Articles Archives - Page 59 of 412

Be Road Ready For Harvest Field Day

August 1, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Attendees at the 2023 pre-harvest field day.

Farmers, contract harvesters, truck drivers, transport companies, pilots and agricultural machinery retailers are invited to attend this year’s Be Road Ready for Harvest Field Day on Thursday 8th August at the Forbes Central West Livestock Exchange.

Breakfast will be provided from 7.30am, with the official program kicking off at 8am.

There will be a hands-on machinery display and other interactive activities from 10.30am.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said that this year’s event will focus on the rules and regulations for safely and legally moving agricultural vehicles, combinations and trucks on the road.

“This year we will discuss conditional registration, notices, access, fatigue, load restraint and much more. There will be a deep dive into dimensions, signage and other travel conditions.

“Safety and compliance during harvest is very important. Operators need to be aware of their responsibilities and ensure that all warning devices and travel requirements are adhered to.”

Registration is free but spaces are limited.

Register via the Parkes, Forbes or Lachlan Shire Councils’ Facebook pages or this link: https://forms.office.com/r/akBJumLfwD

“We’ll also be running four satellite events to provide the same information to more farmers across the three local government areas. You can register for these events using the above link,” Ms Suitor said.

The satellite events will be held on:

• Tuesday 27th August at Tottenham War Memorial Hal, 7.30am – 10.15am

• Wednesday 28th August at the Parkes Show Farmer’s Day, 1.30pm – 3.45pm

• Thursday 29th August at Wirrinya Community Hall, 7.30am – 10.15am

• Friday 30th August at Bogan Gate Memorial Hall, 7.30am – 10.15am

Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme

August 1, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Have you seen the Parkes Trishaw getting around town with happy passengers?

Neighbourhood Central’s Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) is teaming up with Cycling Without Age, Parkes Trishaw, to help continue reducing social isolation for the elderly in Parkes.

Most locals would be familiar with the sight of the Parkes Trishaw taking passengers sightseeing around our beautiful town. Cycling Without Age is a not-for-profit charity that connects those no longer able to ride for themselves with the Parkes community, by providing free rides on trishaw ebikes, piloted by amazing volunteer cyclists.

The aim is to bring something to the elderly that they may no longer be able to do, all while creating meaningful friendships.

The ACVVS is a free program that supports volunteer visits to provide friendship and companionship to older people. Visits are available to anyone receiving government-subsidised residential aged care or Home Care Package (HCP) services who are socially isolated or lonely. This includes care recipients approved or on the National Priority System.

ACVVS accepts referrals from aged care service providers, health professionals, family members and friends. Older people can also refer themselves. While the program excludes those accessing services from the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), we have all bases covered, as Neighbourhood Central can help through our Social Support (Individual and Group) aged care services.

Neighbourhood Central are also in need of more volunteers across both Parkes and Forbes. If you would like to brighten the days of older people as a valued volunteer, you are invited to join us as we bring this opportunity to those who need a visitor. If you would like any further information, to request a visitor, or know of someone who would benefit from this service, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with Brooke at Neighbourhood Central on phone: 1300 810 771 or email: admin@ncentral.org.au

New Parkes Roundabout To Be Biggest In The Central West

July 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

NSW Labor’s Duty MLC for Orange Stephen Lawrence said “The Parkes Bypass is a project that will provide improve road safety, reduce travel times and increase efficiencies for the freight industry.

The biggest roundabout in central west New South Wales will be built on Condobolin road as a key feature of the Parkes Bypass.

The Newell Highway bypass of Parkes has been in planning for decades to alleviate the constant flow of heavy freight vehicles and visitor traffic passing through the town.

The Australian Government is contributing $229.7 million to the $287.2 million project, with the remaining contribution being made by the NSW Government.

The project is part of the $1.5 billion investment from the Australian and NSW governments into the Newell Highway Corridor, with the Australian Government committing $1.1 billion.

State Member for Orange Phil Donato said “It’s fantastic to see this once in a generation Parkes Bypass project progressing.

“Also importantly, this project is not only delivering road and transport benefits — it’s also supporting 350 jobs and injecting vital funds into small businesses in Parkes and the broader Central West region, which is bouncing back stronger than ever after unprecedented floods.”

Construction work to build the new 98-metre-diameter roundabout started during the July school holidays.

The large roundabout – which will allow motorists to travel at 80 km/h – will also feature a large sculpture in its centre, which has been designed in collaboration with Parkes Shire Council.

Motorists will be detoured around the site during work. For further information on the Parkes Bypass you can visit www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/parkes-bypass

Snippets…

July 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Natasha Maclaren-Jones, Dianne Scott (Executive Officer), Shonel Redfern and Mel Evans (Family Support).

Neighbourhood Central: Neighbourhood Central hosted The Hon Natasha Maclaren-Jones MLC to their head office in Parkes.

Natasha is the Shadow Minister for Families and Communities, Disability Inclusion, Homelessness and Youth. The Family Support team provide events and services such as Parkes Paint the Town REaD, literacy events, supported playgroups, Boori Easter community event at Peak Hill, supported parenting programs, youth groups and case management. The Neighbourhood Centre at Parkes and the Community Hub at Peak Hill are vital resources for community support and information.

Galari – River – Arts Forbes Inc: “Community” & “Friendly”…says it all! Every Wednesday we’ve been meeting at Club Forbes.We thoroughly appreciate the space and assistance provided to us during our planning journey this year. Established in 1918; Club Forbes’ commitment to the Forbes community is truly embedded. Support the club that supports our town.

Rural Women’s Network: Do you want to learn how to capture your audience’s attention through compelling videos? Don’t miss out on the next TAFE NSW – Women in Business webinar, Social Media Video Strategies for Success. Wednesday 31st July, 12pm-1pm. Hosted by digital marketing expert Laura Prael, who was the recent winner of two prestigious Business NSW

awards, Outstanding Business Leader, 2022 – regional and state titles and Excellence in Small Business, 2022 and 2023 – regional title. Register now at https://www.tafenswevents.com.au/event/women-inbusiness—social-media-video-strategiesfor-success-e8539

Forbes Shire Council: If you are looking for a Council donation or sponsorship (both in-kind or cash contribution) towards a project or event, Council’s Community Funding round is open, closing on 31st July. For more information https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au or contact Council’s Community Relations Officer on 6850 2300 or community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Central West Farming Systems: GRDC Harvester SetUp Workshops are back.

Registrations open now for the Tichborne GRDC Harvester SetUp workshop. Learn practical advice to increase harvest efficiency, minimise grain losses and prevent fire.

Free and catered event, Thursday 5th September. Register at http://bit.ly/43vWe52

Forbes Magpies Junior Rugby League: The GUYS catch up is back on Sunday 28th July from 7:30am at the Boys to the Bush Office by the Lake in Forbes. Come along for ice baths, connections and breathwork.

Less Than One Week To Go To Have Your Say On Telecommunications Issues

July 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Australians living and working in regional, rural and remote communities have under a week to have their say on telecommunications issues as part of the Australian Government’s Regional Telecommunications Review.

The Hon Alannah MacTiernan, Chair, Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee, has urged people to spread the word about the Review to friends, family and colleagues across regional Australia before it closes on Wednesday 31st July at 11:59pm.

People can have their say in a number of ways:

1. Making a submission online, or in writing to: Regional Telecommunications Review, GPO Box 594, CANBERRA ACT 2601

2. Completing a short survey which takes 10 minutes.

Previous Reviews have led to policy initiatives and programs such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the National Audit of Mobile Coverage; all a result of community feedback.

For information on the Review, making a submission, or completing the survey, visit https://www.rtirc.gov.au/consultation

GRDC Urges Growers To Assess Farm Silos Ahead Of Harvest

July 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

GRDC grain storage specialist Chris Warrick is encouraging growers to consider if silos are safe and fit for purpose. Photo: Brenton Vanstone.

A series of high-risk incidents involving the collapse of on-farm silos has industry experts calling on grain growers across the country to assess and either maintain or decommission older silos.

Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) grain storage extension team specialist Chris Warrick offered the warning in the wake of several serious, on-farm incidents involving the collapse of silos.

“Growers should be aware that the northern and western sides of silos often have lower moisture, with higher moisture in the southern side of the silo.

“This can present risks when out loading with the dry side generally emptying first in the worst-case scenario this can lead to silo collapse.”

In addition to structural integrity, Mr Warrick encouraged growers to consider safe operation as part of the assessment.

“Whether it be for maintenance or monitoring grain, access to the top of silos is necessary so safe access is a requirement,” he said.

“Many older silos have unsafe ladders, some silos have been purchased without ladders, so the decision is to install safe ladders or an elevated walkway or use a mobile boom lift. Silos being fit for purpose includes a safe way to access the top.”

GRDC has all of the information resources available via storedgrain.com.au with the national team of grain storage specialists available by phoning 1800 WEEVIL.

Nominate A Local Hero That Needs Support

July 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Do you know of a community member who deserves recognition and support? If you do, we encourage you to nominate them to win free Jim’s Group services.

Aussies are doing it tough at the moment.

The cost-of-living crisis is hurting a lot of people and yet despite this many people continue to soldier on helping out others across the local community demonstrating incredible kindness, fortitude and selflessness.

Jim Penman, founder and head of the nation’s largest franchise group, the Jim’s Group, wants to help our nation’s local heroes and he has launched a Local Heroes Program to give back to people who are struggling and acknowledge and reward them for their incredible contributions to the community.

The Jim’s Local Heroes Program is an extraordinary initiative that will give away over $100k worth of services this year to struggling Aussies across the country. The program is being delivered nationwide with members of the community invited to nominate a local hero who is doing it tough and deserves recognition and support.

The program officially kicked off in Melbourne and is now being rolled out across the entire country. Local heroes will receive any type of Jim’s Group service that they need. Every week, one winner will receive up to $2,000 worth of Jim’s Services. The program is being described as life changing.

“We are proud to help out Aussies in need and we are calling on people to nominate a local hero who deserves a helping hand and would benefit from the donation of Jim’s Group services,” Penman said.

“The Jim’s Group comprises over 50 divisions including lawn mowing, cleaning, painting, bathroom renovations and plumbing, landscaping and much more. With our broad and wonderful range of highly rated services and amazing group of franchisees, we are looking forward to helping out Aussies in need.”

The giveaway also includes Jim’s Healthcare services which launched this month.

Nominations are now open for the community to nominate via https://jims.net/jimslocalheroes/

Farmers Urged To Reach Out For Help

July 18, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Australia’s most trusted rural charity is encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance this Farm Safety Week. “This year’s Farm Safety Week theme is ‘in safe hands’,” Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said.

“Rural Aid’s mission is to stand with farmers when they need it most. We’re encouraging farmers to register with Rural Aid, so that our organisation and its passionate donors, can support farmers’ wellbeing and safety with a hand-up.”

Rural Aid’s range of assistance measures help farmers improve their lives and businesses before, during and after disaster events – be it drought, bushfire or flood.

“Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing team do a fantastic job of heading on-farm to chat with primary producers, at no cost to the farmer,” Mr Warlters said.

Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager, Myf Pitcher, said it takes strength to reach out for help.

“We want farmers to treat themselves as their most precious business asset and be open to receiving help with their busy workload,” Ms Pitcher said.

“Registering with Rural Aid means we can support farmers when they need it, now or in the future, and it helps us support rural communities as well.”

To register, visit www.ruralaid.org.au or call 1300 327 624.

NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show Is Back Again For 2024

July 18, 2024 by Roxane Manley

NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show committee members Andrew Kerr, Amy Slessor, Paul Bennett, Alistair Lunn, Ian Bartholomaeus, Judy Kerr, Adam McGregor, Janine Whitfield, Karryn McGregor, Pierre Dalle, Martine Dalle, Mark Watts, Jenny Watts and Paul Kay with the entries at the 2023 show.

The NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show has entries rolling in for the 32nd annual event. Entries close next week, and the committee is expecting another great show with similar numbers of wines to be entered as last year.

President Mark Watts said there were also a number of wineries who hadn’t entered previously entering this year. “We are really looking forward to another successful event,” Mark said.

Mark Richardson is returning as chair of judges and judging will take place from Monday 19 August to Wednesday 21st August at the Forbes Town Hall.

The NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show finishes with the Public Tasting held on Friday 23 August from 6.30pm at the Forbes Town Hall.

All the wines entered in the show will be available for patrons to taste and finger food will be provided. Tickets are $30 per person.

The next event is the Gourmet Wine Dinner, which will also be held at the Forbes Town Hall and celebrates the trophy winners of the show.

The dinner will be held Saturday 21st September from 7pm with a four-course meal catered by Eat Your Greens featuring trophy winning wines to complement the meal.

Tickets for this event are $130 per person.

If you purchase your tickets to both events in the same transaction, you will receive a $10 discount, making attending both events $150 per person.

Tickets are available at https://www.123tix.com.au/events/44190/nsw-small-winemakers-wine-show

Snippets…

July 18, 2024 by Roxane Manley

This exciting new project at the Parkes Golf Club couldn’t happen without the support from local business and members.

Parkes Golf Club: For those wondering what’s happening at the Parkes Golf Club, they are currently building a new driving range. A huge thanks to the David Thomson McPhersons Parts & Service and Bernard and Matt McCabe Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete, Nathan Munday Builder and Western Temporary Fencing along with our hard working members Rob Staples, Lindsay Elliott, and Bill Bourke.

Forbes Shire Council: Learn essential first aid skills with Forbes Community Recovery Officers and expert Jack Barnes. From CPR on babies and children to handling snake bites, choking, allergies, and asthma, this interactive 2-hour session has got you covered. Morning tea and lunch will be provided. This event hosted during Forbes Playgroup will be held Thursday, 25th July, 10:30am – 12:30pm at Forbes Youth and Community Centre, Battye St, Forbes. Register now and save a life https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx.

Australian Rail Track Corporation Ltd. – ARTC: Do you have children and live near our rail network? ARTC are taking expressions of interest for primary schools interested in having ARTC team members come and educate children about safe behaviour around the rail corridor – we even have a cool animation to show! If you are interested, please the expressions of interest form and we’ll be in touch: bit.ly/3zIdGtT

Parkes Shire Libraries: Each weekday afternoon during school holidays, Parkes Library’s Nintendo Switch can be booked by children and youth for a fun game with friends and family. Book your hourly session by calling Parkes Library on 6861 2309. Please note: children under 10 must be supervised by an adult.

Cancer Council NSW: Thousands of passionate fundraisers will be supporting cancer research this Daffodil Day, 22nd August. Will you be one of them? Fundraise any way you want – at work, online, in your community: wear yellow, take the daffodil day dip, hold an event. Visit www.daffodilday.com.au to learn more.

Forbes Neighbourhood Watch: Your community needs you. The benefits of volunteering include new skills and valuable work experience, making new friends, better physical and mental health and wellbeing, giving something back, improving your confidence, sense of connection to others in the community, and improving how things work for the better. Show your commitment and come along every second Wednesday 6.30pm at the Vandenberg Hotel. All are welcome.

Come along to the next Forbes Neighbourhood Watch meeting on 14th August at the Vandenberg Hotel at the new time of 6.30pm.

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