Forbes and Parkes have played host to His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor of New South Wales and Mrs Hurley, from the 17th to 19th November, as part of a program that
sees His Excellency visit numerous townships throughout the state.
After touching down at Parkes Regional airport on Tuesday morning, the Governor and Mrs Hurley travelled to Forbes where, accompanied by Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, they toured the Forbes Livestock Exchange. A luncheon was held in Wheogo Park where the Governor and Mrs Hurley were guests of honour. Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM raised her glass for a speech, thanking His Excellency for the visit and welcoming both he and Mrs Hurley back in the future.
The Governor also spoke, explaining the purpose of the visits. “We have a program where we do a number of country visits during the year, visiting two or three towns for three to four days. We spend a day and a night in each town to allow us to get good feel for the community,” said the Governor. “I go back and speak to the politicians, tell them my thoughts on what I experienced.”
After lunch, the Vice Regal couple attended Red Bend Catholic College, touring the facilities and speaking to students and staff whilst also witnessing drama, dance and music performances, followed by an afternoon tea put on by hospitality students. “We’re grateful for the chance to showcase our school,” said Principal Michael Flanagan. “It’s a great opportunity to show the different elements we have as an independent school. The kids are all so excited to meet the Governor.”
After leaving the college, His Excellency and Mrs Hurley attended a few other functions in Forbes, including a private dinner, before heading to Parkes on Wednesday.