Articles Archives - Page 327 of 405

Amy Shines At Regional Business Awards

May 11, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Amy Shine, director of Forbes Preschool has won the Business Leader Award at the 2017 Western Regional Awards. Amy is now a finalist in the 2017 State Awards.

“This was totally unexpected, I didn’t have one thought of winning,” said Amy. “Unfortu- nately, I did not attend the presentation held at Taronga Western Plains Zoo last Friday due to other commitments, but I will most definitely be heading to Sydney in Novem- ber for the state award presentation.”

The Business Leader award recognises the positive contribution made to business by those who demonstrate outstanding en- trepreneurial spirit, strategic business direction and innovative ideas, whilst providing inspiration to a new generation of upcoming business leaders.

Forbes Preschool is a community-based service, which ensures all children aged three to five years of age have access to affordable, high quality, early childhood education.

Amy’s goal is to inspire others to see the importance of early childhood education and realise the impact it will have on the com- munity for years to come. The preschool also provides pre-kindy children access to an occupational therapist and speech thera- pist free of charge. All this has been made possible through Amy’s vision, lobbying to secure around $1.5 million in funding an development of partnerships within the community.

Beck Cheney, Simone Newell, Carly Keane and Sally Male, four of the 17 em- ployees at Forbes Preschool were unani- mous in describing Amy as being “very approachable, an inclusive leader and outstanding communicator”. They also said that Amy was “very passionate about providing free flow indoor/outdoor play, and through her coaching and encouragement to attend professional development, we support her to achieve this vision for all Forbes children”.

“It’s about thinking outside the square, constant reflection and continuous improvement but most of all loving your work,” said Amy.

By Dianne Collie

Buddy Bench Bring Friends Together

May 11, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Forbes North Public School (FNPS) is now the proud owner of a buddy bench helping to make its playground a friendlier place for students.

FNPS is one of ten schools in Forbes and Parkes to benefit from the Buddy Bench Initiative of the Currajong Autism & Special Needs Group.

Angela Wilson, facilitator of Currajong Au- tism & Special Needs Group, visited Forbes North last Friday for the official handover of the bench. She was invited to explain to stu- dents at the school assembly what a buddy bench is.

It is a place where students can sit and send out a visual signal to other students that they would like friendship, or somebody to play with.

According to Michele Morley, Principal of FNPS students who have started using the bench have been included into games and activities in the playground that helped them to connect with friends.

The Buddy Bench Initiative started last year as a dream of Angela and her colleague Deb Collier to provide a buddy bench for every primary school in and around Parkes. The John Holland Group came on board and found local businesses and suppliers to donate benches. The FNPS bench was donated by Millcon Engineering.

Forbes Museum Has Many New Friends

May 11, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

More than 70 people were keen to explore the treasures of the Historical Museum at its annual open day last Saturday.

“It was a very successful day,” said Bruce Adams, President of the Forbes & District Historical Society. “We had a huge increase in people attending. They were very impressed with our exhibits and many said they would come again to spend more time looking at everything.”

One of the newest additions to the mu- seum, a fully restored Ivel tractor, was one of the most popular exhibits on the day, especially when it was started up at 1pm and 3pm. “All the boys liked the tractor with about 40 people watching us start it up,” said Bruce. He said the 114-year-old tractor, which is one of only seven left in the world and took about 700 volunteer hours to restore, worked perfectly when started up.

There was something for everyone to get excited about. Elaine Huckell and Anne Reade were thrilled looking through wedding photos of Forbes locals on display.

Michelle Mahlo said she had not been to the museum for years and savoured the lux- ury of taking her time without being hurried on by the kids.

The museum at 11 Cross Street is open from 2 to 4pm daily.

Central West Community Effort Equips Forbes SES

May 11, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

The Forbes State Emergency Service (SES) will be able to double its efforts in future floods thanks to the generosity of service clubs in the Central West.

CEO of the Forbes Services Memorial Club, David Fitzgerald handed over a brand new sand bagging machine worth $40,000 to Robert Walshaw, Local Controller of the Forbes SES last Thursday.

“It is a big help for the whole Shire,” said Robert. “The new ma- chines will supplement our existing one, which means we would be able to get double the amount of sand bags in case of a flood event. We would also be able to have the machines at different locations, such as Bedgerabong to get sand bags quicker to outlying town- ships.” Robert said more than 20,000 sand bags were filled last year during the floods.

The funds were raised at a charity auction in November last year when 85 delegates
from Central West Region Clubs attended a conference in Forbes. They came from FSMC, Bathurst RSL, Dubbo RSL, Orange Ex Ser- vices, Gilgandra Ser- vices, Club Mudgee and Parkes Services Club. The Bankstown Sports Club and Forbes Country Music Club also contributed to the Forbes Flood Recovery effort.

New Categories For This Year’s Boscars

May 11, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

The Forbes Business Chamber Boscars committee has added two new categories to keep with the alignment forged with the NSW Business Chamber last year.

The first is Excellence in Social Enterprise, which recognises businesses that have been established to further a social purpose in a financially sustainable way. Businesses have to be revenue generating and can be not for profit and for profit. This will enable not for profit organisations to be involved.

The other new category is Start Up Superstar. This award recognises a business that has been operating for less than two years that delivers a product/service/idea/ invention with credible potential, have a solid chance of market success, and strongly displays entrepreneurial spirit.

Categories that remain the same are: Excellence in Innovation, Excellence in Small Business (under 20 employees), Excellence in Business (employing more than 20 em- ployees), Employer of Choice, Apprentice or Trainee of the Year, Employee of the Year, Young Entrepreneur (Age 18-35), Business Leader of the Year and Business of the Year.

The People’s Choice, Tradie of the Year and Most Popular Business will also remain. For more information, contact Fiona Ferguson on 0407 380 936 or Cheryl Newsom

on 0411 211 065.

We’re Going On A Treasure Hunt

May 4, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

It might be Forbes’ best kept secret, but tomorrow you can be let in on it when the Historical Museum has its open day – be adventurous and take the family on a treasure hunt!

You will find a treasure cove of heritage gems that will enrich your life, you might discover something relevant to your family and you will definitely learn something new.

Housed in the Osborne Hotel building of 1878 for the past 47 years, the most pre- cious item in the Forbes Historical Museum is the Ivel tractor – one of only seven left in the world. It took about 700 volunteer hours to restore it, and tomorrow you can see it started up.

If the recent Legend of Ben Hall mov- ie turned you onto history, the museum’s award winning exhibit on this elusive bush- ranger will give you plenty more to explore. The original pendant worn by Ben is on display, as well as a coin believed to have been found on Ben Hall’s body when he was killed by the police.

If the more serious work of the early explorers interest you, the surveyor’s chain of Sir Thomas Mitchell, Surveyor General of NSW from 1828 to 1855 shines light on a very different chapter of history.

Or you can propel yourself into the space age… and find a piece of space debris thought to be part of the cone of a large space rocket that fell on a property near Forbes.

There are loads more treasures, so come and step inside history and be amazed. For more visit the pictorial site with over 1,500 photos of early Forbes at www.pictorialforbes.org.au, the website at www.forbesmuseum.com.au or
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forbesmuseum

Forbes Steps Out To D’feet MND

May 4, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

It was a magnificent autumn day in Forbes on Sunday, not only because the weather was perfect but also more than 100 people walked for Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

“They came from Forbes, Penrith, Ballarat and Coffs Harbour,” said Marcia Sim- monds and Pat Duncan, organisers of the 5km walk around Lake Forbes. “We want to thank everyone who walked today. It was wonderful to see everyone, especially so many younger people,” said Marcia.

Len Burton, who is 95 years young, took part with his two daughters Jacqueline and Kay. “I am walking for my wife, Pauline Margaret. We were married for 71 years. I lost her to MND two years ago,” said Len. “It is such a bad disease.”

Len thinks MND NSW are a doing a great job. “Next year I would like to see a lot more people involved to further help raise awareness and much-needed funds.”

According to Kym Nielsen, NSW MND Fundraising Manager the support in rural areas is amazing. She enjoyed coming to Forbes immensely. “Everyone seems to care more, there is such a sense of community here,” said Kym.

MND NSW is sponsoring Living Well with MND on Thursday, 18th May at the Forbes Services Memorial Club commencing at 10am. Vital information will be shared for people living with MND, their families, friends and carers. There is no charge but registration is essential by either emailing reg@mndnsw.asn.au or freecall 1800 777 175.

By Dianne Collie

Students Love To Study In New Library

May 4, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

“It’s lovely, so, lovely having a new, bright and airy library.” These were the words of Sue Pietsch, Teacher Librarian at Red Bend Catholic College (RBCC) on Monday. “The students love studying here and keep asking, do you like it too, Miss?” she said at the official opening of the Marcellin Library and Resource Centre by Federal Member for Riverina and Minister for Small Business, Michael McCormack.

The new facility was made possible with $554,798 of funding from the Capital Grants Program. “I’m so pleased the Coalition Government has been able to make this impor- tant investment in Forbes for the benefit of the students as well as the whole school community,” said the Minister.

The facility includes an outdoor meeting area for Year 12 students, rooms for both large and smaller senior classes, and space for photocopier, a printing room, as well as technological and traditional resources.

The students are also thrilled that their original four comfy chairs have been increased with a number of semi-circle seats perfect for informal learning or catch up sessions.

“These new learning spaces take into account the latest in education research and will see students learn more effectively.” said Michael McCormack. “It was great to visit RBCC and see the new facilities first hand and learn from both students and staff about the significant value these facilities will have for their education.”

The library has big windows that look out over the beautiful trees and lawns, and although it may house the latest in technology the library allows the students to enjoy the peace and beauty of the country as well.

Bishop of Wilcannia-Forbes Diocese, Bishop Columba Macbeth-Green dedicated the facility to the education and wellbeing of the present and future students of RBCC, and to their growth in faith, hope and love.

By Dianne Collie

Fun, Free & Funky Ideas To Celebrate Mum

May 4, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

Every Mum is different but special in her own way, and they all deserve to be spoiled and celebrated on Mother’s Day! Here are some fun, free or funky ideas that will help you honour and thank your Mum for her unconditional love and support.

1. Ask for her to-do list, and take something big off
Mum has things that she really wants done and keeps putting off. Take a weight off her shoulders and just do it.

2. Find an old friend of your mum’s and reconnect them
Help her find long-lost friends through Google, social networks or other services.

3. Host a gathering at your house

Host a brunch, lunch or dinner celebration in honour of Mum.

4. Go through old albums

Reminiscing for a few hours will bring back people we love, laugh out loud moments and even bring new insight into your cur- rent life.

5. Make her a new album

In an age of Facebook and Instagram, printed photos have become special. Make a personalised photo book that Mum will love looking through over and over again.

6. Get her your favourite book

Think of a book you love or one that has made an impact in your life. Write Mum a short note inside the book telling her why you think she’ll love this book too.

7. Give her a clean house

Whether you do it yourself, bribe her grand- kids to do it, or get a professional cleaning

service.

8. Have a movie marathon

Get a stack of chick flick classics, add popcorn, wine, blankets and a cozy couch for a girls night in.

9. Write her a letter

There’s nothing like a handwritten letter. Acknowledge your Mum for who she is and the contribution she has made in your life.

10. Make her a video

A video greeting for Mums who aren’t nearby, makes her feel like you are right there with her.

11. Learn a craft together

Knitting, scrapbooking, jewellery making, find out what Mum would want to learn. You might find a new hobby you can continue together for years to come.

12. Make her something yourself

There are a tonne of DIY ideas on Pinterest with instructions.

13. Give the gift of time

If you want to help younger Mums cele- brate Mother’s Day, they all want the gift of a little bit of relaxation, and a little time for themselves.

14. Give a gift that arrives more than once
A subscription keeps on giving! Whether it’s a magazine, a fresh food box, a wine club, whatever tickles Mum’s fancy – she’ll think of you every time her surprise comes in the mail.

Snippets…

May 4, 2017 by Maggi Barnard

New Pound: Forbes Shire Council has resolved to move to the next stage of plan- ning for a new pound to be built in Angus Street at Landrace Estate. Director Environmental Services and Planning Paul Bennett said Council had been saving to build a new pound for the past five years.

“We have looked at a number of sites and with the Landrace Estate site been decided as the preferred option, we are in the process of developing the plans for the new pound.” Paul said it would be built in the next 12 months. “As with all public facilities Council needs to plan to upgrade or replace infrastructure as it reaches the end of its usable lifespan. The new pound will provide modern facilities for the operator making it a safer and more user friendly facility.

Mock Crash: Auditions for amateur youth actors over 16 in Forbes will be held on Thursday, 11th May at the Parkes Shire Council Chambers for this year’s mock crash demonstration. “Youth actors will take part in both filmed and live ab-lib exercises,” said the Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor. Pre-registration for the auditions is essential. Contact Melanie on 6861 2364 or 0428 400 627 or Melanie.Suitor@parkes. nsw.gov.au.

Send us your news: The Forbes Phoenix is available in Trundle, Tullamore and Bogan Gate every Friday. You can pick up your free copy at the Trundle Newsagency, Casho’s Café in Tullamore and the Railway Hotel in Bogan Gate. Let us know what is happening, send us your news and photos to editor@forbesphoenix.com.au

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