Parkes Phoenix Editor

Forbes Evening Branch CWA Publicity Officer Sue Cunningham, Secretary Shirley Redfern, President Karen Wright, and Heather Mackinnon with Women’s Refuge team members Dallas Haynes and Wendy McMaugh.

The Forbes CWA Evening Branch have again shone the light of generosity on women and children in crisis by donating boxes of books, colouring in equipment, and games to the Forbes Women’s Refuge.

The many boxes of items were presented to CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Refuge team members Wendy McMaugh and Dallas Haynes last week.

“We know these times have been really hard for many families and our members are always keen to help out,” said Ka- ren Wright, President of the Forbes CWA Evening Branch.

“We specifically chose these items hoping they would be a distraction from what is happening to their families and what they have had to escape from,” Karen said.

Refuge team member Wendy McMaugh sincerely thanked the Forbes CWA Even- ing Branch for the donations to the families.

“These items are very important to our families as they often leave with so little, and now because of the Evening Branch, we can give some lovely new things to them to start their new life with,” Wendy said.

This is not the first time the Forbes CWA Evening Branch has generously supported the refuge. Through their ongoing fundraising they often purchase and supply pyjamas and other essential clothing for families at the Refuge.

For the CWA, improving the conditions and welfare of all women and families, especially in rural and regional areas is one of the focal points of its advocacy and lobbying to the government. Forbes CWA Evening Branch are doing their bit by working to address issues affecting our own local community.

“By supporting the Women’s Refuge and supplying essential items, we are helping to do this in a practical and positive way,” said Karen. “It may not be heard at government level, but our local women and families will benefit.”

While the spring season of birth passes quietly for many Australian native species, a few, like the Magpie can make renewal a bit rowdier.

The magpie breeding season lasts until November and can be stressful for many people as dive bombing Magpies turn our favourite outdoor places into no go zones.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Ranger Steve Woodhall says there are a few simple steps to take to avoid swooping magpies. “For most of the year Magpies are welcome additions to our lives, helping control garden pests, and filling our ears with their beautiful song,” Steve said.

“However, for around six weeks of the year, some male magpies become aggressive and swoop anyone who enters their territory where they are nesting.”

“This can be alarming but being tolerant and avoiding areas where Magpies are known to swoop is the best way to avoid conflict. They are only being responsible parents by protecting their young from perceived threats,” he said.

Some simple and effective steps people can take to help protect themselves and should teach children include:
• Never harass or provoke Magpies.
• Keep calm. Walk quickly but do not run.
• Try to keep your eye on the Magpie, they are less likely to swoop when they are being directly watched.
• Dismount your bicycle or horse.

Visit https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/australian-magpie for information.