Parkes Phoenix Editor

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

Be Seen

January 28, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

RAISING THE WALL: Raising The Wall advocate Tom Green with Federal National’s MP and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack discussing the raising of the Wyangala Dam wall after the region suffered it’s third devastating, generational flood in a decade. Photo supplied.

YOUTH CENTRE FUNDING: Some $52,143 will be invested into the Youth and Community Centre to create access to the existing mezzanine level to improve storage, installation of a rock wall, widen the access ramp at the front entrance to ensure accessibility and compliance with the Council’s Disability Inclusion Plan as well as the installation of new lounges and a TV according to Sam Farraway (left) with Mayor Phyllis Miller and Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance.

PHILING UP IN FORBES: Member for Orange and NSW Shooters Party MP Phil Donato with shoppers at Forbes Handicraft Store doing some last minute pre-Christmas shopping on his quick stopover as he toured the electorate.

RUGBY FUNDING: Sam Farraway was on hand recently with Mayor Phyllis Miller and Deputy Chris Roylance to announce significant funding for South Circle and Grin-stead Oval. They will receive $200,000 to construct two new female change rooms as well as the refurbishment of the existing male change rooms.

SELECTED FOR OCEANIA CUP: Sam Drane (front row) has been selected as part of the Oceania Junior Cup team for 2022. The young Forbes rider has a massive calendar of events this season and will be looking to continue his podium form from the last round of the ASBK Australian Superbikes before Christmas.

SAVE THE DATE: February 7 will see the rescheduled International Day Of People with Disability celebrated and recognised at Forbes Olympic Pool from 10am – 2pm. There will be free pool entry, a BBQ, sport, games and entertainment for everyone! Contact community@forbes.nsw.gov.au by February 2 to RSVP.

McCormack Delivers Grants To Forbes Community Organisations

January 28, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

Member for Riverina Michael McCormack

Forbes Toy Library, Forbes Netball Association and the Bedgerabong Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural Association received a welcome boost before Christmas with Member for Riverina Michael McCormack announcing they will receive grants to support the vital work they do for the community.

“The support is being delivered through the Federal Government’s 2021 Volunteer Grants opportunity,” Mr McCormack said.

The funding program provides community organisations with grants of between $1,000 and $5,000, which can be used to buy small equipment for use by volunteers, reimburse volunteer fuel costs, meet training costs, transport volunteers with a disability or support promotional activities on volunteering activities.

Mr McCormack said 41 organisations in the Riverina and Central West would share in a total of $131,306.

“There are many thousands of volunteers in the Riverina and Central West who improve our community every day by turning up and helping out,” Mr McCormack said.

Forbes Toy Library will receive $1,000, Forbes Netball Association will receive $2,850 and the Bedgerabong Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural Association will receive $4,200. Mr McCormack said NSW Small Winemakers Incorporated (Forbes) would also receive a $1,500 grant.

“I thank the grant recipients, indeed all volunteer groups, for the wonderful work they do for the community.”

There are more than 8.7 million volunteers around Australia and their economic contribution is estimated at $290 billion a year.

Mr McCormack said the 2021 Volunteer Grants program would deliver a total of $18 million to more than 5,000 organisations nationwide. The Riverina Electorate grants were nominated by Mr McCormack in consultation with a community consultative committee.

Crowds Flock For Australia Day As Laurie Norris Wins COTY

January 28, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

FORBES CELEBRATES: Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM presented RDA’s Laurie Norris with Forbes Citizen Of The Year at an intimate, COVID-safe gala dinner at Forbes Town Hall last Tuesday night. They are pictured with Deputy Mayor and MC Chris Roylance. Norris has been a tireless worker in the Forbes community and was a popular winner from a strong field of nominations. New councillor Aidan Clarke also handed 2022 Forbes High School Captain Benjamin Barnard the Junior Citizen award while John and Christine Gorton picked up the Senior award from Brian Mattiske.

Last Tuesday evening, the Citizen of the Year gala dinner was held at Forbes Town Hall to recognise those who have contributed to the community. With this year’s ambassador, inspirational Paralympic gold medallist Lindy Hou also in attendance, tireless community worker and RDA mentor Laurie Norris took out Forbes Citizen of the Year presented by Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM.

New councillor Brian Mattiske awarded John and Christine Gorton Senior Citizen of the Year while Forbes High School Captain for 2022, Benjamin Barnard, picked up the Junior Citizen award and was congratulated by another new councillor, Aidan Clarke.

MC and Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance also paid special tribute to all nominees.

“We can’t thank everyone enough for their efforts,” said Mr Roylance.

“It is visible through the high quality of nominations we had this year,” he said.

On Wednesday morning, Rotary hosted the customary Australia Day breakfast at Lion’s Park at 7am. Later, most made their way back for more fun in the sun before settling in for the evening’s entertainment which culminated in fireworks.

Mayor Phyllis Miller was very pleased with the turn out after the last few events had been watered down due to COVID.

“It is amazing to see so many people come out and responsibly enjoy themselves on Australia Day,” she said.

“Thank you to everyone and a big congratulations to all our Australia Day award winners!”

BIG NUMBERS: Australia Day went off without a hitch this year despite two years of COVID disruptions with crowds flocking early to Lion’s Park for the Rotary breakfast and enjoying a day on the water by Lake Forbes. The celebrations culminated in a spectacular fireworks display.

More photos on the Forbes Phoenix Facebook page.

Big Changes For Forbes Arts Society

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

FAS FABULOUS SCULPTURE TRAIL: Emilie Rogers incredible creation ‘Ancestors watching’ outside Forbes towards Condobolin, is part of the popular Sculpture Trail between the two towns of which Dr. Karen Ritchie helped establish with Forbes Art Society. Dr. Ritchie steps down as President and will be replaced by Trudy Mallick.

There is a changing of the guard at Forbes Arts Society. At the recent AGM Dr Karen Ritchie Chairwoman of Forbes Arts Society officially resigned from her seat and Trudy Mallick was overwhelmingly voted in to take the chair position. Karen may have stepped down from the chair, but she has taken the role of Secretary and Dr Keith Mallette remains as the ordinary member.

“During my two-year term as President of the Forbes Arts Society (FAS), much effort has been expended commencing and progressing the projects of the NSW State Government Restart Grant program – ‘Boosting the Lachlan Valley Economy through Art Embedded in our Amazing Environment, Forbes NSW,” said Dr Ritchie.

The funded project consists of the Sculpture Down the Lachlan Trail between Forbes and Condobolin, redeveloping the Gum Swamp area with refurbished and new bird hides, walkways and sculptures and purchasing and redeveloping the derelict, former Forbes District Ambulance Station into an art gallery and cultural hub.

“The past two years have been incredibly busy but very exciting and stimulating and I would like to extend my thanks to the hard-working members of the FAS.”

Incoming President Trudy Mallick thanked Dr Ritchie for all her efforts.

“I am indebted to the work Karen has commenced as Chair of the Forbes Arts Society and look forward to completing the building and the sculpture trail in 2022. The next twelve months will be an exciting and no doubt challenging time for all of us, however the sculpture trail and bird hides will be wonderful attractions and the culture centre will be an incredible meeting place and art gallery for the townspeople and visitors to Forbes alike.”

Flood Assistance Available

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

FLOOD VISIT: Chris Roylance, Phyllis Miller, Steph Cooke, Scott Darcy, Bridget McKenzie, Michael McCormack and Dugald Saunders at Darcy’s flood-ravaged Bedgerabong property at the end of 2021. The Australian and NSW Govern-ments are jointly committing more than $80 million to make assistance immediately available for eligible local primary producers across the State.

Riverina and Central West farmers and primary producers impacted by recent floods will have access to grants of up to $50,000.

Member for Riverina Michael McCormack joined both the Commonwealth and NSW Ministers responsible for emergency management, services and resilience, Senator Bridget McKenzie and Steph Cooke as well as recently appointed NSW Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders, to announce the disaster recovery funding.

The announcement was made at “Traversdale”, the Bedgerabong property of Jackie and Scott Darcy at the end of last year, who hosted the Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Premier Dominic Perrottet on their visit.

Member for Riverina Michael McCormack thanked the Darcy’s and other local Central West farmers for their input into the development of the assistance. Financial assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Mr McCormack said local farmers in the Riverina and Central West, especially Forbes and Weddin Shires, have been hit hard by the recent severe weather across regional NSW.

“Eligible farmers and primary producers, from six of the 12 Local Government Areas in the Riverina electorate, will now have access to grants of up to $50,000 to help them get back on their feet,” he said. “In our part of NSW we’ve seen farming communities dealt blow after blow from drought to the mouse plague and more recently, devastating floods.”

“After my most recent visit to Forbes, with the Prime Minister and the Premier, I raised the concerns of farmers about issues they were experiencing directly with the Co-ordinator General of the National Recovery and Resilience Agency, The Hon. Shane Stone AC QC. I am pleased, following those meetings that the Government has compiled this package,” Mr McCormack said.

For assistance, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au/grants/disaster-recovery-grants

Business Chamber Donates To Cancer Groups

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

KIND DONATION: Chris Phillips, Carolyn Neilsen, Maureen Field, Carolyn Morrison, Cheryl Barton, John Schrader and Rex Barton, Justin Walker, Sheryl Garner, Stephanie and Daisy Hughes, Marg Duggan and Debbie Prior.

In more positive local news, the Forbes Business Chamber has donated a percentage of the proceeds from the Taste On Templar evening Forbes Can Assist and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, with both community groups receiving $9000 each.

Fiona Ferguson from the Forbes Business Chamber was delighted to be able to present on behalf of the Chamber and said the funds were vital as the groups have been “stretched to their maximum throughout the pandemic with many families struggling due to COVID and the restrictions required throughout this period.”

Forbes Can Assist’s John Schrader described the donation as “amazing,” after his group had been finding it “difficult like everyone else to raise funds during the pandemic.”

Funds for Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation will continue to work towards creating more education, awareness and protection for women from ovarian cancer where no woman will feel endangered by one of our biggest killers.

The funding donation will also allow researchers to continue to fight the scourge of ovarian cancer – a silent killer among our nation’s women.

“Thank you to all those who also volunteered their time and effort during Taste On Templar 2021 and over Christmas,” Fiona said.

Be Seen

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

NEW PANELS: The tilt panels at the new Heated Pool were raised as part of the new structure just before Christmas in another exciting step towards completion. This project will ultimately ensure all users of the Heated Pool can access a safe, fit-for-purpose facility upon completion. The completion date is March 2022, and we can’t wait until this fantastic facility will be back in action!

ON THE DEUCE: Although Jungle Deuce never got the chocolates in the Phoenix TAB race on December 18, Irinka Kennels continue to enjoy outstanding results. More next week in Sport.

FUNDING BOOST: Member for Orange Philip Donato MP visited Forbes before Christmas to announce the success of the Forbes Fin Swimming Club Inc in securing $2,500 as part of the NSW Government’s 2020/21 Local Sporting Grant program.

QUICK RUN TO THE SHOPS: A quick pre-Christmas stop over at Bernardi’s for NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack was also squeezed in whilst the trio toured the flood ravaged region with councilors.

RAIN RAIN GO AWAY: After a wet 2021, 2022 has also seen it’s fair share of moisture with heavy falls coming on the back of one of the wettest Springs in recent memory and our third flood in a decade. This cracking picture by Vince Kirk pretty much sums it up.

LOOKING GOOD: Aussie Biscuits team members with fresh uniforms and all ready for 2022!

WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER: Aaron Acheson from Acheson’s Mitre 10 Forbes presenting Taylor Bliss with her Weber BBQ won for spending in store.

New Forbes Councillors Sworn In

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

Unfortunately, the rain on Sunday prevented any play for the other semi–final of the Club Triples and also for some social groups. Bowlers should check the notices concerning upcoming events – especially the information about the Club Fours Championships and Mixed Pairs Championships. Wishing all those reading this article a Merry Christmas and a Happy, safe and healthy New Year.

It may have taken five years and then some, but Forbes Shire Council along with most other NSW LGA’s, finally held local government elections and have since sworn in the new council.

Led by Mayor Phyllis Miller, the new look council sees four new representatives – some of which have been elected before and others, for the first time.

A pandemic and subsequent COVID restrictions meant the initial vote couldn’t be conducted in September 2020 or again in September 2021 with a revised COVID-friendly ballot not held until December 4 last year. The disruption meant campaigning for many was difficult as many public engagements were either postponed or cancelled.

With Grant Clifton and Susan Chau not standing, there was always going to be new representatives championing the community for the next three-and-a-half years. Of the remaining seven from the last council, five have been re-elected with only Graeme Miller and Jeff Nicholson missing out along with local businessman Thomas Dwyer and debutant Emma Henderson. Clifton, Chau, Miller and Nicholson have been replaced by Marg Duggan, Aidan Clarke, Brian Mattiske and Maria Willis.

Mayor Phyllis Miller, Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance, Jenny Webb, Michele Herbert and Steve Karaitiana all return for another term with Miller enjoying over a third of the popular vote. The new council is a nod to the future but also recognition of the outstanding efforts of previous councils and councillors.

As a result of the pandemic and delays with elections, the new term will be a shortened one for this Forbes Shire Council as well as most other NSW LGAs.

Congratulations to our new councillors!

SNIPPETS…

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

ALL SMILES HEADING INTO 2022: Phil Donato and Robyn Kenny from Forbes Netball Association with their $15,000 grant to upgrade their canteen. They, along with other groups such as Forbes Handicraft and Men’s Shed have been putting the cash injection to good use already.

Donato’s Pre-Christmas Visit To Forbes: NSW Shooters Party member and State MP Phil Donato came to Forbes before Christmas to visit the Forbes Handicraft Centre and Men’s Shed. Donato, a champion for the electorate, was on hand to meet and greet volunteers and check out the recent developments.

“It’s a pleasure to support the ladies at the Forbes Handicraft Centre, who recently applied for grants funding to install new shelving, display cases and a quilt hanger,” said Donato in a statement on his Facebook page.

He also arrived just as the guys from the Forbes Men’s Shed were installing the quilt hanger – a pleasant surprise for all. “Congratulations to you all,” Donato said to the group.

Platypus Gallery Going Into Temporary Hiatus: The other big change for Forbes Arts Society is the Platypus Gallery is going into a temporary hiatus while the new culture centre is built. The centre will host a brand-new Platypus Gallery, along with a gallery for touring artwork, event rooms and a contemporary cafe. Platypus Gallery is closed and all the works will still be in the shop and online. For more information about the project or for online shopping, visit www.forbesartssociety.com.

Congrats To Ryan Browne: For the second year in a row KMWL’s Ryan Browne has been selected to compete in the ALPA NSW Young Auctioneers Competition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show! Well done Ryan!

Certificate Of Service For Hodder: Captain Brian Clarke recently presented Former Firefighter David Hodder with his certificate of service for 17 years with Forbes Fire and Rescue 294.

Firefighter Hodder began his career on 16th February, 2003 and finished 19th April, 2020 due to other commitments. During his time as an outstanding Firefighter he received a National medal for service, Unit commendation for courageous action and NSW Fire Brigade long service and good conduct medal.

“David Hodder will always be a part of Forbes Fire and Rescue station due to his committed service whilst in the Brigade,” Captain Brian Clarke said.

“We would like to thank David Hodder for his service and wish him and his family all the best in the future from all of us at Fire Rescue Forbes 294.”

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE: Captain Brian Clarke presents David Hodder with his certificate of service for 17 years with Forbes Fire and Rescue. Pic submitted.

Goldridge Stage 2 On Sale Now!

January 21, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

The release of Stage Two, Goldridge Estate comes after the record sales of Stage One, selling in under 48 hours upon their release. Stage Two consists of 65 lots, ranging in size between 743 square metres up to 1333 square metres.

“Council has developed a carefully considered land release strategy. The Estate will be sold in phases as to not flood the market and impact property values,” said Forbes Shire Council General Manager, Steve Loane.

“The first phase will include thirteen lots with a mix of lot sizes and characteristics to appeal to different prospective buyers, from young couples, singles and families. The prices also vary depending on size and street appeal. They range from $160,000 to $179,000 and are based on Stage One price modelling, real estate valuations and current market conditions.”

Property will be sold on the open market and be facilitated by local real estate agents, including Century 21, Elders, Michael Robertson & Co and Ray White.

“Council will apply a first in, first served process to the sale of the lots,” said Mr Loane. “This is to ensure the fairest possible system for all.”

Council are targeting Easter 2022 for completion of Stage One civil works, with water and sewer construction well underway. Road and stormwater infrastructure will commence following the Christmas break.

Each lot has power, NBN connectivity and gas supplied to the lot, ready for connection. Land shortages in the Forbes township have been addressed by Forbes Shire Council in developing this estate.

More information on the Goldridge Estate can be found on Councils website: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/residents/moving-here/goldridge-estate. For sales information or inspection contact your preferred real estate agent.

Parkes Phoenix Editor

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