I did get behind the lens on a few occasions like this one at the 2020 Parkes Elvis Festival with Joe Camilleri and Greg Page. (Photo: Keith Turk)
I clearly remember the thrill of having a camera and notebook in my hands again returning to journalism close to seven years ago when I started as reporter for the newly established community newspaper, The Parkes Phoenix.
I had not worked as a journalist for a number of years, and did not have any real prospect of getting a taste of reporting in Australia as so many newspapers were downsizing. And then this opportunity at The Parkes Phoenix came along out of the blue. Little did I know at the time what a lifeline it would become, and how much joy it would bring.
As a relatively new immigrant to Australia with a young child, and having only done some casual work at a school in Parkes, my world was very small and my knowledge of everything Australian was rather limited.
Working for both The Parkes Phoenix and later The Forbes Phoenix catapulted me into every corner of both communities and the wide array of events, traditions,stories and customs, and exposed me to experiences I would otherwise never have had.
From meeting so many amazing and interesting locals and listening to their inspiring stories, countless visits by politicians
including several premiers and prime ministers, the craziness and buzz of the Parkes Elvis Festival to covering Anzac Day, Australia Day, Parkes Show, natural disasters, sporting events and milestone anniversaries… the list goes on and on.
I have learned from every experienced, gained valuable insights in what makes Australians tick, and even became an ‘Elvis expert’ as a bonus! Getting to know our communities inside out has made me even more grateful that my family could make this great country our new home.
In our regular Our Bloke/Gal column we asked people what they like about living in Parkes or Forbes, and so often they would say the community. I couldn’t agree more. I have never felt such a sense of community anywhere else, and the recent flood events once again demonstrated the abundance of kindness and generosity that binds us all together.
Sadly, it is time for me to say goodbye and leave my beloved Phoenix job. Thank you for sharing your stories with me, smiling for my photos and accepting me into the community. It has made me feel very welcome and helped me become Australian.
Maggi Barnard