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Forbes Phoenix

Be Seen Forbes Rugby League Club Sponsors

May 31, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Our club are very lucky to have so many local businesses who are willing to jump on board and sponsor our club.

 

A huge shout out to Shead & Nicholson Electrical, Court Press, Duncan Stockcrates, Midwest Pest Management, Tyrepower Forbes, Hazel & Field, Keane Insurance.

 

Thank you for your ongoing support in 2024.

 

Please support those businesses who help support our local club.

 

Salvation Army Address The Closure Of Rosedurnate Aged Care And Retirement Village

May 31, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Rosedurnate Aged Care Centre and Retirement Village was opened as a hospital in 1929, transitioning to an aged care facility in 1967.

 

After a comprehensive strategic review, The Salvation Army Aged Care will divest its two residential aged care services in Central West. The Moyne Aged Care Centre in Canowindra and Rosedurnate Aged Care Centre and Retirement Village in Parkes.

The Salvation Army Aged Care’s National Director, Stephen Macliver AM, said the decision to divest services in Central West NSW was very difficult.

“We are pleased to announce that Roshana Care Group will assume the ongoing operation of Moyne Aged Care Centre from 28 June 2024, Sadly, we were not able to secure a similar arrangement for Rosedurnate Aged Care Centre and Retirement Village, it will close in the coming months ” Mr Macliver said.

Mr Macliver said a comprehensive assessment of the Parkes site found it no longer met the needs of residents and staff due to the age of the buildings and would require significant investment to bring them up to the high standards they deserved.

“We will be working closely with aged care providers in the local Parkes area to ensure continuity of care and support for residents,” Mr Macliver said.

“We understand this may be unsettling for some of our residents, their families and staff, but we will do everything we can to make the transition as seamless as possible.” “I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank our valued staff at both sites for their commitment to providing our residents with the very best care.”

Fatality Free Friday

May 30, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Friday 31 st May marks the 2024 Fatality Free Friday. A community driven initiative where all drivers in NSW are encouraged to focus on their own individual behaviour in an effort to reduce road trauma.

The Australian Road Safety Foundation (ARSF) has released new data to mark the occasion showing that almost 2 in 3 (64%) New South Wales drivers admit to breaking road laws, with 1 in 4 (25%) drivers committing an offence at least monthly 1 .

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said safety should be front of mind.

“One day of conscious driving resulting in no fatalities could turn into one week, one month and even one year of no deaths on our roads,” Mr Toole said.

“NSW Police are present on all our streets, highways and back roads but it is you as the driver who can end preventable fatalities and injuries.

“Despite our best efforts, road trauma is still on the rise and it is our family, friends and communities who suffer the most from these tragedies.

“We have seen 17 road deaths in NSW in the past 13 days alone. This steering NSW towards one of the deadliest years on record.”

2023 ended with shocking road statistics that labelled 2023 as one of the deadliest years on NSW roads.

The NSW road toll for 2023 was 353. Already in 2024 we have seen 147 lives lost on NSW roads, 23 more than this time last year.

NSW Police Inspector Peter Foran said road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

“One death on our roads is one too many, NSW Police are doing everything we can to keep road users safe but the key to reducing accidents lies in taking responsibility for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user,” Mr Foran said.

“This is a fresh chance for drivers to reevaluate their driving and rectify some bad habits.

“Whether it be doing a few kilometres over the speed limit or glancing at a mobile phone, each and every driver needs to think about the consequences these simple mistakes can have.”

According to the ARSF research, over 8 in 10 New South Wales residents say road safety messages have had a positive impact on their behaviour.

ARSF Founder and Chief Executive Officer Russell White said the research reiterated that a future free from road fatalities could only be achieved if people acknowledged their role within the bigger picture.

“At the end of the day, the fatal five – speeding, driving inhibited, driving fatigued, not wearing a seat belt and being distracted – are choices that an individual makes,” Mr White said.

“Fatality Free Friday works to tackle the big picture vision of a New South Wales where not one person has their life cut short because of a preventable road crash.”

Sport Shorts

May 23, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Croquet News

Rain was again the winner on Saturday 4th May for Aussie Croquet. We had 40 players for Golf Croquet on a very comforting morning on Tuesday 7th. We had two visitors, Robin Polss daughter Catriona and granddaughter Emily Hunt. There were six players who managed to win three games: Ray Burridge, John Cole, Irene Ford, Kevin Rubie, Neville Spry and Peter West. The big winners were: 11-2 Neville Spry and Mal Smith and 10-3 Elvy Quirk and Catriona Hunt.

Forbes Junior AFL Club

Auskick and Superkick is back on and it kicks off today, 24th May! Sign up your kids and head down to Gaggin Oval every Friday 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Come meet the other kids, kick pass, run lots of fun.

Forbes Rugby Union Club

There were plenty of positives to take away from last Saturday. It was the first time the FRUC have had eight grades take the field on one day. Third grade is back after a 15 year hiatus. It was a big win for first grade, cementing them in 2nd place on the ladder after defeating Dubbo Roos 35-22.

Forbes Sports Person Of The Year Association

The CWCU Monthly Sport Achiever has been awarded to Sage King who recently competed at the NSW State and National Water Skiing titles with some great results and PBs. Sage came first in the Slalom and second in the Trick competitions and placed first overall in the Under 10 Girls division. Great effort and a worthy recipient of the Central West Credit Union Monthly Sports Achiever Award for February.

 

Have You Had Your Macula Checked?

May 23, 2024 by Roxane Manley

May is Macula Month, and a good reminder that if you are over 50 you should be having regular macula health checks.

The macula is the most sensitive part of the retina that deals with fine detail. A healthy macula is vital for good vision. Macular Degeneration is a disease affecting the macula causing central vision loss. This makes it very difficult to read, recognise faces, watch TV and even obtain a driver’s license.

Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Australia. It is more common as we age, and the risk of Macular Degeneration increases if there is a family history of macula problems, cardiovascular disease or you are a smoker.

DRY MD

Characterised by a slow, progressive loss of the RPE cells due to the build up of drusen at the macula. This makes up about 85% of moderate to advanced MD cases resulting in a gradual deterioration of the central vision. Diet and a special formulation of vitamins and high-dose antioxidants, such as MD eyes have been shown to slow down the progression of MD in those with moderate to advanced MD in at least one eye.

WET MD

This affects about two-thirds of advanced MD patients. This occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow underneath the macular and these vessels can spontaneously bleed, leading to a sudden loss of vision requiring immediate medical treatment. Treatment often requires regular injections to shrink the blood vessels.

Like most diseases, early detection and treatment for Macular Degeneration is vital to maintain good vision throughout life.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is the gold standard for the early detection of Macular Degeneration. Unlike standard retinal photography, OCT enables detailed assessment of the deeper layers of the retina using optical ultrasound.

To have your macula thoroughly checked book online www.opticalbookings.com.au/hansen-optometrists-parkes/store, phone 6863 5577 or call in to make an appointment.

Seeking Emerging Leaders In The Agricultural Industry

May 23, 2024 by Roxane Manley

National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has proudly launched applications for its flagship leadership and capability development program for young and emerging leaders in Australian agriculture.

The National Agricultural Leadership Program provides targeted activities and unique experiences in leadership, advocacy, policy development, governance, communications and media.

It uses a whole-of-agriculture perspective to build networks across industry and create the next generation of leaders for Australian agriculture.

Targeting participants under 35, the program provides a unique opportunity for emerging leaders to develop a policy project guided by NFF general managers and senior industry leaders.

NFF President David Jochinke highlighted the opportunities the program produces for those interested in the decision-making process and policy development in the agricultural industry.

“Participants have the opportunity to tour the Australian Parliament House and meet with federal politicians and government departments,” Mr Jochinke said.

“By fostering a young person’s interest in advocacy, we are able to showcase the next generation to our political leaders and develop a network of skilled professionals to lead our industry into the future.”

Launched in 2021, the program has a proud alumni base of 20 graduates. 2023 alumnus Abbey O’Callaghan has used the experience to develop a policy that compliments her passion for strengthening the agricultural workforce. “The National Agricultural Leadership Program was a fantastic opportunity for a behind the scenes look at how policy decisions are made, best practice approaches to advocacy and the development of policies,” Ms O’Callaghan said.

The program will run for five months starting July 2024. Participants will come together for a three-day advocacy retreat in Canberra, work on a policy project, and are matched with an industry leader as part of an ongoing mentoring program.

Applications open until 3rd June. Find out more at nff.org.au/nalp/

Support To Help Small Businesses Thrive

May 23, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Beyond Blue welcomes renewed Federal Government funding to provide small business owners access to much needed mental health support.

The Federal Government’s investment of $7.7 million to extend Beyond Blue’s NewAccess for Small Business Owners (NASBO) program is an acknowledgement that small business owners are struggling and are really doing it tough,” says Beyond Blue Chief Executive, Georgie Harman.

The NASBO program is available for free between from 8am to 8pm, to small and medium business owners nationally. The service uses evidence-based low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy and offers small business owners up to six sessions and two follow up sessions, working with a trained coach with a background in small business themselves.

Adapted specifically for small business owners, NASBO is based on Beyond Blue’s highly effective NewAccess program and is funded by Commonwealth Government. The program is not only effective at improving mental health but has also been independently determined to represent good value for money and delivers a positive return on investment.

Participation is free. Small business owners who are interested to know more can visit www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/newaccess-mental-health-coaching/small-business-owners or call 1300 945 301.

Investment In Community Infrastructure

May 23, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack is welcoming more than $10 million in funding under the Growing Regions Program which will deliver new community infrastructure in Wagga Wagga, Cowra and Parkes.

“I’m really pleased the communities of Wagga Wagga, Cowra and Parkes will be receiving a share in more than $10 million to support the development of local community and economic infrastructure,” Mr McCormack said.

“Parkes Shire Council Mayor Cr Neil Westcott described the $943,738 secured for bird-hides and boardwalks in the Parkes Wetlands as ‘wonderful news’,” Mr McCormack said.

“I’m really looking forward to the Boardwalks and Bird hides: Elevating Parkes Wetlands project to support habitat creation and promote tourism at the wetlands.”

“I’m always interested to see innovative uses of defunct facilities, particularly when land can be reclaimed for environmental purposes that benefit the whole community as well as ecological diversity,” Mr McCormack said. “This new funding under the Growing Regions Program will take the wetlands to the next level.”

“I look forward to seeing works for these projects getting under way and I eagerly await the time when the community can start to benefit from them.”

Companions Through Cancers Biggest Morning Tea

May 23, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Enjoying morning tea at the Red Cross room was Sister Kath, Colleen Sence, Beth Symington and Mary Cahill.

Last Thursday, 16th May the ladies from the Companions Through Cancer held a Biggest Morning Tea in the Parkes Red Cross Room to help raise much needed funds for the Cancer Council. They raised an amazing $475.90 and the winner of the raffle was Marie Walker.

The ladies are thrilled with the money that was raised and will continue supporting the Cancer Councils Biggest Morning Tea next year in 2025. Until then, the ladies have plenty to keep them busy and talk is swirling about the upcoming soup day in June, which is a favourite for many.

Companions Through Cancer is a local support group that was formed by Parkes business woman Dianne Tanswell after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in mid 1977. After multiple operations, intensive radiation and chemotherapy, Dianne learned that a positive mindset was vital and her will to live took on a new purpose – to live with cancer and to help others do so.

A lot of people fall apart when they are told they have cancer, I just began to fall into place, said Dianne.

Companions Through Cancer is a support group for people whose lives have been touched by cancer. Their main purpose is to provide companionship. The group started with 78 members, however over the years this number has dwindled to just 20 current members, so Companions Through Cancer are putting a call out for new members to join.

The group meet once a month for lunch, enjoy planned outings, have a BBQ day and a fun Christmas party. Money raised by the group is distributed to local support networks at the end of each year. The group is open to men and women of all ages and is only $10 per year to join.

If you are interested or would like more information, contact Neighbourhood Central on 6862 3757.

Companions Through Cancer members Mandy Hennock, Margaret Green, Kay Ivey, Sandra Clark and Penny Downes.

 

Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme

May 16, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured from left to right are Gloria Jarrick and Bonita Gwyn and Margaret Wheeler

Neighbourhood Central’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme is bringing members of the community together and they are looking for more Volunteer Visitors.

This program is funded by the federal government as part of its Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, which provides friendship and companionship to eligible older people by matching them with a volunteer visitor who will visit regularly and become a friend. This scheme helps to improve their quality of life by reducing social isolation.

At Neighbourhood Central, Bonita Gwyn and Gloria Jarrick have been volunteer visitors for quite some time now and have formed a beautiful friendship with Margaret Wheeler. The ladies meet every week for a catch up and a few games of cards. Margaret looks forward to her visits with Bonita and Gloria and has expressed how much she enjoys their company and having someone to play cards with.

Bonita and Gloria expressed that the visits with Margaret does as much good for them as it does for Margaret.

Brooke from Neighbourhood Central said, “As an aged care volunteer visitor coordinator, it is wonderful to sit and have a conversation with matches that have been made and witness in person the beautiful friendships that have formed and continue to grow with each visit.”

Being an Aged Care Volunteer Visitor can be incredibly rewarding; by having meaningful conversations, you can drastically improve the quality of life for an older person.

Volunteers from all social and cultural backgrounds from Forbes, Parkes and Condobolin are encouraged to join the program. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer visitor, please contact Brooke at Neighbourhood Central.

If you would like to brighten the days of older people as a volunteer, or if you would

like to request a visitor, please contact Brooke at Neighbourhood Central on 1300 810 771 or email: admin@ncentral.org.au

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