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Forbes Phoenix

The Count Down Is On For Homegrown Parkes This Saturday

October 10, 2024 by Roxane Manley

If you have never attended Homegrown Parkes before, please make sure to come along tomorrow, Saturday 12th October.

The popular Homegrown Parkes is back this weekend, kicking off off at 9am with a sausage making demonstration in the Cooke Park Pavilion. Parkes Shire Con­cert Band will be performing in the Park grounds from 9am and crop swap in front of the green wall will run until 11am.

The event will be officially opened at 10am, followed by a performance from Parkes M&D featuring the musical Cinder­ella and the Crystal Slipper.

The Parkes M&D will then provide per­formances for park entertainment from the low stage between 10.30am and 11.30am.

Bill Tink will provide a Netwaste work­shop in the Pavilion also commencing at 10.30am and WildTalk snake bite first aid demonstration will follow in the Pavilion at 11am.

The Parkes School of Dance will be sure to delight, with performances on the main stage of the Pavilion between 11.30am and 12.30pm.

The noodle making workshop com­mences at 12.30pm in the Pavilion and the Parkes M&D performers will be back on the low stage between 12.30pm and 2pm.

There will be a wonderful selection of local and regional food vendors and stall­holders. Keep the kids busy with the animal farm and jumping castle – and you know there will be face painting.

You can keep up to date by visiting the Homegrown Parkes Facebook and Insta­gram pages. For further information con­tact Marg Applebee on 0418 611 053.

2024 Forbes Spring Races

October 10, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Spring is a great time to go racing and Forbes Jockey Club has a host of enter­tainment planned for this Saturday, 12th October at the TAB race meeting.

Local racing has certainly been a part of many conversations over the past week following the win by rank outsider Sneak Preview in the $150,000 Dubbo Gold Cup.

The veteran galloper trained at Dubbo by Peter Nestor and ridden by his nephew Kody Nestor, is part owned by Peter Maher and Matt Coady from Forbes.

Sneak Preview was backed by numer­ous supporters at odds of $100 and cel­ebrations will likely continue on Saturday at Forbes Spring races.

Leading trainers from a wide area are bringing starters to Forbes and the action on the track will be backed up by other highlights including the Fashions In The Field offering big prizes for several catego­ries.

There is entertainment planned for all the family and the Yabby races with an auction for the chance to have a starter will be a lot of fun.

Gates will open at 11.30am and music throughout the afternoon will add to a great day out at Forbes races.

Generations Of Records For Museum

October 10, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Forbes and District Historical Society President, Bruce Adams, with the Jemalong Shire Council Revenue and Cash book 1935 – 1943, which was part of a donation to Forbes Museum from Forbes Shire Council On Thursday 3 October.

Forbes residents will be able to find records of family members dating back generations thanks to a donation from Forbes Shire Council to the Forbes and District Histori­cal Society (FDHS).

Council donated 29 books of records dat­ing back to 1917 on Thursday 3rd October, including revenue and cash books, rates billing records, correspondence registers, letter registers and newspaper clippings.

The records are from the former Jema­long Shire and Forbes Municipal Councils, which merged to form Forbes Shire Coun­cil in 1981, and will be held in the Forbes Museum, which is managed by FDHS.

Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller, said the records gave an amazing insight into the history of Forbes.

“They show what residents paid for rates over 100 years ago, letters written between the Councils and residents and how they communicated before telecommunications took over,” she said. “For residents whose families have lived in Forbes for many gen­erations, they will also be able to view re­cords of their ancestors.”

“Forbes Museum is a wonderful asset to our community and the FDHS does an amazing job displaying our shire’s history for the public to enjoy.”

FDHC President, Bruce Adams, said it was a coup for the museum to be able to preserve these important records. “They’re a very important addition to the museum and we’re very appreciative of Forbes Shire Council for its donation,” he said.

“We’re providing a secure location to store them, and while they won’t be per­manently displayed, anyone can view them privately by contacting us to make an ap­pointment.”

Forbes Museum is located at 11 Cross Street, Forbes. Open daily between 2pm and 4pm. To contact just phone 6851 6600 or email forbesmuseum@gmail.com

Sam Farraway: Statement On NSW Parliament

October 10, 2024 by Roxane Manley

With the local government elections now complete, the focus shifts to the upcoming federal election. I have decided to step down from NSW Parliament to give my full attention to representing the peo­ple of Calare as Nationals candidate.

I will deliver my valedictory speech in the November sitting before formally resigning from the Parliament. It has been an in­credible honour to serve in the NSW Parliament, where I’ve held various roles, including Deputy Government Whip, Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Minister and Shadow Minister.

Now, I believe the best way to deliver for our community is to represent them as their Federal MP.

One of my proudest achievements has been getting the Bet­terment Fund up and running—a program that provides essential funding to rebuild regional transport and road infrastructure after natural disasters.

These are initiatives that matter. They are about more than poli­tics; they are about real people and real change for the communi­ties I’ve always been passionate about representing.

To my colleagues and friends, both in and out of Parliament, your friendship, encouragement and belief in me has helped me through some of the toughest moments and have made the wins even sweeter. I leave knowing that the work we’ve done will con­tinue to make a difference in the lives of people across the state.

Thank you to everyone who has believed in me, and to the peo­ple of the Central West—you will always have my deepest respect and appreciation.

And lastly, to my family—my mum, sister and brothers—you’ll never know how much your love and support has meant to me.

Apply Now For A 2025 Traineeship

October 10, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Shire Council Multiskilled Operator – Events Support, Luke Evans, completed a traineeship at Council, and said it was a great way for anyone to get their foot in the door and progress their career.

Forbes Shire Council is calling on anyone aged 16 years and over to apply for 12 ex­citing traineeships that are now open and commencing 2025.

These traineeships offer the perfect op­portunity to kickstart a career in local gov­ernment, to work in a professional team gaining valuable experience, getting paid while studying and securing a qualification.

Forbes Shire Council Multiskilled Opera­tor – Events Support, Luke Evans, said “It doesn’t matter how old or young you are, everyone should look at applying for a traineeship. It’s a positive workplace that is really inclusive and enjoyable for every­one,” he said.

There are 12 roles covering all areas of Council including:

• Civil Construction (Certificate III, two years)

• Irrigation and Sporting Ovals (Certificate III, two years)

• Horticulture/Gardening (Certificate III, two years)

• Agriculture/Saleyards (Certificate III, two years)

• Business Support (Certificate III, two years)

• Community Projects (Certificate IV, two years)

• Surveying and Drone Operations (Cer­tificate IV, two years)

• Sewer Plant Operations (Certificate III, two years)

• Cadet/Graduate Town Planner (Bach­elor Degree, six years)

• Graduate Building Surveyor (Diploma, two to five years)Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller, said Council prided itself on the diversity of employment opportunities it is able to pro­vide.

“These traineeships are a perfect oppor­tunity to make a valuable contribution to our community by working for Council and being a part of our day-to-day operations,” she said.

“It’s an exciting time for Council to have so many traineeship opportunities and they will all contribute to its growth and the ser­vices it is able to provide to the shire,” said Cr MillerTo RSVP to the information session go to https://forms.office.com/r/6bwiAZgtsy.

To find out more about traineeships and apply go to https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/council/about-council/working-with-council/2025-traineeships. Applications close 21st of Oc­tober 2024.

Career Milestone For Forbes Pharmacist

October 3, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pharmacist Sarah Hazell. Photo Credit to Monique Lovick Photography.

Forbes Pharmacist, Sarah Hazell, is cel­ebrating 26 years at Flannery’s Pharmacy.

The Forbes local, graduated from Forbes High School in 1997 and went on to study pharmacy at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, before returning to work at the local business.

“A lot of young people are amazed to learn I’ve only ever had one job. I started here at the age of 18 and that was my first job, at Flannery’s Pharmacy, and I’m still here today,” Life Pharmacy and Flannery’s Pharmacist Managing Partner, Sarah Ha­zell, said.

“I’ve just absolutely loved my role as a pharmacist in a small, rural community. I think it’s been so rewarding professionally, and it’s a great environment to get to know your patient and see the patient again, and again, and again and get that regular follow up. You build wonderful relationships and it’s really lovely.”

There are about 37 thousand pharma­cists across nearly six thousand community pharmacies in Australia. As scope of prac­tice initiatives are announced and rolled out in every state and territory, now more than ever pharmacists are stepping up to meet healthcare needs in their local communi­ties.

This year marks 26 years with Life Phar­macy Group for Sarah, 22 years as a regis­tered pharmacist and 17 years as a partner.

She credits her passion for pharmacy, the Forbes community, and her mentors as a driving force behind her success.

“It was never my plan to stay in Forbes, I always wanted to live by the beach, but I’ve always been presented with wonderful opportunity after wonderful opportunity. I met my husband at university, we moved to Forbes, and we’ve just made this our home.

We’ve both got businesses in town and just love the community, and I think it’s a great place to raise a family,” Sarah said.

Parkes Community Grieves The Loss Of Local Couple

October 3, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Graham and Sue Tait; and with their five children Bernadette, Jessica, Katherine, Alec and Felicity who are now in need of community support. If you would like to donate food or grocery items, there will be a basket in the foyer area of PECC.

The Pakes community is in shock, after learning local husband and wife Graeme and Sue Tait, both 57, were fatally injured in a tragic two car collision on the Newell Highway in Tomingley, just south of Dubbo around 9:20pm on Friday 30th September.

Graeme and Sue have left behind five children aged between 16 and 26. The cou­ple were well known and much loved local residents. Graham was an experienced, well respected coach driver and fundraiser, while Sue was a beloved teacher and as­sistant director of Parkes Early Childhood Centre, having worked there for 17 years.

A GoFundMe campaign has been organ­ised by Amii Marchant on behalf of Berna­dette Tait to support the children of Graham and Sue Tait. Please get behind this fun­draiser for the five Tait children who now require a large amount of support. You can show your support by making a donation at https://www.gofundme.com/f/graham-and-sue-tait

The two other fatalities from the horror crash were Lochie Jacobs 19 and Joey Urban 18. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this loss. Support the boys fam­ilies at https://www.gofundme.com/f/lochie-jacobs-and-joey-urban

The sole survivor was a 23 year old driv­er of one of the two vehicles involved in the crash. On Monday he was charged and granted bail, and will appear before Dubbo Local Court on 21st October.

Snippets

October 3, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Let’s kick back, relax, and get ready to rock ‘n’ roll Elvis style.

Parkes Elvis Festival: It’s under 100 days until the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival, and we’re ready to roll with that Easy Come, Easy Go energy! With over 200+ events lined up, we can’t wait to see everyone soaking in the fun and feeling the rhythm.

Tickets here: bit.ly/ParkesElvisTickets Ap­plications for the 2025 Ultimate Elvis Trib­ute Artist Contest are closing soon. Enter bit.ly/ParkesElvisFestivalUETA

Fire and Rescue NSW Station 294 Forbes: Fire Permits are required in the Forbes, Parkes, Lachlan and Weddin LGAs for all fires during the Bush Fire Dan­ger Period which is between 1st October (Midnight Tonight) and 1st April 2025, and at All times in Fire and Rescue districts around the state.

Double Demerits: Motorists are being re­minded that double demerit points will be in place over the October long weekend for four days, commencing on Friday 4th Oc­tober 2024 and ending on Monday 7th Oc­tober 2024 (inclusive). Police will be target­ing speed, seatbelts, illegal mobile phone use and motorcyclists not wearing helmets. For more information, visit: bit.ly/3TIvBb5

Forbes Family History Group Inc: Un­derneath the Oxley Bridge, a series of vibrant Aboriginal artworks adorn the pil­lars. Each painting tells a unique story, from people and land, drought, night and the serenity of the river. While there is no specific information about the individual artists involved, their work is a beautiful and meaningful representation of the lo­cal area. If you have any information about the artists who contributed to this wonder­ful project, please feel free to share. The link will take you to the full set of paintings. https://streetartcities.com/cities/forbes

Taronga Western Plains Zoo: Calling all teachers – want free Zoo entry for your family? Join us on Friday, 11th October, for Taronga’s Teacher Open Day! Explore the Zoo, discover our unique wild education programs, and enjoy unforgettable animal encounters. For information contact edu­cation@zoo.nsw.gov.au

Forbes Art Society: Artists of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the Forbes Arts Society’s Painting Group. The group meets each Thursday at Northside Chapel, between 11am and 3pm. The cost is $5 per week which includes morning tea. Bring along your own art supplies. For more information, reach out via hello@forbesartssociety.com

Earlier this month, members of the Forbes Arts Society Painting Group participated in a two-day workshop hosted by Colin Darley of Currumbene Art Studio.

Be Alert This Bushfire Season

October 3, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Farming communities across NSW are en­couraged to stay alert to fire risks as the state’s rural Bush Fire Danger Period be­gins today.

NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee member Garry Grant said the danger pe­riod is set to be in force until at least 31 March, with landholders urged to remain vigilant.

“If you’re planning on lighting an open fire anytime soon, it’s also critical that you seek a Fire Permit and notify your local fire authorities and neighbours well before you burn.

“Awareness, preparedness and commu­nication will be key to stopping bushfires in their tracks this summer, so we can all stay safe.”

Residents in rural communities across the state are encouraged to prepare them­selves for this year’s bushfire season, Mr Grant said, with a few simple measures critical to ensuring safety during a bushfire event.

“Downloading the Hazards Near Me NSW app is an easy way to stay up to date with fires that are in your region or other regions if you’re travelling around the state this summer,” Mr Grant said.

“Bushfires always spread faster than we think they will, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Forty Per Cent Of Women From Western Nsw Overdue For Breast Screening

October 3, 2024 by Roxane Manley

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, women aged 50-74 from Western NSW Local Health District are being urged to book in for a free mammogram, with more than 40 (41.4) percent of women in the region overdue for their two-yearly breast cancer screening.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BreastScreen NSW is also encouraging women to Be A Friend, Tell A Friend about the importance of having regular mammograms. Be A Friend, Tell A Friend encourages word of mouth and social media promotion among women to their friends, family and colleagues about the need to have regular mammograms.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women with age and being female the biggest risk factors – not family history. Wom­en aged 50 – 74 years are recommended to have a breast screen every two years.

BreastScreen NSW recommends Aboriginal women start screening at 40 years, with evidence showing that they are diag­nosed with breast cancer at a younger age, have more advanced cancer at diagnosis and poorer survival rates compared to the overall female population.

Any woman who has noticed a change in their breasts, like a lump, should see their doctor without delay. Make breast screen­ing a priority. It only takes 20 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed.

For more information and to make an appointment at a local BreastScreen NSW clinic or mobile van, you can call 13 20 50 or book online at www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.

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