Articles Archives - Page 25 of 405

Police Commander Meets Mayor

June 5, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Western Region Commander Andrew Holland with Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, Inspector Dave Botha and Director of Planning and Growth Mathew Teale met at the Forbes Shire Council offices on Monday.

Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM was eager to meet with Western Region Police Commander Andrew Holland in Forbes on Monday June 2nd to discuss the need for an enhanced police presence in the area.

Councillor Miller said that her meeting with newly appointed Western Region Commander Andrew Holland, to address the need for increased police presence and extended hours of operation in the Forbes community, was productive.

“I have recently had to go public because we need more police officers and longer hours to ensure the safety and security of Forbes residents, “ she said.

In response, Commander Holland outlined a strategic plan to implement staggered rostering and introduce intermittent 24-hour shifts at the Forbes Police Station.

This initiative aims to provide increased police coverage and improve response times to incidents.

Commander Holland emphasised the importance of encouraging local youth to consider careers in law enforcement to address the national shortage, termed a police recruitment crisis.

“We are really trying to push growing our own hometown cops,” he stated.

By promoting country kids and members of the community to consider a career change to apply for the police force and encouraging them to aim for positions in regional areas, the community can benefit from officers who have a deep understanding of local issues and a strong commitment to their hometown.

Mayor Miller expressed her gratitude for Commander Holland’s proactive approach and commitment to enhancing public safety in Forbes. “This collaboration marks a significant step towards ensuring that our community is well-protected and that our residents feel secure,” she said.

The Forbes community looks forward to the positive impact of these changes and remains hopeful for a safer and more secure environment.

Registration Open For Heavy Vehicle Breakfast

June 5, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Registrations are open for this year’s Central West NSW Heavy Vehicle Breakfast Forum, which will be held at the Forbes Inn on Thursday 12 June. Local farmers, contract harvesters, couriers, truck drivers and transport company operators are invited to attend.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, who is organising the forum said this year’s event will focus on higher productivity vehicles, safety, compliance and industry case studies and there will be a high productivity vehicle on display.

“Since its inception in 2012, the breakfast forum has brought together the local freight industry to discuss issues affecting them.

“Come along to listen, learn and ask questions of industry experts from NHVR, Transport for NSW, Parkes Shire Council, NSW Police, Essential Energy, Midland and Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds” Ms Suitor said.

You can register online with this link: https://forms.office.com/r/pkPN1Vt4Ji via the Councils’ Facebook pages or call Ms Suitor on (02) 6861 2364.

The forum will kick off at 6.30am with breakfast. The official program starts at 7am. The event will finish at 11.30am. The forum is free, but registration is required for catering purposes.

If you are unable to make it on the day, the event is being recorded and the link to the video will be available to view on the Councils’ Facebook pages and in follow-up media articles or contact Ms Suitor on 0428 400 627 or via Melanie.Suitor@parkes.nsw.gov.au to register your interest in receiving the link.

Grants Mission To Continue Ride Against Domestic Violence

June 5, 2025 by Roxane Manley

ABOVE: Phil Donato MP speaking to ride organiser, Grant Nicholson before the group departed from Bunnings carpark in Forbes to make the trip to Parliament House.

An estimated 4.2 million Australian adults (21 per cent) have experienced violence, emotional abuse or economic abuse by a partner, according to information released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Women are more likely than men to have experienced this type of abuse by a partner, and when Forbes woman Molly Ticehurst was murdered by her ex-partner on 22 April, 2024, it didn’t just shake the Forbes community, it rocked the nation.

Forbes’ Grant Nicholson was inspired by the loss of Molly to lead 120 motorcycles on a Ride Against Domestic Violence. The ride kicked off on Friday 11 April from Bunnings carpark in Forbes, with local member Phil Donato MP in attendance to farewell the riders.

“There were many failures in the system that should have provided Molly more safety and security,” said Mr Donato.

The group rode 280km, picking up riders along the way, to hold a meeting in the assembly area of Parliament House in Canberra to demonstrate their concern over “The lack of action by our leaders to combat DV in our communities,” said Grant. The date, 11 April was chosen as it was the day before Molly’s birthday.

Grant spoke in front of the crowd in Canberra, with the intent to be loud and peaceful, in an attempt to show society that domestic violence of any kind will not be tolerated.

The event was covered by television crews including Channel 7, Channel 9 and ABC, but Grant wont accept praise for raising awareness to this cause, humbly stating, “We’re trying to do something, it’s the only thing I know how to do.”

Grant, who is part of the Central West Riders Forbes group, says in a few weeks he will meet up with fellow riders from Dubbo in an effort to start planning next year’s ride.

BELOW: One of the riders clearly demonstrating their support of this important cause.

Youth Actor Mock Crash Auditions

May 29, 2025 by Roxane Manley

William Ellis recording his victim impact statement in 2023.

Calling all amateur actors across the region! Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are on the search for youth actors to star in this year’s NOT A STATISTIC! Youth Driver Education Program.

The Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, is encouraging local youth actors to audition to be part of this road safety initiative. The initiative seeing a 27% reduction in crashes involving young drivers since its inception more than 10 years ago.

“We are looking for four new actors to join our team and are holding auditions on Thursday 5 June from 5pm – 8pm at the Parkes SES shed in Clarke Street.

“The auditions will give participants an overview of all aspects of the project. The youth actors will also undergo road crash rescue training to see what it’s going to be like being cut out of a car and removed on a spine board.

“We are hoping to uncover some undiscovered talent who will bring something new. So, if you are interested in getting involved and are over the age of 16, register and come along” Ms Suitor said.

The program offers experience with filming as well as a live performance. Dates are still being set for the live mock crash demonstration, but will likely be August.

Pre-registration for the auditions is essential. Contact Ms Suitor on either 6861 2364 or Melanie.Suitor@parkes.nsw.gov.au for more information and to book your place.

Snippets…

May 29, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Mr Martino, Mr Dwyer, Mykel Coe, Amelia Smith, Aunty Florence Onus, Skye Harris and Barry Merritt at the Red Bend Catholic College Sorry Day assembly.

Red Bend Catholic College: We were fortunate to be joined by Aunty Florence Onus for our Sorry Day assembly. Florence is a Birrigubba, Bidjara and Jagalingu woman from North and Central Queensland and is a survivor of the Stolen Generation. Florence spoke about our shared Australian history and her personal family story, and we thank her for her insight.

Women NSW: Are you ready to return to work? Future Women Jobs Academy is a free, year-long virtual program designed to empower women with the knowledge and connections needed to return to work and thrive. The program begins on 4 August 2025 and concludes in June 2026. This program is free, flexible, and self-paced. Applications close on 21 July 2025. Learn more here: nsw.gov.au/fwja

Lock it or lose it! Central West Police District continues to see a spike in Steal from Motor Vehicle offences in the Forbes township. The majority are from unlocked vehicles, however there have been incidents where the window has been smashed.

Please do not leave valuables in your vehicle overnight. Sensor lights and CCTV are also an excellent deterrent.

CUC Parkes: Did you know that the CUC offers a coffee machine, complete with flavoured syrups, tea, and hot chocolate in the kitchen for students? Every Monday at 10am, we invite students to join us for a Monday Morning Catch-Up at CUC Parkes.

Our Centre Manager, Jacob, and Learning Skills Advisor, Brooke, will be present to engage in friendly, informal conversations.

Companionions Thru Cancer Inc: The Parkes Companions Thru Cancer Group held A Biggest Morning Tea on Wednesday 21 May at the Parkes Red Cross room raising an amazing $843.16. Thanks to all who supported this important event.

Henry Parkes Learning Community: Last term, staff from Parkes High School, Parkes Public School, Parkes East Public School and Middleton Public School, took part in a 10 week exercise challenge. Ninety-nine public school staff members took part and each donated $10 to join. The four schools then recorded their accumulative exercise hours each week to get an overall champion school. Congratulations to Middleton Public School who took out the honours this year. Middleton staff then chose Ronald McDonald House Orange to receive the funds raised.

Mr Geoff Rice, Board member for Ronald McDonald House Orange, accepting the $1,000 raised.

Forbes Garden Club: April Meeting Report

May 29, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Jan Diprose was guest speaker at the April meeting.

The Forbes Garden Club April meeting was held in the lovely gardens at the home of John Browne. President Marg Dent welcomed 28 present with six apologies. The guest speaker was Jan Diprose from the Weddin Community Native Nursery at Grenfell. This volunteer nursery started under the Landcare banner, where seeds are collected sorted and stored. They are grown in hot houses and sold to farmers and Shire Councils. John Browne also spoke on his garden which is home to many unusual plants.

Flower of the month winners were 1st Denise Thurston (Clematis), 2nd Elvy Quirk(Dahlia) and 3rd Marlene (Huf-Rose). Raffle winners were Joy Hocking, Elvy Quirk, Janette Thomas, Meg Scholefield and John Browne.

The recent bus trip to visit the Tumbling Downs Olive Grove at Bogan Gate started out with a bus filled with members and friends all eager for an outing in this beautiful autumn weather. Participants were welcomed by Colin and Shelley Nutley with a delicious Devonshire Tea. Shelley spoke of the history of their farm and how they pick and press the olives, before tasting the oil and a variety of jams relishes.

The next stop was visiting three gardens at Parkes. The first garden was at the home of Leah Douglas, who had been inundated with the 2022 floods. The garden featured numerous advanced trees, a large area to explore and tend. The next garden was that of Nancy McColl – a large cottage type garden which led visitors along lots of paths around her home filled with trees and shrubs. The last garden of the day the group visited was Fay and Kelvie Blackstock’s home. This garden featured all manor of creations from old machinery made by Kelvie with succulents planted everywhere. Garden Club members are very appreciative of Denise Thurston for planning this fantastic day.

Restraint Checks Securing Child Safety In Parkes And Forbes

May 29, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor pictured at the recent child restraint checking events in Parkes and Forbes.

The recent free child restraint checking events, a service provided by Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils, discovered that 79% of the child restraints checked were incorrectly fitted.

The service provided free child restraint inspections in Parkes, Forbes and Condobolin, by local Authorised Child Restraint Fitters. Nineteen child restraints were brought in by parents and grandparents for checking – mostly rearward/forward facing converter child restraints or forward facing/booster converter child restraints. There were also two installations.

The Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said these bi-annual events continue to be popular.

“The child restraints that were incorrectly fitted had minor problems that needed fixing to ensure the safety of the child” Ms Suitor said.

“The correct fitting and adjustment of child restraints is vital. It is important to make sure that your precious cargo is safe and buckled up every time they are in the car – whether it’s a five minute or five-hour journey” Ms Suitor said.

While these safety checks were free biannual events, local Authorised Child Restraint Fitters can install and check child restraints all year-round for a small fee. The local fitters in Parkes are Col Fletcher Ford & Kia and Parkes Tyrepower. The local fitter in Forbes is Jelbart Dawson. The local fitter in Condobolin is Central West Tyre Service.

National child restraint laws have been in effect since 2010. All children must be safely fastened into the correct child restraint for their age and size. Children need to be at least 145cm or taller to use an adult lap sash seatbelt.

Research shows children who are not restrained correctly are seven times more likely to sustain life-threatening injuries in a crash than those who are properly secured.

You can visit www.childcarseats.com.au for more information about child restraint rules.

Topsoil Organics Named 2025 Western Nsw Business Of The Year

May 22, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Forbes based business, Topsoil Organics was named Western NSW’s 2025 Business of the Year at a Gala event at Dubbo RSL Club, in front of 210 business leaders.

They also were awarded top honors in the categories of Excellence in Large Business and Excellence in SustainabilityTopsoil Organics is a family-owned business that launched the Central West Nutrient Return Centre in 2021, which diverts 200,000+ tonnes of organic waste from landfills into premium compost for broadacre farming.

Driven by a commitment to sustainability and the circular economy, they are expanding with the Topsoil Organics Regional Regenerative Energy Hub. This innovative facility will feature an anaerobic digester to generate renewable electricity, EV fastcharging stations, and a café and meeting space.

The independent judges praised Topsoil Organics for their business excellence which is grounded in environmental innovation, local economic development, and operational resilience.

“Topsoil Organic’s win showcases the incredible innovation, determination and ingenuity, by transforming waste into energy and regenerative solutions, they are creating lasting environmental, agricultural, and community benefits for a cleaner future” said Vicki Seccombe, Regional Director – Western NSW, Business NSW.

“This year, we recognised an incredible group of winners from across Western NSW, each business leader and business has showcased innovation and sustainability, with a focus on their teams and their local communities.”

Winners of the 2025 Western NSW Business Awards, will now go on to represent the region at the State Business Awards being held in October.

Snippets…

May 22, 2025 by Roxane Manley

A beautiful blast from the past.

Forbes Shire Council: Members of the Humber Car Club gathered at the Forbes Visitor Information Centre with their vintage treasures gleaming in the car park. Julie Ridley had the crowd captivated with tales of the Lachlan Vintage Village about its rich history and its enduring charm. What a way to celebrate 50 years of memories, heritage, and horsepower!

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council advises that, effective Monday 2 June 2025, all customer enquiries and services relating to planning matters will be managed through Council’s main Customer Service area, located at Parkes Shire Council’s Administration Building, 2 Cecile Street, Parkes. This change is part of Council’s commitment to improving service delivery and ensuring a more streamlined experience for customers through a centralised point of contact. Council appreciates your cooperation and understanding. For further information or assistance, please contact Council during business hours on (02) 6861 2333

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: Trundle Bush Tucker Day 2025 is a highly anticipated family friendly event in the Central West. A day full of wholesome entertainment, delicious flavors, and unforgettable memories. Tickets on sale now for Trundle Bush Tucker Day 2025 on the 6th September: www.123tix.com.au/events/46970/trundlebush-tucker-day-2025

Philip Donato MP: Calling all teachers and principals! Take advantage of new travel subsidies for regional schools and bring your students to NSW Parliament for a free, hands-on learning experience. Visit the Parliament of NSW Education website to find out more: https://education.parliament.nsw.gov.au/

Forbes Domestic & Family Violence Committee: Western NSW Local Health District provide a number of amazing services for those affected by Family and Domestic Violence. – PARVAN (Prevention and Response to Violence Abuse and Neglect) – Community Health and Social Work. If you or someone you know needs help, call Parkes Community Health on 6861 2400 or Forbes Community Health on 6850 7300. If you are in immediate danger cal 000.

PCYC Parkes: Get 20 hours off your log book and be a step closer. In just 5 hours, get 20 hours off your log book and learn how to; Recognize hazards, Identify safe gaps in traffic, Reduce crash risk. Fully funded spots available for the Parkes Course being held on 23/05/25 – MUST email the club at parkes@pcycnsw.org.au for voucher number to use this offer.

Are you a learner driver?

Australia Post’s Multi-Million-Dollar Investment In Regional NSW

May 22, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Australia Post is expanding its commitment to regional Australia with a major infrastructure investment across New South Wales, announcing the development of six new greenfield sites in Tumut, Leeton, Casino, Deniliquin, Forbes and Byron Bay.

Australia Post has announced a significant infrastructure investment in regional Australia, encompassing the development of several new sites impacting communities across regional NSW. This includes the construction of a new 1,796m² greenfield facility in Forbes, and will also consolidate parcel deliveries from the Parkes area.

The Forbes facility will have the capacity to handle up to 2,200 parcels per day, designed to improve delivery times and support the needs of both businesses and consumers in these communities. Construction will commence on the site in early 2026, with an expected opening towards the end of that year.

These sites will bolster capacity to support parcel volume growth and improve service across rural and regional communities.

These purpose-built facilities are designed to boost parcel processing capability – handling between 900 parcels to 2,200 parcels per day – and enhance service across rural and regional communities as well as improving operational safety and efficiency.

Sustainability is a key focus of the expansion, with all sites featuring 50kW rooftop solar power generation, and a number also investing in rainwater harvesting and EV charging capability.

Australia Post General Manager Network Development & Support Services, Shane Plant said the investment reflects Australia Post’s commitment to improving services for regional communities across Australia.

“Beyond speed and efficiency, we’re focused on providing safer workplaces for our team members and building environmentally responsible infrastructure that can serve communities well into the future,” Mr. Plant said.

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