First grade snuck home 84-7 on the back of two fabulous contributions; six tries by Luke Harding and an absolutely amazing 12 conversions from as many attempts by sharp-shooter CJ Smyth (with all but three slotted from near the sideline).

The mighty Gorillas scored 42 points in each half (and Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy fans will appreciate the number 42) on their way to their 11th consecutive win (complete with 11 consecutive bonus points for at least four tries every game) and their retention of the Red Cross Shield.

Parkes tried hard all game, eventually being rewarded with a converted try for their efforts with 17 minutes to go.

For the record, the other six tries went to Scott Burgess (2), Smyth (2), Charlie MacInnes and Charlie Tuck. Well done guys... and coach Luke Brown.

Seconds won 26-5 with their bonus point for four tries (one to Greg Wynn and three to Chad Jacobson, who also converted all four; there’s something in those goal-kicking initials “CJ”).

The front row of Gerard Cusack, Craig Shibble and Tim Gibson (on father Ross’ birthday) played strongly as did Sam McLeod, Keith Maher and Ross Larkings.

Zimbabwean Cuan “Zimbo” Meredith grabbed the photo opportunity of being strongly tackled by a Parkes hit-man, before duly passing to Sebastian Zumbo (another good game): Zimbo to Zumbo!

Thirds got home 19-5 with a few loaned players to Parkes (eg. Jack Powell and Kane Smith) ensuring the numbers were even.

The first try-scorer, a lad named Luke Thompson, seems to have quite a bit of potential.

Matt Cowley grabbed Narromine’s second (converted by the hirsute Jimmy Ring) after Parkes had equalised, leading to a half-time score of 12-5.

Parkes were in again twice after the break (12-15), before the sprinting Henry Buttsworth, backing up from Colts, flew over. Brian Rose (another Zimbabwean import) and Robby Mullan impressed.