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Forbes Phoenix

Parkes Phoenix Editor

Maggi Barnard has been with the Forbes Phoenix since 2021 and loves writing about her community.

Woolworths And Variety Launch Kids Easter Fundraising Appeal

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

GOOD CAUSE: Woolworths and Variety have teamed up to raise vital funds for kids in need.

Woolworths customers can help support the mobility and medical equipment needs of children and families across NSW and ACT with the launch of the Easter Fundraising Appeal in support of Variety – The Children’s Charity.

Customers at Woolworths Forbes and across NSW can support the Easter Fundraising Appeal by simply adding a $2 Easter egg-shaped token to their shop or rounding up their purchase to the nearest dollar when they spend over $30 at the self-service check-out.

The appeal is running in stores and online until April 6, 2021.

Woolworths Store Manager Noel Reardon said: “We’re proud of our long term support for Variety and are always amazed by how Forbes Shire customers continue to give generously with each appeal.

“Many families across NSW have had a tough twelve months, but what we continue to see is that Australians band together to support one another in times of need.

“The Easter Fundraising Appeal is a great example of how a little bit of good can go a long way for children and families across NSW and ACT, helping them get the vital equipment and support they need.”

One hundred percent of funds raised will help Variety to support children who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs.

Acting General Manager David Small agreed saying “With the help of Wool-worths and the kindness of their shoppers, Variety is working to ensure all children across NSW and the ACT have access to the crucial equipment they need to ensure they are living to their full potential.”

“We’re so grateful for our longstanding partnership with Woolworths and the support their shoppers continue to show Variety. Together, we can support more kids in need this Easter.”

Woolworths customers have helped raise $11 million to date for Variety.

No Maybe Baby About KMS

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

FREE THROW: Players from Maybe Babies and KMS watch on as the ball hits the rim in their clash last week.

It was billed as the game between the defending champs and the team that would-be king – Misfits v Flint Tropics. In the end, the win for Flint Tropics 40-28, who like, Misfits, were undefeated going into this game, has only raised more questions than it answered.

Lead admirably by Jono Merrell and Justin Hoy, Flint Tropics immediately went to work coming hard out of the gates and making life difficult for the champions whose attack was disjointed.

“Our D kept us in it,” said Shannon Crowley of Misfits.

“We just couldn’t get anything going on offence despite tremendous efforts from new recruit Morgan Ball and Grant King in the paint,” he said.

“In the end they were too good on the night even though we closed the gap to single digits towards the end.”

With Flint Tropics all alone now at the top of the Forbes Basketball Association ladder Misfits have the job ahead to get their offence right before a return match with the challengers

“We have a lot of improving to do to beat Flint Tropics let alone go back-to-back,” said Crowley.

“I know we can improve our attack and we have some time to get that right,” Shannon said. “We will need to if we are a chance.”

In the battle of the cellar dwellers, KMS, lead by its young stars, outpaced new side Maybe Babies 68-28. Despite strong games from Adam Maynard and Mark Stirling, it wasn’t enough for Maybe Babies to combat the chemistry of KMS who’s three-point shooting alone blew the contest wide open. Maybe Babies captain Mark Stirling though, remained upbeat the side can improve and remain competitive.

“It’s only our first season but we have to continue to work and hopefully that translates to some wins.”

Cricket Season Drawing To Close

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

STUMPS: The Forbes cricket season is coming to a close with junior games wrapping up and the Men’s grand final this weekend.

While the rain has played havoc for many in what has already been a disruptive season.the Forbes cricket season is nearing its conclusion. Perhaps the most impressive story from the weekend was the incredible last ball win by Forbes Under 12s against Parkes Colts. Needing 18 off the last two overs, Mac Glasson and Cayden Metzeling combined for a tenth wicket partnership to get Forbes home at the death. Well done boys and congrats to all junior winners! Men’s grade grand finals are this weekend.

Locals Clean Up At Bride’s Choice Awards

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

BRIDE’S CHOICE: Bec Sammut beat a deep field to claim the Bride’s Choice Best Videographer in the Central West award recently.

Bek Sammut Videography and Essjay Photography’s Sarah Hodge both have a reason to smile. Recently, both women competed and won their respective sections at the popular Bride’s Choice Awards. Ivy Lane Photography claimed second in the same photography section as Essjay at the awards.

Sammut, who claimed the gong for Best Videographer in the Central West, was rapt with the win. “I was shocked and couldn’t believe I won,” Ms Sammut said.

“The awards were via zoom this year which made it different but still enjoyable,” she said.

“I am very humbled and grateful for the award.”

The awards, which are a part of the Australian Wedding Industry Awards are among the most prestigious in the country with stiff competition especially this year in the Central West region.

Brides Choice Awards is a non-member organisation which was launched in 2011 and has been there to acknowledge those wedding businesses that have excelled and exceeded the expectations of their Brides from around Regional Australia.

Brides Choice Awards is a supportive industry network platform, facilitating connectivity, support and importantly, recognising Excellence in Business practice through Brides Choice Awards for Excellence’ Annual Awards.

Western NSW Businesses Urged To Register For Dine & Discover

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Business NSW is encouraging businesses across Western NSW in the hospitality, entertainment and tourism sectors to register for the NSW Government’s Dine & Discover program.

The call comes as the four $25 vouchers have started to become available in several Local Government Areas across regional NSW this week.

“This was a popular announcement from last year’s State Budget, and it’s important our region’s businesses in tourism, hospitality and entertainment register now to benefit from the program,” said Business NSW, Regional Manager – Western NSW, Vicki Seccombe.

“No one needs extra encouragement to have a meal out or enjoy some downtime after the past year, so I encourage Western NSW businesses to register now so they can reap the rewards when the program opens here soon,” Ms Seccombe said.

“Customers are likely to spend much more than the $25 the voucher provides, and they have the opportunity of opening their business up to a whole new potential client base and encourage repeat visitation.”

There will be two distinct categories of voucher, ensuring as many businesses as possible can benefit from the program.

“Two vouchers can be used for eating in at restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and clubs from Monday to Thursday, excluding public holidays,” said Ms Seccombe.

Free Training Session For Gliders

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Ever wanted to learn how to hang glide? Well here’s your big chance!

While most of us will stick to the safety of land, others with the gall are encouraged to come and have a go in a free flight training session. Experienced instructors and hang glider pilots will be at the Forbes Aero Club from April 2 to April 5.

Event organiser Vicki Cain said they’re looking forward to coming back to Forbes and are hoping that the weather will be kind to them over the four days. “The Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding Championships unfortunately didn’t’ ahead this year,” she said.

“Despite that, there will be instructors hosting a morning and an evening session on Saturday, April 3,” said Vicki.

“The sessions are designed for people without flying experience and everyone is welcome.”

While it is free to take part in the training sessions, registrations are essential via their website at https://moyes.com.au/intro-hang-gliding-forbes.

Snippets…

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

BACK TO BISCUITS: After a five month lay-off due to COVID, Aussie Biscuits is back operating in their new premises. From 600 biscuits a day 45 years ago to 35,000 today we are glad they are back!

Aussie Biscuits Cooking Again: In a massive development for the local treasure, Aussie Biscuits is up and running again after a COVID enforced lay-off that lasted nearly half a year.
Brett Thompson of Aussie Biscuits was ecstatic to return citing how difficult it had been for many especially participants with a disability during the break. “It was hard for a few of our participants for sure,” he said.
“Unfortunately though due to how dangerous and contagious the virus was we had no choice but to cease production,” Brett said. “I know everyone is over the moon though that we are finally back to normal.”
From 600 biscuits a day back in 1976 through to 35,000 today it is certainly great to see Forbes local treasure back in full swing!

Choose To Challenge Wraps With Wonderful Women Exhibit: The rain didn’t stop a strong turn out for the finale of the IWD Choose to Challenge Exhibition that ran at the Platypus Gallery for the last two weeks. Saturday night from all reports was a great success as local award-winning photographer, Sarah Hodge of Essjay Photography showcased her array of extraordinary photographs. Well done Forbes Art Society, Forbes Business Chamber and all concerned for a fabulous exhibition!

Central West Landcare Kicking Big Goals For Forbes: It’s been a big few weeks for Central West Landcare, from CWLL monthly meetings at Forbes Community Garden as well as The Friends of Parliament Landcare event with NSW Councillors culminating in the NSW Rural Women’s Information evening Forbes Golf Club club this Wednesday March 24 at 6pm. Call Central West Landcare or the club for more info and don’t miss out on what promises to be a flagship event.

Wet Weather Continues: Last week we said there was a chance of more rain and now a good part of the state is experiencing flash flooding. While Forbes is some way off at the moment, another week of torrential rain and we may have to summon Steve Carrell’s ark from Evan Almighty.

Ninja Park Nearing Completion: It’s the park everyone can’t wait to see open – the new Forbes Ninja Park as final touches are being put on what will surely be one of the more popular family hangouts once it’s up and running. Perhaps we may find Australia’s next ninja warrior right here in Forbes!

NEAR COMPLETE: Ongoing construction on the Forbes Ninja Park is nearing completion as workers put on some finishing touches.

Be Seen

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

FROM DOWNTOWN: Maybe Babies forward Adam Maynard takes a shot from the wing in his sides’ loss to KMS.

 

ALL SMILES: It was smiles all round at the IWD Cocktail night last week

 

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: Bride’s Choice Award Winners Bec Sammut (Videography) and Sarah Hodge (Photography).

Winners On Count Back Again

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

The 4BBB Stableford, sponsored by C & D Floorcoverings, on Saturday was contested by a field of 72 players but again required a count back to separate the winners.

Ray Sanderson teamed with Harry Callaghan to score 46 points. They were joined by Jonathon Cutler and Glendon Hopper, also on 46 points. However, a better back-9, by one shot, was enough to give Ray and Harry the win.

The ball sweep went to 41 points on count back, so check in the Pro Shop for your result. The NTP’s went to: 9th – John Zannes, 18th – Peter Dawson, with Dave Mylecharane taking the 3rd hole Super Pin.

There was no Sunday Stableford Medley, with many wanting to avoid the inconsistent showers. But there was a big group of players from Cowra, who were in town for the weekend.

The Sanderson Memorial Golf Day is on this Saturday, 27 March. This is a 4-Ball Ambrose event, open to Club and social players. Ring the Pro Shop – 6851 1554 – now if you want to get in.

The Sixes Competition has reached the Grand Final stage, with the Main Draw playoff to be held this Sunday, Mar 28, while the Plate Play-off games were played through the week. The Presentation Dinner is on Sunday night.

Players are reminded to put your name on the list in the Pro Shop for the Wallace Cup Match Play championship, due to commence in late April.

Head Pro Adam is organising some more Demo Days. The Taylor-Made Equipment Day is scheduled for April 15, with a Mizuno Equipment Day coming also. Contact Adam – 0433 485846.

Preparations are underway for both the Ladies and Men’s Forbes Opens, to be held in early May. Check your Programme book for the dates and spread the word.

Local Riders Set To Shine In Showjumping Weekend

March 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

LEAP: Freya Hooper goes through her paces with her horse at a recent Forbes Pony Club event.

The huge weekend of show jumping coming up this week at the Forbes Showground will feature strong representation from local Forbes Pony Club riders.

Pony Club president Laurie Norris said that the club members had been working hard training in preparation for the event and are really looking forward to doing their club proud.

“We have over ten members registered to ride at levels from 45cm to jumps over a metre,” Mr Norris said.

“Professionally run events such as Forbes Jumping give our club members a chance to compete against strong fields and to improve their show jumping”.

Forbes Pony Club meets regularly and membership has grown significantly over the last twelve months to over thirty riders aged from four to sixty years. New members are welcome at any time.

“Please come along and see not only our own great riders, but some of the best show jumpers in Australia” says Mr Norris “with hundreds of riders at the showground this is set to once again be a spectacular event”.

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