Roxane Manley

Mayoral Notes

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

What an amazing Easter long weekend we had here in Forbes, with warm autumn weather inviting people outdoors to make the most of everything our region has to offer.

Many locals and visitors took the opportunity to spend time in nature – camping, fishing and kayaking, while others enjoyed slower moments reconnecting with family and friends. It was wonderful to see parks, campsites and local spots so well ultilised and appreciated.

Easter marked the beginning of the April school holidays and Youth Week. The theme for NSW Youth Week 2026, ‘Dream.

Dare. Do.’, encourages young people to dream big and take real steps to make those dreams a reality.

In line with this theme, Forbes is hosting a mix of free and low-cost activities including painting workshops, barista training, music workshop, vision board sessions, resume workshop, makeup class, fitness classes, a mural painting workshop and Youth Connect Day.

Event details, session times and registration information are available via Forbes

Shire Council’s website. Spaces are limited.

Our annual bulky waste collection is coming up in early May, giving residents a chance to dispose of large household items. Please place your bulky waste neatly on the kerb between Saturday 2 May and Sunday 3 May 2026. Collections will occur throughout the following week, so items must be out by Sunday evening to ensure they’re collected. Head to Council’s website for full details on what is accepted in the bulky waste clean‐up.

Congratulations to Aussie Biscuits on 50 years of business and service to our community. Since 1976, the organisation has created meaningful job opportunities for people with disability, showing what inclusive employment can achieve.

From right here in Forbes, Aussie Biscuits bakes around 60,000 biscuits every day, shipping their products to customers across Australia. Their success is a credit to their skilled workforce, strong values and commitment to regional manufacturing.

God Bless
Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM

Snippets…

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Works begin to improve access at Lake Endeavour.

Improved Access To Lake Endeavour: Parkes Shire Council advises that Lake Endeavour will be closed to the public from Monday, 13 April 2026 while works are undertaken to deepen the launch channel. No access to the dam during construction. Road closure at the intersection of Lake Endeavour Road & Bindogundra Road. Expected reopening: 9 May 2026 (weather permitting). This important upgrade will improve safety, accessibility, and usability. Read the full media release here: https://bit.ly/4skURCV

Philip Donato MP: Successive governments have failed to invest in the roadway infrastructure to future-proof our region. Yet this single fragile corridor still carries over 12,000 vehicles a day. When it fails, the region fails with it. With the indefinite closure of the Great Western Highway, we are left with a dangerous detour which has proven vulnerable to closure, further impacting our region’s vital connectivity with Sydney and eastern seaboard. Phil’s message is “We cannot rely on a single, outdated route across the mountains. It’s time to invest. It’s time to connect. It’s time to future-proof regional NSW.” Sign the petition https://shorturl.at/GKly8

Forbes Library School Holiday Activities: Join us at Forbes Library to discover the vibrant world of DIY by knotting friendship bracelets and mastering the rhythmic charm of French Knitting. We will make a simple friendship bracelet with a special weaving tool, and then make our own French Knitting loom to get started with a special project. All materials will be provided. This activity is designed for ages 8+. Forbes Library, Friday 17 April 10.30am – 11.30am. Free. To book your spot go to: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1986487616937

Proposed Energy from Waste FacilitiesPublic Forum: The proposed Energyfrom-Waste facility at Parkes continues to raise serious concerns across our community and it’s critical that local voices are heard. The NSW Parliament’s Select Committee on Proposed Energy from Waste Facilities will be in Parkes on 13–14 April, providing an important opportunity for residents to have their say directly. Public Forum. Many in our region are questioning why regional communities should take on metropolitan waste—particularly in an agricultural area like Parkes. I encourage anyone with an interest in this issue to attend, have your say, and ensure our community’s voice is clearly heard. Register to attend via www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/listofcommittees/Pages/committee-details.aspx?pk=337

Energy from Waste Inquiry in Parkes.

Sign The Petition To Fuel The Bush

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Servos across rural communities are running out of diesel. Farmers are rationing fuel. Truckies are walking off runs they’ve done for generations. And it’s spreading.

If this keeps going, the harvest stops. The trucks stop. The food chain breaks.

Keep the Sheep is stepping up and launching Fuel the Bush. A new campaign to force the Albanese Government to guarantee fuel security for rural Australia. Ben Sutherland from Keep the Sheep said “It’s all connected. The same bureaucrats in Canberra who shut down live exports are the same ones leaving rural communities to run dry. The same people who don’t understand farming don’t understand why diesel matters.”

Keep the Sheep are calling on the Prime Minister to: Prioritise fuel supply for agriculture as a critical industry, Guarantee fuel deliveries to rural communities, Fast-track Australian refining so we’re not at the mercy of broken supply chains and Ensure fertiliser is sourced from additional avenues so Australian farmers can grow the food we need.

“We need to show Canberra that rural Australia is watching, and that we’ve got the numbers to back it up,” said Ben. Sign the petition at www.fuelthebush.com.au

Rock Band Vibes Hits Parkes These School Holidays

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Parkes Library and Cultural Centre is turning up the volume these school holidays bycelebrating Youth Week with Rock Band Vibes, a high-energy, hands-on music experience for young people aged 12–22, happening on Friday, 17 April 2026.

Whether you’ve never picked up an instrument or already love to play, this beginner-friendly workshop is all about jumping in, trying new things, and making music together.

Across the 2.5-hour session, participants will rotate through guitar, bass, drums, vocals and keys – before choosing a favourite and as a group, form an instant band.

Starting with the basics, you’ll have the chance to build confidence quickly and learn parts of a song that matches their skill level. Everyone will work as a group, piece together a popular song with a focus on timing, teamwork and performance skills – then wrap it up with a full run-through so the newly formed band is stage-ready.

“We’re excited to have Dave Cutler from Forbes Guitar Academy leading the sessions. He brings a wealth of experience and a real passion for making music accessible to young people,” said Creative Learning Coordinator Sharon Degeling.

Then it’s time to hit the stage at Jam Night! After the workshop, participants (and other young performers) will have the opportunity to perform in a fun, supportive live music setting. No pressure – just good vibes, creativity, and celebrating local talent.

This event is part of NSW Youth Week from 16 – 26 April and is proudly supported by Parkes Community Arts and the Office for Youth (Department of Communities and Justice). For information contact Parkes Library on 6861 2309 or book your spot at https://events.humanitix.com/rock-band-vibes-youth-event

Forbes Cyclist Stuart Thomas Rides For Country Kids

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Pictured outside the Royal Far West Op Shop in Fobes from left to right is Rona Pritchard, Julie Jones, Lorraine Allen, Mygarie Bilsborough, Robyn McGrath, Stuart Thomas, Molly Nielsen and Maureen Bale.

Royal Far West’s Ride for Country Kids is coming to Western NSW from 17-20 May 2026, the event aims to raise $500,000 to fund vital developmental and mental health support services for country children and their families.

Ride for Country Kids will take cyclists on a journey through Royal Far West’s heartland over three days – starting in Parkes, and travelling through Manildra, Molong, Trundle, and Eugowra, before finishing in Forbes. These towns hold a special place in Royal Far West’s history and future, supported by passionate people in local branches, and community hubs like the Royal Far West op-shops in Forbes and Trundle.

Stuart Thomas is a long-distance cyclist who lives and works in Forbes. This year will be his first time participating in the Ride for Country Kids.

“My daughter, Megan Fitzpatrick, works as a Paediatric Speech Pathologist at Royal Far West. She inspired me to participate in Ride for Country Kids 2026,” said Stuart Thomas.

Stuart is 58 years of age and is originally from Forbes. He is a Business Partner at Findex, in Forbes.

His work role supports local farming and manufacturing businesses in Forbes and surrounding areas.

His voluntary role sees him cycle vast distances, last year he cycled 400kms over two days from Forbes to Manly, raising an incredible $10,954 for Royal Far West.

“There’s a real sense of accomplishment when you ride into a town for Royal Far West. There’s a sense of making a difference to the community. I’m really looking forward to connecting with the schools and people during Ride for Country Kids 2026,” added Stuart.

Now in its twelfth year, Ride for Country Kids has raised over $4.5 million to support country children with developmental and mental health needs. Learn more or donate at www.rideforcountrykids.com.au

New Platform Empowering Young Voices

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Shire Council has launched the Forbes Children and Youth Hub x Your Say, a new online engagement space designed to give young people across Forbes a strong voice in shaping local youth programs, events and opportunities.

The hub provides a central place for children and young people to share ideas, take part in consultations, provide feedback and stay informed about youth‐focused initiatives happening across the Forbes Shire. It also celebrates the creativity and contributions of young people while ensuring their perspectives help guide future planning and decision‐making.

Forbes Shire Mayor, Phyllis Miller OM said the new platform is all about listening and supporting young people. “We’re [Council] committed to supporting positive outcomes for children and young people in our community. By working together and genuinely listening, we can help shape a future that reflects their needs, interests and aspirations.”

Council encourages young people, families and community members to explore the new hub and share their ideas.

Young people can also get involved by asking questions or sharing feedback at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre Drop‐In Sessions each Wednesday during the school term, joining the Forbes Youth Action Team to help shape youth programs and initiatives, and following the Forbes Children and Youth Hub on Facebook to stay connected.

For more information you can visit https://yoursay.forbes.nsw.gov.au/children-and-youth-hub or the Forbes Children and Youth Hub social media pages and follow to contribute your voice, stay updated, and help shape a positive future for young people in Forbes.

Vote For Forbes In The 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards

April 9, 2026 by Roxane Manley

It’s time to show New South Wales what locals already know – Forbes is a top tourism town! The community is being encouraged to throw its support behind Forbes by voting in the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, celebrating the very best destinations across New South Wales.

The 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards give nominated towns the opportunity to shine, recognising places that deliver outstanding visitor experiences and showcase the best of regional NSW.

Forbes has been nominated in the Top Tourism Town Award category (population over 5,000), alongside Ballina, Moree, Shellharbour, Coffs Harbour, Kiama, Orange and Wollongong.

Run by the NSW Tourism Association, the program brings a strong focus to regional tourism, highlighting standout destinations from coast to country, as well as the operators who bring these towns to life.

Forbes’ nomination reflects its rich heritage, vibrant events calendar, beautiful Lachlan River setting and strong visitor offering, making it a destination locals are proud of and visitors love to explore.

Forbes Shire Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM said, “Forbes really is amazing, and this nomination is a fantastic endorsement of the Forbes Shire as a destination and everything we have to offer visitors.”

“I encourage everyone to jump online and vote for Forbes showing the rest of NSW exactly what makes our town stand out.”

Vote now and support Forbes in the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards at https://nswtourismassoc.kartra.com/survey/anmWRKOLCr9c

The winners will be announced on 27 May at Local Government NSW Destination & Visitor Economy Conference in Maitland.

Low Handicappers Show Talent

April 9, 2026 by By Short Putt

With conditions making the golf comfortable a number of golfers recorded good scores. Most notable among them were the low handicappers. The field of 46 players who contested the Individual Par event, sponsored by the Forbes Tuesday Golfers, was down on previous weeks as a result of Easter coinciding with the school holidays.

But the quality in play was still there.

The Div-1 Winner was Steve Betland with 3-under. His Scratch score of 67 began with a bogey on the 1 st hole but thereafter it was sub-par golf all the way. The Div-1 Runner-up was Peter Dawson who finished on 2-under. He started smartly to turn better than Steve B but a couple of bogeys on the back-9 cost him.

The Div-2 Winner was Lenny Iyer with 5-under. He faltered on the 2 nd and 15th holes but otherwise used his handicap very well. The Div-2 Runner-up was Paul Pymont. He was comfortable as the clubhouse leader early in the day and was pleased with the way he played the back9. But Lenny from the last group stole his thunder.

The ball sweep went to 2-under on count back. NTPs went to: 9th Paul Pymont, 18th Pat Murphy. Paul made the ‘2’ but Pat missed his. The Super Pin went to Steve Betland (84 cm) which he easily converted.

The comp on Saturday 11 is the April Monthly Medal, sponsored by the ‘Roadies’ boys. Sunday has a Stableford Medley.

By Short Putt

Five Days Of Double Demerits For Easter Long Weekend

April 2, 2026 by Roxane Manley

Over the next five days, double demerit points will apply for all speeding, seatbelt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone offences.

Double demerit points will apply on NSW roads until Monday 6 April 2026 as Police encourage road users to look out for each other over the Easter break.

Parkes Highway Patrol Sergeant Mitchell Gage has indicated that Police in the area will also be targeting other high-risk behaviour including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving.

“We are expecting roads to be busy with people travelling across NSW for the long weekend. Our message is to be patient, obey the road rules and drive to conditions.

We want everyone to reach their destination safely and to enjoy the Easter break withouttragedy.

“I ask all drivers to play their part in reducing crashes and risks. Remember to slow down, schedule plenty of breaks, limit distractions in the car, don’t mix alcohol or drugs with driving and ensure you and all your passengers are wearing seatbelts,” Sergeant Gage said.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, says that Police enforcement figures show that double demerit point periods do deter motorists from speeding and illegally using their mobile phone, while reminding them to wear their seatbelt/helmet.

“Drivers are reminded that mobile phone detection cameras will be active over the Easter break to catch people illegally using their phone whilst driving. Drivers will accrue 10 demerit points for all licence classes during the double demerit long weekend as well as receive a fine,” Ms Suitor said.

Mayoral Notes

April 2, 2026 by Roxane Manley

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Forbes and District Historical Society, a wonderful milestone for our community.

Congratulations to all members and volunteers on four decades of preserving and sharing our local history.

The Society’s dedication ensures Forbes’ stories, heritage and identity are protected and celebrated for future generations.

Their passion and commitment behind the scenes have made an enduring contribution to our town.

As we approach the busy Easter long weekend, Council is encouraging residents and visitors to plan ahead and take extra care on our roads. With the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass currently closed due to structural defects, locals travelling to Sydney are urged to use the Hume Highway. Bells Line of Road should be avoided unless travelling north, as traffic volumes are expected to be significantly higher.

With increased travel across the state, NSW Police will be conducting double demerit points enforcement from Thursday 2 April until Monday 6 April 2026 (inclusive). Council reminds all drivers to slow down,

buckle up and stay alert, particularly on unfamiliar roads.

The Lions Club will once again be operating the Driver Reviver site in Victoria Park from 3 to 6 April, helping keep motorists safe by encouraging regular breaks on long journeys. Council extends sincere thanks to the amazing volunteers for their dedication and service during the upcoming busy travel period.

Council’s Administration Office will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Essential services will continue over the long weekend. The Forbes Visitor Information Centre will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, but will be open on Saturday and Monday.

The Forbes Recycling and Waste Depot will be closed on Good Friday only. Importantly, there will be no changes to kerbside waste collection, with all services running as scheduled.

I wish everyone a safe and happy Easter and hope you enjoy the long weekend with family and friends.

God Bless
Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM

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