Articles Archives - Page 18 of 405

$400k Boost For Cultural Diversity In NSW

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The NSW Government announced $400,000 to support grass roots projects that make a lasting positive impact in our multicultural state.

Through Multicultural NSW’s Stronger Together Project Grants program, local organisations can apply for grants between $20,000 and $50,000 for projects that foster community harmony and build capability in culturally diverse communities.

The Government is seeking applications from community-led projects that: assist with overcoming language barriers, deliver programs or services to multicultural communities, build capability and resources for diverse communities, strengthen resilience through network building, assist people who have recently arrived in NSW, build intercultural and interfaith networks.

Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said “This program empowers local groups to create meaningful change in their communities, so people from different cultures and faiths can thrive.

“If you’ve got a project that will make a positive impact for people from culturally diverse backgrounds, get your application in now.”

Funding is for projects that will be rolled out from 1 January to 31 December 2026.

Applications are now open and will close at 5pm on Monday 15 September.

Visit https://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/project-grants/ for info or to apply.

Local Talent To Compete At Agricultural Shows Australia National Championships

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

LEFT: 15 year old Lilly Eagles from Forbes, will represent NSW in the Dairy Cattle Parading final. Local Talent. RIGHT: 17 year old Jack Smyth from Canowindra, will represent NSW in the Beef Cattle Parading final.

The 2025 National Championships is being hosted at the Royal Adelaide Show from 1-6 September 2025. The prestigious competition includes paraders of beef and dairy cattle, young judges of beef and dairy cattle, grain, Merino sheep and fleece, meat breeds sheep, and poultry, the Australian Young Farmers Challenge, and National Rural Ambassador Award.

The National Championships brings together the best of the best in rural talent, community spirit, and industry excellence.

Young judges and paraders aged from 15 to 25 Qualify via success in competitive regional and state competitions.

Lilly Eagles, 15 of Forbes has been selected to represent NSW in the Dairy Cattle Parading final. Currently in Year 9 at Forbes High School, Lilly is a regular on the show circuit.

“My two best moments at a show would have to be winning Junior Champion at the Forbes Show with my Ayrshire, Ash, when she was a heifer – and then taking her to International Dairy Week where she won Reserve Junior Champion. The other was at the Sydney Royal Easter Show earlier this year – I won my paraders class with my heifer Deluxe, then went on to be named Reserve Champion Parader. Now, I get the amazing opportunity to represent New South Wales at the Adelaide Royal.”

Thomas French, who is Relieving Head Teacher Science at Forbes High School said “Lilly is a diligent student who has been a part of the Forbes High School Show Team for multiple years. She is an active participant at all shows the school team attends and passionately participates in everything the Show Team has to offer.

Lilly has proven her outstanding ability in showing cattle and judging both produce and livestock at a range of shows. Lilly’s dedication is not only evident in Show Team but across the school, excelling in her academic studies as well. Lilly has earned her spot as one of the 6 national finalists through hard work, dedication and a passion in agriculture.”

Jack Smyth, 17 of Canowindra has been selected to represent NSW in the Beef Cattle Parading final.

Jack Smyth is a young stock and station agent with MCC Chudleigh Dobell in Forbes, NSW.

“I started competing in the paraders when I was 14 because I had friends doing it and it’s something I love doing. I’ve been in agriculture my whole life with my family but I started by showing cows with my school and then worked for Goondoola Livestock and Kianma Poll Herefords. I’m looking forward to my first visit to Adelaide, catching up with people and having a good day in the ring.”

Kimberly Chudleigh, Director of MCC Chudleigh Dobell said ”Our youngest stock agent Jack Smyth has proven his dedication to the agricultural industry once again! Daily Jack demonstrates a knowledge of the livestock industry which continues to grow and show in his Livestock Agent role.”

Historic Highs For Australian Beef, Lamb And Mutton

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has released the latest statistics on livestock slaughtered and red meat production, which according to Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has confirmed a historic period for the red meat sector.

Financial year 2024-2025 has seen beef production reach an all time high, lamb slaughter maintained near-record levels, and mutton throughput surging to its highest volume since 2007. The results reflect the strength, resilience, and strategic adaptability and forward thinking of Australian producers across diverse seasonal conditions, according to MLA’s Acting Market Information Manager, Erin Lukey.

“These results show that continued adoption of new technology and innovation onfarm, along with investments in supply chain efficiency, are continuing to pay dividends across the supply chain,” Ms Lukey said.

“Despite seasonal challenges in some parts of Australia, the industry has delivered record beef production and maintained strong lamb and mutton throughput.”

Australia processed 8.88 million head of cattle in FY25, which is the third-largest annual slaughter since 1978 and the highest since the drought-driven peak in 2015.

First Aid Information Afternoon Featuring A.E.D’s

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Mary Lou Kemp (U3A), Carol Scifleet (2LVR Community Radio), Lesley Teale (Forbes Evening Branch of CWA), Nic Little (President of Forbes Evening Branch CWA).

Following much lead-up work and consultation with numerous volunteer organisations in Forbes, along with fellow CWA Branches in the Oxley CWA area, the Forbes Evening Branch of CWA hosted a first aid information afternoon on Saturday 26 July.

Mr Tod Healey from Tod Healey First Aid training presented an overview of key first aid topics to the gathered participants. The topics were focused on those that people may encounter in everyday life; asthma, anaphylaxis, diabetic care (hypo and hyper events), CPR, the differences between bandaging for injury, bleeding and snake bites.

Practical demonstration and practice by participants was encouraged to understand the use of a spacer for administration of asthma medication, how to use an EpiPen, and the application of bandages for varying reasons.

The emphasis of the presentation was to show, demonstrate and participants to practice using the AED (Automated External Defibrillator) machines that are available in both Forbes and Parkes.

Participants were shown the AED’s that exist in both towns, encouraging everyone to observe where they are located in their town along with our neighbouring town of Parkes, due to the number of Forbes residents that travel to Parkes for various reasons.

It was stressed that the access to Forbes and Parkes AED’s is different. Forbes AED’s are accessed by keying in the Forbes postcode 2871, where in Parkes the AED is opened by lifting the cover lid.

At the completion of Tod’s presentation participants were invited to the prepared afternoon tea by the members of the Forbes Evening Branch members.

Much chatter was entered into over the cuppa session about the importance of Tod’s presentation. Women of all ages are welcome to come along to the Forbes CWA Evening Branch meetings, held at 6.30pm on the second Thursday of the month.

Bill Little (Men’s Shed), Graham Everest (Bogan Gate Golf Club), Barry Kemp (U3A).

Showcasing Innovation And Sustainability In Central West Agriculture

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Through the Adapt 2 project, Central West Local Land Services is gearing up for a season of hands-on learning and collaboration with a series of spring events designed to engage local farmers and showcase practical strategies for sustainable agriculture.

On 3 September, the Parkes Grazing Forum will bring together producers, researchers and industry experts to explore innovative grazing strategies and share insights on improving pasture management and livestock productivity.

In October, a series of field days will provide hands-on learning at dual-purpose cropping trial sites, showcasing how integrated cropping systems can boost both profitability and sustainability. Walks of the National Variety Trials will showcase new varieties, discussing traits and potential fits for farming systems across the Central West.

“Through our Adapt 2 project, we’re building strong peer networks and providing practical skills that help producers adopt low-emission practices, improve efficiency, and participate in carbon and natural capital conservation,” said Pip Doolan, Senior Land Services Officer.

Farmers can register for the Parkes Grazing Forum via nsw.gov.au/lls-events.

To learn more about the spring field days or the Adapt 2 project, contact Central West ag team on 1300 795 299.

Paint Parkes ReAD Annual Reading Day Presents ‘Book An Adventure’

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Will you spot the ever popular Reading Bug at the Parkes Community Reading Day?

Parkes Community Reading Day is on Friday, 22 August. Aligned with Book Week, the theme is “Book An Adventure”. This year we are varying our usual format. Instead of the activity stations along Clarinda Street, the stations will be part of the Cooke Park celebrations. So come on down to Cooke Parkes from 9.30am-12pm.

Being a community reading day event we are still encouraging shops to show their support by decorating Parkes CBD.

One of the highlights of the day will be a play, “The Adventure of finding Reading Bug” and heading a star-studded cast will be two of the greatest explorers, Sir William Schweitzer Jayet and Dr Neil Livingstone Westcott.

Paint The Town REaD’s primary aim is to spread the vital message of growing a baby’s brain right from birth, so every baby is better prepared to start learning to read in kindergarten. It is a fact that poor literacy is highly likely to cause low self-esteem which in turn is highly likely to cause anti-social behaviour. Teachers are not a baby’s first educator, parents are. Parents, please start on day one to: read, sing, talk and rhyme to your baby all the time.

Reading day is a fun way to celebrate early literacy encouraging people to read with children from birth, so they are ready to start school.

Anyone can come down to Cooke Park today and join in with the shows and activities.

Schools and daycare centres have been invited to attend.

“The Adventure of finding Reading Bug” play will be a highlight on the pavilion, showcasing local talent, book reading, craft, dancing, nursery rhyme activities and more.

Nominate A Local Legend For Community Sports Dad Of The Year 2025

August 21, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Nathan Butler – President of Blue Lake Soccer Club – was the 2024 Community Sports Dad of the Year. Recognised for his tireless commitment to coaching, refereeing, and keeping the club running.

Australians are being called upon to nominate local dads making a difference in grassroots sport for the annual Community Sports Dad of the Year, thanks to Philips Water – a national initiative now in its twelfth year, celebrating the unsung heroes who go above and beyond to support their local sporting teams.

With nominations now open until 27 August via www.sportsdads.com.au/community, the prestigious award shines a spotlight on the dads doing it all – from coaching and refereeing to fundraising, carpooling, and cheering from the sidelines. It’s a chance to honour their dedication in time for Father’s Day on Sunday, 7 September 2025.

The winner will receive a Philips Reverse Osmosis purification water station valued at $1,299 RRP, along with a $5,000 Rebel Sports voucher to purchase new clothing or sporting equipment for their chosen community sports club. And in recognition of their efforts to nominate a local legend, the person who submits the winning entry will also receive a Philips Multigroom 7000 grooming kit, valued at $229.00 RRP.

Paul Masluk, founder of the Community Sports Dad of the Year Award, said the initiative was created to recognise the everyday dads who keep grassroots sport alive.

“Every year we’re blown away by the stories of dads who give so much of their time and energy to their local clubs. These are the people who quietly keep grassroots sport running – not for recognition, but because they care. This award is about shining a light on those efforts and saying thank you in a meaningful way.”

Whether it is a dad who is always first to arrive at training or quietly keeps the club running behind the scenes, now is the time to say thank you. Nominations are closing soon. Enter at www.sportsdads.com.au/community.

The NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show Is Celebrating Its 33rd Year

August 14, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Entries are now in for the NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show and judging is ready to commence on Monday 25th August.The 33rd show has received 488 entries from 90 wineries and Mark Richardson, a Senior Winemaker from Tyrrell’s Wines in the Hunter Valley, is returning as chair of judges.

NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show President, Mark Watts said the judges and the committee are looking forward to another successful event.

“While numbers are slightly down this year, we have a high calibre of wines from across NSW and ACT that have been entered into the show this year,” Mark said.

“We also have several entries from new wineries and others who haven’t entered for a number of years.”

Tickets are $30 for the Public Tasting on Friday 29th August at the Forbes Town Hall.

All wines entered in the show will be available for patrons to taste and finger food will be provided.

The next event is the Gourmet Wine Dinner, which will be held at Club Forbes on Saturday 20th September. The dinner will be held from 7pm with a four-course meal featuring trophy winning wines to complement the meal. Tickets for this event are $130 per person.

If you purchase your tickets to both events in the same transaction, you will receive a $10 discount, making attending both events $150 per person. Tickets are available for purchase now at NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show Tickets – 123 Tix.

Mayoral Notes

August 14, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Drought remains one of the biggest challenges facing our communities. That’s why I’m proud that Forbes Shire Council, alongside Lachlan and Parkes Shires, has secured vital funding to deliver projects that build resilience across our region.

This funding will help us implement key initiatives including map urban heat and guide future greening efforts, create strategies for managing community assets during drought, establish management plans for key recreational water bodies to maintain their use and health, and design an operational plan for the Forbes Livestock Exchange to better support drought-affected livestock movements. These projects are about protecting our environment, supporting our people, and ensuring our local economy can withstand future droughts.

Together, we are taking important steps to plan ahead, reduce risks, and secure a stronger, more resilient future for all residents.

Lions Park is about to get an exciting refresh, making it an even more welcoming place for families, friends and visitors to enjoy. You’ll soon see new shade sails going up, an expanded playground with softfall rubber surfacing, and improvements to pathways, drainage and landscaping.

These changes will make the park more accessible, more comfortable, and more inviting all year round. While work is underway, areas of park will be closed for everyone’s safety. We can’t wait to share the finished space with you in time for the summer season, weather permitting.

This project is part of a bigger vision for Lake Forbes, complementing other upgrades that will make our foreshore a place we can all be proud of. Thank you for your patience while we bring this special community space to life.

Our Community and Tourism team will be at the Bedgerabong Show this Saturday, ready to chat with you about all things Forbes Shire. From major projects and upcoming events to general works and services, it’s a great opportunity to find out what’s happening in our region and share your ideas. I encourage you to drop by, say hello, and have a yarn with the team. The Bedgerabong Show is always a fantastic day out, and we look forward to seeing you there.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

Snippets…

August 14, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Georgie’s Pantry volunteers, Shirley and Gary.

Georgie’s Hub – Anglican Parish of Parkes and Peak Hill: Huge thanks and blessings to the anonymous provider of goods for the Pantry. It is because of exceptionally generous donations that we keep going. Georgies Pantry is located at 275 Clarinda St, Parkes.

Resilient Homes Expo – Eugowra: The NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting a Resilient Homes Expo in Eugowra on Wednesday 3 September, 4pm-7pm. The Expo is for Resilient Homes Program homeowners and community members who want to make their homes more flood resilient. Homeowners and business representatives can visit information stands and speak with representatives from councils, RA, SafeWork NSW, Building Commission NSW, and various industry associations and businesses interested in resilient building services. Register online for this free event at https://comms.reconstruction.nsw.gov.au.

National BBQ Championships Forbes: The 2025 National BBQ Championships Forbes isn’t just about smoky meats and sizzling grills – they are also putting on a vibrant market area, and are on the lookout for stallholders! If you sell handmade goods, arts, crafts, sweet treats, clothing, local produce, or anything fun and fabulous – this is your chance to be part of a bustling event that drew over 1,500 spectators last year… and growing. Submit your Expression of Interest now: https://shorturl.at/C01lc

Parkes NAIDOC Family Fun Day: Nominations are being taken for the 2025 Parkes NAIDOC Awards, which will be presented at the Parkes NAIDOC Family Fun Day on 20 September at Bushman’s Hill. The day kicks off at 10am, with awards being presented during the morning. Nominate at: https://form.jotform.com/252171270354046 Paper copies will be available from the Parkes Shire Library. Nominations close Friday, 29 August at 5pm.

NSW Local Woman of the Year Awards 2026: We all have that one friend who spends her free time volunteering, leading with kindness or uplifting her community. Now’s the time to celebrate her. Nominations close 9 September! Nominate someone special and make their day bit.ly/WOTYA26

R U OK? We can show people we care and we’re there through more than words. If you know someone is going through a difficult time, practical help and kind gestures can be comforting.

Contact a crisis service: www.ruok.org.au/findhelp

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