the man upstairs.”

Riley Jenkins is a multi award-winning Elvis Tribute Artist. When Riley Jenkins turned 14 years old, as a birthday present, his grand­mother took him to his first ever Elvis Week in Memphis. “I was scared to death about performing, but this amazing Elvis Family of ours welcomed me with open arms” said RileyRiley’s has been named 2019 Elvis FANtasy Fest Grand Cham­pion, the 2021 Heart of the King Horizon Award, the 2023 Nashville Elvis Festival Grand Champion, and the 2024 Branson Elvis Festi­val Grand Champion. This August, Riley placed as one of the Top 5 Finalists of the 2024 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest held every year at Graceland in Memphis. But Riley says, “The fact that I get to sing the music of my hero, Elvis Aaron Presley, for a living, for the biggest Elvis fans! That right there is the greatest gift of all.”

This year is not just Riley’s first time at the Parkes Elvis Festival, but is his very first time coming to Australia. “I’m so excited to be taking part in the largest Elvis festival in all of Australia!! This has been such a dream of mine, and I’m excited to meet all the wonder­ful Australian Elvis Fans” he said”“I think what makes the music of Elvis’ early days so special is that it’s timeless and just all about having fun and expressing oneself.

That 50’s and early 60’s rock ‘n’ roll music just makes you want to get up and dance.”

We asked Riley what keeps bringing Elvis fans out in droves all around the world? he said “It’s Elvis himself. There has never been and never will be another performer or entertainer of any kind that will ever even come close to Elvis Presley. We’ve had many greats, but only one King.”

At Parkes Dance Co., we’re all about pas­sion, teamwork, and creating unforgettable memories through dance. Since I took over the studio in 2022, we’ve grown into a vi­brant community with more than 250 stu­dents attending over 60 classes a week.

With an incredible team of five teachers, we’re helping dancers aged from 1.5 years to 18 find their groove and confidence, one step at a time.

The Elvis Festival has been a highlight for us since 2018, but in 2022, things re­ally took off, thanks to our Pro Rock’n’Roll teacher, Miss Gracey, we’ve taken our performances to the next level. Last year, our senior team stole the show by winning the group showcase, and our Rock’n’Roll partners were absolute standouts in their competition.

We’d love for you to come and cheer us on! Here’s where you can catch our perfor­mances:

• Thursday 9 January at 3pm, Elvis Train at Parkes Train Station

• Friday 10 January at 11:35am, Cooke Park Main Stage

• Saturday11 January in the Elvis Parade through the streets of Parkes

• Saturday 11 January at 3:15pm, Cooke Park Main Stage Showcase

Our 2025 Elvis team includes 40 dancers across three groups: juniors, intermedi­ates, and seniors. Each group will perform two routines including a high-energy group number and a classic Rock’n’Roll Partner dance, nder Miss Gracey’s guidance.

What you see on stage is just the tip of the iceberg. We started rehearsals way back in November, meeting weekly to fine-tune every step, spin, and dip. The commitment from our students, parents, and teachers is incredible. From late-night rehearsals to costume fittings, everyone pitches in.

So come along, bring your friends, and soak up the magic of Rock’n’Roll! We can’t wait to share the stage with our amazing dancers and be part of the energy that makes the Elvis Festival so special.

Thanks so much,
Miss Jess

Whether you’re a devoted Elvis fan or sim­ply looking for an unforgettable event, the Parkes Elvis Festival promises it all. From Wednesday 8 January, to Sunday 12 Janu­ary, Parkes will transform into the ultimate Elvis destination for the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival. This year’s event brings exciting new features, long-awaited returns, and timeless fan favourites. This year the Fes­tival is celebrating Elvis’ 1967 film Easy Come, Easy Go.

The 2025 Feature Concert Series takes centre stage, with three of the world’s top Elvis Tribute Artists delivering show-stop­ping performances. This year’s headliners include returning favourite Cote Deonath (US), reigning UETA champion Emilio San­toro (UK) and upcoming superstar Riley Jenkins (US).

For those looking to soak in more of the Elvis magic, the Cooke Park Main Stage offers free concerts, shows, and competi­tions throughout the festival. Visitors can also explore workshops, vibrant markets, and many more activities designed to cel­ebrate all things Elvis.

One of the standout additions is the launch of the Gates of Graceland, a full-sized rep­lica of the iconic gates from Elvis’ Memphis home. Joining this is the brand-new Elvis Festival Story Wall, located at the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, which beautifully narrates the festival’s rich history. These two installations are open year-round, mak­ing Parkes a must-visit for Elvis fans.

Making its triumphant return is the Miss Priscilla Dinner, where the ultimate Priscilla Presley look-a-like will be crowned. The winner will become the face of the 2025 festival, adding glamour and excitement to the festivities.

The rhythm of rock ‘n’ roll is alive and thriv­ing at Parkes School of Dance Inc, where the next generation of Elvis fans are learn­ing to groove like the King. The communi­ty-run regional dance school is set to bring age-appropriate, electrifying performances to this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival, themed Easy Come, Easy Go.

From energetic jive to smooth rock ‘n’ roll, dancers of all ages are immersing themselves in the iconic styles that defined 1967. With choreography inspired by the festival’s annual theme, the school’s rou­tines not only highlight the dance moves from Easy Come, Easy Go but also capture the essence of 1960s music and fashion.

Since its debut at the Parkes Elvis Fes­tival in 2016, Parkes School of Dance Inc has delighted audiences with their vibrant and creative performances. The school has showcased its talent each year, returning again with maximum energy and enthusi­asm in 2025. The dance school has also previously collaborated with Greg Page, Damian Mullin and Music Ariosa to host kids talent workshops for children and teens attending the festival.

“This year’s theme has been such a trip for our students and teachers,” said Cath­erine McQuie, President. “We’ve embraced the mod styles, colourful aesthetics, and swinging beats of the late ‘60s.”

Performers will dazzle audiences with costumes straight out of 1967— there is a scene from the film Easy Come, Easy Go that looks familiar—paired with dynamic routines that transport spectators back to a time of carefree fun and endless groove.

Beyond Elvis’ legendary hits, their perfor­mances also feature music from other art­ists of the period, creating a kaleidoscope of sound and movement that reflects the broader musical landscape of the era.

“Our goal is to inspire a love for dance, music, and history in our students, we are not just teaching steps,” said Catherine.

Charlie Gaylard grew up in the small Vic­torian town of Colac and always enjoyed the arts, when he was in primary school he would always partake in school tal­ent shows and anything revolving around performing. It wasn’t until he watched the Baz Lurman Elvis film that his passion for Elvis‘s music began.

When he was younger, his parents couldn’t take Charlie out in public without him wearing a superhero costume or put­ting on a fake voice, he was always emulat­ing other people and that’s how the whole Elvis thing started “I was simply fooling around and learning a couple of songs that I enjoyed never realising that I could take this passion to bigger heights. I never knew there was a community out there that en­joyed what I was doing” said Charlie.

Charlie spent a year and a half learning songs working on the voice but he never had the expectation that it would lead to somewhere bigger. The moment he re­alised that he could take it seriously was when he went and saw Jack Gatto perform at the Geelong Elvis Festival in August of 2023.

“I didn’t realise it but the night that I per­formed on the main stage at The Parkes Elvis Festival changed my life forever. I think back to that moment in time and it doesn’t feel real.”

“Whenever I’m not performing I like to do normal teenage stuff. Hang out with my mates, play video games and just enjoy life.”

“The next thing that I’d like to accomplish is going over to the States but winning the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist competition would be nice and I’d like to see if there are more possibilities to this industry. I want to do something that’s never been done be­fore, that’s my big ambition.” said Charlie

The Elvis Festival in Parkes, renowned for its vibrant celebration of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, will see SEQ-based musician Rheanna Leschke on the Cambridge Hotel outdoor stage. With her signature blend of pop, rock ‘n’ roll, and country, Rheanna is very excited to be back, as a band, at the Cambridge Hotel, with their good vibes and enthusiasm.

“I love the energy in Parkes for the Elvis Festival,” says Leschke. “The people here really make it something special. The fa­miliar faces I see in the audience and new faces in the crowd when I’m playing, put sparkles in my heart.”

Having shared the stage with some of Australia’s music icons, including Normie Rowe, Pixie Jenkins and Carter & Carter, Rheanna has continually impressed audi­ences with her smooth tone, soulful de­livery, and engaging performances. Her strong musical roots, deep connection to her audience and a growing body of origi­nal work, makes Rheanna an artist for mu­sic listeners and lovers of all ages.

Her original compositions have been fi­nalists in the Tamworth Songwriters Asso­ciation Competition, reflecting her skill as a writer and performer.

This March, Rheanna is set to release her own original music, marking an excit­ing new chapter in her career. “It has been a journey bringing my music to life. I’m so excited for the upcoming release and I’m stoked for when everyone will be able to hear it too.”

Rheanna Leschke is proudly endorsed by ProMusicAustralia. Make sure to catch her at the Cambridge Hotel, find her and follow on @rheannaleschke instagram/fa­cebook — stop by and say hello!

Country music artist, and Olivia Newton John Tribute Artist, Anita Spring, will be at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival performing Olivia Newton-John’s music with her tribute show “Forever Olivia”. Anita was Born in WA, her parents are both musicians, her dad was in the Troupadors with Jonny O’Keefe and her mum toured with local and international Artists including Bob Hope.

“I’ve loved country music from a young age, my parents were always playing and learning great music for their shows. I started writing my own songs when I was 17, I was signed to Universal Musical on a six album deal, my first single “Blink – stay a little long­er” reached No.7 on the ARIA Australian Singles chart” said Anita.

The idea for the “Forever Olivia” tribute show came after an Elvis Tour, An American Trilogy. “The Elvis Tribute Artists were encour­aging me to have my own Tribute Show and it came to me straight away, Olivia Newton-John. I loved her music and loved singing her songs and so I started putting an Olivia tribute show together five years ago” said Olivia.

Anita’s “Forever Olivia” show will take audiences on a journey through her biggest hits, from “Physical” to “I Honestly Love You” and beyond“My first memory of Olivia was watching Grease. I think the whole world fell in love with Olivia after that film was released, she was so beautiful and incredibly talented.”

2025 will be Anita’s fourth Parkes Festival. Anita said “I per­formed my Forever Olivia Show on the main stage twice last year and I am so excited to be returning again this year. It’s an absolute honour. This tribute show for me is a dream come true, I love per­forming Olivia’s music and I hope the audience can see how much I do.”

Come and embrace all the 1967 glory of the Elvis musical comedy Easy Come, Easy Go at the Amazing Forbes Street breakfast on Friday 10 January from 7am to 11am in Templar Street, Forbes.

Just as Elvis Presley – Ted Jackson – a deep sea diver and night club singer finds sunken treasure in the last of the Hal Wallis produced movies, you can come and find the treasures of Templar Street, Forbes’ plaza style street with open air dining, plen­ty of entertainment and shopping.

Easy Go, was shot at the Long Beach Naval Station, the Santa Monica pier and harbour and in the Hollywood Hills, it fea­tured the title song as well as the Love Ma­chine and Yoga Is as Yoga Does.

On Friday 10 January, you can step back into 1967 with the acclaimed Sydney Swing Katz and renowned Elvis entertainers Paul Sun Duo, Elvis Roberts and Ray of Elvis.

While in Forbes enjoy the Forbes Art So­ciety’s Elvis Exhibition – Easy Come, Easy Go! The exhibition is open from 10am to 4pm every day of the festival 8-12 January and is at the Forbes Town Hall. The exhibi­tion is showing all art mediums, including 3D pottery and sculpture and Elvis themed works.

Getting To Forbes

Have you heard about the Forbes Shuttle Bus – running during the Elvis Festival? You can purchase an unlimited shuttle bus pass for $35 or pay $10 per trip. It saves time and you won’t need to juggle cash.

An unlimited pass will give you unlim­ited shuttle bus trips between Parkes and Forbes from Wednesday 8 January to Sun­day 12 January as you want.

All buses operate to and from the Cooke Park bus stop. Approximate travel time to Forbes is 30 minutes and the buses are sponsored by Forbes Shire Council.

The Homegrown Parkes event is an op­portunity for local and regional businesses and individuals who are processing, repur­posing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products, to share their skill and products with the community.

Homegrown Parkes was recently award­ed the Community Spirit and Inclusion Award at the 2024 Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns NSW Awards.

Demonstrations will again be one of the highlights of the 2025 events, highlighting processes for using locally produced food and products with the aim of encouraging locals to grow produce in their own back­yard – or at least increase their conscious­ness of food miles and purchasing locally.

Education is an important part of Home­grown Parkes, encouraging our commu­nity to grow and prepare their own produce and supporting local and regional small businesses is an important element of the event. The inclusion of a Crop Swap at the event allows locals to share excess pro­duce and encourage others.

Homegrown Parkes will provide an op­portunity for visitors and locals to fill their Saturday in Parkes with plenty of good food and local produce! The autumn event will be held on Saturday, 29 March and the Spring event will be held on Saturday, 11 October. These events are being held be­tween 9am and 2pm in Cooke Park.

The Homegrown Parkes Committee, consists of members of Central West La­chlan Landcare, Parkes Community Arts and Parkes Shire Council.

If you are interested in joining us for ei­ther Homegrown Parkes events, make sure you follow our social media, find out more information via our website at https://cen­tralwestlachlanlandcare.org/get-involved/homegrown-parkes/ or contact Marg Ap­plebee on 0418 611 053 or homegrown­parkes@gmail.com