
The Five tips for growing high-vigour canola seed is available on the NSW DPI website at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/broadacre-crops/winter-crops/canola-and-safflower/five-tips-for-growing-high-vigour-canola-seed
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) has released a new publication called Five tips for growing high-vigour canola seed to support producers using grower-retained seed for their canola establishment.
The publication outlines the key steps identified in a joint investment project between NSW DPI and Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) to improve seed vigour.
Colin McMaster, NSW DPI Research and Development Agronomist said how growers manage this year’s seed-crop could well determine the success of next year’s establishment and financial return.
“The margin of error in establishing canola is much smaller than it used to be, as we are now sowing less seeds, it is costing growers more money, and we are placing those seeds in more hostile seed-beds due to earlier sowing.
“Canola seed has less energy reserves than larger-seeded crops and, as a result, is more sensitive to poor establishment across a range of seasonal conditions and agronomic management practices.
“Research and field surveys have identified that growers often only establish half of what is sown, and if the autumn break was less favourable its likely to be much less,” said Mr McMaster.
To reduce financial risk, some growers in the low to medium rainfall zone use open-pollinated (OP) canola varieties because the seed is cheap to buy, and it will grow true to the parent crop.
These traits allow growers to confidently retain seed which can increase flexibility and reduce financial risk within the farming system, for example, if sowing conditions are marginal then seeding rates can be increased, or in the event of a failed establishment growers can spray out for an alternative option.
The guide also covers other agronomic factors to improve canola establishment including reduced sowing speed, adequate fertiliser separation from the seed, reducing stubble loads and shallow/uniform seed placement.
I had the pleasure of being involved in Women’s Association Electoral seminar in Orange last week – working towards greater participation of women in the Australian democratic and political process.
With over 20 years experience, it is my role to support and champion women to consider participating in political life at a Local Government level or just becoming better informed about Australia’s political systems.
This course was about informing and creating a supportive pathway for women into Local Government
Women are under-represented at every level of Government in Australia. We are only 37% across State and Territory assemblies, around 44% within Federal Parliament and 38% within councils across the country.
The next NSW Local Government elections will be held on Saturday 14 September.
Large scale flood repairs and with several major capital projects our expenditure is higher than normal. Council has not however received all the payment of flood monies and other grants.
The majority of funds owed to Council is for flood repair works that Council is carrying out on its own network where claims are delayed due to excessive bureaucracy and red-tape.
Council has been put in the difficult position where it must make a choice between:
1. Continuing to repair the road network post record floods even at Council’s own expense.
2. Stop works to remain financially viable but place rural residents who are still suffering post the floods at significant safety risk due to the roads being left in their flood damaged condition.
Council has had no choice but to continue road works, especially given the tight contractor market and significant capital works Council is currently completing meaning that if contractors were to be stood down Council would be unable to source resources once funding became available.
Of the $10.1m Council has spent on local and regional road flood repairs only $6m has been reimbursed and all of this was post significant political pressure.
Council is currently owed over $4.1m for flood damage works and this amount could easily increase by over $2m per month now that resources are being re-diverted to the local road network post completion of record flood repair works for Transport on the State Road Network.
Obviously this situation is very concerning, it is a crippling cost to councils, particularly when we have already been through a crisis.
I hope everyone has a safe second week of the school holidays, there are still plenty of school holiday activities to enjoy like the silent disco, BMX workshop, fishing, an activity day and ice skating. Enjoy
Until next week, God bless
Phyllis Miller, OAM – Forbes Mayor

Pictured are the Penrith Panthers Development Squad with the 14-15s boys who came from Forbes, Condobo-lin, Mudgee and other areas for the April Skills clinic held at Spooner oval in Forbes.
The 2024 Penrith Panthers Western CUB’s Skill Development was held in Forbes on Monday the 15th of April. It was open to all eligible tackle players who wanted to improve and learn more rugby league skills which was run by Penrith Panthers Pathway coaches as well as local coaching staff.
We spoke to Sam Jones who is the Penrith Panthers Development Manager, he went on to speak very passionately about why the clinic has become so important, “Over 10 years ago we started with a Bathurst clinic for one night, it built on from there to multiple nights, and then around three years ago we added the other two regional centers which are Dubbo and Forbes.
“In the April school holidays we do the round trip across the three centras running clinics for 14-15 boys and 14-16 girls. The clinics are open to anyone registered to a junior club who lives in Bathurst, Dubbo, Forbes or the surrounding areas.It’s not so much a holiday clinic, it’s an elite football, Rugby League clinic with all the skills and drills and even shirts provided. The clinic has been a few years in the making now and it’s great to see it expanding.
“Registrations this year were good compared to last year, especially the girls which is great as it is a growing space. It’s always good to get out in these areas, we’ve got plenty down our junior systems from the west making a name for themselves in the next 5-6 years, and there will be more and more coming, it;s a big part of why we come up here but the other reason is to make sure the junior league and the players are thriving and giving them as many tools and resources as we can, all of the gear that we bring along to the clinics stays with the local clubs everywhere we go.
“It’s very simple to send programs to areas, but having a presence and exposure, thats what the people want and it’s what the kids want and it;s what we love to do.”
After 8 years of providing podiatry services to Forbes, Parkes and surrounding towns, All Ages Podiatry is now offering a wide range of mobility equipment, and as such has been rebranded All Ages Podiatry & Mobility.
The mobility showroom and podiatry clinic at 89 Lachlan Street, Forbes is now open weekdays from 9am-4pm.
Along with this new offering comes a new face who may be familiar to some. Karen Thompson has now joined the team and will be operating the mobility store. Karen has lived in Parkes for over 50 years and was previously a Senior Service Advisor with a local home care provider. With years of experience in health and aged care, Karen’s knowledge will be an asset to the community.
“We’re excited to make mobility equipment more accessible to the Forbes community! From walkers and shower chairs to mobility scooters, recliner lift chairs and adjustable beds, we know that Forbes is going to benefit from having access to these aids all in one place right on their doorstep,” Mrs Thompson said.
Studies show that a lifestyle that is too sedentary can lead to a number of chronic conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. A mobility scooter can help you to maintain your mobility and independence as you age. With added accessories such as cane holders and rear walker holders, you can ride to your favourite park or waterfront, and park your scooter while you go for a walk. Visit our website to view our range of scooters and scooter accessories or phone 02 4396 5179 to enquire today! https://allagespodiatry.com.au/product-category/scooters/
“We have a range of equipment available for hire, and we will be offering delivery to Forbes, Parkes, and surrounding towns.”
To contact the store or to book a podiatry appointment, phone 02 6815 7123.

Pictured out the front of the new Craft Corner premises is from left to right Sue Ridley, Craig Holmgreen and Liz Mulligan.
Craft Corner
Craft Corner would like to Welcome everyone to visit our new bright and roomy shop at 237 Clarinda St Parkes. (between the Butcher and Arnold’s).
Craft Corner showcases local arts and crafts. We are a not-for-profit run organisation staffed by a dedicated group of members and volunteers.
Located centrally at 237 Clarinda St Parkes. Take the time to come and browse our wonderful handcrafted items. We would like to thank our members and many others who helped us make the enormous task of moving so much easier. Craft Corner Parkes, Phone 68621034 Email – parkescraftcorner@gmail.com
Forbes Rugby Union Club
RUGBY IS BACK. Round one of the Blowes Cup this weekend sees our Men and Women head to Cowra to take on the Eagles. Colts will head to Mudgee to play their opening match of the season against the Wombats. Get out and about to support the mighty Platypi.
Parkes Leagues Club
School Holiday Fun at Parkes Leagues Club: Kids Bingo this Sunday, April 21st, at 2 PM!
Join us for a lively game of Kids Bingo where you can get a free book when you purchase one for $2. Choose between easy-to-use tablets or traditional paper books for a great time
Local Land Services NSW
Looking for somewhere to camp these school holidays? Camping on Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs) can damage vegetation and habitats and lead to rubbish dumping. Be sure not to set up camp on a TSR. If you’re not sure where your local TSRs are located, you can contact your nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299 to find out. There are some beautiful places to camp in NSW, to find a spot, visit https:// bit.ly/3vDHWEW
Parkes Musical & Dramatic
Society
A few good tickets have been released for this Sundays matinee. Get in quick. The season is selling very quickly with over 75% of all tickets sold already www.parkesmandd.com.au.
Box office is open from 10.30am each Sunday and one hour prior to every performance.
Kerin Health
Term 2 Pilates is now open for bookings. Next term kicks off on Monday 6th May, running for 9 weeks across our Forbes and Parkes studio locations.
Good news – You loved the introduction of Matwork Pilates classes last term, so we’re bringing these classes back for Term 2, PLUS – We’re launching a special new class this term!
For more info, and details on the men’s pilates class – head to our website to read more.
To book your place in Term 2, you can book online via our website (link in bio) or you can call us directly on 0437 746 749
Forbes Youth Action Team
#CHILLFEST2024 Calling all food vendors with a passion for flavour and a knack for events! It’s time to showcase your talents at ChillFest. Applications close on April 30th. If you’re ready to be part of an unforgettable Forbes weekend, this is your chance to shine.

Three of the paintings that will be on display, from the following local artists from left to right Joan Ash, Carole Lowe and Kerry Davies.
Tonight, Friday April 19th, is the Opening of the Annual Art Exhibition from the Parkes Painting Group. The Parkes Painting Group have now been going for 22 years and the exhibition is a display of 23 artists from the group and also 12 potters from the Parkes Potters group.
This year there will be a special guest artist, Glenn Morton, who has brought along 14 paintings to display in his section of the exhibition. Parkes Painters have previously done a number of workshops with Glenn and Glenn also judged the art section of the last Parkes Show as well. Glenn is a professional artist and not only are we lucky to have him involved this year, but Glenn has kindly donated a piece of artwork which has been mounted and framed and it is the prize for the raffle that will run over the entire two weeks of the exhibition.
The exhibition kicks off with the opening tonight, from 6pm – 9pm, the cost is $20 (Pay at the door) and the cost includes wine and nibbles. For atmosphere we will have Steve Lyndsay on Piano and Mayor Niel Westcott will be delivering the Opening night speech. but then runs for another two weeks from Saturday 20th of April up until Sunday 5th of May. The exhibition is being held in the Coventry Room at the Parkes Library, open Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturday – Sunday 10am – 3pm. All are welcome to come along and entry is free after opening night.
Forbes Croquet Club celebrated Seniors week during March with an Open Day which resulted in eight new players. A special welcome to all those players , Rose Byrne, Jill Cripps, Helen Lupis, Graham Falconer, Sue Wade, Margaret Dent, Roma Wicks & Wayne Wright. Hope they continue to enjoy their game and the social aspect of the Club.
Forbes Croquet Club is a very progressive Club which hosts Croquet Tuesday and Saturday each week.
If you would like to try the game come down to Halpins Flat at 8.45 am on those days. You will be paired up with an experienced player to get to know the workings of the game.
Over the past few years the Ckub has gone from strength to strength with a great deal of new amenities funded by the Club itself.
Enquiries ELvy 0428540272

Pictured: Karen from Parkes Que Club together with PECC Teacher Michelle, PECC preschooler Codie & PECC Director Amii.
Parkes Early Childhood Centre Inc
Many thanks to Parkes Que Club Inc for your ongoing support towards our PECC Speech and Language Program. Your commitment to helping us to achieve best outcomes for our PECC children is greatly appreciated.
Central West Police District
Are you looking for a new career? Central West Police District is a great place to live and work.
And there are now even more reasons to join the NSW Police Force! You’ll be paid $30,000 as a recruit, and upon graduation receive a starting salary of over $80,000 plus allowances. If you’re ready to explore over 100 different career paths, start your application today https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment
Forbes Medicine & Mind
We are now taking bookings for flu vaccination clinics in April, Wed 17th (school holidays spots for kids) Tue 30th. To book 6852 2667 – appointments are limited.
Parkes Jockey Club
Expressions of Interest – Market Stalls
Parkes Jockey Club are currently taking Expressions of Interest from market stall holders wishing to secure a site at our Parkes Cup meeting on Sunday 19th May. Further info & EOI form can be accessed via the following link https://bit.ly/4aNaTgA
Forbes Youth Action Team
FYAT Presents: Forbes Drive in Movie
Join us on Friday 12 April at the Ski Dam for our Drive In Movie to kick off Youth Week watching TAG. Tickets Available per vehicle at https://www.123tix.com.au/events/42877/forbes-drive-in-movie Gates Open at 6pm for the movie to start at 7. FYAT will be giving out popcorn. You can even bring your own snacks if you wish. This event is funded by the Office for Regional Youth’s Holiday Break Program.
NSW Government
Stay up to date with all current warnings through the Hazards Near Me app – bit.ly/HazardsNearMeApp OR visit The Bureau’s website: bit.ly/BOMWeatherSummary.
If you live, work or regularly travel in a flash flood area, there may be no official warning for flash floods.
Stay out of rising water, look for safety in the highest available place.
Prevent damage to your vehicle. Move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood.
Avoid being swept away. Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains.
Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.
In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.
If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, call the NSW SES on 132 500.
Trundle ABBA Festival
Mamma Mia, here we go again. Tickets and camping for Trundle ABBA Festival 2024 went on sale from 10am on Saturday 6 April. Stay tuned for more info and don’t forget to sign up to our newsletter: bit.ly/TrundleABBAnews
Lachlan Valley Vets Forbes/Grenfell
Introducing our amazing new vet Dr. Ayla.
Ayla is off a farm in Hamilton Victoria and studied at JCU Townsville, graduating at the end of 2023. Ayla loves all animals great and small, with a special interest in sheep medicine.
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