CanAssist received a welcome financial boost from the Forbes Services Memorial Club (FSMC)to keep its vital work going of assisting people with cancer. “With monthly commitments of up to $8,000 to Forbes residents with a cancer diagnosis, every bit is welcome,” said Maureen Field, Treasurer of CanAssist. CanAssit President John Schrader and Maureen received a $2,000 cheque from the FSMC recently. The donation resulted from the proceeds of the Dancing with the Stars canvas photo bought by FSMC. “The club is amazing with their support, they help us so much,” said John.

A person diagnosed with cancer requires support socially, psychologically and financially. CanAssist is able to support patients with accommodation, travel, medication, domestic help, personal assistance, utility bills and treatment costs. “We often find it is really hard for people to ask for help, getting over pride is a big thing,” said John, “but we want the residents of Forbes to know that if they need help, to
please make themselves known.”

Forbes CanAssist has just celebrated its 60th anniversary and was the first country branch to open in NSW in 1956. “All monies donated are
going to the cause, and will stay local to assist Forbes residents,” said John.

By Dianne Collie

The Forbes Council’s Community Development section, in conjuction with the Forbes Olympic Pool, have provided our community with a seaside holiday destination without having to leave Forbes. Over 40 tonnes of sand was delivered to the pool and placed in front of a painted backdrop of a sparkling sea, blue, blue sky and palm trees, which has created a beach. So not only can you now swim at the pool, you can also play beach volleyball, cricket and other games!

Families swarmed to the Summer Beach Party at the Forbes Olympic Pool last Friday, and “a crowd of over 200 people had a terrific night,” said Blake Nicholson, Forbes Council’s Community Relations Officer. As if the swimming, beach games and free sausage sizzle weren’t enough the crowd also enjoyed grooving to DJ Jabba’s electronic up beat music. Once night fell the beach enthusiasts happily set up their deck chairs in the sand to watch the 2016 comedy The Boss, starring Melissa McCarthy.

If you missed out, don’t worry because The Beach will be at the pool for the rest of the school holidays at no additional cost to the entry fee.
Get your friends, beat the heat and head down to the Forbes Beach this holiday!

By Dianne Collie

With the storm season upon us, it is important to be prepared for weather-related power outages. Storms, lightning, and wind gusts have the potential to damage the network. “Essential Energy monitors the network continuously and our crews are ready to respond 24/7,” said David Crough of Essential Energy. He reminded people to report any fallen powerlines or damaged infrastructure and keep at least 8m away. “Always treat powerlines as live and remember that anything in contact with them, such as cars, trees or fences, can conduct electricity and pose a danger,” David said. “Be aware that fallen powerlines may not always be visible in paddocks or rugged countryside, or could be hidden by storm debris.”

If you notice fallen trees, deceased animals, smoke, fire, or scorched areas around electrical equipment, call Essential Energy on 13 20 80. Major powerlines are re-energised first to restore electricity to the majority of customers. Once this is completed, field crews target individual faults and customers’ problems. For more information on electrical safety during storms, visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety or call 13 23 91.

Nationals’ Federal Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack, announced more than $10,000 funding for closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre in Forbes on Tuesday. Michael told a small gathering at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre the Forbes Council would receive $13,600 to install two solarpowered cameras. “Serenity, that’s what this place is, serenity,” said Aileen Allen of the centre where the integrated philosophy of the Wiradjuri people that connects them with all living things and the land can be experienced.

Unfortunately, the serenity has been broken too many times by vandalism and antisocial behaviour. Aileen and Forbes Mayor, Graeme Miller as well as Forbes Shire General Manager, Danny Green welcomed the funding provided by the Safer Streets Program. The program supports communities at the grass roots level to boost crime prevention. Chief Inspector of Police, Nick Weyland, said: “CCTV can assist in enhancing perceptions of safety, deterring criminal and anti-social behaviour, as well as helping to apprehend those responsible for crime in the community.”

Aileen thanked the Forbes police for their prompt assistance in the past and said she hoped with the CCTV cameras working both the Aboriginal, Torres Strait and Australian flags would remain on the flag poles. They have been stolen a total of seven times. Michael offered that his office would replace the missing flags. “Only safe communities can be strong and prosperous, and the best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it from happening,” said the MP. “Most importantly the funds used to pay for this program are from the proceeds of the Crime Account – that is money taken from criminals and reinvested into the community to prevent more crimes.”

By Dianne Collie

Winston Churchill said: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Christmas time is all about giving and a few local businesses have made sure there is the opportunity to follow Winston Churchill’s advice and give to others. Ian Simpson & Co. Real Estate wants to make certain that Christmas is a happy time for everyone. Last year they held a Christmas Present Drive for Ronald McDonald House. “This year Havannah House will be the recipient,” said Ian.

Many people have donated a gift for children up to five years of age, which Ian will deliver to Havannah House today. Forbes Services Memorial Club (FSMC) has had a Community Giving Tree for many years to provide the Forbes people the opportunity to donate gifts for the less fortunate. “This year we will again be donating the gifts to Havannah House,” said David Fitzgerald, CEO of FSMC.

The Forbes Phoenix was bedazzled by the display and the Christmas Tree surrounded by many presents waiting to be delivered. There was even a chair for Santa! “Lots of children have enjoyed having their photo taken with Santa, and because their parents or caregivers made a gold coin donation there will be even more presents to donate to Havannah House,” said David. Havannah House Ministries Inc is a not
for profit, charitable organisation which provides support to people in need, based on resources available, in order to meet the needs of those who seek help.

By Dianne Collie