Articles Archives - Page 19 of 412

Tidy Towns Success For Forbes

October 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Forbes is looking amazing after it was announced as the winner of Tidy Town (Category C) award.

Forbes was awarded several wins and highly commended for its heritage, youth and community spirit. The honour reflects the town’s commitment to community pride and environmental excellence. Forbes has taken two wins and two Highly Commended awards in the 2025 Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards in Parkes.

• Winner – Overall Tidy Towns (Population Category C: 5,001–12,000)

• Winner – Community Spirit and Inclusion award for the Welcome to Forbes events (population category C).

• Forbes Youth Action Team received Highly Commended in the 2025 Tidy Towns Young Legends (population category C).

• The Ben Hall Trial play was also awarded Highly Commended in the Heritage and Culture category.

The program celebrates the incredible councils, communities, schools, businesses, and individuals leading the charge for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.

This achievement celebrates the amazing collaboration, creativity, and community pride that make Forbes such a special place to live, work, and visit.

World Teachers’ Day Approaches

October 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

New research by the Australian Institute for Teaching and Schools Leadership (AITSL) reveals almost 9 in 10 (87%) Australians believe teachers deserve more recognition.

The research comes ahead of World Teachers’ Day on Friday 31 October where people from all ages across Australia will take part in a National “Hats off to Teachers” moment.

In a country that deeply values its teachers, there’s a growing sense that we’re not doing enough to show our appreciation.

To celebrate teachers, AITSL is inviting Australians everywhere to join the “Hats Off to Teachers” initiative this World Teachers’ Day. To help schools and communities get involved, AITSL has also developed a free downloadable Celebration Kit packed with hat props, posters, thank you cards and activities to spark ideas.

AITSL’s Australian Teacher Workforce Survey highlighted that teachers find their work deeply rewarding – but the challenges are real too. Heavy workloads, time pressure and emotional demands are the top stressors and more than half report some level of burnout.

Tim Bullard, CEO of AITSL, said: “We know quality teaching is the most significant in-school factor influencing student learning.

On Friday 31 October for World Teachers’ Day, we want to shine a spotlight on the expertise and dedication of our teachers and encourage everyone across Australia to tip their hat in recognition of the vital work they do. Teachers wear many hats and quality teaching shapes who we become, from sparking curiosity to guiding us through life.

World Teachers’ Day reminds us to recognise that impact.”

To find out more about how you can get involved this World Teachers’ Day, visit: https://www.aitsl.edu.au/worldteachersday

Giving Day To The Arts Can Save Vital Small Grants Program

October 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

A national giving day to the arts may be the lifeline needed to save a cherished small grants program in the NSW Central West.

Arts OutWest wants to raise $10,000 this month to continue offering microgrants in 2026.

Creative Australia has named Thursday 23 October as AusArt Day, a new initiative encouraging donations to support artists and arts organisations nationwide. For Arts OutWest, it’s a crucial opportunity to fund the grassroots projects that enrich the region’s cultural life.

“Normally we would be opening our annual CASP small grants program now,” said Arts OutWest executive director Kylie Shead. “But CASP was one of the casualties of the NSW government’s new arts funding model. The coffers are dry for 2026.”

In response, Arts OutWest is urging the Central West community to contribute to its Cultural Fund. All donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the organisation, up to $10,000.

Over the past 30 years, Arts OutWest has awarded more than 350 CASP grants and 50 emergency microgrants. These small investments have supported transformative projects across the region.

“The need for small, flexible, easy-toapply-for local arts grants grows every year. The quality of ideas keeps improving, but there’s never enough money. A pool of $20,000 could fund a dozen or more projects or artists in 2026,” Ms Shead said.

Microgrants empower communities and artists to lead their own initiatives. “They’re incredibly cost-effective,” Ms Shead added.

“An impactful way of doing a lot with a little—something we excel at in the arts.”

AusArt Day aims to expand the donor base and elevate the public value of the arts in Australia. Arts OutWest is one of over 300 participating organisations.

Donations to the Arts OutWest Cultural Fund (tax-deductible over $2) can be made anytime through to 23 October at artsoutwest.org.au/donate

More Than 40 Per Cent Of Western NSW Women Overdue For Breast Screening

October 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, eligible women from Western NSW Local Health District are being urged to book a free mammogram, with 42 per cent of women in the region overdue for their two-yearly breast cancer screening.

For women aged 50-74, a breast screen every two years, through a population based screening program like BreastScreen NSW, is still the best way to detect breast cancer early – before it can be seen or felt.

Deon Adamson Manager, Breastscreen NSW (Greater Western), said with more than 250 local women expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, women need to put themselves first and book a screening.

“If you’re aged 50 to 74, make breast screening a priority. It only takes 20 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed,” Ms Adamson said. “Early detection significantly increases a person’s chance of survival and can greatly reduce the need for invasive treatment like a mastectomy.”

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and BreastScreen NSW is encouraging clients, staff and the community to Tell a Friend about the importance of regular screening and how to book an appointment.

A record 36,500 women booked their breast screen in October 2024. This year, the Be A Friend, Tell A Friend promotion will encourage more conversations so more women across NSW book this potentially lifesaving appointment.

For more information and to make an appointment at a local BreastScreen NSW clinic or mobile van, call 13 20 50 or book online at www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.

NSW Government Sows The Seeds For A Plant-Based Protein Manufacturing Boom In Regional NSW

October 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The Minns Labor Government is planting the seeds for a new wave of primary production manufacturing across regional NSW, unveiling a prospectus designed to harvest the economic benefits of the growing plant-based protein sector.

This prospectus is part of the Government’s plans to strengthen regional economies, build new industries and drive jobs and investment.

The prospectus is aimed at metropolitan and international food manufacturers and is designed to encourage them to consider regional NSW as a base for their operations.

The prospectus highlights the competitive advantages regional NSW has including:

• Access to premium raw commodities suitable for plant-based protein food and beverage manufacturing with the ability to scale and meet growing demand.

• Consumer market access with regional NSW ideally positioned and able to deliver goods to 81 percent of Australia’s domestic market overnight.

• Skilled workforce with relevant educational backgrounds, export-ready ports, and affordable industrial land.

• Research and development ecosystem that actively encourages collaboration between researchers across universities, DPIRD, CSIRO, Government and agribusiness.

The Prospectus also identifies five key regions particularly suited to plant-based protein manufacturing: Riverina Murray, New England North West, Central West Orana, North Coast and Hunter Central Coast.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said: “Regional NSW offers the ideal combination of resources and advantages, from efficient transport networks and export-ready ports to skilled workforces and affordable industrial land, creating a compelling case for investors and manufacturers.

Reel In The Fishing Fun This Gone Fishing Day

October 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

A Free community event is being held at Forbes Lake Forbes Waterpark this Sunday, 19 October with activities kicking off at 9am.

Gone Fishing Day is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors, cast a line, and make the most of NSW’s world-class fishing locations.

Whether you are a first-time fisher or chasing your next big catch, we want everyone to get involved in Gone Fishing Day to enjoy the benefits and thrill of fishing.

Aspiring fishers are invited to come along to one of the free events hosted by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) this Sunday to take part in a beginner-friendly workshop, get your hands on some helpful resources from the Fishcare advisory trailer, and even a few free giveaways, to help build a lifelong hobby.

Gone Fishing Day is supported by the DPIRD and with funding from the Recreational Fishing Trusts, as part of the ‘Fish for life – Building a healthy fishing future’ initiative.

To find out more on the DPIRD Gone Fishing Day community event or book your place in one of the free fishing sessions, go to: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/go-fishing-nsw

The Forecast Is Looking Perfect For Homegrown Parkes On Saturday

October 9, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Cooke Park is where you will find all the Parkes Homegrown action this Saturday.

If you haven’t already planned your day, now is the time to check out what is happening at Cooke Park, with proceedings kicking off at 9am and wrapping up at 2pm.

Parkes Shire Concert Band will be welcoming everyone to the Park at 9.10am.

Event organisers look forward to welcoming Parkes Dance Co to Homegrown Parkes for the first time. They will be taking the stage at 10.30am, followed by Parkes M&D with a preview of their upcoming production Little Shop of Horrors at 11am.

Unfortunately the coffee roasting workshop has to be cancelled. There will still be giveaways and goodies that will be drawn at the workshop with Phil and Nadia Donato, being held at 12.30pm. Join them to learn how to make Tiramisu! Registrations essential.

Our Fijian friends will be performing on the main stage at 1.30pm to send everyone off. What a fantastic way to finish the day at Homegrown Parkes!As part of the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Town’s weekend, Homegrown Parkes attendees will have the opportunity to join one of three bus trips leaving from Cooke Park at 2pm.

This event is made possible with funding and in-kind support from Parkes Shire Council, Evolution Mining Northparkes operations and Central West Lachlan Landcare.

We look forward to seeing you between 9am and 2pm on Saturday at Cooke Park.

Snippets…

October 9, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Teamwork in action.

Forbes Shire Council: On 5 October, Council’s Projects and Town Presentation Grants teams joined forces to lay 3,000 square metres of fresh turf at Lions Park. A fantastic example of collaboration across departments, making a real difference for our community spaces. The Lions Park improvement works are part of the Forbes Lake Activation Parks and Amenities Resilience and Betterment Project, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Community Assets Program. Learn more about the project here www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/major-projects

Gooloogong Recreation Park Markets: Sunday 12 October starting 9am – 1pm. Gooloogong Park Markets. Come along for a great day out. Coffee, BBQ, Donuts, Japanese, gluten free crepes, pies, fresh sweets, art, soaps, bric a brac, resin, candles, crystals, macrame, fabric, clothing, something for everyone. Make the trip, as always EFT can out so please bring cash.

Mental Health Australia: October 10 is World Mental Health Day. This year, Mental Health Australia is encouraging everyone to connect with the communities that matter most. Connection helps us feel cared for and supported, and that’s vital for good mental health. This October, reach out to your federal parliamentarian and let them know that mental health matters to you. Learn how here: https://bit.ly/4pPKbMr

Flannery’s Pharmacy: This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. Regular check-ups and screenings are one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early. If you’re unsure when your next check should be, pop in to ask our friendly pharmacy team for guidance. We’re back with our Pink October Ladies Night where we discuss the many health issues plaguing women in Australia. Head to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/flannerys-ladies-night-2025-tickets-1689921734399 and book your seat for 30 October.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council is proud to announce its successful participation in the NSW Government’s Fresh Start Program, unlocking exciting employment opportunities for jobseekers and young people across the region. Through this program, Parkes Shire Council has secured funding for 11 new roles across rounds one and two, with 100% wage support and 15% on-costs covered by the NSW Government. These roles span a variety of fields, offering people a valuable entry point into local government. For more information, visit Current vacancies Parkes Shire Council.

Join Parkes Shire Council.

Free Workshops To Help You Understand Medicines

October 9, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Community members across Central West NSW are invited to attend a free workshop held between October 20 to 24 in Wellington, Cowra, Canowindra, Grenfell or Parkes.

These interactive workshops are designed for anyone who takes medicines or cares for someone who does – including family members, carers and support workers.

Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSWPHN) is funding these workshops.

They are led by expert pharmacists John Woodward and Lisa Pulver from MedicinesEd. Each workshop includes a free morning or afternoon tea, and offers a relaxed, welcoming environment to learn, ask questions, and share experiences.

“We want people to feel confident when using medicines,” says Lisa Pulver. “These workshops are about giving people practical tools and knowledge to make safe, informed choices.”

The workshops in Wellington and Grenfell will be held as yarning circles, thoughtfully created for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, where everyone is welcome. These sessions will offer a culturally safe space to share stories, ask questions, and learn from each other.

Whether you’re managing your own medicines or supporting someone else, these workshops will help you feel more confident and informed.

• Wellington: Monday, 20 October, 10am – 12:30pm, WINS Community Centre

• Cowra: Tuesday, 21 October, 12:30pm – 3pm, Information Neighbourhood Centre

• Canowindra: Wednesday, 22 October 10am–12:30pm, Connections Centre

• Grenfell: Thursday, 23 October 10am–12pm, venue to be confirmed

• Parkes: Friday, 24 October, 10am–12:30pm, Neighbourhood Central

To book call John on 0406 730 656.

Flannery’s Pink October Ladies Night

October 9, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The large crowd that attended last year’s Pink October Ladies Night at Flannery’s Pharmacy.

Everyone is invited to join the Flannery’s Pharmacy team for their annual Pink October Ladies Night on Thursday 30 October, 6pm at Flannery’s Pharmacy. There will be something for everyone, so head along and get some information, whether it’s for yourself, a friend or loved one.

Information on the evening will cover heart disease – the leading cause of death for women worldwide, osteoporosis, healthy living to help in these areas,in addition to breast cancer.

All attendees on the evening will receive a free pink goodie bag packed with information, samples and pamper goods to take home. There will be merchandise for sale, and nibbles and bubbles from 5.30pm, so arrive early.

Forbes’ Flannery’s Pharmacy Pink October Ladies Night started in 2023 when a NSW Women’s Health Nurse was visiting the store periodically and Flannery’s Pharmacy wanted to get the word out about how she could support the female community throughout the different stages of life.

In order to cover a wider range of health issues, they also invited Physiotherapist, Matiese Byrnes and Naturopath, Alice Flannery. The aim was also to discuss the importance of Pink October, so breast cancer nurse Di Green also joined in to discuss the importance of regular breast screening and self checks. Di will be there to explain it all again this coming Ladies Night on 30 October. There’s no cure for cancer and early detection is key as this dramatically improves survival rates and treatment optionsCustomers can call to put their name down or head to www.eventbrite.com.au to book online. Bookings are preferred as refreshments will be provided on the night.

There are just 100 spots available.

Flannery’s are also running a raffle through the month of October with an evergrowing hamper of goods, head in store to purchase your tickets.

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