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Canowindra Balloon Festival Ready To Take Off

April 23, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Balloons taking off at the 2024 Canowindra International Balloon Festival. Image Credit: Farmpix Photography

The skies over Canowindra are set to dazzle as the beloved Canowindra Balloon Festival returns from 26 April to 4 May.

This vibrant week-long celebration of hot air balloons, music, art, food, and community spirit offers something for everyone.

Festivities lift off with the Welcome Street Party on 26 April, featuring live music from Nerida Cuddy and the Neil Gill Band, alongside a sizzling BBQ competition, delicious food, and market stalls. Throughout the week, enjoy Flicker Fest at Rosnay, creative Paint and Sips, inspiring workshops from The Creative Cure, and Sue Hodges’ art exhibition at the Canowindra Services Club, just to name a few of the offerings for the week.

Test your trivia knowledge at the Trivia Night hosted by the Canowindra Public School P&C. Then, don’t miss the Home Ground Sounds Concert on 2 May, headlined by country star Casey Barnes, with performances by Furnace and The Fundamentals, Big Night Out, and Nathan Lamont.

Saturday, 3 May, begins with the thrilling Balloon Key Grab, followed by the CWA All Day Breakfast, a colourful street parade, and the spectacular Cabonne Community Glow—gates open from 3pm.

Whether you’re here for the balloons or the beats, the Canowindra Balloon Festival is an unforgettable autumn escape. Balloons fly from 27 April to 2 May mornings and afternoons, weather permitting.

Tickets and more information available at Balloon HQ located on Gaskill Street and 123tix.com.au.

Snippets…

April 23, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Lights were left on across Forbes and Parkes for Molly on the evening of 22 April.

Her Name Is Molly: Forbes and Parkes residents left their lights on for Molly on Tuesday 22 April. Molly Ticehurst lost her life to domestic violence in April 2024. A year on from Molly’s passing, and the hashtag #hernameismolly has lit up facebook with photos of people from all across Australia leaving a light on for Molly. Households, businesses, councils and sporting grounds all paid tribute to Molly by leaving a light on and shining a bright light on domestic violence issues.

1800RESPECT: Support is available for people experiencing violence and abuse.1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service. Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, chat online or video call via the website https://1800respect.org.au

Visit Parkes Region: The town with a heart of gold is calling! Wander the leafy main street, discover hidden gems in charming antique stores and the charm of the Carrington Hotel, and don’t miss the breathtaking views from the open cut gold mine walking trails. Peak Hill is the perfect place to stop, explore and soak up history, nature, and small-town charm. Learn more at bit.ly/4idL4cB

Forbes Garden Club: The Forbes Garden Club bus trip to Tumbling Downs Olive Grove at Bogan Gate is on Thursday 15 May, leaving at 9.30 am and also visiting three gardens in Parkes. We need 30 members and friends on the bus at a cost of $35 each which includes a Devonshire tea. Pack lunch or food can be purchased at Parkes Services Club. Ask your friends or family to join us we need numbers for this to go ahead. Treasurer Lloyd Gerdes can be contacted on 6851 4494.

Parkes Shire Council Need Your Help: The 2025 National Awards for Local Government are underway, and we need your support to help Parkes Shire take home the win. Our entry is Fleet Optimisation and Innovation: A Smarter Approach to Asset Management. Parkes Council is a finalistsin two categories: Productivity through Infrastructure and Outstanding Rural and Remote Council. Want more information? Go to www.infrastructure.gov.au/nalg/

Early Voting In Forbes: If you wish to vote before the Federal Election Day on Saturday 3 May 2025, simply pop into Town Hall for pre-polling. For further information about the 2025 Federal Election visit www.aec.gov.au

If you can’t vote on Saturday, 3 May then vote early on the above dates.

ANZAC Day In Parkes And Forbes

April 23, 2025 by Roxane Manley

On Friday 25 April 2025, Australian’s will mark the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings, as well as commemorating all Australians who have served in times of peace and war. Parkes and Forbes residents are invited to attend the ANZAC Day Commemorative Services to be held across the Parkes and Forbes Shires:

PARKES ANZAC COMMEMMORATIONS

• Dawn Service 5:30am at Memorial Hill

• Breakfast Bistro 6:30am at Parkes Services Club

• Church Service 7am at Holy Family Catholic Church

• Church Service 7:30am at Parkes Anglican Church

• ANZAC Day March 8:30am at Welcome Street, Chamberlain Square and Clarinda Street to Cooke Park

• Commemorative Service am at Cooke Parkes

• Wreath Laying Pilgrimage 10:45am at Parkes Cemetery War Graves

• ANZAC Day Luncheon 12pm at Parkes Services Club

• Sound Retreat 5pm at Cooke Park

• The Ode 6pm at Parkes Services Club

FORBES ANZAC COMMEMMORATIONS

• Dawn Service 5:20am Harold Street, form up 5.15am Templar Street, adjacent to Club Forbes

• ANZAC Day March 10:15am Cross Street, Cross Street, Lachlan Street, Harold Street terminating at Cenotaph

• Commemmorative Service 10:30am Harold Street

Exciting Opportunity In Central West Industrial Park

April 23, 2025 by Roxane Manley

For additional commentary, a detailed information memorandum or more photos please contact Sam Johnston 0412 896 602 sam@johnstongroup.com.au Gary Johnston 0427 574 270 gary@johnstongroup.com.au

Johnston Rural Group is excited to present for sale: 52 Back Yamma Road: a 10.96 hectare (109,600m) industrial land parcel primed for commercial development – boasting a central mid-state location adjacent to the Newell Highway and Inland Rail line in the new Central West Industrial Park.

The property, which comprises a large, renovated office building and two enclosed sheds, is currently operated as the national base for Lachlan Commodities who specialise in the supply of identity preserved high quality grains to the international and domestic food industries.

Originally, Lachlan Commodities planned to develop the land into a modern grain receival depot however, this project unexpectedly came to a halt when the prospect of purchasing the Forbes Linx depot which already had a large amount of purpose-built infrastructure was made available.

The successful acquisition of the Linx site has now meant that 52 Back Yamma Road is surplus to their requirement and therefore being offered for public sale with offers closing on Thursday the 22nd of May 2025.

Head of Strategy and Business Development at Lachlan Commodities Patrick Cogswell states that: “Our family has lived and worked in Forbes for over 40 years, we are very proud to be investing further into the local area and believe strongly in the growth opportunities this region presents”.Marketing agent Sam Johnston believes it’s an incredibly exciting time for the local region and comments that: “Forbes is sure to provide a prosperous future for any incoming or expanding business and their staff which is reinforced by the local Council’s vision of creating “a safe, connected and welcoming community that aspires to create job opportunities, improve infrastructure and support a diverse and thriving economy”.For more information, please contact marketing agents Johnston Rural Group who can provide a price guide and detailed information memorandum on request.

Coalition Commits $10 Million To Support Veterans

April 23, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Sam Farraway The Nationals candidate for Calare said “Our veterans have given so much for our country – we owe them more than just thanks,”

Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud was happy to make an announcement for Veterans and their families in the Central West, who will receive a much-needed boost in support under a Dutton-Littleproud Government, with the Coalition committing $5 million to establish a new Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in Bathurst and $5 million to expand the Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre in Dubbo.

David went on to say “They will deliver integrated support to veterans and families, by improving access to local services such as wellbeing, advocacy, employment and housing advice, social connection and physical and mental health.”

The Nationals candidate for Calare Sam Farraway said the funding commitment would provide a critically important space for veterans’ services and advocacy organisations to co-exist and deliver integrated support to current and ex-service personnel and their families.

“The commitment will bring services together under one roof so that veterans and their families across the Central West can access the support they need, when they need it.

“Too many veterans slip through the cracks because help is too far away or too hard to find. I hope this will make a lasting difference to those who’ve worn the uniform and their families.”

The Nationals candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said “We must never forget the sacrifices made by our local veterans and always act to ensure that they and their families have the support they deserve.

“This investment will not only provide further support for veterans in Dubbo (and Bathurst) but a regional base for surrounding areas. Support services like today’s announcement will build on the support already available for veterans. There is no doubt more work needs to be done, but it’s a start.”

Resilient Homes Program Hits Next Stage Across Central West NSW

April 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Making the announcement at the Eugowra Showground is Deputy Mayor of Cabonne Council Jamie Jones, Janelle Saffin MP, Minister for Recovery, Member for Orange Phil Donato, and Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon.

Residents across the Central West of NSW impacted by the 2022 floods have begun to receive their free home assessment reports from the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s $40 million Resilient Homes Program.

Since applications for the Resilient Homes Program opened on 28 October 2024, the Reconstruction Authority has received 200 applications and undertaken 125 home assessments, with more to be scheduled.

The Resilient Homes Program supports resilience and safety so that people can continue to live in the communities they love. The program has three streams:

Home Buybacks – eligible homeowners in highest risk areas may receive a payment for the purchase of their home and land in areas that have a very high risk of future floods.

Resilient Measures – grant funding of between $50,000 and $100,000 to eligible homeowners to raise liveable areas of their home, relocate their home, rebuild a more resilient home or retrofit their home with more resilient materials and innovative design features.

Free Home Assessments – a flood resilience expert will help identify opportunities with eligible homeowners to increase the resilience of a home.

Eligibility for the Program takes people’s individual circumstances into account, with priority given to those facing additional barriers and challenges that could increase their vulnerability or risk in future flooding events.

For more information on the Resilient Homes Program in the Central West visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/resilient-homes-program-central-west or call the Reconstruction Authority Concierge Team on 1800 844 085

Snippets…

April 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Lewis Wilde will play Ben Hall in the upcoming play The Trial of Ben Hall, and Rodney Morrison will play the Sheriff.

Forbes Shire Council: Forbes Shire Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee will be performing The Trial of Ben Hall, a play written by Forbes solicitor Dominic Williams on Friday, 9 May at 6pm at the former St Andrews Church, Forbes. Don’t miss this chance to delve into the legend of Ben Hall and experience the trial he never had. It will be a fun night of history, drama, and community spirit that the whole family will enjoy! Secure your free tickets for a night to remember at www.123tix.com.au/events/47902/the-trial-of-ben-hall

Dolly’s Dream: Go blue on 9 May for Do It For Dolly Day – speaking up for young voices silenced by bullying, from bustling cities to the furthest corners of the outback.

From country towns to remote stations, we’ll paint our communities blue. We’ll bake, we’ll dress up, and we’ll stand united, because in rural Australia, we look after our own. Join us on 9 May for Do It For Dolly Day! Wear blue, raise awareness, and give a voice to those silenced by bullying. Every donation goes directly to Dolly’s Dream’s vital anti-bullying programs in schools across Australia, even in the most distant rural communities.

Kerin Health: Did you know Kerin Health are running four days of intensive swimming lessons these school holidays? There are limited spaces still available if you’re quick! Call reception on 0437 749 746 or book via their website: https://www.kerinhealth.com.au/swimming-lessons

NSW Government: Got five minutes? Your feedback can help shape how essential services are delivered in regional communities. Tell us what’s working and what could be improved. bit.ly/HYS-essential-services

50% Off Elvis Festival Merch: Now is your chance to grab official Parkes Elvis Festival merchandise for half the price! No code needed – discount applied automatically at checkout. But hurry, this offer is only valid until 30 April. Shop now: bit.ly/ShopPEF

The Wild Sows: An incredible $429,260 was raised by over 80 ladies as part of the 2025 Never Late Fe-mail Posite Bike Ride raising money for Wings4Kidz. The Wild Sows are proud to announce that we raised just over $44,500! We couldn’t have done this without the generous support of you, our community. There is still time to donate to Wings4Kidz to help our regional families

An amazing effort by The Wild Sows raising much needed fund for Wings4Kidz.

Let’s Get The Bush Connected This Election

April 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has called for commitments from all sides of politics to bridge the digital divide for rural and regional Australians in this election.

NFF President David Jochinke said that while significant investment has been made, we’re still a long way from fixing the rural and regional connectivity problem.

“Whether it’s calling for help in an emergency, coordinating logistics during harvest, or simply staying connected with loved ones – bush connectivity is not a luxury, it’s a lifeline,” Mr Jochinke said.

“Reliable connectivity is critical to keeping people outside major population centres safe and connected, both in times of natural disasters, and in daily farm life.”

Mr Jochinke said rural, regional and remote constituents deserved reliable and resilient connectivity, and he acknowledged productive discussions with telecommunication providers, but it’s time for the Federal Government to step up.

“This election, we’ve put all parties on notice: rural voters are tired of buffering, dropouts and excuses. They want to be connected” Mr Jochinke said.

The NFF has compiled a list of actions that would continue to improve bush connectivity.

The NFF’s Election Platform can be found here keepfarmersfarming.org.au

Forbes Garden Club Report

April 16, 2025 by reen Thumb

Pam Baass hosted our garden club meeting.

At our last meeting President Marg Dent welcomed 29 members with five apologies. Our hosts Pam and John Baass made us very comfortable, seated under large trees in their beautiful, well established garden.

After the reports and birthday wishes, extended general business was discussed. Denise Thurston has organised a bus trip for Thursday 15 May leaving at 9.30am to visit the Tumbling Downs Olive Grove at Bogan Gate where a Devonshire tea will be enjoyed, before proceeding on to Parkes to visit three gardens and a picnic lunch at Cooke Park. At least 30 members will be needed to make this a success and the cost will be $35. Families and friends are all welcome. Money will need to be collected at the April meeting in an envelope, or given to Treasurer Lloyd at 7 McMillan Place if you are unable to attend the meeting. Enquiries can be made by calling 0428 540 272 or emailing forbesgardenclub@gmail.com

Our guest speaker was Yvonne Tracey from Orange who spoke on Dahlias. Her collection of different varieties was outstanding and her knowledge takes her overseas as a judge to many countries, although she said Australia has the best dahlias in the world! She provided valuable tips on growing them that were much appreciated. Denise presented Yvonne with a thank you gift.

In the flower of the month competition, first went to Denise Thurston (Dahlia), second was Janette Thomas (Rose ‘Bloomfield Abunda’) and third was John Browne (Canna Lily).The raffle was won by Jan Stewart with Lee Sanderson second.

President Marg thanked Pam and John for making their garden available for our meeting. The next meeting will be held at 111 Flint Street at the home of John Browne on Tuesday 22 April and don’t forget a chair, hat and a mug, and flower of the month.

By Green Thumb

Heavy Long Weekend Traffic Expected On The Great Western Highway

April 16, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Motorists travelling on the Great Western Highway over the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends are urged to plan their trips and allow extra travel time, with high traffic volumes and delays expected.

The Great Western Highway has several known pinch points for travel connecting the Greater Sydney area with the Central West.

Historical traffic data shows the busiest day for westbound travel towards Lithgow will be Friday 18 April and Saturday 19 April, and for those heading east towards Greater Sydney the busiest day will be at the end of the long weekend on Monday 21 April.

Delays are also expected on Friday 25 April (Anzac Day) for motorists travelling across the Blue Mountains, with significant traffic volumes also anticipated eastbound on Sunday 27 April as holiday makers return to Sydney.

The Govetts Leap Road intersection at Blackheath can be a pinch point where there are often queues for motorists heading east. Traffic queueing also often extends west from Blackheath to Hartley and beyond.

When queueing begins eastbound at Mount Victoria, a traffic management plan is put in place with motorists held at Hartley to prevent further congestion and a start/stop movement up Victoria Pass. Vehicles are then released in small groups, allowing them to travel up the Pass to prevent further delays in the event of breakdowns and to avoid nose-to-tail crashes.

For more details about predicted delays on the Great Western Highway see the NSW Holiday and Journey planning website. For information, visit https://www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/230828, or download the Live Traffic NSW app.

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