This week I had the pleasure of hosting AR Bluett judges, an award that is presented to an innovative and progressive council every year. It was no trouble to show them everything that we are proud of here, and the progress that we as a Council are making to ensure our community continues to thrive, with or without challenges.

Of course there were the obvious highlights – the relocation of the Visitor Information Centre to the former Lachlan Vintage Village and all the work that is being done in partnership with the local government around our Lake Forbes precinct – but there is a lot of innovation behind the scenes as well.

The Water Treatment Plant has had a major upgrade, we are working with our local businesses to aid them in adapting to changes in liquid trade waste compliance, the manner in which we dealt with communications to you, our beloved and resilient community, during the devastating floods last year, just to name a few.

These amazing achievements, only made possible by our dedicated and professional staff, support from the community, business and government, have seen Forbes short listed for the Regional Category-one of two. The winner will be announced on 12 November.

The gloves are off, the tongs are shining and the heat is definitely on at Grinsted Oval this Saturday. Who is the champion barbecuer? Will the title stay in Forbes, or will it head north to our Queensland foodies? This Saturday the much anticipated National BBQ Championships is set to sizzle, and just as with the majority of our events, there is sure to be something for everyone – I can’t wait to meet our celebrity chef Hayden Quinn’ All the details can be found on the National BBQ Championships Forbes Facebook page or the Forbes Shire Council website. Spectating at this event is FREE but make sure you register your attendance at 123tix.com.au

Finally, the state’s housing crisis is still in the spotlight. Forbes is no stranger to housing shortage, and is continually working towards addressing this, for example by releasing land at Goldridge Estate, and working with the government for housing solutions in north Forbes. It is important however, to understand councils are not to blame for the crisis – we approve 97 per cent of applications submitted, it is a complex issue and There is so many contributing factors – not the least shortages of materials and labour, rising interest rates, falling house prices.

Enjoy your weekend, and God bless.

Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor

October is a special month for raising awareness of so many important issues, and amongst these is National Safe Work Month. Council takes this so very seriously and are continually monitoring and improving workplace safety. This October we are urging our employees to ‘Just Ask’ – when it comes to safety no question is too silly, and our employees can ask for help or training, or clarification – anything. We would love to see other businesses in Forbes follow – all we ask is ‘just ask’, for everyone’s safety.

This Saturday sees the return of Teddy Bears Picnic, a favourite event in our community! Make sure you grab your favourite stuffed toy and head on down to Lions Park from 10am to 2pm. There is so much to see and do and so many community groups – including schools – have joined in to help us celebrate Children’s Week, bringing home just how important our little people are and how important it is for them to have access to play, leisure and activities. There will be a jumping castle, special guests – Bluey and Bingo – (but shhhh keep that a surprise for the children!!), balloon twisting, giant games, face painting and so much more.

Myself and Mayors from Parkes and Condobolin have held talks with REX Airlines after it recently announced a reduction in the number of services to Parkes. We all know how reliant we are on this service for quick, safe transport to Sydney as a destination or through point. It is so important for business, medical, and leisure, so it was quite a blow to hear this announcement. Whilst we would love to see the service remain as it is and we are assured that it will be reviewed in March next year, we are adamant that it if it must be reduced, the timeslot needs to be acceptable for country residents. At the moment it seems to be a midday timeslot.

Finally, I urge you to stay aware of weather conditions, particularly for total fire bans. Hot, windy days combined with a greater amount of grass fuel after the wet year last year, are causing great concern. Please remember that a total fire ban means no fires in the open, or doing any activity that may spark a blaze (for example welding, grinding or slashing). Fines and penalties apply.

Enjoy your weekend, and God bless.

Phyllis Miller, OAM