Parkes Phoenix Editor

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

Mayoral Notes…

January 12, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Happy New Year and I hope you all had a lovely Christmas. For the summer holidays Council has organised the Forbes Beach at the Forbes Pool. To open the beach, a beach party was held last Friday night, which was very successful. For the rest of the summer there will be beach volleyball, beach cricket and other beach games as well as a chill out area with deck chairs and a beach theme wall.

The Parkes Elvis Festival started on Wednesday and just a reminder that there is a shuttle bus running from Forbes to Parkes and back each day of the festival for residents and visitors to attend. The cost for the bus is $10 one way, or $35 for unlimited rides. The full schedule is available online at www.forbes.nsw.gov.au and at each of the bus stops. Council has also planned a movie night with the screening of Viva Las Vegas at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre tomorrow night. Doors open at 8pm with the movie starting at 8.30pm. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door.

Nominations for the Forbes Shire Citizen of the Year (26 years and over) and Forbes Shire Young Citizen of the Year (25 years and younger) are open until 5pm on 18th January. These awards will be presented at the Australia Day celebrations at Colin McKenzie Park on Thursday, 26th January. Nomination forms can be collected from Council’s Administration Office or Council’s website at www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

Mayor Graeme Miller

Your Wealth Matters…

January 12, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Get Financially Fit This Year – $15 Off To Phoenix Readers
Every year, millions of people start the New Year with a resolution. Many of them make the same resolution year after year… this year they really mean it! The top three resolutions are getting fit, losing weight and spending less. We have a problem though! People don’t keep their resolutions because they don’t have the willpower, or people make a resolution they don’t know how to achieve. That is often the case when it comes to financial resolutions. In terms of spending less, many people don’t know where their money is going in the first place. That
makes it difficult to get on top of spending.

For those who manage to save, they often don’t know what to do with it. They’ve never been taught the strategies they need to know to make the most of their money and their savings. Money isn’t rocket science, but without the right information it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the things you could do. The principles of creating and protecting wealth have never changed. The only thing that’s changed is the number of bad deals lurking out there. Better to get the recipe for what you should do.

Before you do anything else with your money this year, make a small investment in the one thing that will bring you closest to financial freedom: financial education. We are offering $15 off to Forbes Phoenix readers to celebrate the launch of our online workshop. You can get the financial education you need at your own pace, in your own time. Just go to www.wealthtrain.com.au/membership and use discount code PHOENIX15.

Our Bloke – Joe Bernardi

January 12, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Joseph (Joe) Bernardi

How long have you lived in or around Forbes? My whole life which is 36 years. I was born here and chose to work for the family business which is based here in Forbes.

Where do you work? Bernardi’s Supermarkets and Discount Dave’s

What do you enjoy most about your work? I particularly love working in the retail industry as it is so dynamic and the market is always changing. It certainly makes things challenging but I guess that is part of the appeal. I also really enjoy the food retailing as you get the opportunity to be creative especially with seasonal fresh food.

Who would you most like to have dinner with? Sam Walton who the was founder of Walmart in the U.S. but has now passed away. He was probably the world’s most ultimate retailer and he started from scratch. In the world of retail, he is the pinnacle in my view

Where would you like to go on your dream holiday? The U.S. probably New York – never been but I’ve heard its awesome. When you get a huge population (New York City has 8.5million people living in it) in a limited geographical area it creates food and retail experiences that are not possible to execute without that population so I’d probably spend a lot of time looking at that – along with some cultural stuff to keep my wife happy!

Storm Season Might Cause Power Outages

January 12, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

With the storm season upon us, it is important to be prepared for weather-related power outages. Storms, lightning, and wind gusts have the potential to damage the network. “Essential Energy monitors the network continuously and our crews are ready to respond 24/7,” said David Crough of Essential Energy. He reminded people to report any fallen powerlines or damaged infrastructure and keep at least 8m away. “Always treat powerlines as live and remember that anything in contact with them, such as cars, trees or fences, can conduct electricity and pose a danger,” David said. “Be aware that fallen powerlines may not always be visible in paddocks or rugged countryside, or could be hidden by storm debris.”

If you notice fallen trees, deceased animals, smoke, fire, or scorched areas around electrical equipment, call Essential Energy on 13 20 80. Major powerlines are re-energised first to restore electricity to the majority of customers. Once this is completed, field crews target individual faults and customers’ problems. For more information on electrical safety during storms, visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety or call 13 23 91.

Best HSC Results For Red Bend In Many Years

December 22, 2016 by Maggi Barnard

The Red Bend HSC class of 2016 has much to celebrate as they achieved the best results in the recent history of the College. The College Dux is Nicholas Rhodes with an exceptional ATAR of 99.80, and 23 students being recognised as distinguished achievers with 55 band 6s across 19 separate courses. A band 6 is equivalent to a mark above 90.

Brendan King, Nicholas Rhodes and Matthew Todd have been recognised as all rounders. They achieved Band 6s in at least 10 units. Brendan King and Jessica Zieltjies have been recognised as top achievers being placed among the highest places in the state for an individual subject with a 17th place for Modern History and 10th for Agriculture respectively. A further 58 students achieved band 5s across 26 courses. In total, the cohort received 164 band 5s, which is equivalent to a mark between 80 and 89.

Cameron Harvey’s excellent Design and Technology HSC Major work was nominated for Shape, which showcases the top individual major projects from Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design. Cameron’s project comprised a set of drum-inspired outdoor furniture, including chairs and a table that incorporated a series of high quality metal, timber, textile and perspex skills. The 2016 class also had significant success with early entry offers to university. Nicholas Rhodes not only received early entry to the University of Sydney but is also the recipient of a Dean’s Entry Scholarship to the Faculty of Science.

Bailey Crocker has received early entry to the Australian National University to study a double degree in Engineering/Advanced Mathematics, and he received the university’s Spirit of Excellence Award for credit towards leadership, sport and other notable achievements. Early Entry applications to the University of Wollongong and others range from Engineering to International Studies.
Charles Sturt University offered 23 students early entry into 34 courses. The courses range from a Bachelor of Communication (Advertising), Bachelor of Business (Marketing), to a Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology. Some courses such as teaching are pending and will be based on the student’s ATARs. This is a result of the initiative to increase the entry results of teaching to elevate the expectations of this professional area.

Red Bend Catholic College is proud and ecstatic with the strong academic performance across all levels of achievement for the HSC class of 2016. “The students’ results are a reflection of their conscientious attitude and enthusiastic approach. It is also a reward for intense effort and study. They have worked well with their teachers by engaging with the curriculum and responding to ongoing feedback. “Congratulations and best wishes for the future to this graduation class. We are confident that they will prove to be good christians and good citizens, the goal of Marist Education.”

Cameras To Bring Back Serenity At Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre

December 22, 2016 by Maggi Barnard

Nationals’ Federal Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack, announced more than $10,000 funding for closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre in Forbes on Tuesday. Michael told a small gathering at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre the Forbes Council would receive $13,600 to install two solarpowered cameras. “Serenity, that’s what this place is, serenity,” said Aileen Allen of the centre where the integrated philosophy of the Wiradjuri people that connects them with all living things and the land can be experienced.

Unfortunately, the serenity has been broken too many times by vandalism and antisocial behaviour. Aileen and Forbes Mayor, Graeme Miller as well as Forbes Shire General Manager, Danny Green welcomed the funding provided by the Safer Streets Program. The program supports communities at the grass roots level to boost crime prevention. Chief Inspector of Police, Nick Weyland, said: “CCTV can assist in enhancing perceptions of safety, deterring criminal and anti-social behaviour, as well as helping to apprehend those responsible for crime in the community.”

Aileen thanked the Forbes police for their prompt assistance in the past and said she hoped with the CCTV cameras working both the Aboriginal, Torres Strait and Australian flags would remain on the flag poles. They have been stolen a total of seven times. Michael offered that his office would replace the missing flags. “Only safe communities can be strong and prosperous, and the best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it from happening,” said the MP. “Most importantly the funds used to pay for this program are from the proceeds of the Crime Account – that is money taken from criminals and reinvested into the community to prevent more crimes.”

By Dianne Collie

Our Bloke – Phillip (Phil) Wells

December 22, 2016 by Maggi Barnard

How long have you lived in or around Forbes? I have lived here most of my life… but not all of it yet. I first moved to Forbes as a Red Bend Boarder in 1965. Red Bend was my Forbes home for six years. I moved back again in 1976 to open my business.

Where do you work? I opened my optometry practice in 1976 – was 40 years ago in July! My practice is now located at 67 Rankin Street, Forbes. I sought higher ground from my Cross Street practice after being flooded out in 1990.

What do you enjoy most about your work? I really enjoy meeting a wide variety of people and hopefully sending them back out to see the world more clearly.

How do you start your day? Nothing beats a dense shot flat white with Girra Girra Sourdough and their free range eggs.

What makes your day? Anything that makes me laugh, or being with friendly, happy people.

Who would you most like to have dinner with? Any or all of my wonderful friends.

Where would you like to go on your dream holiday? Santorini and the Greek Islands – just to relax.

Question of the Week?

December 22, 2016 by Maggi Barnard

What does Christmas mean to you?

Jean Sweeney: Mostly family. My first child was born on Christmas Day which was a lovely present as the baby wasn’t due until January

Karen Wright: Spending time with family. This year we are having ham and salad which will be less fuss and give us all more time to relax.

Tara Mann: Family, friends and Jesus’ birthday.

Christmas Time Is A Time Of Giving

December 22, 2016 by Maggi Barnard

Winston Churchill said: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Christmas time is all about giving and a few local businesses have made sure there is the opportunity to follow Winston Churchill’s advice and give to others. Ian Simpson & Co. Real Estate wants to make certain that Christmas is a happy time for everyone. Last year they held a Christmas Present Drive for Ronald McDonald House. “This year Havannah House will be the recipient,” said Ian.

Many people have donated a gift for children up to five years of age, which Ian will deliver to Havannah House today. Forbes Services Memorial Club (FSMC) has had a Community Giving Tree for many years to provide the Forbes people the opportunity to donate gifts for the less fortunate. “This year we will again be donating the gifts to Havannah House,” said David Fitzgerald, CEO of FSMC.

The Forbes Phoenix was bedazzled by the display and the Christmas Tree surrounded by many presents waiting to be delivered. There was even a chair for Santa! “Lots of children have enjoyed having their photo taken with Santa, and because their parents or caregivers made a gold coin donation there will be even more presents to donate to Havannah House,” said David. Havannah House Ministries Inc is a not
for profit, charitable organisation which provides support to people in need, based on resources available, in order to meet the needs of those who seek help.

By Dianne Collie

Mayoral Notes…

December 22, 2016 by Maggi Barnard

Council’s last meeting for the year was last Thursday and it was a very productive meeting. One of the items discussed was the aerodrome and we will be proceeding with the first stage of the subdivision in the near future. We also had a presentation from Chief Planner for NSW, Gary White, who discussed the Central West and Orana Regional Plan and provided information on mega trends. It was very informative and we appreciate Gary taking the time to come to Forbes.

Australia Day plans are well underway and our Australia Day Ambassador is former Governing and Artistic Director of the Ensemble Theatre, Sandra Bates. Nominations are still open for the Citizen of the Year awards with nomination forms available at the council office or online at www.forbes.nsw.gov.au Don’t forget to have your say on the Forbes Community Plan 2027 by completing the survey online at www.forbes.localvoices.com.au. You should have also received a hard copy of the survey in the mail with a reply paid envelope. This is your
chance to participate in the future planning for our town. The survey closes on Tuesday, 3rd January.

On behalf of Councillors and Staff, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Council offices will be closed from 3pm today and will re-open at 8.30am on Tuesday, 3rd January. Mayor Graeme Miller

Parkes Phoenix Editor

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