For 75 years, Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society has been bringing stories to life, creating friendships, nurturing local talent and entertaining generations of our community. This October, the Society is celebrating that incredible journey the best way they know how – on stage! ICONIC is a special concert celebrating 75 years since the Society officially reformed in 1951, bringing together music, memories and local talent in a celebration of everything that makes community theatre so special.
The idea behind ICONIC was simple: to celebrate the shows, songs and people who have shaped the Society across the decades. The result is an enormous production featuring more than 60 performers spanning multiple generations, with 32 songs from 32 much-loved musicals.
Audiences will be taken on a whirlwind journey through musical theatre, with favourites from Annie, Wicked, Chicago, Mamma Mia, Les Misérables, The Sound of Music, Grease, Matilda, School of Rock, The Lion King, Billy Elliot, Frozen and many more.
There will also be some very special moments throughout the season, including recognition of our Life Members and the unveiling of the Society’s new logo on opening night.
ICONIC opens at The Little Theatre on Saturday 17 October and will run across two weekends. Tickets available at www. parkesmandd.com They are also hosting a members breakfast on Sunday 18th October from 9am for past and current members. Check their website for information and how to RSVP.
The National BBQ Championships are finally here – so get ready for plenty of grilling and smoking all weekend at Grinsted Oval, Lake Forbes. We have more than 27 teams competing – 16 in the grilling and 11 in the smoking competitions. I am so excited for this year, as it really is getting bigger and better every year, attracting competitors and visitors from across the country. Saturday will feature a lot of local entrants in the grilling competitions, while Sunday will showcase some of Australia’s best pitmasters competing in the smoking championships. Along with incredible food, there will be cooking demonstrations, live music, markets and a great community atmosphere.
October is also Small Business Month, we are so lucky in Forbes to have so many hard working and unique local businesses.
This is our chance to celebrate these businesses, spend up to support and recognise the vital role local businesses play in our economy and community. To support our local businesses, there is a free AI Business Masterclass at Club Forbes on 20 October.
The session will explore practical ways artificial intelligence can help businesses improve efficiency, save time and identify new opportunities.
Another highlight is Council’s Tradies Night on Thursday 22 October at the Forbes Golf Club. Our local tradespeople make a tremendous contribution to Forbes and this event will provide an opportunity to network, hear industry updates and connect with others working across the sector.
Last week, we were pleased to launch the new Forbes Visitor Guide. The refreshed publication showcases the many amazing attractions, experiences and hidden gems our town has to offer. I encourage everyone to pick up a copy and take the opportunity to be a tourist in our own town.
There is also positive news on several infrastructure projects.
The concrete has been poured for stage one of the Wheogo Park walking path and Warroo Bridge has opened ahead of harvest. The upgraded bridge will significantly improve access for heavy vehicles and wide loads.
Finally, wishing all Year 12 students the very best as they begin their Higher School Certificate examinations. Good luck to everyone.
God Bless,
Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM