General Interest Archives - Page 40 of 311

Four Days Of Double Demerits

September 26, 2024 by Roxane Manley

People may think that it is never going to happen to them – but the statistics tell a different story. Driving is one of the most dangerous things that we do every day.

Motorists are being reminded that double demerit points will be in place over this coming October long weekend with police targeting speed, seatbelts, illegal mobile phone use and motorcyclists not wearing helmets.

Double demerit points will be in force for four days commencing on Friday 4th October 2024 and ending on Monday 7th October 2024 (inclusive).

Acting Parkes Highway Patrol Sergeant Joshua Tolley said there will be more police on the road which means a greater chance of drivers being caught if they are doing the wrong thing.

“Double demerits were implemented 20 years ago, in a bid to encourage drivers to obey road rules. They occur on select holiday periods and long weekends and have proven to be an effective deterrent. Statistics show that there’s a 30% reduction in casualty crashes when double demerit points are operational.

“No-one wants to get a fine, lose their licence or worse still be involved in a crash.

So, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to travel, don’t speed, drive to the conditions, wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, make sure you’re well rested and if you’ve been drinking or have taken drugs – don’t drive” Acting Sergeant Tolley said.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Council’s Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, is encouraging all road users to stay safe this October long weekend.

“During double demerit point periods the penalties for breaking the road rules are more severe. Remember to slow down, schedule plenty of breaks during your trip, limit distractions in the car, don’t drink and drive and ensure all your passengers are wearing their seatbelt,” Ms Suitor said.

Celebrate Spring In Canowindra With Spring Fling Fling

September 26, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Get ready to embrace the vibrant colors and rejuvenating spirit of spring at Canowindra’s much-anticipated Spring Fling. From 25th – 27th October, Canowindra will play host to a delightful array of activities and events designed to celebrate the season and showcase the best of our community.

Stargazing with Donna The Astronomer

As a special highlight of the weekend, prepare for an extraordinary stargazing experience with renowned science boffin, Donna The Astronomer. Donna will lead an insightful and awe-inspiring session under the stars, providing fascinating insights into the night sky. It’s a rare chance to deepen your understanding of the cosmos and marvel at the celestial wonders above. To book your tickets to the Stargazing experience, go to www.123tix.com.au

Accommodation Packages at Eddy’s Of Canowindra

Eddy’s Of Canowindra is rolling out the red carpet for Spring Fling with special accommodation packages. Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of their charming rooms and take advantage of their exclusive Spring Fling rates. Perfectly located, Eddy’s offers easy access to all the activities organised in Canowindra while providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.

Edellen Flowers Workshop

Immerse yourself in the floral beauty of spring with Edellen Flowers. Join their flower workshop to learn how to create stunning floral arrangements that capture the essence of the season. This hands-on experience is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their floral skills or simply enjoy the art of flower arranging.

Finns Store Pop-Up Market

On Saturday, Finns Store will host their popular Pop-Up Market, featuring a fantastic selection of local products, artisanal goods, and unique finds. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans and discover one-of-a-kind items. Don’t miss out on the chance to shop and explore the pop up market and the vibrant offerings.

Garden Club Plant Stall

Spring is synonymous with blooming flowers and thriving plants, and the Canowindra Garden Club is here to help you green up your space. Visit their plant stall, outside IGA, to pick up a variety of spring plants, seedlings, flowers and gardening tips. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a budding enthusiast, this stall is sure to inspire your green thumb.

Pastures & Grazing Nsw Launch New Website

September 26, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pastures & Grazing NSW has this week launched their new website – www.pgnsw.com.au. Combined with this launch is the reintroduction of their newsletter.

The new website has retained the extensive content from the old website, but includes two additional features for members ‘Ask an Expert’ and an area for members to share their ’Success Stories’.

If you’ve got a burning question about grassland farming, use the ‘Ask an Expert’ contact form, and you’ll hear back from one of our Board members or a suitable industry professional within our network with the answer.

Sharing your ’Success Stories’ is similar to a member’s blog, where you can let other members know of any options or practices you used with success, or what you found is best to avoid.

The newsletter has been rebranded to our new identity but still carries the usual articles on research, farmer success stories, information from pasture updates and accompanying photos. You may even have a story you’d like to submit to our editor, Jonathan McLachlan at editor@pgnsw.com.au.

To receive an email copy of the newsletter, simply visit the new website www.pgnsw.com.au to subscribe, or email our Executive Officer at admin@pgnsw.com.au who will be pleased to add you to the mailing list.

Forbes: Tyne Brothers Have Their Eye On The Ball

September 26, 2024 by Roxane Manley

In April this year, Kailab Tyne was selected to represent NSW in the National Blackball championships, held in Canberra.

Blackball is the reigning standard in eight ball English pool around the world. Blackball is similar to normal pool but has a few different rules making it a more tactical game, played on smaller tables with extremely tight pockets.

Blackball Australia Pool Association (BAPA) is the driving force behind the growth of the Blackball rules within Australia and is responsible for running the Official Blackball Australian National Titles as well as sending teams to the Official Blackball World Championships.

After arriving home from the Nationals in Canberra with a top 50 placing in Australia, Kailab was happy with his achievement, and continued with his daily life. Then, in June Kailab received an official letter from BAPA, inviting him to represent Australia in the World Champions which is to be held in England in October this year.

“I could not believe it! It is an incredible feeling, with a lot of excitement, pride and nerves to go along with it. Being selected to play for your country is a huge honor, representing both a personal achievement and a reflection of all the hard work and dedication I have put into cue sports. It is a unique moment that few get to experience,” said Kailab.

With the World Titles only two weeks away, Kailab has his bags packed and is ready to represent not only Australia but his beloved hometown of Forbes.

Kailab and younger brother Trent, have also been invited to represent NSW in the BAPA National Championships which will be held in Rockhampton, QLD over a 13day competition in March 2025. Kailab has also been selected to Captain the NSW Indigenous All Stars Team at the event.

Spring Walks For The NPA Lachlan Valley

September 26, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The National Parks Association of NSW Lachlan Valley Branch have released their walks calendar for spring 2024.

• Sunday 15th September: SWWNR Cookamidgera. Meet at gate on Coonambro Way at 9am. Leader Martin Bell 0429 346 586. Medium 6kms.

• Wednesday 9th October: Back Yamma SF. Meet at gate on Forest East Rd off Parkes-Eugowra Rd at 9.30am. Contact Liz MacRaild 0455 915 989. Easy 7kms.

• Wednesday 13th November: “Kokoda” Northparkes Mines Offset Block. Meet at Lions Park, Molong Road, Parkes at 9am. Leader Martin Bell 0429 346 586. Medium 6kms.

• Wednesday 4th December: Christmas Party Bumberry Dam. Meet at 5pm for walk then picnic. BYO everything including chair, food either to be shared or eat your own as people prefer.

Please contact the listed walk leader the night before the walk if you intend to come.

A $2 donation for each walker is appreciated. New walkers are always welcome.

Walkers are reminded to bring along enough food and water for the entire day as well as suitable clothing, footwear, hat and sunscreen. A pair of good binoculars and a fold up chair for the post- walk cuppa is recommended.

Easy: (5 to 10 kilometres) Mostly flat to slightly undulating topography. Walks are mostly on tracks or fire trails and of moderate distance. Suitable for those with a minimum level of fitness.

Medium: (5 to 8 kilometres) May be over moderate hills or rough terrain. May involve some off track walking. Walk may involve shorter distance overall due to rougher conditions. Suitable for an average fitness level.

Hard: (5 or more kilometres) Walk may involve hilly or mountainous terrain, rough tracks, a trackless route or an extended distance. Walk suitable for above average fitness level.

Danielle Mcdonald: Australian Off Road Champion

September 19, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Danielle McDonald (centre) celebrating with her team after being named AORC EW Champion for 2024.

Parkes local Danielle McDonald just keeps going from strength to strength. She stepped up this year from dominating in the Junior class and has just been named the EW Champion for 2024 in her first year racing in the Women’s division.

The EW championship is the Endruo Women’s class in the Australian Off Road Championship. The competition took place across four states, over six massive weekends. Danielle said, “This Championship means everything. I’ve been wanting this for years and to get it in my rookie year is unbelievable. I can’t believe we’re here!

“I raced 12 rounds of the AORC throughout this year, battling it out in the woman’s class against previous Australian Champion and my teammate Jess Gardiner, it was a super tight battle at the start of the year with Jess leading the championship by a few points. I managed to put my head down at rounds 5 and 6 and got a double win, which made me the new points leader I then went on to win all the rounds after that, I even won all my Tests (races) on Saturday for round 11.

“Thanks to my team the Yamaha JGR Ballards off road team and all the team’s sponsors big thanks to Yamaha Australia for all the support this year in the motocross scene and off roads. Big thanks to my mechanic at home Foodge Burrell and my trainer Aaron Rankmore for all the training.”

From The Mayor’s Desk

September 19, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Thank you to all the voters who turned out on Saturday – it is really very important to have your say in who represents you in the Local Government, the most visible sector of government and I personally believe the most ‘can do’ tier of government.

Our new council will not be declared until after September 27 when the postal votes officially close and can be counted. From there preferences will be distributed. It is unlikely that we will have a new council declared until early October. The regular monthly Council meeting will be held on Thursday 17 October with the new council.

Congratulations to the Forbes Foxes who won the men’s soccer Grand Final on the weekend, how fantastic to get a victory after nine years – especially on our beautiful home grounds. I loved seeing our town touched by Orange to support you all. I hope you all did too.

The NSW Government has opened the Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy2041 with Litter Prevention Grants open for community groups. Funding is available for small scale on the ground projects litter prevention projects to larger strategy and implementation programs. EOIs close on 18 October. Do you have a great waste idea or solution? I am looking forward to meeting with NSW Health Minister Ryan Park next week to continue the discussion around the need for a new operating suite at Forbes District Hospital. We will be updating the Minister on the substantially increased surgical load at our hospital. This increase in surgical procedures in Forbes is reducing the waiting list for our larger regional base hospitals.

I will also be detailing for Minister Park the significant stimulus and economic incentives Forbes Shire Council has had in place to attract and retain medical health professionals, such as housing support and operational on costs to secure a stable medical workforce for our community.

Hoping to be able to get a commitment and an update from the Minister.

Until next week
Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor

Arts Outwest: Dream Up Arts Activities For 2025

September 19, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The Country Arts Support Program of annual small grants is now open, but you only have a month left to apply. Funding the payment of artists and arts workers to undertake or manage arts activities in local communities across the NSW Central West.

What could you apply for? Examples of eligible activities include (but are not limited to): Arts or heritage based workshops, classes, performances, installations, exhibitions, screen/film making, writing or composition, development of new work, tours or talks, artist-in-residence programs, public art and design projects, community seminars and forums, recordings or podcasts, new arts activities attached to festivals or events – as long as they have some element of public outcome.

Grants are available up to the amount of $3,000. Applications close: 5pm Thursday 17 October 2024. Guidelines here: https://artsoutwest.org.au/pf/casp/ You can call or email Arts OutWest to discuss your application: 02 6338 4657 artsoutwest@csu.edu.au

CASP is devolved funding from the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Inland Rail Major Works Are Underway

September 19, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Heavy machinery in the rail corridor safely carry out excavation work to lower the track under the Wyndham Avenue bridge during this week’s rail possession.

Major construction works on Inland Rail’s Stockinbingal to Parkes section are progressing on schedule. The works were carried out during a 100-hour shut down which closed the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) line from Forbes to Goobang Junction.

Workers across sites in and around Forbes have been working round the clock to progress major construction and return the line to operation. Work got under way last Friday 13 September, at 6pm, ahead of the shutdown and finished after the shut down, at 7am on Thursday 19 September.

Inland Rail has spent more than $6.5 million with 85 local businesses on the project between Albury and Parkes since July last year.

Since 2018, the Inland Rail project has spent more than $470 million with local businesses, with 676 local firms supplying the project and 744 tradies providing their skills.

James Kennedy, Delivery Director, Albury to Parkes (A2P), Inland Rail, said “The work being carried out takes a great deal of preparation behind the scenes so that we can achieve as much as possible during this period.

“Teams from Inland Rail and Martinus have been collaborating to achieve all of these goals as we progress toward delivering Inland Rail South of Parkes by the end of 2027.

“I would like to thank community members for their patience and understanding while we have been carrying out construction on this major nation-building project.”

Treaven Martinus, Martinus Rail CEO and founder, said “We deeply appreciate the community’s understanding during this critical phase, as our teams work tirelessly to bring the Inland Rail project closer to completion, ensuring we deliver lasting benefits to the region.”

For information on the works, visit https://inlandrail.com.au/where-we-go/projects/stockinbingal-to-parkes/works-notifications/

Forbes Garden Club Notes

September 19, 2024 by Elvy Quirk

Marion Murray’s garden at Coonamble.

Forbes Garden Club held their monthly meeting on 27th of August at the home of Colleen Liebich, 22 Koala Place, where 38 members were in attendance.

The Friendship day luncheon at Young was the topic of discussion. The day is being held on the 13th October at Clifton Gardens and a cost of $60 includes the luncheon and a tour of the gardens. Members who are wishing to attend please bring your money along to the September meeting.

Colleen gave a brief talk on how she and her late husband Jeff started with a bare block of land, building the house and in the development application they had to include a layout of their planned garden. The garden is an easy care garden.Marlene Huff thanked Colleen for having members to her home for the monthly meeting.

Our special speaker was Marion Murray, our very own member who earlier this year retired to live in Forbes coming from Coonamble. Marion gave a vast talk on her life on the land, her childhood days, moving from place to place and establishing gardens. Marion has purchased a little home near our beautiful Lake and is enjoying meeting new people, forming friendships and once again establishing a garden.

Our Forbes show has once again concluded with a good display of flowers. To the members who took time to make an entry, well done.

Our next meeting will be Tuesday 24th September, 2pm at 16 Reymond Street. A trading table will once again be in operation, and don’t forget to bring your entries for flower of the month.

By Elvy Quirk

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