Articles Archives - Page 27 of 424

Leading Frontline Voices To Reveal Realities Of Domestic Violence In Rural, Remote NSW

November 20, 2025 by Roxane Manley

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche says the Hidden No More symposium on November 28 will bring the focus to domestic violence in regional, rural and remote NSW, with a goal of improving the safety of women and children.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes will bring together leading voices and frontline workers in domestic violence this month to uncover the realities of the issue across regional, rural and remote NSW.

‘Hidden No More: shining the light on domestic violence in rural communities’ will seek to drive lasting change when it takes place at Narromine on 28 November.

Its keynote speakers are The Hon. Stephen Lawrence MLC, NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin, author, professor and investigative journalist Jess Hill, NSW Police Incident and Emergency Management Commander Superintendent Greg Moore, and Magistrate Aaron Tang, Local Court of New South Wales, Dubbo.

Orana and Far West had the highest rate per 100,000 population of domestic violence-related assaults in NSW in the year to June 2025, the latest update from NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) shows.

In Orana and Far West, domestic violence-related assaults have consistently occurred at more than three times the state rate per 100,000 population for at least the past two years, BOCSAR’s quarterly reports also show.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes operates across 52 per cent of NSW and is a lead domestic violence service provider in Forbes and Bourke, also managing the women’s refuges in both towns.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche said the extent of perpetration in regional and rural communities should not be ignored.

“Levels of domestic violence continue to remain at unacceptable levels,” Ms Mioche said.

“Women and children have a right to live in safety and without fear.

“Domestic violence causes deep and long-lasting emotional, social and financial effects on victim-survivors, their families and wider communities,” she said.

The 150+ capacity symposium, which will be MC’d by Emma Alberici, is already at full capacity, highlighting the collaborative and collegial commitment of regional frontline DFV service providers to drive meaningful, trauma- and survivor-led change.

How To Help Ronald McDonald House Charities Central West

November 20, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Get involved at Ronald McDonald House Central West – volunteer, donate, become a corporate partner or find out if you or a close friend or relative is eligible to stay with us.

Staying close to treatment when a child is ill or injured is vital for families when they need it most. Our accommodation, programs and services are provided free of charge to the families of sick and injured children, and women experiencing a high risk pregnancy – helping them when they need it most. We strive to serve more families, better and enable parents and carers to stay close to each other and vital treatment in the Central West.

Our purpose built House is located on the Hospital grounds in Orange and our Hospitality Cart in Dubbo visits families at their child’s bedside in the Paediatric Ward and Special Care Nursery so that they can close and together.

Our families come from across the region so that their children can receive treatment in our major hospitals in the Western Health District in Orange and Dubbo.

We rely on fundraising for 79% percent of our funding to keep the House and our programs available to families when they need it most – caring for a sick or injured child needing treatment in our region.

To find out more about what Ronald McDonal House Charities Central West do, or to get involved, please follow the link cwnswfundraising.rmhc.org.au/event/redtember-2025 or visit www.rmhccwnsw.org.au

Our Nedd Named NSW Young Australian Of The Year

November 13, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Nedd Brockman pictured after receiving the NSW Young Australian Of The Year award.

Nedd Brockman, born in Forbes and raised in Bedgerabong, has been named NSW Young Australian Of The Year for his continued efforts to raise money and awareness for homelessness in Australia.

In 2020, Nedd decided to run 50 marathons in 50 days to raise $50,000 for homelessness. Then in 2022, Nedd set himself the challenge of running 4,000km across the country from Perth (Cottesloe Beach) to Bondi (Bondi Beach), raising money and awareness for the homeless along the way.

But he didn’t stop there, he kept showing up for the cause, and in 2024, Nedd started “Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge” and set off again, with a 1,000 mile running challenge at a track at Sydney Olympic Park.

Nedd and his team have so far raised over $8 million for Australians experiencing homelessness.

Upon being named 2026 NSW Young Australian of the Year, Nedd said, “I feel honoured and very grateful for the award, but I equally feel a little bit disheartened because I wouldn’t be getting the award if there wasn’t homelessness in this country.”

“I don’t love running, running is just the tool I use in order to push my limits and show people that if you’re willing to commit to something wholeheartedly and throw yourself in the fire good things will come of it if you’re willing to go all the way. It is my tool that allows me to champion the desire to help end homelessness in this country,” concluded Nedd.

Snippets…

November 13, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Some of the committee members are pictured along with Commercial Hotel publican Jed Ramsey.

Parkes Picnic Races: The Parkes Picnic Races Committee have commenced their meetings in preparation for the 2026 event. The Committee will hold their monthly meetings at a different venue each time supporting our local sponsors. The Parkes Picnic Races are held annually on the Saturday of the June Long Weekend.

Forbes Shire Council: Only food and garden scraps are allowed in your FOGO green-lid bin. Packaging from your food does not belong in this bin. If your food packaging is cardboard, hard plastic or glass, it belongs in your recycling yellow-lid bin. If your food packaging is soft plastic or broken glass, it belongs in your general waste red-lid bin. Do the right thing and make sure only your food and plants go in your FOGO green bin.

Arts Outwest: Forbes and District Historical Society has received a $6,900 National Library of Australia Community Heritage Grants to do a reservation Needs Assessment on the Paul and Hettie Wenz Collection. The Paul and Hettie Wenz Collection consists of books from the personal library of Franco-Australian writer Paul Wenz (1869-1939) and his wife Hettie Dunne, of Nanima Station, Forbes. The Collection includes books that Paul wrote. Read more under ‘Stories’ at www.centralnsw.com

Parkes Wetlands Transformation: Parkes Shire Council is inviting creatives from across Australia to be part of the Parkes Wetlands transformation. They are commissioning two to four public artworks that capture the spirit of this new environmental and recreational space. The budget is $100,000 to be shared across selected artworks. Location: Parkes Wetlands, Akuna Road, Parkes. Expressions of Interest close 10am, 1 December 2025. Help us tell the story of connection, sustainability, and creativity through art. Download the EOI documents on the wetlands page: bit.ly/3ReQ714 For further enquiries contact: council@parkes.nsw.gov.au

Forbes Rugby Union Club: The Forbes Rugby Union Club are fired up, freshfaced, and ready to lead the Platypi through another season of bush footy. The new committee members are President Wayne O’Niell, Secretary Lily Boyd, VP Management Sam Parish, VP Senior Rugby Ted O’Rafferty, Junior Rugby President Daniel Beard, VP Facilities and Development Randal Grayson, Treasurer Oliver Patterson, Social Secretary Sam Mackay, Registrar Jack Cole, Bar Manager Caitlyn James, Media Officer Siobhan O/Malley, Canteen Manager Ashleigh Dent, Ground Manager Sam Cox and Merchandise Manager Elliott Parker.

Introducing your 2026 Forbes Rugby Union Club committee.

Central West Locals, Get Ready To Celebrate Mchappy Day

November 13, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Macca’s is inviting Parkes and Forbes locals to join the fun this Saturday, 15 November, and help raise vital funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC).  From now until midnight on Saturday, 15 November, Central West locals can pick up Silly Socks for $6.50 and on McHappy Day you can buy a Big Mac, with a BIGGER purpose with $2 from every Big Mac sold (solo or in a meal) going directly to RMHC.

That’s a smile with every mouthful. 

Organised by McDonald’s Australia, McHappy Day is the largest annual fundraiser for RMHC. Since launching in 1991, McHappy Day has raised over $79 million for RMHC, helping support more than 69,000 families every year – but with thousands more families needing support each year, McHappy Day donations are more important than ever.

Supporting McHappy Day helps fund essential RMHC Programs like Houses, Family Rooms, Family Retreats, Hospitality Carts and the Learning Program – all designed to provide comfort, care and support to families when and where they need it most.

Want to get involved? Visit: www.mchappyday.org.au. Want to donate? Visit: mchappyday.org.au/donate

Public Drop-in Sessions To Help Shape The Future Of Central West Transport

November 13, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Residents across the Central West and Orana region of NSW are invited to have their say on the future of transport in their area through a series of public drop-in sessions.

“The Central West and Orana population is expected to grow by 11 per cent up to 2041 and we want to hear people’s ideas on how transport services and networks can change to support that growth.” Transport for NSW Acting Executive Director Partnerships and Integration West Holly Davies said.

Residents are invited to view the draft SRITP and speak with Transport for NSW staff at the following public drop-in sessions:

• Forbes: Town Hall, 4.30pm-7.30pm on Thursday 27 November

• Parkes: Cooke Park Pavilion, noon-3pm on Thursday 4 December

The draft Central West and Orana SRITP and supporting materials are available at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-west-and-orana, while copies of the draft plan are available at local libraries.

Submissions on the draft close at midnight on Sunday 14 December and can be made via the Have Your Say webpage, www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-west-and-orana by emailing engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au.

The Fat Lamb Rises From Ashes And Floods

November 13, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Pictured are co owners John Agustin and Ben Mulley.

You’ve heard of the pub with no beer but what about the beer with no pub? Once reduced to charred rubble and memories, the iconic Fat Lamb Hotel is set to make a triumphant return more than a decade after it was destroyed by fire.

First opened in 1862, the Fat Lamb Hotel was a cornerstone of Eugowra’s social fabric and a favourite watering hole of infamous bushranger Ben Hall, who often rode into town seeking respite from his outlaw life.

For 150 years, the pub stood as a gathering place for locals and travellers alike — until tragedy struck in 2012, when a devastating fire burnt the historic building to the ground.

For many, that might have been the end of the story. But for locals Ben Mulley and John Agustin, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. The pair purchased the scorched site in 2017/18, determined to bring the Fat Lamb back to life. What followed was years of hard labour — clearing debris, cleaning up the block, and battling nature itself as flood after flood swept through the small Central West village in 2020 and of course 2022.

None hit harder than the November 9, 2022 flood, which tore through Eugowra with terrifying force, destroying homes, lives and livelihoods. Yet amid the mud and heartbreak, the dream of rebuilding the Fat Lamb never died for Ben and John.

Now, after years of setbacks and sheer persistence, that dream is finally becoming a reality. With the help of local electrician Mick Miles and a community that refuses to give up, construction of the new Fat Lamb Hotel is well underway — a powerful symbol of Eugowra’s resilience and renewal.

“The Fat Lamb isn’t just a pub, it is so much more to so many,” said co-owner Ben Mulley.

“It’s part of who we are. Rebuilding it is about giving Eugowra a bit of itself back.”

With so much taken away from this tiny hamlet of largely farm working people, the rebirth of the Fat Lamb mirrors the spirit of the town itself — a place that has been knocked down more times than it deserves, but continues to rise stronger each time.

Soon, the familiar clink of glasses and sound of music and laughter may once again echo from the corner where the old pub once stood — proof that in Eugowra, even the fiercest flames and the most disastrous floods can’t extinguish the will to rebuild.

Now that they are past the initial stages, the trio are already planning beyond the rebuild with some top acts and events touted and an expansion of operations beyond cold beverages.

“We are hopeful over the next few years we can get it going again and one day offer meals and accommodation, and the coldest beer! ” said John Agustin.

There are also plans for camping and events as John and Ben look to make the Fat Lamb a memorable stopover for travellers once again.

Beauty & Soles

November 13, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Owner and operator of Beauty & Soles in Forbes, Catherine Maloney.

Catherine Maloney is a Forbes local, born and raised. She worked in a local salon for 13 years before moving on. Catherine, who was trained at Eleebana Beauty Academy, in Canberra and has over 35,000 hours experience in her trade, is now the owner of Beauty & Soles located in Forbes.

Beauty & Soles specialise in advanced pedicures, all things nails, brows and lashes. Catherine is constantly updating her skills and takes great pride in delivering high-quality services.

The services at Beauty & Soles are adapted to each client’s uniqueness to guarantee a perfect outcome every time.

“I pride myself on attention to detail and providing high-quality services for very reasonable prices. I endeavour to find a solution to every problem and include Home Care advice as prevention is better than a cure,” said Catherine.

Catherine uses and sells high-quality medical grade products, including Footlogix, Young Nails, Madame Glam, Born Pretty, V Lash, Brow code, Boo Beauty and HD Brows.

Beauty & Soles provides services to both men and women with a quiet, private space. “I also have a nursing background, and when combined with my beauty training I believe I offer a very unique range of beauty/health treatments that are all adaptable to ensure the clients needs are met.”

“My advanced pedicures use high quality, medical grade products, it’s more than a beauty treatment – my pedi’s also ensure foot health, lots of home care tips and educating the client on how to care for their feet between appointments,” said Catherine.

You can find and follow Beauty & Soles on Facebook and Instagram, contact Catherine via Messenger or call 0457 125 146.

Topsoil Organics Wins Top Honours Again

November 6, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Lana and Dan Nicholson pictured receiving Topsoil Organics award at a black-tie event at Sydney’s International Convention Centre on Wednesday evening.

The state’s most innovative and forwardthinking businesses have come together and been celebrated at the NSW State Business Awards. Topsoil Organics from Forbes won the Excellence in Large Business Award.

The Excellence in Large Business Award recognises a business with more than 20 employees that has effectively driven growth and is able to demonstrate the specific strategies implemented to achieve business success and/or resilience.

Business NSW, Regional Director – Western NSW, Vicki Seccombe said “This is Topsoil Organics’ third win at the State Business Awards, having won Excellence in Small Business in 2022 and Excellence in Sustainability in 2023.

“Topsoil Organics is such an exciting and dynamic business and they are paving the way for our future. They have gone above and beyond in respect to innovation, sustainability and leadership. The initiatives being pursued demonstrates great ingenuity and it’s so exciting that it’s happening right here in Western NSW,” said Vicki Seccombe.

Topsoil Organics is a family-owned business that launched the Central West Nutrient Return Centre in 2021, diverting 200,000+ tonnes of organic waste from landfills into premium compost for broadacre farming. By transforming waste into energy and regenerative solutions, they are creating lasting environmental, agricultural, and community benefits for a cleaner future.

“All three winners should feel incredibly proud to be named amongst the State’s leading businesses and business leaders for 2025 and this win truly highlights the strength of the Western NSW business community,” said Ms Seccombe.

Snippets…

November 6, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Congratulations Susannah.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council proudly congratulates Susannah Davey, who has been recognised as the Family Day Care Educator Award winner at the Central West Early Childhood Awards held in Bathurst. Congratulations also to the wider Central West Childcare Services – Bangala-la Preschool and Family Day Care team for their nominations across multiple categories, a true reflection of their passion and commitment to early childhood education.

NSW Government: Heading into the city from Sydney Airport? From 3 November, you can pay a flat $60 taxi fare (or $80 if travelling in a maxi taxi) to the CBD for the next 18 months. It’s part of a new trial to make things simpler, and it only applies from the airport to the CBD (not the other way around). Some first-time visitors have been overcharged with fares over $150, so this gives travellers peace of mind with clear, upfront pricing.

Forbes Shire Council: Community Funding Program applications now open. Notfor-profit groups in Forbes can apply for up to $5,000 to support projects in: Sport & Recreation, Culture & the Arts, Community Services and Rural Village Enhancement. Find out more or apply: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au. Applications for this round close 31 January 2026. Need help with your application? Book an appointment 6850 2300 or at community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Central West Local Land Services: Got box gum or grey box grassy woodlands on your property? We are seeking landholders in the Central West LLS region to help protect and restore these threatened ecosystems. Eligible landholders will receive technical support and assistance to carry out on-ground conservation works. EOIs close Tuesday 18 November 2025 Find out more – https://bit.ly/3I78sfT Not sure if you have these woodlands? Use the NSW Trees Near Me tool to find out: https://bit.ly/4ouHs9J

NSW Road Safety: In NSW, there are thousands of informal school bus stops (just like this one!), particularly in rural and regional areas. They may not be marked with signage or infrastructure, so drivers must, look out for flashing lights on the back of the bus advising that school kids are being picked up or dropped off, slow down to 40km/h, be aware that kids may run onto the road from in front of or behind the bus.

Look out for flashing lights:

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