The wheels have been turning on this project since February 2015 when Youth Council Member Phoenix Aubusson-Foley, who was 12 at the time, came up with the idea. More details about the dates and films that will be shown will be release in the coming months. Congratulations to the Youth Council in bringing Phoenix’s idea to fruition and also, many thanks must go to all of the tradies who have contributed so much to making it possible. There will be many people in Dubbo with fond memories of the old drive-in which opened in 1970 and I hope to see lots of people reliving their younger days when the screenings commence Although it will reopen as part of National Youth Week the event is for people of all ages to once again experience a night out at the drive-in.

Congratulations to Bill Sharkey for his award success at the 2017 Summernats with his recently restored 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe. Perfect vehicle to take Penny to the Drive-in!

It will be a busy time for sport in the region over the next two months with five sporting events of state significance taking place in Wellington and Dubbo. In January both Wellington and Dubbo will host the Under 13 and Under 14 State Cricket Championships, the Swimming NSW Country Regional meet will be held at the Wellington pool and the Athletics Country Championships at Barden Park. In February Dubbo will host the Little Athletics NSW Region Championships and the Under 9 to 13 NSW Junior State Cycling Titles and Open Carnival. It just goes to show that our region has the ability to attract the big events thanks to the quality of our facilities.

It is the first time the Swimming NSW Country Regional meet has been held in the region and a lot of work has gone into ensuring the Wellington Pool is at its best for the important event. Dubbo Regional Council has provided a lot of excellent support to the organisers of these events and not only will it provide a boost to the economy with all the incoming visitors it also promotes the region’s reputation as a perfect destination for all manner of events.

If you are looking for something to do during the last weeks of the school holidays don’t forget that many of the great places in our region offer mates rates to people who live in the Dubbo Regional Council LGA. Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Old Dubbo Gaol and the Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mine all offer discounted entry for locals. And if you are hosting visiting friends or family make sure you show them all the great things we have to offer. Also, with the red alert warning for algae at Lake Burrendong being lifted, it is the perfect place to cool off or catch a big one.

Dubbo.com.au has a wealth of information for locals as well as visitors including a school holiday program which has all the boredom-busting activities and workshops to help keep the kids occupied.

If you are looking for some frighteningly good fun this Friday the 13th head along to the Old Dubbo Gaol for a special screening of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. The bar opens at 7.30pm with the movie starting once the sun goes down. Everyone is encouraged to get into the spirit of the evening and dress up.

This event is adults only (18+) and proof of age will be required upon entry. Picnic Rugs will be provided or you are welcome to bring your own. Tickets are $10 and are available from olddubbogaol.com.au.