The Cowra Christmas Street Festival is back for its sixth year with Cowra’s Kendal Street hosting the region’s largest celebration of all things festive on Friday, 7th December from 6pm to 9pm.

The main street of Cowra is set to be closed down and reopened as a magical twilight marketplace, jam-packed with locally handcrafted wares, soaps, jewellery, clothing, preserves, candles and more. The festival is the perfect time to tick off your Christmas shopping list with unique gifts from local Cowra retailers and regional market holders. Our retailers and market stallholders are committed to ensuring shoppers have all they need for the big day. The beloved Christmas Wonderland at Squire Park will be making its return, offering lots of fun, free activities for the kids as well as the opportunity for photos with Santa himself! The kids will also enjoy the Old Kentucky Animal Farm in the Bushman Boots & All courtyard. Get up close and personal, pat the animals and even help the farmer with feeding time.

Macquarie ‘Eat Street’ is the place to grab a bite to eat, with a huge range of delicious local and international cuisines available to enjoy whilst watching the great live entertainment up on the main stage, featuring the youngest winner ever of ‘The Voice Australia’, Ellie Drennan!

Don’t forget to be present at the main stage for the annual Cowra Guardian Christmas Cracker draw, where the lucky winners will take home a multitude of fantastic prizes. Winners must be at the event to claim their prize.

Join in the fun and get festive this season at the Cowra Christmas Street Festival in Kendal Street on Friday, 7th December from 6pm to 9pm. Ho, Ho, Hope to see you there!

 

The committee for the Forbes Boscars is pleased to announce that the Gala Dinner event will be held at the Forbes Services Memorial Club on Friday, 8th February 2019.

“The Gala Dinner will be under the magical theme of Midsummer Night’s Dream – a whimsical theatrical theme!” said Michael Jelbart, Chair of the Boscars committee.

“We are delighted to be working with 123 Tix for this event and will be publicising the link for ticket purchases on social media later this week,” added Michael.

The Boscars nominations have been very promising with submissions for all categories. “The committee awaits for the judges to make their final decisions to enable the award nominees to progress to the next step,” said Michael.

The committee meet fortnightly to ensure that the plans for the Gala Boscars event are well on track.

If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact either Fiona Ferguson of the Forbes Business Chamber on 0407 380 936 or Cheryl Newsom, Media Liaison, on 0411 211 065.

Eight students from the Forbes High School Support Unit were selected to form part of a section in the School Spectacular, namely D’Arts Ensemble, which specifically caters for students with special needs.

All the students were extremely excited when they recently received their School Spectacular bag and cap.

The school’s support unit staff, students and parents/carers of the students attending the Spectacular have all been amazed at the overwhelming response received from local community groups and local businesses. Their major sponsors include Evolution Mining ($2,000), RSL Club ($1,200), Lions Club ($1,000) and Ipomea (Rotary) Club ($500). The donations have lessened the students’ total expenses by an astonishing 65 percent. They have also each received a School Spectacular shirt, bag and cap which will be extremely useful during their week in Sydney.

They are in Sydney this week until tomorrow, and will be doing four separate performances at Qudos Bank Arena. They will be performing a surprise dance that may not be revealed until the first performance today.

Anyone wanting to watch the show can do so when it is televised the following week on Saturday, 1st December on Channel 7.

The Forbes Business Chamber Find It In Forbes committee are hard at work to ensure that the Christmas promotion is launched on the 19th November.

“For 2018 Forbes Shire Council holds the Naming Rights sponsorship with Forbes Services Memorial Club being the Gold sponsor for the event. For the second year, Terry Bros Carpet Court is the Silver sponsor,” said Chairperson Marg Duggan.

“The Chamber is delighted to introduce a new category of sponsorship this year. Bernardi’s, Little Extras and Central West Diesel are all Bronze sponsors, which is fantastic,” said Marg.

The committee is also working hard at developing the Christmas carnival which will see the beginning of the Find It In Forbes draws. The draws for the promotion consist of 10 x $500, 5 x $1,000, 1 x $3,000, 1 x $2,000 and 1 x $5,000. Giving a total funding pool of $20,000.

“The Find It In Forbes promotion will run from the 19th November until the 24th December at 10:30am. The Forbes Business Chamber would like to thank the sponsors, participants and supporters for assisting to make this Forbes promotion such a success,” said Marg.

Please remember to support the below businesses during this busy period and use any of the major sponsors and participating businesses to redeem any of your lucky draws.

Forbes Shire Council, Forbes Services Memorial Club, Terry Bros. Carpet Court, Bernardi’s, Central West Diesel, Little Extras, Agriwest, Allure on Main, Betta Home Living, Blush Organics, Bowns SportsPower, Brons Hair Design, C & D Floor Coverings, Cahills Footwear, ChapterTwo, Country Bakehouse, Flannery’s Pharmacy, Forbes Family Dentist, Forbes Small Engines, Turners Furniture One, Gottaluvit, Gunns Menswear, Helloworld, HozPotz, Jullianna Kneebone Solicitors, Ladybird, Life Pharmacy, Loomzys FishNFix, Made Of Fridays, News On Rankin, Painted Daisies, Phillip Wells Optometrist, Robbs Jewellers, The Pantry Cafe and Catering, Undercover Sleepwear, Vandenberg Hotel, Walkers AgNVet, Blue Sky Outdoors, Forbes Inn, Roylances Auto One and Eye Wear Specs.

Supporters include Forbes Livestock, Forbes Toyota, Hazel Field Accountants, Hughes and Co, Kevin Miller Whitty Lennon & Co, McCarron Cullinane and Chudleigh, Midpro, Midwest Pest, WA Knights and BWR Accountants.

Don’t forget to ask for your Find It In Amazing Forbes tickets with every purchase at a sponsor or participating business.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes provides a broad range of programs and services to encourage and support people living within the Wilcannia-Forbes diocese. Services are adapted in response to specific needs and collaborative partnerships are developed to strengthen the capacity of rural and remote communities throughout Western NSW.

A new service CatholicCare is providing is support for those affected by drought. An initiative they are pursuing to support these people is holding various community catch ups. This service aims to target and bring those who are living in communities which are affected by drought within the diocese together. A key goal for these community catch ups is to provide an opportunity for locals to discuss ways further support can be offered to them.

The community catch up evenings are free to all those who attend and will be of host to various kids activities, a family movie playing on the big screen, sausage sandwiches, burgers, soft drink and water.

While the kids are kept busy with their fun activities the parents can sit back, relax and enjoy their sandwiches/burgers and drinks. Another aspect of these events is to offer information on mental health support, financial management support and other support services people at these events could be interested in accessing such as the drought support hotline. For the farmers and those who are heavily affected by the drought temporary relief through gifts such as vouchers for food/livestock feed/laundromats etc may be provided.

The first event is scheduled for 16th November at Bedgerebong Hall. Another event is planned for 23rd November at Lake Cargelligo.

Pick A Perfect Spot At Wyangala Waters

It’s that time of year when the days are longer, warmer and call for adventure. Wyangala Waters sits on the shore of Wyangala Dam, an easy drive from Forbes Cowra, Bathurst, Blayney and the wider Central Tablelands of NSW.

It’s about the simple things at Wyangala Waters: good company, beautiful natural surrounds and picturesque water views. Take the boat out for some water-skiing fun, or make the most of the excellent fishing. Let the kids go wild in the bush building forts and bike riding. Enjoy bushwalking, spotting kangaroos and birds, then finish the day around the campfire, toasting marshmallows under a big starry sky. Life doesn’t get better than this!

The park is big enough to pick your perfect spot and make yourself at home in your RV, caravan or tent. Powered sites are still available for the summer, while there is a range of cabins, cottages and bungalows too. Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters is dog-friendly for camping and caravan sites to enjoy the bush experience with the whole family.

Stay On The Water In A Houseboat

Wyangala Houseboats offer a unique accommodation experience with two houseboats available for hire: Moomba and Tango. Each one accommodates up to 10 people featuring a kitchen, bathroom and bbq facilities. Grab a group of friends or family and spend the weekend or week cruising, skiing, fishing or just relaxing along Wyangala Waters. No special licence required. You will be thoroughly briefed to ensure you are comfortable with the safe handling of the houseboat before going on your way. Gift vouchers available. For bookings and enquires phone Wyangala Waters on 6345 0877.

The Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 (NSW) provides for dedicated workplace surveillance legislation in NSW.

Generally, an employee must consent, either expressly or impliedly, to the surveillance of private activities or private conversations. The Telecommunications (Interceptions and Access) Act 1979 (Cth) also places limitations on the recording of telephone conversations.

The legislation relating to surveillance devices specifies what constitutes a “private activity” or “private conversation”. Private activities or conversations may occur in any workplace, whether a corporate office or a public space, such as a retail store.

Use of surveillance as evidence can ensure employees are not engaging in misconduct, however surveillance must be properly obtained by an employer to enable it to rely on the surveillance in disciplinary action or court proceedings. The recent Federal Court decision of Chappell vs Griffin Coal Mining Pty Ltd [2016] FCA 1248 is a sound reminder of this.

In the case of Chapell vs Griffin Coal Mining Pty Ltd, an employee was caught making adverse comments about the employer to an external person on a video surveillance device worn by a security guard hired by the employer. When the employer sought to rely on the surveillance as evidence of misconduct, the employee argued that the evidence was improperly obtained – it was a private conversation that he did not consent to being recorded. The court agreed and the surveillance could not be used as evidence.

Where employers intend to undertake surveillance in the workplace, they should inform employees in writing and how the surveillance will be undertaken. Best practice is draw up a workplace surveillance policy that is easily accessible by employees, and provided to all new employees.

Much To Celebrate At Forbes Preschool

The 60 year celebrations continue through the year at Forbes Preschool. Last Thursday saw 1,000 family members and friends at Nelson Park enjoying some spectacular singing and dancing. Proceeds of the day’s sausage sizzle were donated to the Can Assist Dancing With the Stars fundraiser, which saw the preschool secretary, Lisa Jarick and committee member, Darren Keane bust a move! The preschool are proud to be able to give back to our community that has given so much to us over the years. Visit www.forbespreschool.com to put your child’s name on the waiting list.

We’d Rather Be About It, Than Talk About It

Forbes High School operates as a community of people invested in the future. But don’t take our word for it, the proof is in the way students access opportunities for lifelong success and is indicated by Sydney University’s preference to send practice teachers here for internships. Sydney knows this is a school where teachers teach and learners learn; Forbes High School recognises the potential of education to enable, expand and enrich the lives of young learners inside and outside the classroom. Forbes High School is leading the way in using technology to enrich learning with a future-focussed approach that enables students’ voice and choice. Our students are encouraged to grow as creative and critical thinkers. Forbes High School is currently taking enrolments for all years. Enrol now!

Quality Care And Education

Bright Beginnings Early Learning Centre is a locally owned early education and care service. We concentrate on offering high quality care and education to children aged six weeks to six years. Our highly motivated and experienced team strive to provide the best possible experience for every child and family and take a multi faceted approach to learning across all age groups. Our preschool program is exceptional and is designed in close conjunction with local primary schools and support services to ensure that our preschool graduates are ready for ‘big school’, and beyond. We are currently taking enrolments for 2019 and invite you to come up for a tour of our beautiful service. For more information, please call Kym on 6851 4597 or email director@brightbeginnings.net.au.

Stimulating Learning

Forbes Public School students learn in a stimulating and challenging environment with a 21st century approach to schooling. Students are supported as individuals ensuring all children reach their full potential as we develop creative, confident and informed future leaders of the community.

Strong academic, sporting, cultural and creative arts programs, highly dedicated expert staff and wonderful families offer you and your child/children a school community that has the students at the heart. Forbes Public School enables students to become the best they can be and prepares them with a holistic view to education. We are currently taking enrolments for 2019, so please make the most of the opportunity and contact the office for a meeting to discuss the future for your child in this dynamic setting.

Quality Programs, Quality People

Forbes North Public School focuses on continual improvement for the school as a whole and for each and every individual student.

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 individual learning needs of every child are identified and the most effective learning opportunities to address these needs are applied each day. As well as outstanding teachers the students are supported by a team of Learning Support Officers, specialist Learning Support Teachers, an Aboriginal Education Officer and a Speech Therapist. Two Instructional Leaders work with students and also identify the best professional learning for staff to address their students’ needs.

 

 

Crave. coffee cafe catering is a coffee shop cafe in Forbes that offers seated dining or take away, has a brand new coffee blend and can cater for any occasion.

Located in Shop 1 at 15 Rankin Street, in the old Royal Hotel, Crave offers convenient front and rear parking, has wheelchair access and customer lavatories. It also features comfortable inside dining with a small child friendly lounge area to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy a coffee break and has courtyard seating enclosed from the elements.

Isabel Haley has been the proud new owner of Crave. coffee cafe catering since September and is excited to announce that Crave is now a supplier of Bay Beans Coffee. “We have had an excellent response from customers so far. Our Bay Beans blend is very smooth with gentle spice flavours and a sweet aftertaste. You won’t be disappointed!” said Isabel. Red Sparrow loose leaf tea is also available and is served in your choice of beautiful fine china tea cups.

The menu is varied but simple with some of the most popular items being the bacon and egg rolls, homemade hamburgers and toasted wraps. Isabel bakes all sweets and goodies herself with the raspberry white chocolate slice proving to definitely be the crowd pleaser. Some gluten free options are also available.

Summer salads, mini cob loaf, zucchini slice, brownies, banana bread, chocolate cake and cookies are some of the items waiting for you to delight in.

All items on the menu are available any time of the day and opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm and Saturday 8am to 2pm.

“If you haven’t already, call in and say ‘hi’ to the friendly staff at Crave, who will always greet you with a smile and provide you with excellent service,” said Isabel.

Fifteen businesses have put their hand up to help reduce driver fatigue related road incidents, by signing up to take part in next year’s ‘Free Cuppa for the Driver’ scheme.

The businesses join over 100 businesses across Hunter, Southern, South West and Western NSW to participate in the next round of the successful ‘Free Cuppa for the Driver’ scheme, which provides drivers who have travelled more than 100 kilometres from their home with a free cup of tea or coffee from those participating businesses.

The scheme will see over 23 local council areas working together in a bid to reduce tired drivers and fatigue related crashes on roads in NSW.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor said that the second biggest killer on NSW roads was drivers who were tired.

The scheme allows drivers to access a ‘free cuppa’ from participating businesses who have a variety of trading hours, which improves the scheme’s accessibility.

The scheme runs each year from 1st March to 31st May. The councils market and administer the scheme, with the ‘free cuppa’ itself being directly provided by participating businesses.

“If it wasn’t for the participating businesses supplying the ‘free cuppa’, then this scheme wouldn’t be possible and I would like to thank the 15 enthusiastic businesses across the Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils who are taking part in next year’s scheme.

Many of whom are returning for the eighth or ninth time and we warmly welcome those who are joining us for the first time in 2019,” said Melanie. The local participating businesses for 2019 are:

FORBES SHIRE

• Crave Coffee Café Catering

• Forbes Bakehouse

• Forbes Inn Hotel/Motel

• Pantry Café and Catering

• Subway – Forbes

PARKES SHIRE

• Railway Arts and Crafts (Bogan Gate)

• Railway Hotel (Bogan Gate)

• Cooke Park Café (Parkes)

• Parkes Coffee Pot

• Parkes Services Club

• Casho’s (Tullamore)

LACHLAN SHIRE

• Vantage Fuels Condobolin

• Shell Condobolin

• Fisho’s Hotbake and Takeaway (Lake

Cargelligo)

• Tulli Café (Tullibigeal)

For further information go to the website, freecuppa.com.au.