General Interest Archives - Page 105 of 326

Beyond Blue Welcomes New Closing The Gap National Plan And Funding

February 17, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Beyond blue

Beyond Blue welcomes the Australian Government’s second Closing the Gap Implementation Plan, which injects $424 million into initiatives aimed at improving life outcomes for First Nations Peoples.

The plan, released on the 15th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations, invests in measures that many non-Indigenous people take for granted, such as access to safe drinking water, food security, housing and family violence support and education.

Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said progress had been appallingly slow in closing the gap over the past 16 years, since the campaign began. “It’s unacceptable that today, in 2023, there remains a significant gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous rates of suicide, incarceration and child removal,” Ms Harman said.

“It’s time for Australia to learn from previous policy failures and work together with First Nations Peoples to address these shocking realities.”

“Beyond Blue is a proud member of the Close the Gap Campaign Alliance and is committed to walking together in friendship with First Nations communities and organisations to promote healing, unity and improved social and emotional wellbeing.

“The upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament is an important step in accepting the invitation extended to all of us in the Uluru Statement from the Heart,” Ms Harman said.

13YARN is a crisis support line for First Nations Peoples. Call 13 92 76 or go to 13yarn.org.au

Housing Pods Hit The Ground In Eugowra

February 17, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Flood-impacted residents across the Cabonne Shire can now apply for modular homes, with the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government expanding its temporary accommodation program following last year’s successful caravan rollout.

Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said modular homes are now being installed. “These pods will complement the 110 caravans we already have in place, giving residents more options and more support while they continue their recovery journey.”

“It’s important people remain as close as possible to their own home and connected with their community while they undertake the difficult clean-up and rebuilding process, that’s what the modular homes will allow,” said Steph.

Flood-impacted residents in the Cabonne Shire can apply for the Pods on Private Property Program by visiting their local Recovery Assistance Point, calling Service NSW on 13 77 88 or sending an email to: housingtaskforce@resilience.nsw.gov.au.

Caravans are continuing to be provided through a partnership between the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government and accommodation provider Camplify. Flood-impacted residents who have previously received a caravan and are eligible for a modular home will be able to transition.

More information at: www.nsw.gov.au/floods/recovery/temporary-housing.

NSW Sports High Schools Going For Gold With New Partnership

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

New South Wales has scored an Australian-first with the State’s seven Sports High Schools officially becoming ‘Australian Olympic Pathway Schools’ from today.

“Our seven Sports High Schools in NSW are the only secondary schools in Australia to have this prestigious recognition.

The seven Sports High Schools in NSW receiving this recognition are Endeavour Sports High School, The Hills Sports High School, Hunter Sports High School, Illawarra Sports High School, Matraville Sports High School, Narrabeen Sports High School and Westfields Sports High School.

“Sporting heroes are made in our public schools and particularly our amazing sport high schools, so it is incredibly exciting to recognise their role in Australian sporting excellence by acknowledging them as ‘Australian Olympic Pathway Schools’.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is supporting the State’s seven sports high schools in their endeavour to develop future Australian Olympians.

“The students at our sports high schools today will be our heroes standing on the podium at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, and this partnership will strengthen their opportunity for international success,” Mr Henskens said.

Today’s announcement builds on the signing of an MOU between the sports high schools and the NSW Institute of Sport, which strengthened the pathway for talented athletes with a specific focus on Olympic sports.

“We have seen Olympic Training Centres recognised around Australia and overseas, but never at the school level.

“The AOC is also thrilled by the extension of the Olympics Unleashed program. Our Olympic athletes can deliver these sessions across the state, including regional areas and Indigenous communities. We will reach 1,800 schools across the three years.”

Backing Sporting Equality For Women And Girls

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Women and girls across NSW will have access to more inclusive sporting facilities, thanks to the NSW Government’s $25 million Female Friendly Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrades Program.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said 94 community sport facilities are set to be transformed, delivering female-friendly change rooms, amenities and lighting upgrades, which is one of the biggest barriers that prevent women and girls from playing sport.

“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government recognises the critical role local sport infrastructure plays in keeping our communities healthy and active,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Community sport is where it all begins, and by investing in our local communities to help boost female participation, we will ensure any young girl or woman who wants to shoot a hoop, score a try or kick a goal, can do so in a supportive environment.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said we know that when women and girls feel comfortable, they are more likely to stick with their chosen sport.

“Some of the biggest barriers faced by women and girls are the lack of female change rooms and amenities,” Mrs Taylor said. More information about the program is available online.

Forbes Magpies To Host Last Ever Annual Stubby Collits Memorial Match

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

A meeting of the minds took place recently to organise the Boys To The Bush v CanAssist charity footbal match. Pictured clockwise from back left are Nathan Corliss Program Coordinator Boys to the Bush, Tim West Boys to the Bush Forbes Manager, Mathew Jack President Forbes Magpies and John Schrader President Forbes Can Assist.

The Forbes Magpies will be hosting the Annual Stubby Collits Memorial Match for the final time and we are putting a call out for the entire community to come along.

After ten years Cathy, Stubby’s mother, has decided that this year will be the conclusion of this tradition between Forbes Magpies and Bathurst St Pats. Stubby played for both clubs, and was a much loved and well respected player at both clubs.

Teams from CanAssist and Boys To The Bush will be playing a charity game beforehand as a lead up. All of the jumpers will be auctioned after the game. Gate takings, raffles and proceeds from this auction will be donated to Can Assist and Boys to the Bush. It is expected to draw big crows and be a highlight of the day.

First grade teams from Magpies and St Pat’s will then go head to head in the last ever Stubby Collits Memorial Match.

Organisers are grateful to the generous sponsors and the Forbes Magpies for hosting the event. Everyone is welcome to stay after the games for a BBQ at Spooners Oval.

NSW Government Supporting Growth In Aboriginal Businesses

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Aboriginal businesses in NSW received $92 million in direct Government contracts in 2019-20. This soared to almost $480 million in 2021-22.

Treasurer Matt Kean welcomed the increased volume of contracts with Aboriginal businesses as proof of the collaborative approach taken by the Government with Aboriginal community leaders. “We have consistently heard the important role procurement plays in empowering Aboriginal businesses and communities and I am pleased that our Government continues to increase these opportunities.”

Minister for Finance Damien Tudehope said the policy’s success reflected the expertise and quality of the products and services provided by Aboriginal businesses in NSW. “The Aboriginal Procurement Policy had a target of 200 contracts worth a total of $136.7 million for the 2021-22 financial year. We can report there have been 694 contracts worth $479.6 million,” Mr Tudehope said.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ben Franklin said a series of Meet the Buyer events have been held in local areas to connect regional Aboriginal businesses with government agencies, major suppliers and head contractors.

Aboriginal businesses and communities are able to provide feedback on the Aboriginal Procurement Policy through the Have Your Say consultation until 28 February at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/aboriginal-procurement.

“Sincere Thanks And Gratitude” From Forbes Public School

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Getting things back up and running on the temporary site at Forbes Public School are Site Manager Peter Zylstra, Principal Megan Staples and Matt Cheney from Cheney’s Electrical.

After a complete refurbishment of Forbes Public School in 2022, including new paint and new carpet, the school was faced with not one, but two flooding events. The floods hit just three weeks before the end of the 2022 school year.

Following the floods, Forbes High School generously offered up space for the remaining three weeks of the school year for all of the Forbes Public School students from kindergarten to year six.

“That three weeks gave us time to unpack with the kids about what was happening. During the last week of school, the students were permitted to return to the school site, to allow them to have some closure,” said Megan Staples, Principal of Forbes Public School.

“Students were allowed to walk around the school, they also assembled on the oval and all pretended to imagine what their new temporary site might look like upon their return to school in 2023.”

During the school holiday period, Forbes Public School students and parents were kept updated about the build for the temporary site. Regular updates were provided about the return to school for 2023, including a virtual tour of the school the day before school returned for 2023 to show parents and students what to do.

“The goal was all about returning students to school on day one of term one and an all important return to a focus on teaching and learning,” said Megan.

Questions have been raised as to why the effort was put into building the temporary demountable site in favor of immediately getting on with refurbishing the original, existing site?

Forbes Public School Principal Megan Staples explains, “After two years of COVID interruptions, the last thing we wanted in the new year was the shuffling of students or distractions from trade and construction work.”

Megan is grateful that the school was involved in two weeks of intense planning and design for the new temporary site, to ensure it would really work for the staff and students who may be using the temporary site for the next 12 months or more.

The refurbishment of the original, existing site is under discussion and planning is well under way. “The gyprock has been ordered, the carpet has been ordered and tradies are on standby,” said Megan.

Once the temporary demountable site is fully signed off, then tools can be picked up and work can begin on the refurbishment.

As with any experience you go through as a team, the staff at Forbes Public School, along with the wider school community of parents and students, have all been brought closer together and Megan is exceptionally proud of how everyone has banded together.

“The students have had a great return to school year and are looking forward to all of the exciting aspects that come along with everyday learning. Including excursions, sports carnivals, visiting shows, Healthy Harold, Aurora program, sporting and creative arts opportunities and just being able to provide students the chance to reconnect with school and be a part of activities that make them happy and help them thrive and succeed,” said Megan.

Megan wanted to send out a message to all of those involved with supporting Forbes Public School. She went on to say, “In the summer of 2022, in our Forbes community, we had tradies, school teachers and community members all band together to enable the establishment of a school for day one, of term one, over a period of two to three weeks. That is something we can all share in and be proud of.”

“Thanks and praise are also extended to everyone who helped with the flood preparations, which was so important and helped redirect water. A big thanks to SES, Forbes Shire Council, Royal Defence Force and all of the community members who helped.”

The view looking down at the new temporary, demountable classrooms from the school hall.

Inside of the school hall, which was saved by a lot of sandbagging preparation.

Students lining up outside the temporary, demountable classrooms.

How is this for a classroom with a view!

Students learning comfortably from inside their temporary, demountable classroom.

Part of the original site which is all set for refurbishment once the temporary site is completed.

Support For Students And Teachers Impacted By Western NSW Floods

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Much needed and welcomed support has been announced for students and teachers across flood-impacted communities in Western NSW, who will benefit from financial and wellbeing assistance of up to $27.5 million as part of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s flood recovery package.

Schools and registered training providers in towns across Western NSW, including Eugowra, Forbes, Canowindra, Condobolin and Moree, will have access to a range of benefits from Term 1, 2023 with a focus on helping with the cost of living for families and getting students back into the classroom.

Staunch Forbes supporter Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said it is critical that ongoing support is provided to communities impacted by flooding events.

“As a former teacher, I know how important it is to provide continued wellbeing support to our students, staff and parents, especially after everything they’ve been through,” Mr Toole said.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said financial assistance includes a $500 Education Hardship grant per student in highly impacted public schools, access to a $1,000 Emergency Grant Payment for public school staff, and targeted learning support for students.

Get Involved In Seniors Festival Week At The Parkes Shire Library

February 10, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Margaret Dwyer’s Author talk held at the Parkes Shire Library.

The Festival of Seniors at Parkes Shire Library was in full swing last week with seniors from throughout Parkes Shire popping in to get involved.

Margaret Dwyer’s Author Talk on Friday was the perfect main event of the first week, highlighting the talents of seniors in the region and inspiring attendees. Margaret’s talk covered everything from what encouraged her to write, her family and how she got published. Margaret’s four books are available at the Parkes Shire Library for borrowing.

The fun continues in the library this week, so head along to check out your friends in the 70s on the photo board and listen to the best tunes on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

Finish it all off in spectacular fashion by attending the Seniors Library Lock In on Friday 10th February, beginning at 6pm. There will be games, snacks and plenty of time to chew the fat about the ‘good old days’. This is a booked event so please give the Library a call on 6861 2309 if you would like to attend. It is guaranteed to be a hoot!

Introducing “GUNYA”

February 3, 2023 by Roxane Manley

The captivating “Gunya” Riverside property on offer by Johnston Rural Group.

If there was ever a property to take your breath away, then this is it.

Forbes based property specialists Johnston Rural Group are pleased to present to market “Gunya” – an impressive and unique, premier rural lifestyle property on the banks of the Lachlan River.

Boasting an idyllic location just 3km from the historic Forbes town centre, Gunya is undoubtedly one of the districts leading lifestyle properties. Nestled on the eastern side of the Lachlan River and with an approx. 330 metre water frontage, this outstanding 2.38 hectare (5.88 ac) offering sets the benchmark in comfortable country living.

Built as the ‘ideal family home’ and entertaining destination, the 650m2, 5 bedroom, double Brick Gunya Homestead (c.2012) enjoys a spacious layout with seamless integration between its indoor and outdoor, open plan living and entertaining areas. With scenic 180° water views from all bedrooms and main entertaining areas, expansive lawns and towering river red gums, the property offers a sanctuary like setting. Additional improvements, which make several income generating opportunities a possibility, include a self-contained 2 bedroom cottage, studio / “meeting room”, 14 garages / storage sheds, amenities block and large rainwater storage tank.

Marketing agent Gary Johnston stated that “Gunya will undoubtedly set the benchmark for the high end, Forbes lifestyle property market” with co-marketing agent Sam explaining that “an inspection of the property is not only highly recommended but is certainly required to fully appreciate what Gunya has to offer”. Gunya is being offered for sale by Expressions of Interest (EOI) with expressions closing at 12 noon AEDT Wednesday, 15th March 2023. A detailed memorandum, video and price guide is available on request with inspections by appointment only.

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