Front Page Archives - Page 45 of 53

A Passion For Poultry

March 23, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Organising poultry auctions does not top the list of things to do for most 15-year- olds, but Sam Mackay has found his passion early on.

He and his friend, Jarrad Morrison are organising their seventh auction at the Forbes Showgrounds on Sunday.

Sam’s uncle, Andrew Milford said: “Sam was 10 when he organised his first sale in 2013.” When asked why he thought to hold his own auction Sam simply said: “We own poultry and had an excess, so I thought it would be good to hold one.”

He sold a total of 300 chooks at the first auction. “There was paper everywhere,” laughed Andrew. Since then they have upgraded and “Uncle Andrew has developed spreadsheets, so we are now electronic,” said Sam. “No more paper.”

Just as well as 1,000 head of poultry are expected to be sold on Sunday. “We hold the first poultry auction in Central West NSW when it cools down a little so we can be sure the poultry don’t become stressed,” said Sam.

“In fact, we are not like any other sale because Jarrad and I and some helpers, cage the poultry and make sure they are ok and have water. That is important as animal welfare carry out inspections.”

Sam appreciates the coaching Andrew and his aunt Trish Milford provide. “They are the backbone,” he said. Sam also wanted to mention his Aunty Kerry as she “helps massively on the day.” What a team Sam and Jarrad make!

By Dianne Collie

Happy 60th Forbes North!

March 16, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

In 2017 Forbes North Public School marks the 60th year of quality teaching and learning programs being delivered to students. Forbes North was gazetted in 1957 after a number of local residents petitioned to have a school established to service the growing area to the north of Forbes’ town centre.

This year’s 60th birthday will be marked by a number of events spread throughout the calendar year. The first of these was the Forbes North Public School 60th Birthday Fair, an expanded version of the school’s usual annual fete. The fair was held in the school grounds on Saturday, 4th March. A large crowd enjoyed the stalls, rides, food and entertainment on offer. It was wonderful to see so many past students and staff members in attendance.

Forbes North’s dedicated staff and energetic and supportive Parents and Citizens committee made sure that there was plenty to see and do for all. A very comprehensive display of memorabilia including class photos, newspaper clippings, old school plans, teaching and learning resources, text books and readers proved to be the biggest drawcard. Many ‘old boys’ and ‘old girls’ took the opportunity to take a trip down memory lane and relive the glory days of their primary school years.

Former Forbes North school captain, and now Mayor of Forbes, Cr Graeme Miller was on hand to cut the 60th birthday cake with current captain Kobe Quirk in a fitting celebration of the past 60 years.

Forbes North Public School is on a journey – a quest for continual improvement, for the school as a whole and for each and every individual that walks through the gates each day. The school’s mission statement: learning for life through quality teaching in a safe and caring environment, is supported by the simple mantra of being better today than we were yesterday.

The dedicated staff at Forbes North work tirelessly to identify the individual learning needs of every child and to provide the most effective learning opportunities to address these needs each day. The level of support provided to the students at Forbes North is virtually unsurpassed, as the school has made significant investment in providing expert personnel to work with the children and to support the development of learning programs that target areas of need identified in individuals, groups and whole cohorts.

The students and the classroom teachers are supported in quality educational delivery by two learning support teachers, an intervention teacher, a reading recovery teacher and a speech pathologist. Coordinating this team approach is Forbes North’s instructional leader, who not only works with the students, but also identifies the best available professional learning for staff to access so they are well-equipped
to address their students’ individual needs.

Further support for the students and teachers is provided by Forbes North’s equally dedicated team of learning support officers – there are eleven in total – who work in every classroom every day, and the school’s Aboriginal education officer who provides a vital link to support
services for our Aboriginal students and their families.

Our learning support team are equally adept at providing extension opportunities for students who are working beyond their expected stage level in any number of key learning areas, or subjects. The primary extension program (PEP) focuses on the development of higher order thinking skills and include students in both stage 2 and stage 3 (years 3/4 and 5/6). Students are also able to access the Lachlan Enrichment
and Engagement Program (LEEP) through Forbes High School in conjunction with other neighbouring public schools.

The recent addition of a sensory room at Forbes North also allows our learning support staff to work with students who will benefit from activities that stimulate and improve their fine and gross motor skills.

For the past 60 years Forbes North has been recognised for the quality programs it provides to educate the whole child. As a foundation school in the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, Forbes North promotes a healthy lifestyle encompassing the preparation of meals from the paddock to the plate. More than just planting, harvesting and cooking, the kitchen-garden program also provides students
with real world experiences in mathematics, biology, physics and chemistry, as well as opening up a wide variety of literacy-based activities to enhance reading and writing skills.

Class teachers are supported by a fully qualified and experienced chef and a garden specialist in providing high quality learning experiences. The focus on healthy living and, in particular, maintaining a healthy diet is further emphasised through our daily crunch and sip fruit break.
A strong focus on the academic, social and cultural well-being of the students is complemented by providing access to 150 minutes of structured physical activity throughout each school week. All students participate in the school’s structured daily fitness program, developing skills and learning the rules of a variety of sports through fun, progressive, modified games. K-6 vertical sport groups, which run
every Friday, further enhance the level of skill development as the older students have the opportunity to mentor and coach
their younger school mates. Forbes North also provides access to a range of expert coaches in a variety of sports through their involvement in the sporting schools program.

The opportunity to influence future planning and the direction of teaching and learning at Forbes North is a responsibility not taken lightly by the school’s Student Parliamentarians. The nine Ministers and eight Shadow Ministers play an important role in ensuring that the students’ voices are heard when it comes to establishing programs and activities that will enhance the educational opportunities for all students.

With portfolio areas including sport and recreation, entertainment and fundraising, communication and technology, and environment, health and safety, our student leaders have vital roles to play in planning, assessing and evaluating many aspects of school life at Forbes North. Focusing such importance on all aspects of student development can be quite a challenge for the staff at Forbes North Public School, but it is a challenge eagerly accepted every day.

Forbes Women Support Gender Parity

March 9, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Nearly 90 women met for breakfast at Lake Forbes on Wednesday to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD).

The women were entertained by the talented singer Maddi Collits, while Cheryl Shirvington and Sandra Nicholson provided a Tai Chi demonstration. The guest speakers reinforced the IWD message of celebrating women and striving for gender equality with Marg Duggan, President of the Forbes Business Chamber providing information on the initiatives the Chamber provides. Dianne Green, a McGrath Breast Care nurse reminded everyone of the importance of monthly breast examinations. McGrath Breast Care Nurses assist individuals, and their families, experiencing breast cancer by providing physical, psychological and emotional support. This support is available for free no matter whether you’re in the private or public health system.

“A breakfast meeting is ideal for working woman,” said one participant Alpana Ma- hagankar. Mother nature was kind as the morning was sunny, yet crisp and clear. “It is so nice to have breakfast cooked for us, said Margaret Adams, “”especially bacon and eggs.”

International Women’s Day has been held annually since 1911 to celebrate the achievements of women and to strive for gender equality. This year’s theme was Be Bold For Change .

Throughout history women have joined together and vindicated inequality to build a better future for their communities, children and themselves. Whether through bold well-documented action or through humble resistance that never made it into history books, women have united for equality and achievement.

By Dianne Collie

A Marvellous Life Of Music And Memories

March 2, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

At 106 years young, Irene (Rene) Francis is not only the longest living resident in Forbes, but she also has an admirable story to tell.

When The Forbes Phoenix caught up with her this week she was knitting away with her daughter Marguerite at the Jemalong Residential Village for the Wrap with Love charity.

Rene was prepared with photos to share some of her proud moments. The first pho- to she took out was of her at 16 with her beloved violin. She gave up school to take up music professionally and played for a broadcasting station in Sydney prior to the establishment of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). “We performed on air,” recalls Rene. The announcer, Mr Corcoran, described her as “not quite as tall as my watch chain”.

Rene’s love of music lasted her whole life until hearing problems started interfer- ing. “Mum gave up playing the violin when she was 97. She was concerned her notes weren’t being played correctly,” said Mar- guerite, “However she played the piano un- til she was 101. When we think of Mum we think of music.”

The next photo is of a debonair Rene and her husband, Arthur, after their mar- riage. They were married during the Great Depression. There was no fanfare and none was needed. They moved to Forbes in 1936 from Sydney. “I was fascinated by the dust rolling like waves on the unsealed road driving into Forbes. I held my daughter Barbara up so she could see,” said Rene.

Proudly displayed on Rene’s wall is a certificate from the Bishop of Bathurst, presented on her 100th birthday, for her contribution as a scripture teacher, pianist and violinist.

Answering if there is any advice Rene can offer, she simply said: “No, I don’t. All I can say is that I always do what I know to be right and it doesn’t matter what anyone says. I thank the Lord every morning for looking after me.”

By Dianne Collie

Forbes Youth Support Ochre Ribbon Day Message

February 23, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

“It is important to remember – it is never, ever a person’s choice or fault to be abused. The guilt and responsibility must always be fitted squarely to the abuser.”

The words of Katrina Sheen, Solicitor at Binaal Billa Family Violence Prevention Le- gal Services (FVLPS), rang true for many in the audience who attended the third Ochre Ribbon Day at the Forbes Wiradjuri Centre last Thursday.

Katrina’s statement followed a quote she read of a victim of domestic violence: “We were young and stupid. Even though it was not right, he had a way of making it seem so. It was as if something in me brought this out of him. So, it was my fault in a way.”

Ochre Ribbon Day is a national event symbolic to Aboriginal people who are surivors of family violence. ‘Today is cultur- ally focused in its values and contributes to the message that Aboriginal people will not tolerate violence against their men, women and children,” said Katrina.

After the serious speeches, students from Forbes High School were cheered on by members of the Forbes community in the Amazing Ochre Race.

Family violence is a serious human rights issue that affects millions of families world-wide -regardless of age, economic status, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or education.

The Forbes youth have taken a stand saying, “Domestic violence is totally unacceptable and we are not afraid to tell someone who can help us.”

By Dianne Collie

Cowal Gold Will Glitter For Next 15 Years

February 16, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

The board of Evolution Mining Limited has approved a multi-million dollar investment in the Cowal Gold Operation to secure the life of the operation for at least the next 15 years.

The investment of approximately $270 million at the mine near West Wyalong will increase total production by 1.2 million ounces, the company announced yesterday.

The Board decision follows recent approval from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment to extend the life of Cowal by eight years to 2032.

Executive Chairman Jake Klein said: “When Evolution purchased Cowal in July 2015, a key objective was to reinvigorate exploration with the aim of extending the mine’s life beyond its scheduled closure in 2024. We are delighted that the success of our recent drilling and regulatory approval

has enabled us to deliver on this goal. This significant new investment will take place over the next four years, securing the long- term future of the Cowal Gold Operation and help provide job security for our local mine employees, contractors and suppliers.”

The new investment will deliver two major projects, the E42 Stage H cutback and the Dual Leach project.

The E42 Stage H Cutback will widen and deepen the existing open pit at a cost of $230 million.

A further $35 to $40 million investment in the Dual Leach project will add an ad- ditional leaching circuit to the processing plant to increase gold production by up to 14,000 ounces per year.

Cowal employs approximately 400 full- time employees and contractors.

How Does Your Garden Interact?

February 9, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Metal clothes cathcing the breeze on a washing line, a spinning porcupine playing music… These are but two of the creative and fun art works residents of the Jemalong Residential Village (JRV) are working on for their sensory interactive garden.

The pilot Art Connection program for residents of Catholic Healthcare’s JRV culminated in an exhibition in December last year. This year the Art and Dementia program will run eight workshops to inspire sensory interactive art for the garden.

“Getting to know the JRV residents and facilitating the workshops is a real hoot,” said Solange Hershaw and Damian Cast, aldi, company directors of The Last Bureau, an Australian arts and digital media production company.

The Forbes Phoenix was invited to a workshop on Tuesday where conversation, debate and lots of laughter filled the room. Participants Margaret Williams, Maureen Broderick, Una Windsor and James (Jim) Lasserre worked with Solange, Damian and JRV Pastoral Care Co- ordinator, Gwen Barnard, to sculpt a dog using clay.

“I have never had so much fun,” said Maureen, while Una was sure her dog sculp- ture needed to be more in proportion, “as it has a horse head”. Damian helped her make a larger body to fit Buffy, her dog.

So far two sensory pieces have been completed and will be displayed on bollards in the garden.

The first is inspired by resident Lillian Goldstraw’s drawing of washing hanging on a line. “We have replicated it in metal and have a fan underneath so that when someone approaches, the clothes spin,” said Damian.

The second piece is a porcupine sculpted by resident Clare Inwood. When someone approaches, it will spin and play music by the Frank Bourke and White Rose Orchestra. The orchestra is well known as they played at dances throughout central western NSW during the 1930s to 1960s.

“We underestimate those with cognitive impairment and it just makes my heart sing when I see how the residents talk about their work,” said Gwen.

By Dianne Collie

Financial Boost For Six Community Groups

February 2, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Community groups in the Forbes Shire received funding of more than $80,000 and a visit from Phillip Donato, MP for Orange on Tuesday.

Accompanied by Brett Cooke, Senior Electorate Officer, Phil visited six groups to announce the Community Building Partnership grants, facilitated by the NSW Premier and Cabinet. First stop was the Forbes Handicraft Centre Inc. “$3,000 means a lot to us,” said President, Barbara Parslow. “We can upgrade our refrigerator, which was purchased second hand more than 11 years ago, to ensure the freshness of our sweet treats for years to come.”

Aileen Allen of the Forbes Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre was almost at a loss for words: “We are over the moon as we will be able to build the Arts and Cultural Centre with $12,000, and commission bronze sculptures to help the Aboriginal Story with additional funding from the Arts Centre.” She said there was also the possibility of employing people to tell the Wiradjuri story.

At the Forbes Shire Pool, the Forbes Amateur Swimming Club founded in 1938, and with a current membership of 126, received $6,000. Janelle McManus, Treas- urer, said they had also received funding from the Stronger Community Program (SCP) and the Public Reserves Manage- ment Fund Program (PRMFP). “Now we can level and rebuild the canteen so it is WHS compliant, easy to set up, and dis- play electronically the times and places at local competitions,” said President, Sandy Phillips.

Receiving the biggest chunk was the Forbes Men’s Shed with $40,000. Meeting them at their current shed at the Forbes Showground, their home since 2007, President, Norm Haley said the money meant a secure future and a move to Union Street – a more central location. “We currently have 47 members aged between 14 to 95 years. We are looking forward to tripling the space of our Men’s Shed, increasing our opening hours, and the number of members.”

What a wonderful present for the County Women’s Association in Lachlan Street, that turned 90 in October last year. “We are looking forward to be able to dance on solid ground again,” said President, Elaine Bright. “The grant of $6,000 will enable us to have the floor resurfaced so that our

members can ball room dance the night away again.”

Last but not least was the turn of Wirrinya Progress and Sports Association, receiving funding of $15,948. “The aim is to have the retaining wall between the two tennis courts constructed and new fences erected before the end of the financial year,” said Grant Officer, Monica Langfield. “This cen- tre is a focal point which keeps our commu- nity together,” added the President, Trevor Toole.

By Dianne Collie

Record Number Attend Bicycle Safety Program

January 26, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

There were puddles aplenty at the Forbes Netball courts on Tuesday, however thankfully the rain abated to allow a record number of bike enthusiasts to learn, develop and reinforce their bike riding skills.

Almost 40 children entered for the Forbes session of the Aboriginal Bicycle Safety Program, which was the last of a series of ten held throughout the Central West. Over 60 sessions were held in the whole of NSW.

The participants were excited but had to concentrate hard during the free session facilitated by Jenny and Damien Enderby of Bike and Fitness. They are both qualified Cycling Australia and AustCycle coaches. The three-hour session gave participants a fun, interactive learning experience teaching them to ride safely. The session is based on the Let’s Ride Program.

Depending on the age, the practical skills learned and reinforced included pedaling, gear changing, braking, hand signals and scanning (both forwards and behind). They also learned the importance of visibility while riding and safe places to ride.

A bike mechanic was also present to provide much needed maintenance on bicycles free of charge. Lachlan Shire Council’s Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Logan Dobel said this was really important. The maintenance included the replacement of brakes, tyres and pedals.

All participants also received a new bike helmet. The helmet laws for cyclists of all ages in NSW help prevent head injuries from falls. The NSW Road Rules state that all cyclists, regardless of age, including children on bicycles with training wheels must wear a helmet.

By Dianne Collie

For The Love Of Elvis

January 19, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Whilst a record-breaking 25,000 fans congregated in Parkes for the 25th Elvis Festival, Forbes also hosted events to complement the festivities. Forbes Shire Council provided a bus service between Forbes and Parkes, run by Cenwestours, for residents and visitors to
attend the festival. Over five days almost 1,000 people were transported in two buses in more than 56 trips covering more than 2,600km.

When the Phoenix caught up with the 1.00 pm shuttle service on Saturday there were no spare seats and the atmosphere was certainly electric. Forbes Shire Council’s Director of Tourism, Community and Cultural Development, Richard Morgan, said the Parkes Elvis Festival had a very positive impact on Forbes. “During the Elvis Festival just about every bed available was occupied.” Bill and Kirsten of Kosmik Country Duo hosted Elvis Karoake at the Forbes Services Memorial Club where a crowd of nearly 60 sang their hearts out to their
favourite Elvis songs including ‘All Shook Up’, ‘Suspicious Minds’, and nobody could ask ‘Are you Lonesome Tonight?’

The Forbes Youth & Community Centre joined the fun and Spectacular Screening showed the theme movie of the Parkes Elvis Festival, the 1964 Elvis film Viva Las Vegas to mostly Forbes locals. The Phoenix caught up with Ray Beacroft who is Ray of Elvis after his final show at the Forbes Golf and Sportsman Club. “Forbes is close to my heart,” said Ray, “My wife and I lived here from 1988 to 1992 and our daughter was born here.” As a child Ray dreamed of singing Elvis songs and being a tribute artist. As he got older he enjoyed attending the Elvis Festival in Parkes and it was there he was encouraged to take the plunge so to speak….and the rest is history. “I really want to pay tribute to Elvis,” said Ray and the crowd all agreed that he most certainly did.

By Dianne Collie

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