Tullamore Library open all hours: The Tullamore community will soon have access to an Australian first – the first public library to be available for use 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On Wednesday, 7th September a self borrowing and 24 hour access arrangement will be launched at an Open Day at the library. The system will enable library members to borrow, return and use the library facilities at a time that suits them. Manager Cultural, Education & Library Services, Shellie Buckle said: “Parkes Shire Council and the Tullamore Community Consultative Committee have supported this project to offer the community access to the library when it suits them and their family schedules.” It is a very simple solution of using a computer setup where members can borrow items themselves, and members will be able to apply for a key to the front door. Library Assistant Mel Alvey will still be on deck the usual hours, 11am to 4.30pm on Wednesdays. The community is invited to join library staff for the 24-hour access launch at 11am on Wednesday, including a BBQ lunch provided by the Tullamore Men’s Shed at 12.30pm.
More youth take up traineeships: The future of the Parkes Shire looks positive as Council reported an increase in the number of traineeships taken up by local youth. Parkes Shire Council has more than doubled the number of traineeships offered over the past four years. Parkes Shire Council’s General Manager Kent Boyd said: “It’s encouraging to see these opportunities being taken up by Parkes Shire youth.” “Of the 176 Council employees, 15 of them are trainees. Based on the work ethic and enthusiasm being shown by these young people, the future of this region looks bright.” Council currently offers traineeships in engineering, information technology, finance, town planning, building surveying, tourism, horticulture, ranger services, human resources, business administration and water operations. Additionally, Parkes Shire Council has five school-based trainees across their departments including finance, mechanical services, library services, administration and water operations. “Council traineeships are a fantastic way to kick-start a career in your preferred field. Trainees are exposed to a broad and diverse range of opportunities to suit their background, skills and interests,” Kent said. For further information about the traineeships on offer, visit www.parkes.nsw.gov.au.
Correction: We reported last week in the story on the Battle of Long Tan that Harold Amor had lost his battle with cancer in Queensland recently. This was unfortunately incorrectly stated on the commemoration program, and Harold passed away peacefully at his home from a heart attack. We apologise for any distress this has caused the family.