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Forbes Phoenix

Find It All In Forbes This Christmas

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

The Forbes Business Chamber Find It In Forbes committee are hard at work to ensure that the Christmas promotion is launched on the 19th November.

“For 2018 Forbes Shire Council holds the Naming Rights sponsorship with Forbes Services Memorial Club being the Gold sponsor for the event. For the second year, Terry Bros Carpet Court is the Silver sponsor,” said Chairperson Marg Duggan.

“The Chamber is delighted to introduce a new category of sponsorship this year. Bernardi’s, Little Extras and Central West Diesel are all Bronze sponsors, which is fantastic,” said Marg.

The committee is also working hard at developing the Christmas carnival which will see the beginning of the Find It In Forbes draws. The draws for the promotion consist of 10 x $500, 5 x $1,000, 1 x $3,000, 1 x $2,000 and 1 x $5,000. Giving a total funding pool of $20,000.

“The Find It In Forbes promotion will run from the 19th November until the 24th December at 10:30am. The Forbes Business Chamber would like to thank the sponsors, participants and supporters for assisting to make this Forbes promotion such a success,” said Marg.

Please remember to support the below businesses during this busy period and use any of the major sponsors and participating businesses to redeem any of your lucky draws.

Forbes Shire Council, Forbes Services Memorial Club, Terry Bros. Carpet Court, Bernardi’s, Central West Diesel, Little Extras, Agriwest, Allure on Main, Betta Home Living, Blush Organics, Bowns SportsPower, Brons Hair Design, C & D Floor Coverings, Cahills Footwear, ChapterTwo, Country Bakehouse, Flannery’s Pharmacy, Forbes Family Dentist, Forbes Small Engines, Turners Furniture One, Gottaluvit, Gunns Menswear, Helloworld, HozPotz, Jullianna Kneebone Solicitors, Ladybird, Life Pharmacy, Loomzys FishNFix, Made Of Fridays, News On Rankin, Painted Daisies, Phillip Wells Optometrist, Robbs Jewellers, The Pantry Cafe and Catering, Undercover Sleepwear, Vandenberg Hotel, Walkers AgNVet, Blue Sky Outdoors, Forbes Inn, Roylances Auto One and Eye Wear Specs.

Supporters include Forbes Livestock, Forbes Toyota, Hazel Field Accountants, Hughes and Co, Kevin Miller Whitty Lennon & Co, McCarron Cullinane and Chudleigh, Midpro, Midwest Pest, WA Knights and BWR Accountants.

Don’t forget to ask for your Find It In Amazing Forbes tickets with every purchase at a sponsor or participating business.

Community Movie Night

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes provides a broad range of programs and services to encourage and support people living within the Wilcannia-Forbes diocese. Services are adapted in response to specific needs and collaborative partnerships are developed to strengthen the capacity of rural and remote communities throughout Western NSW.

A new service CatholicCare is providing is support for those affected by drought. An initiative they are pursuing to support these people is holding various community catch ups. This service aims to target and bring those who are living in communities which are affected by drought within the diocese together. A key goal for these community catch ups is to provide an opportunity for locals to discuss ways further support can be offered to them.

The community catch up evenings are free to all those who attend and will be of host to various kids activities, a family movie playing on the big screen, sausage sandwiches, burgers, soft drink and water.

While the kids are kept busy with their fun activities the parents can sit back, relax and enjoy their sandwiches/burgers and drinks. Another aspect of these events is to offer information on mental health support, financial management support and other support services people at these events could be interested in accessing such as the drought support hotline. For the farmers and those who are heavily affected by the drought temporary relief through gifts such as vouchers for food/livestock feed/laundromats etc may be provided.

The first event is scheduled for 16th November at Bedgerebong Hall. Another event is planned for 23rd November at Lake Cargelligo.

Wyangala Waters

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

Pick A Perfect Spot At Wyangala Waters

It’s that time of year when the days are longer, warmer and call for adventure. Wyangala Waters sits on the shore of Wyangala Dam, an easy drive from Forbes Cowra, Bathurst, Blayney and the wider Central Tablelands of NSW.

It’s about the simple things at Wyangala Waters: good company, beautiful natural surrounds and picturesque water views. Take the boat out for some water-skiing fun, or make the most of the excellent fishing. Let the kids go wild in the bush building forts and bike riding. Enjoy bushwalking, spotting kangaroos and birds, then finish the day around the campfire, toasting marshmallows under a big starry sky. Life doesn’t get better than this!

The park is big enough to pick your perfect spot and make yourself at home in your RV, caravan or tent. Powered sites are still available for the summer, while there is a range of cabins, cottages and bungalows too. Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters is dog-friendly for camping and caravan sites to enjoy the bush experience with the whole family.

Stay On The Water In A Houseboat

Wyangala Houseboats offer a unique accommodation experience with two houseboats available for hire: Moomba and Tango. Each one accommodates up to 10 people featuring a kitchen, bathroom and bbq facilities. Grab a group of friends or family and spend the weekend or week cruising, skiing, fishing or just relaxing along Wyangala Waters. No special licence required. You will be thoroughly briefed to ensure you are comfortable with the safe handling of the houseboat before going on your way. Gift vouchers available. For bookings and enquires phone Wyangala Waters on 6345 0877.

Is Workplace Surveillance Lawful?

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

The Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 (NSW) provides for dedicated workplace surveillance legislation in NSW.

Generally, an employee must consent, either expressly or impliedly, to the surveillance of private activities or private conversations. The Telecommunications (Interceptions and Access) Act 1979 (Cth) also places limitations on the recording of telephone conversations.

The legislation relating to surveillance devices specifies what constitutes a “private activity” or “private conversation”. Private activities or conversations may occur in any workplace, whether a corporate office or a public space, such as a retail store.

Use of surveillance as evidence can ensure employees are not engaging in misconduct, however surveillance must be properly obtained by an employer to enable it to rely on the surveillance in disciplinary action or court proceedings. The recent Federal Court decision of Chappell vs Griffin Coal Mining Pty Ltd [2016] FCA 1248 is a sound reminder of this.

In the case of Chapell vs Griffin Coal Mining Pty Ltd, an employee was caught making adverse comments about the employer to an external person on a video surveillance device worn by a security guard hired by the employer. When the employer sought to rely on the surveillance as evidence of misconduct, the employee argued that the evidence was improperly obtained – it was a private conversation that he did not consent to being recorded. The court agreed and the surveillance could not be used as evidence.

Where employers intend to undertake surveillance in the workplace, they should inform employees in writing and how the surveillance will be undertaken. Best practice is draw up a workplace surveillance policy that is easily accessible by employees, and provided to all new employees.

Enrolments 2019

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

Much To Celebrate At Forbes Preschool

The 60 year celebrations continue through the year at Forbes Preschool. Last Thursday saw 1,000 family members and friends at Nelson Park enjoying some spectacular singing and dancing. Proceeds of the day’s sausage sizzle were donated to the Can Assist Dancing With the Stars fundraiser, which saw the preschool secretary, Lisa Jarick and committee member, Darren Keane bust a move! The preschool are proud to be able to give back to our community that has given so much to us over the years. Visit www.forbespreschool.com to put your child’s name on the waiting list.

We’d Rather Be About It, Than Talk About It

Forbes High School operates as a community of people invested in the future. But don’t take our word for it, the proof is in the way students access opportunities for lifelong success and is indicated by Sydney University’s preference to send practice teachers here for internships. Sydney knows this is a school where teachers teach and learners learn; Forbes High School recognises the potential of education to enable, expand and enrich the lives of young learners inside and outside the classroom. Forbes High School is leading the way in using technology to enrich learning with a future-focussed approach that enables students’ voice and choice. Our students are encouraged to grow as creative and critical thinkers. Forbes High School is currently taking enrolments for all years. Enrol now!

Quality Care And Education

Bright Beginnings Early Learning Centre is a locally owned early education and care service. We concentrate on offering high quality care and education to children aged six weeks to six years. Our highly motivated and experienced team strive to provide the best possible experience for every child and family and take a multi faceted approach to learning across all age groups. Our preschool program is exceptional and is designed in close conjunction with local primary schools and support services to ensure that our preschool graduates are ready for ‘big school’, and beyond. We are currently taking enrolments for 2019 and invite you to come up for a tour of our beautiful service. For more information, please call Kym on 6851 4597 or email director@brightbeginnings.net.au.

Stimulating Learning

Forbes Public School students learn in a stimulating and challenging environment with a 21st century approach to schooling. Students are supported as individuals ensuring all children reach their full potential as we develop creative, confident and informed future leaders of the community.

Strong academic, sporting, cultural and creative arts programs, highly dedicated expert staff and wonderful families offer you and your child/children a school community that has the students at the heart. Forbes Public School enables students to become the best they can be and prepares them with a holistic view to education. We are currently taking enrolments for 2019, so please make the most of the opportunity and contact the office for a meeting to discuss the future for your child in this dynamic setting.

Quality Programs, Quality People

Forbes North Public School focuses on continual improvement for the school as a whole and for each and every individual student.

The school’s mission statement, “learning for life through quality teaching in a safe and caring environment” is supported by the simple mantra of being better today than we were yesterday. The individual learning needs of every child are identified and the most effective learning opportunities to address these needs are applied each day. As well as outstanding teachers the students are supported by a team of Learning Support Officers, specialist Learning Support Teachers, an Aboriginal Education Officer and a Speech Therapist. Two Instructional Leaders work with students and also identify the best professional learning for staff to address their students’ needs.

 

 

Catching Up With The Snake Catcher

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

Most of us would cringe at the very thought of coming into contact with a snake, but that’s hardly the case for our very own Forbes snake catcher, Paul Newcombe.

Paul has been living in Forbes all his life and decided more than 20 years ago that he was going to start catching snakes.

At first Paul started off by catching snakes only for people that he knew but as word spread of his pastime in the Forbes area, he was advised to apply for an official snake catcher licence. After obtaining his licence those many years ago, Paul has just got busier and busier through word of mouth and so became a household name we know and recognise as ‘The Snake Catcher’.

“I’ve just always been interested in animals and liked having them at home too.

I breed fish and birds, raise pigeons and have about 40 snakes at home,” he said.

Paul has been married to his wife, Cheryl, for 30 years. He can be classified as a herpetologist, meaning a person that studies reptiles and amphibians. He swiftly deals with snake call-outs during the day while working at the rattery, where they breed rats for snake food. The snake catcher licence requires Paul to have public liability and personal insurance, which he makes up through the $50 fee for catching a snake.

“I have been bitten twice by a snake, a brown and black snake. I ended up in the Forbes District Hospital for a couple of days. I suppose I zigged when I should have zagged,” Paul lightly joked. The necessary emergency procedures were followed by applying a pressure bandage as soon as possible and no anti-venom was required.

“Snake catchers have to know what they’re doing when it comes to actually catching the snake. You have to choose the right time and have absolutely no hesitation, otherwise you will get bitten,” said Paul.

During 2017, Paul caught 156 brown snakes, six black snakes, four tiger snakes and about 15 pythons in and around the Forbes district. So far this year, he has already caught 59 snakes.

“The snake season seems to be starting later and finishing later these days. I’m catching snakes now right up till the end of April,” he said. Rest assure though, according to Paul, the amount of snakes around seem to be more or less the same.

Paul can be contacted on his mobile number at 0424 522 608 or on his home number at 6852 3451.

SNIPPETS…

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

 

 

 

 

 

 

HARD WORK PAYS OFF… The Forbes Preschool team worked very hard putting together an immensely successful concert for the school’s 60 year celebration held in Nelson Park last Thursday. The school saw 1,000 family members and friends enjoying some spectacular singing and dancing.

Forbes White Ribbon Day: The Forbes Domestic & Family Violence Committee is inviting the entire Forbes community to walk with them in their annual White Ribbon Day March to be held on Friday, 23rd November. The walk is in support of Australia’s campaign to stop men’s violence against women. Everyone will meet at Cross Street in front of Carpet Court at 10am and will finish in Victoria Park. Here, our youth will share their thoughts on why it is so important to stand up and speak out against violence and how together we can all make Forbes a safer community for everyone. A free sausage sizzle will be provided for all participants.

Forbes Lions Car Boot Sale: The next Forbes and District Lions Club Car Boot Sale will be held on Saturday, 17th November. This will be held in the Lions Park beside Lake Forbes from 8am until 1pm. It will be our final sale for 2018 and proceeds from site fees will be donated to the Forbes Archery Club to help them get back on their feet. Members of the community are welcome to set up stalls to sell their wares. We cater for stalls of second hand goods as well as craft and produce stalls. Sites may be booked by phoning Peter on 0468 819 659 or Robyn on 6851 2209 or just set up and pay on the day. The cost is $10 per site. The Lions will be cooking up a storm on their BBQ with sausage sandwiches, bacon and egg sandwiches and the famous Lions Sandwich for sale. The Lions will also be selling tickets in a Hyundai car raffle for $1. If you have some items which need clearing out before Christmas or some Christmas goodies to sell come along on the day.

Rotary Ipomoea Christmas Tree Festival: Anyone can get involved in designing and creating a Christmas tree of any shape or material that reflects their love of Christmas time. Members of the community are invited to the official opening of the festival on Friday, 30th November at the Forbes Town Hall at 6:30pm. Enter a tree by phoning Helen on 6851 4930 or Sue-anne on 6851 5197, or send an email to sueanne.nixon@hotmail.com. Entry fee is $5. Anyone can enter any type of tree.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Head on down to the Visitor Information Centre Open Day on Saturday, 24th November from 9am to 2pm. The open day will feature tastings of local produce, Christmas cakes and puddings and many great gifts for Christmas. Children’s book author, Pat Clark will be there to sign her books and while you’re there, grab a delicious Devonshire tea as well.

Where Fine Food And Great Coffee

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

Crave. coffee cafe catering is a coffee shop cafe in Forbes that offers seated dining or take away, has a brand new coffee blend and can cater for any occasion.

Located in Shop 1 at 15 Rankin Street, in the old Royal Hotel, Crave offers convenient front and rear parking, has wheelchair access and customer lavatories. It also features comfortable inside dining with a small child friendly lounge area to keep the kids entertained while you enjoy a coffee break and has courtyard seating enclosed from the elements.

Isabel Haley has been the proud new owner of Crave. coffee cafe catering since September and is excited to announce that Crave is now a supplier of Bay Beans Coffee. “We have had an excellent response from customers so far. Our Bay Beans blend is very smooth with gentle spice flavours and a sweet aftertaste. You won’t be disappointed!” said Isabel. Red Sparrow loose leaf tea is also available and is served in your choice of beautiful fine china tea cups.

The menu is varied but simple with some of the most popular items being the bacon and egg rolls, homemade hamburgers and toasted wraps. Isabel bakes all sweets and goodies herself with the raspberry white chocolate slice proving to definitely be the crowd pleaser. Some gluten free options are also available.

Summer salads, mini cob loaf, zucchini slice, brownies, banana bread, chocolate cake and cookies are some of the items waiting for you to delight in.

All items on the menu are available any time of the day and opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm and Saturday 8am to 2pm.

“If you haven’t already, call in and say ‘hi’ to the friendly staff at Crave, who will always greet you with a smile and provide you with excellent service,” said Isabel.

Effects Of The Sun

November 15, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

Did you know that 90 percent of ageing and wrinkles are caused by sun damage? Sun exposure causes most of the skin changes that we think of as a normal part of ageing.

Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light damages the fibres in the skin called elastin. When these fibres break down, the skin begins to sag, stretch and lose its ability to go back into place after stretching.

Australia is the skin cancer capital of the world. More than 11,500 Australian men and women are diagnosed with a melanoma each year, and an estimated 434,000 people are treated for one or more non-melanomaskin cancers. Skin cancer accounts for over 80 percent of all new cases of cancer diagnosed in Australia each year.

If you’d like to know about skin damage to your complexion (face), why not book an appointment at Flannery’s Pharmacy Sun Awareness Clinic. The clinic nurse will conduct a VISIA Complexion Analysis using specialised UV light technology to identify the effects of sun exposure on the face. You will also receive a personalised skin analysis print out.

Our clinic nurse will discuss your analysis and make specific recommendations to help you manage and protect your skin to achieve your best skin possible.

The Sun Awareness Clinic is being held on Wednesday, 5th December and appointments are available between 10am and 3pm.

Talk to our friendly staff today to book an appointment or call Flannery’s Pharmacy on 6852 1111.

Businesses Take The Opportunity To Reduce Driver Fatigue

November 8, 2018 by Maggi Barnard

Fifteen businesses have put their hand up to help reduce driver fatigue related road incidents, by signing up to take part in next year’s ‘Free Cuppa for the Driver’ scheme.

The businesses join over 100 businesses across Hunter, Southern, South West and Western NSW to participate in the next round of the successful ‘Free Cuppa for the Driver’ scheme, which provides drivers who have travelled more than 100 kilometres from their home with a free cup of tea or coffee from those participating businesses.

The scheme will see over 23 local council areas working together in a bid to reduce tired drivers and fatigue related crashes on roads in NSW.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor said that the second biggest killer on NSW roads was drivers who were tired.

The scheme allows drivers to access a ‘free cuppa’ from participating businesses who have a variety of trading hours, which improves the scheme’s accessibility.

The scheme runs each year from 1st March to 31st May. The councils market and administer the scheme, with the ‘free cuppa’ itself being directly provided by participating businesses.

“If it wasn’t for the participating businesses supplying the ‘free cuppa’, then this scheme wouldn’t be possible and I would like to thank the 15 enthusiastic businesses across the Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils who are taking part in next year’s scheme.

Many of whom are returning for the eighth or ninth time and we warmly welcome those who are joining us for the first time in 2019,” said Melanie. The local participating businesses for 2019 are:

FORBES SHIRE

• Crave Coffee Café Catering

• Forbes Bakehouse

• Forbes Inn Hotel/Motel

• Pantry Café and Catering

• Subway – Forbes

PARKES SHIRE

• Railway Arts and Crafts (Bogan Gate)

• Railway Hotel (Bogan Gate)

• Cooke Park Café (Parkes)

• Parkes Coffee Pot

• Parkes Services Club

• Casho’s (Tullamore)

LACHLAN SHIRE

• Vantage Fuels Condobolin

• Shell Condobolin

• Fisho’s Hotbake and Takeaway (Lake

Cargelligo)

• Tulli Café (Tullibigeal)

For further information go to the website, freecuppa.com.au.

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