I am looking forward to seeing firsthand the Big Map experience being brought to Forbes by Disaster Resilience Australia (DRA). The Big Map is literally that – a map that will cover the entire Town Hall floor and allows a community to take off their shoes, stand on their chosen location, whether it be home or business or area, and talk about their experiences. It will enable our community to be heard, feel valued and take ownership of the disaster and prepare for future events. More information about the Big Map is available on our Facebook page and website, so please take the opportunity to register and be a part of this cathartic experience.
Nominations for the 2023 NAIDOC Awards have opened and provide the opportunity to recognise achievements of individuals within our Indigenous community and to foster greater understanding of Indigenous culture. I encourage you to make a nomination, forms are available on our website at; Wiradjuri Culture | Forbes Shire Council (nsw.gov.au). Once completed, these can be mailed to, or dropped off at, Council offices or emailed to community@forbes.nsw.gov.au
Finally, there is a huge weekend ahead of us with something for everyone. Aside from all the traditional plans of sport, washing and garage sale spotting, take advantage of the Central West Bird Expo, the exciting first ever staging of Sundown Sounds at Lions Park and then the Forbes Cup races on Sunday – birds, music, food, horses, great company – it is all happening in Forbes!!
Till next week, God bless,
Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor