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Forbes Phoenix

Snippets…

July 10, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

The most popular flower competition will be held at the Forbes Garden Club meeting.

Good News For Gardeners: The Forbes Garden Club has some long awaited good news, much needed after the last few months. Elvy and the committee have been working hard to organise an exciting year for garden enthusiasts in Forbes. The club is having their first meeting since lockdown, on Tuesday, 28 July at 1.15pm for a 1.30pm start. The meeting will take place in the downstairs area at the Forbes Golf Club .

There will be a surprise guest speaker followed by a show and tell by creative members who have kept busy during lockdown with crocheting, sewing, patchwork or other crafts. Perhaps some have been working on a new garden. Please bring a photo where it is not feasible to bring the item. The committee will also have their competition for the most popular flower of the month. Please write your name and that of the flower on a small piece of paper and place under the container and please bring your own mug.

Text And Rest: Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD), Health Protection Manager, Priscilla Stanley, is urging anyone having a test for COVID-19 to ask whether they are able to receive negative test results by text message. If you are having a COVID-19 test in a public hospital or in the mobile services operated by the Western NSW Local Health District, then you are eligible to register to receive negative test results by text message. Everyone who has a test is asked to isolate until they receive their results. The messaging service is easy to register for and those tested should receive their negative result within 24 hours. If people have a positive result, they are contacted by a public healthcare worker who will provide information on what happens next.

The Trees Go In: This week saw the first two of eight beautiful palm trees planted near the new Camp Street bridge. The construction is in its final stages with Forbes residents excitedly anticipating the convenience of its reopening. The landscaping work around the bridge and lake will continue to take shape over the coming months and promises to make this much utilised area better than ever, with far reaching benefits for the economy, health and wellbeing of the residents of Forbes.

Landscaping has begun around the Camp Street Bridge. (Credit: Forbes Shire Council Facebook.)

Busy Children Are Happy Children These School Holidays

July 10, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Bek Salmon and Alex Gibb with the City Project for the school holidays.

Build cities and dip into history and heritage these school holidays. Central West Libraries is offering take home Rock, Paper, City Craft and Activity Packs to stimulate creative minds. The two main activities on offer are:

• Rock, Paper, City: Cardboard City Project. Children can don their architect’s hats and design either their own house, or other buildings, vehicles, and neighboured adornments for a cardboard version of their town that will be on display, and grow as the entries come in. There will be several levels of difficulty involved in the construction of these buildings and structural pieces, so the activity will be applicable to a wide range of ages. Organisers are hoping to talk about the concept of a child’s identity within their community, and how all community members have a special place in our town. Children are also being encouraged to get creative, and let their imaginations run wild, with possible town improvements such as “make a unicorn stable, a slip n slide, or a giant jumping castle”. Some crafty goodness is included in the pack for building embellishments and decorations.

• Lego Challenge: Central West Iconic Buildings. Wherever you live in the Central West, you will find iconic buildings. They may be historic or modern. They can all be created in Lego. Children are being challenged to recreate Central West iconic buildings in Lego. Take photos of the original building and the Lego version. Submit them together via email to library@cwl.nsw.gov.au and go into the prize draw.

Children have until Wednesday, 29 July to submit their entries to either of the competitions, and winners will be drawn on Saturday, 1 August. To reserve a Rock, Paper, City Craft and Activity Pack, please book through Eventbrite and collect from your local library.

Snippets…

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Forbes Library is offering more services in Phase Two of reopening.

Check Before Visiting: Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) is continually monitoring the COVID-19 situation and reviewing hospital visitor rules to help ensure the safety of patients, staff and other visitors. WNSWLHD Director of Public Health, Priscilla Stanley advises visitors to check in advance to make sure they know and understand the rules at that time, and follow the directions of staff.

Visitors may not enter if they have re- turned from overseas in the last 14 days, returned from the greater Melbourne area in the last 14 days or have been in contact with a person confirmed to have COVID-19 within the last 14 days. Patients can receive multiple visitors however, no more than two visitors at a time are permitted.

Women in maternity care are permitted two visitors only including the patient’s partner. School aged children and younger are being asked not to visit and visitors to aged care residents are required to show evidence of receiving the 2020 influenza vaccination. Temperature checks are still required upon entering WNSWLHD facilities.

For more information about COVID-19 please call the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 088 or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

Library Changes: The second phase in the easing of government restrictions has seen Forbes Library expand their services to the public from 22 June. Library card holders will be able to borrow and return books as well as use the public computers, print, and photocopy as well as sit in the library to read and study.

Phase two of the road back from COVID-19 includes the re-introduction of public internet PCs. Each session will be limited to 30 minutes and the number of PCs available will be reduced to address social distancing. Photocopying and printing services will be available, and the community is welcome to use the library for research, study and reading. Visitors will also be asked to record their contact details.

The current reduced hours at Forbes of Monday to Friday from 10am-4pm, and on Saturday from 10am-12pm will remain in place for the time being. Members will continue to be asked to use the self-check kiosk so it is essential members bring their library card. No public programs will be offered at this time, so Storytime, Rhyme Time, Author Events are not yet available.

Check before visiting Forbes Hospital patients as restrictions are still in place.

Happy Birthday To Forbes’ Favourite

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

The beloved Forbes Bakehouse began in 1990 with one baker and three staff. They offered the traditional products of an artisan bakery, including cakes, pies, breads, and drinks. In the late 1990’s alfresco dining increased in popularity Australia-wide and The Bakehouse was quick to act and meet the demands of their customers, growing their business to include freshly brewed coffee, a salad bar and alfresco dining.

Thirty years on, The Bakehouse operates as a bakery and café that seats 60 and offers an extensive all-day menu, with options to suit all tastes. Whether customers choose to dine in, order online for takeaway or delivery or book for large groups, they can be confident that they are in the capable hands of the friendly team at The Bakehouse.

The Bakehouse currently employs a team of 21 staff, including bakers, chefs, cooks, baristas and wait staff. While employing an enthusiastic and friendly team of local staff members, The Bakehouse has ensured that their staff members are trained through apprenticeships and in-house training.

As the only business in Forbes to host theme nights, including open mic nights, Indian tapas, Mexican fiestas and more, The Bakehouse has transformed into an irreplaceable venue for entertainment and culinary adventures. You can hear Templar Street ringing with the sound of live mu- sic and laughter on their famously festive theme nights.

Staying true to their own style in evolving to cater to the needs and desires of their customers, The Bakehouse boasts funky, modern décor, with European Graffiti art and a comfortable space for customers of all ages, from nine-days-old to 99-years- old, their customers enjoy high quality, traditional and international cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.

Owned and operated by Kerry Hodder and her family, The Bakehouse takes immense pride in what they offer to their customers. The Bakehouse celebrated their 30th birthday on 19 June 2020.

Forbes And Eugowra Showground Upgrades

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Forbes Shire Council has received further funding for upgrades to the Forbes Showgrounds.

Upper House MP Sam Farraway announced this week that $155,751 in improvement works to four local showgrounds will be released as part of a NSW Government COVID-19 stimulus package.

Sam said Forbes, Parkes, Canowindra, and Eugowra showgrounds have been approved for further upgrade work to improve the safety, use and condition of their infrastructure and support jobs in the local economy.

“Our showgrounds play an important role at the heart of our communities so I welcome this further investment by the NSW Government,” Sam said.

“This investment by the NSW Government will provide a boost for our local showgrounds and the community by supporting trade work and strengthening showground infrastructure for the future. This funding follows the announcement last month of $551,093 in improvement works to showgrounds at Forbes, Orange, Canowindra, Manildra, Tullamore, Eugowra, Trundle, Molong, Bedgerabong, Cumnock, Cudal and Yeoval.”

Latest upgrades in the local area will include:
• $64,400 for Forbes Showground for repairs to the roof of the poultry pavilion
• $8,351 for Eugowra Showground to install desks and storage facilities and a kitchenette in the Secretary’s office.

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the local showgrounds are among 153 across the state getting stimulus funding this financial year. “The showground stimulus program is generating economic activity in local economies impacted by COVID-19 while supporting the long-term sustainability of showgrounds right across NSW,” Melinda said.

The NSW Government has allocated a further $10.77 million to its showground stimulus program bringing the total to $35.77 million across the state. $23.27 million is being allocated this financial year to support showground upgrades and a further $12.5 million will be spent next financial year.

These works will help maintain the momentum on NSW efforts to lead the nation’s economic recovery from COVID-19.

Farmers’ Markets Returns

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

(Left) Pippa McConnell and Kerry Walker, who are on the Farmers’ Markets committee were thrilled with the turn out on Saturday. (Right) Christina L’Estrange, Dellis Richards and Marion Packhem were happy to see the markets return.

The Forbes Farmers’ Markets returned last Saturday, 27 June after several months of COVID-19 hiatus. Market goers and stall holders alike were in jovial spirits and it was certainly a sight for sore eyes to see the markets back in full swing.

The clear and sunny Saturday morning could not have been more inviting as Victoria Park was buzzing with both visitors and Forbes residents of all ages.

Pippa McConnell and Kerry Walker from the market committee were there to see, first-hand, the results of their hard work and dedication in organising the event and were thrilled with the turn-out.

There were 12 stall holders on Saturday which is a normal amount for the Forbes monthly event. “It was a pretty good mar- ket for us,” said Pippa. “The day was very well received by our stall holders, who did extremely well.”

The markets, which usually hosts between 12-15 market stalls, selling a range of goods, from sourdough breads, coffee, locally produced egg and bacon rolls, fresh fruit, vegetables, oil, honey, cakes and so much more, saw stall holders pleased with the crowd of eager markets goers, keen to show their support on the day.

“I think that more and more people are becoming aware of how important it is to make the effort to support our local growers and producers, especially since the COVID-19 restrictions were placed on businesses, which is really good to see,” Pippa said.

The markets are just one of many draw cards to bring visitors back into Forbes and the timely return of the monthly farmers markets came right on the back of the ‘We Want You Back’ Central West Tourism campaign.

The committee of four members who organise the markets exemplify the community spirit of the many volunteers in Forbes. The next markets are due to take place on 25 July.

For further information and updates, check out the Forbes Farmers’ Markets Facebook and Instagram pages.

Forbes Public School Prep 4 Big School

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

The staff at Forbes Public School are proud of the culture of care embedded daily at their school and enjoy sharing high expectations, maintaining a tradition of excellence.

Staff work together to ensure students are known, valued, and cared for. The school shares a commitment to the academic and personal growth of all students, delivering a focused curriculum. Forbes Public School offers the opportunity to engage in specialised Sport programs, Enrichment and Engagement programs within and across inter-school settings, Learning and Support programs and Student Leadership initiatives.

Forbes Public School sits within a vibrant learning community of students, their supportive families, and a motivated team of staff, making it an inspiring place to learn, create, play, and grow.

‘Prep 4 Big School’ commences Monday 24 August and Kinder Start Commences Wednesday 28 October.

Virtual Pharmacy Research Supporting Local Health

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Cristen Fleming, Lead Virtual Pharmacist.

A research project in eight hospitals is being used to examine how telehealth technology can connect local staff to pharmacy experts to help improve safety and outcomes for patients.

Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) Rural Director of Medical Services, Dr Shannon Nott, said, “The Virtual Clinical Pharmacy Service is part of a research project that aims to improve the use of medications for patients at hospitals without an onsite hospital pharmacist.”

Using telehealth, local healthcare teams work with ‘virtual pharmacists’ to review each patient’s medications, provide advice and make recommendations.

The introduction of the Virtual Clinical Pharmacy Service has drawn strong support from rural hospitals, who see early benefits for their patients.

The eight sites, six from WNSWLHD and two from FWLHD taking part in the project are, Balranald MPS, Bourke MPS, Canowindra Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, Cobar Hospital, Gilgandra MPS, Narromine Hospital, Warren MPS and Wentworth MPS.

The project will finish in June 2021, with the results used to guide any future expansion.

Link-Up At Forbes North Public School

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

For many years Forbes North Public School has provided a unique transition-to-school program in the year prior to starting Kindergarten. The ‘Link-Up to School’ program has been operating for 15 years and has provided a strong foundation for the commencement of formal schooling for over 500 Forbes children. Link-Up operates every Tuesday for the entire school year. Students can experience all that Forbes North has to offer, while also learning the skills that will set them up for on-going success at school.

In 2020 Forbes North made the decision to combine all kindergarten students into one class, opening a huge shared learning space. With their combined experience, enthusiasm, and dedication to every student, teachers Mrs Karaitiana and Ms Welsh as well as learning support officer Mrs Ashcroft, are achieving wonderful results with their youngest students.

Forbes North are currently accepting enrolments for Kindergarten and Link-Up for 2021. If you would like your child to be part of this dynamic learning environment, please contact the school on 68522187 or drop into the office in Thomson Street.

National Approach To Managing Wild Dog Scourge

July 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Image credit: https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/

Australia’s new blueprint for humane, best practice wild dog management officially took effect from 1 July.

Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud praised the way government and industry stakeholders collaborated on the new National Wild Dog Action Plan.

“Wild dogs are terribly destructive pests, costing farmers conservatively upwards of $89 million a year in lost production and control costs,” David said. “They can decimate livestock, tearing down sheep and goats at will, and in doing so, can hurt rural and regional economies because of the destruction they wreak and anxiety they cause.”

Having a clear, coordinated and borderless national plan to guide farmers and other stakeholders on the best strategies and safest tools for livestock and biodiversity protection is critical for rural and regional communities as they recover from COVID-19, bushfires and drought.

David applauded the way producers, peak farming bodies, governments and research and development corporations came together to ensure control measures are evidence-based and best practice. “Wild dog management is an Australian Government priority, with over $54 million invested in wild dog management since 2014-15, including recent wild dog fencing commitments in South Australia and Western Australia,” he said.

“The National Wild Dog Action Plan has already proved an exemplar in the way we should be approaching Australian predator management.”

The National Biosecurity Committee endorsed the National Wild Dog Action Plan 2020-2030 as the national plan for the co-ordinated management of wild dogs on 11 March 2020.

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