Roxane Manley

Local Farmer Returns To The Central West To Establish His New Ministry Headquarters

March 12, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Pictured is Bishop Barry Cunningham at the new Promise Faith Centre headquarters at Alectown.

Forty-eight years ago, Barry Cunnington, left his family farm near West Wyalong and ended up in ministry in Qld which established the Promise Faith Centre Churches International.

This month he returns to the Central West to establish the headquarters of this ministry at the former Vision Ministries, Mamre Farm, Alectown, now owned by Engedi Ministries Inc.

“I was born and raised in the Central West, between West Wyalong and Condobolin, and was the only son of a Methodist farming family,” Barry said.

“My peers and my parents recognised early that I had a call of God on my life to be a missionary, planting churches and having orphanages and widows’ homes.”

Barry said, “In 2025, I began to explore the relocating of the ministry headquarters to the former location of Vision Ministries at Mamre Farm in Alectown, now owned by Engedi Ministries Inc. The result? As of February 2026, Engedi has leased their property and facilities to us, the Promise Faith Centre Churches International.”

Thus begins Bishop Barry’s new chapter of ministry outworking in various activities, including regional and international Gospel crusades, Daisy a Day ministry (restoring the lives of wandering believers, both men and women, husbands and wives), revival, healing and prayer meetings, ministry training and beginning this October Long Weekend, an annual camp meeting mobilising Aussies for Christ.

Promise Faith Centre Churches International will have their official launch this Saturday, 14 March, starting at 12pm. All are welcome to attend this free event and lunch will be provided. For information or to RSVP, please contact Bishop Barry Cunnington on 0412 511 115 or Leah Knowling on 0407 025 910.

Young Boxer Olivia Hetherington Finds Confidence In The Ring

March 12, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Olivia Hetherington pictured in the centre with Luke Hughes on left and Beejay Ward on the right.

Sixteen-year-old Parkes girl, Olivia “Liv” Hetherington has shown incredible growth since joining Hillbilly Boxing just six months ago. Originally taking-up boxing simply for fitness, Liv had no plans of stepping into the ring. At the time she was extremely shy, and lacking in confidence, but with encouragement from her coaches and teammates she began to grow more comfortable in the gym.

After gaining confidence through training and sparring, Liv took a big step on Saturday, 8 March, competing in her very first bout at EXO Fight Night in Dubbo. Facing Tracey Swoden, a heavier and more experienced opponent, Liv showed courage and determination throughout the fight.

Her efforts did not go unnoticed, with Liv receiving an Encouragement Award on the night for her determination and effort. The once-shy teenager left the ring stronger, more determined, and already looking forward to her next fight.

Olivia had a huge cheer squad in the crowd on the night and she said, “I’m not sure when it will be but I will keep training and I can’t wait for my next fight.”

She spoke of working on her defence and head movement and said, “Thank you to my coaches who believed in me and supported me.”

Coaches at Hillbilly Boxing say they are extremely proud of how far Liv has come, from a shy beginner to a confident young boxer saying, “She’s come a long way from the shy girl who first walked through the doors.”

Outside of her own training, Liv is also known around the gym for helping younger members with their sessions, always willing to lend a hand and listen to her coaches.

Hillbilly Boxing says Liv has become a valued part of the gym community and a great example of what dedication and stepping outside your comfort zone can achieve.”

Mayoral Notes

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

After months of dry winds and thirsty paddocks, the recent rain has breathed new life into our landscape, and the timing couldn’t be better as we move into sowing season.

We know conditions can still be unpredictable, and there’s always a need to plan carefully and support each other where we can. But for now, it’s wonderful to enjoy the change. Here’s hoping the conditions continue to be favorable to set us up for a strong and productive year.

Sunday was a fantastic start to Seniors Week, with 150 people attending the Seniors Variety Concert in Town Hall. The Seniors “Give It a Go Festival” runs until 15 March 2026, with a full program of activities for our older residents to get involved in.

A highlight this week is Otto’s Seniors Singing for Seniors concert, a free afternoon filled with music, stories and charm with afternoon tea included. Register at events@forbes.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6850 2300.

This week we are celebrating NSW Women’s Week 2026, a time dedicated to celebrating, connecting with and honour

ing the women and girls in our lives. The popular International Women’s Day event in Lions Park will round out the week. This is an uplifting and energising morning featuring a 6.30am Pilates session followed by a community breakfast at 7am.

We’re lucky to have an inspiring speaker lineup, and thanks to our generous local partners, attendees will also receive a complimentary gift bag. I hope you can join us for a meaningful and uplifting morning.

Head to our website to get your tickets.

One of the great strengths of our Shire is the way we honour, preserve and share ourunique story. I’m pleased to share that nominations are now open for the 2026 Forbes Heritage Medal.

The Medal recognises a person or organisation that has made an outstanding contribution to our environmental heritage or to the understanding of that heritage.

Head to our website to learn more and nominate, www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

God Bless
Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM

Pharmacy Interns Return To Central West

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Passion for community pharmacy, and a desire to learn, has enticed a group of pharmacy interns to the New South Wales Central West for the next chapter of their professional development.

New Zealand university graduates Aisling Casey (Life Pharmacy Forbes) and Zandra Hinton (Parkes Pharmacy) have joined Forbes local Sami Duggan (Flannery’s Pharmacy) in living and working in Parkes and Forbes for their intern year.

“I came back to Forbes because pharmacists play such an important role in small rural communities. People rely on their local pharmacist not just for medicines, but for advice, support, and sometimes even just a friendly chat.

“Having grown up here, it means a lot to be able to give back to the community,” former Red Bend Catholic College student, turned Pharmacy intern, Sami Duggan said.

“Working in rural communities allows you to build strong relationships with patients and be part of their healthcare journey in a really meaningful way.

“You don’t fully realise the value of working in a rural community until you spend time there yourself – the trust people place in you, the sense of connection, and the opportunity to make a genuine difference is incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally.”

Partner at Flannery’s and Life Pharmacies, Sarah Hazell, says “Aisling, Zandra and Sami are already making their mark in our stores. They are a wonderful example of the talent coming through our industry, and we are delighted to welcome them to LPG.”

Snippets…

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Parkes Council thanks the community for their support.

Parkes Shire Council People’s Panel: Parkes Shire Council is inviting residents aged 15 years and over to join the Parkes Shire People’s Panel – an online community panel designed to help guide the future direction of the Shire through. By joining the People’s Panel, residents will be invited to share their views through short, online surveys on services and places that matter to everyday life in Parkes Shire. If you would like to join the People’s Panel, register via the link below: https://survey.placescore.org/s3/parkes-panel-form

NSW Aboriginal Land Council: NSWALC is excited to announce the 2026-2027 round of its Regional Event Grants are now open. These grants aim to support Aboriginal organisations and events to support and promote Aboriginal culture or sporting achievements. For more information and to apply, head to the Regional Events page https://alc.org.au/regional-event-grants/

NSW Department of Education: Every public-school student in NSW can now access opportunities to pursue their talents and potential with the Inspire program, rolling out high potential and gifted education (HPGE) offerings in every public school. All high potential and gifted opportunities are now listed on school websites, making it easy for parents and carers to see what’s on offer.

CUC Parkes: Coffee Club is running throughout March, and we will be visiting two local cafés as part of our fortnightly morning catch‑ups. These sessions run from 9am to 10am, and we will purchase a beverage of your choice. Coffee Club is open to registered CUC students, CUC Alumni, and community members who are interested in learning more about the CUC.

March dates and locations are:

• 6 March at Be Café

• 9 March at Roasted Kombi (Outback Kombi)

• 20 March at Be Café

• 23 March at Roasted Kombi (Outback Kombi)

Forbes Shire Council: Become the neighbourhood waste champion or settle that recycling argument at home by joining us and our local waste educator. Turn your household into the neighbourhood recycling champion with this free and family friendly recycling workshop! Facilitated by local waste experts from EnviroCom Australia, this hands-on workshop will give you all the skills you need to master your yellow bin at home. Grab a free ticket at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/forbes-free-recycling-workshop-tickets-1977481112239

Free waste workshop at Forbes Town Hall.

Be Seen @ Parkes Library And Cultural Centre

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

A special Opening Night event was held on Thursday, 27 February to officially open the exhibition “The Best of the Bald Archy Prize”.

There were 50 people in attendance and there was such a good vibe, lots of laugh out load moments and great community connectivity.

The exhibition is open to the public until Saturday, 18 April, with free entry at the Coventry Room at Parkes Library and Cultural Centre.

Father And Daughter Walk 800km To Help Find A Cure For Childhood Cancer

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Throughout the month of Mrch, proud Forbes residents Ben and Harper O’Malley will be participating in the Children’s Cancer Institute 86K for a Cure.

86K for a Cure supports the Children’s Cancer Institute and represents the 86 children diagnosed with cancer in Australia each month. While many participants walk 86 kilometres, Ben and Harper have chosen to challenge themselves by walking 800 kilometres to raise awareness and funding for childhood cancer research.

Ben is a hardworking shearer and loving father of four. He is very involved with the Forbes Junior Magpies and enjoys sharing in his children’s sporting experiences.

Harper, 13, attends Forbes High School and is already an accomplished athlete, representing her school at state level in cross country and athletics. Last year, she became the first student at her school to receive the Nedd Brockmann Long Distance Champion Award.

Ben and Harper were inspired while enjoying their daily walks around LakeForbes. Harper selected the challenge motivated by the idea that children facing cancer are often forced to give up the freedoms she enjoys not because of choice but because of diagnosis.

This is not their first time walking for the cause. Last year they committed to258 kilometres but exceeded their goal ultimately walking 531 kilometres and raising $4,200. Forbes Junior RugbyLeague joined them for the final walk across the finish line in a beautiful show of community support.

Ben and Harper thank everyone whohas stopped for a chat, offered encouragement or contributed along the wayalong with local businesses includingGunn’s Menswear, The Vandenberg Hotel, Isabel’s Place, Essjay PhotographyLoomzy’s Fish ‘N’ Fix and Made of Fridays.

Every donation, wave, chat or honkof encouragement helps. You can donate at www.ccia.org.au/fundraisers/benjaminomalley48391/86k-for-a-cure

Forbes Flood Risk Management Study And Plan

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Shire Council invites the community to attend a Community Consultation Workshop as part of the public exhibition of the draft Forbes Flood Risk Management Plan and Study, open for feedback until 31 March 2026.

The results of an updated flood study and flood damages assessment have been used as the basis for preparing the Forbes Flood Risk Management Study and Plan 2025. The Forbes Flood Risk Management Study and Plan 2025 has been prepared under the guidance of the Flood Risk Management Committee comprising representatives from Forbes Shire Council, the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, the NSW State Emergency Service and community representatives.

Join Forbes Shire Council at 5:30pm on Tuesday 10 March 2026 at the Vandenberg Hotel, where they will present the draft plan and outline the nine (9) proposed measures aimed at reducing flood risk and strengthening community resilience.

These measures focus on key areas such as land‑use planning, emergency preparedness, infrastructure improvements and community awareness. By working together to understand and implement these strategies, Council and the community can better prepare for future flood events, protect lives and property and support sustainable development within the floodplain.

Council encourage all community members to come along, learn more and share their feedback. To view the draft plan, visit www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/public-exhibitionsSubmit feedback by 31 March 2026 via: Email: forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au Post: Forbes Shire Council, PO Box 333 Forbes NSW 2871 or in person: Council Office 2 Court St Forbes NSW 2871.

For more information, call Council on 6850 2300.

Parkes Shows Up In Support Of Adelaide Blunden

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Pictured handing over the funds raised for Adelaine Blunden (L-R) is Zach Byrnes, Fiona Durkin, Moihi Parker, Joel McNamara and Elisha Nqua.

Three year old Parkes girl Adelaide (Addy) Blunden, has recently been diagnosed with Metastic MYC-amplified Medulloblastoma.

The condition is associated with poor prognosis and is often resistant to standard treatments.

The disease is primarily found in children and accounts for a significant percentage of all childhood brain tumors. The MYCamplified subgroup is particularly aggressive, with a low overall survival rate and a high likelihood of metastasis.

Due to Adelaide’s heartbreaking diagnosis, her father Alex has made the decision to stop working so he is able to be with his little girl for an undetermined amount of time. Addy remains the same smiley happy girl despite having to undergo many surgical procedures and spend time away from friends and family.

Wanting to help with fundraising efforts for Addy, on Saturday 28 February, the Parkes Aquatic Centre held a fundraising movie night and raffle with loads of prizes donated by local businesses. With over 100 people in attendance and an amazing show of community support, the incredible team at the Parkes Aquatic Centre are proud to share that together with the Parkes community they were able to raise $1,300 for Adelaide and her family.

Zach Byrnes, Regional Aquatics Manager said, “Thank you to all the local businesses who generously donated prizes, and to every single person who bought a ticket or came along on the night. The Parkes community continues to show just how strong and supportive it is.”

There has also been a Go Fund Me set up and all of the funds raised will be used for ongoing expenses and treatment. If you are in the position to help Addy then please do so, all donations will be much appreciated by the family. Donations can me made at www.gofundme.com/f/adelaide-blunden

Organisations Urged To Apply For Volunteer Grants

March 5, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey is urging not-for-profit organisations in the federal electorate of Parkes to apply for the 2025-26 Volunteer Grants Round.

Expressions of interest are now open for grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 for eligible not-for-profit organisations to support and increase participation in volunteering.

“Volunteers contribute so much to the Parkes electorate across every aspect of our lives,” Mr Chaffey said. “From sports to emergency services, to events and health support, people in our communities give their time and skills freely.

“These grants can help make a difference to organisations who in turn make a difference in their communities. I encourage eligible organisations to reach out to my office for an expression of interest form.”

“Twenty-one organisations in the Parkes electorate benefitted from a total of about $60,000 through the 2024-25 Volunteer Grants Round,” Mr Chaffey said.

Applications close 5pm, Friday 27 March, 2026, and the expression of interest form can be found at www.jamiechaffey.com.au, or contact one of the offices of Jamie Chaffey MP to find out more or send an email to jamie.chaffey.mp@aph.gov.au

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