• Home
  • Articles
    • Front Page
    • General Interest
    • Snippets
    • Letters to the Editor
    • Council Comments
  • Special Interests
  • Our Community
    • Our People
    • Question of the Week
    • Jobs in the Central West
    • Be Seen
    • What’s On
    • What’s Hot
  • Features
    • Women in Business
    • Rural Round Up
    • My Place
    • Loving Local Living
    • Wellness Wise
    • Just a Short Drive
    • Real Estate
  • Sports
    • Bowls
    • Cricket
    • Equestrian
    • Footy Tips
    • Golf
    • Netball
    • Rugby League
    • Rugby Union
    • Soccer
    • Touch Football
  • Classifieds
  • Competitions
  • Contact Us
    • Contact Page
    • Advertise with us
    • Testimonials
    • Submit an Article
    • Subscribe to the Forbes Phoenix

Forbes Phoenix

Author And Illustrator Of All Things Weird And Wonderful

May 2, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Sami Bayly is pictured with children who took part in a workshop at Trundle Library.

Parkes Shire Libraries had the pleasure during April school holidays of hosting Illustration Workshops with author and illustrator, Sami Bayly.

Nearly 50 children and young people at Parkes and Trundle Libraries enjoyed hearing some fascinating, fun, and revolting facts from Sami’s vast knowledge of animals, birds and insects. Sami then walked our young library members step by step through the process of illustrating different interesting animals.

Sami’s works include The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals and Creatures of Camouflage and Mimicry. She is also the feature artist for the 2024 NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge promotion.

This was Sami;s very first visit to the Central West and many young fans were excited to meet her, have a photo and have their books autographed. Call in to Parkes and Trundle Libraries to borrow Sami’s beautifully illustrated Junior Non Fiction books.

One young person who attended commented that the workshops were “very unique and gave a lot of information about what is in the world.” Another said “My favourite part of the activity was hearing the disgusting stories, but I didn’t think they were disgusting!”

Sami commented that she had a fun and joyous trip to Parkes and Trundle and will be sure to visit again. “I really had a wonderful time!” she said.

These illustration workshops were generously funded by NSW Office of Regional Youth for the benefit of young people in regional and remote communities. Keep an eye out for more children and youth activities hosted by Parkes Shire Libraries.

Snippets

April 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

If you need someone to talk to or just someone to listen, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Lifeline Central West

If this week’s news events are causing you distress, it is really important you speak to someone about how you feel.

Please call us on 13 11 14 and speak to one of our telephone crisis supporters who canrefer you to the services you need. We are here to listen.

You can find some self help guides here https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/topics/trauma/about-trauma

1800RESPECT

If you are supporting someone who has experienced domestic, family and sexual violence, it is important to know that you do not have to be an expert, or have all of the answers.

If you know someone who has experienced domestic, family and sexual violence, let them know they are not alone – 1800RESPECT is available for support.

Call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text on 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services

Forbes Sports Person of the Year

Association

The next regular meeting of the Forbes Sportsperson of the Year Awards is scheduled for Thursday 2 May commencing 5:30pm at Club Forbes. All Welcome

Kerin Health

Hey Forbes,Swimming lessons available – Book your child’s place.

We have just released our new classes for swimming lessons and now is your chance to grab a spot and keep the momentum going for your child’s swimming skills.

Swimming lessons for Term 2 will be held at the Forbes Indoor Heated Pool, commencing on May 6th running for an 8 week term.

Swipe to see the class times by ag group!

Book online to reserve you spot now! Head to this link https://linktr.ee/kerinhealth

Parkes Shire Libraries

Please remember, that in order to complete a thorough stocktake and keep our service running smoothly, that Parkes Library will be closed next Tuesday, 30th April. Thank you for your understanding.

Flannery’s Pharmacy

We’re giving away ONE Phillips Air Fryer and JBL Speaker for lucky mothers in our community this Mother’s Day.

Simply come in store and tell us in 25 words or less why your mum (or motherly figure) is the best and deserves something extra special.

Competition starts today, and ends 6/05/2024.

T&Cs apply. Ask in store for more details

Country Women’s Association of NSW

Today CWA of NSW turns 102! After many years of supporting communities, we’re still going strong today.

We have a proud history but we’re not slowing down yet. Find out what you can do at your local branch: https://www.cwaofnsw.org.au/branches

Forbes High School

Yoorana Gunya Girls Empowerment Group.

In Week 11 for their last group, the girls headed to Revolution Aerial, an aerial fitness studio in Orange. Under the expert guidance of their instructor, they learned various aerial poses and manoeuvres, feeling exhilarated as they challenged their strength and flexibility. They then enjoyed a delicious lunch at Smoking Brothers / Elwood’s Eatery and a game of Ten Pin bowling. Thank you Yoorana Gunya for a fantastic term.

Pictured are the Yoorana Gunya Girls Empowerment Group.

Double Demerits Are In Force

April 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Speeding, fatigue and drink and drug driving remain the biggest killers on NSW roads and the NSW Police Force will be out in numbers ensuring that if you do the wrong thing.

Shadow Minister for Police and the NSW Police Force are advising motorists that double demerits came into force for ANZAC Day and will continue over the weekend.

Double demerits began Wednesday morning, 24 April, at 12:01am and end at 11:59pm on Sunday 28 April.

Higher fines and double demerit points will apply for those offences committed such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence or using a mobile phone illegally.

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole said there will be a focus on drink and drug driving.

“If you plan on drinking, don’t drive, make a plan B. Leave the car at home and use public transport.”

It’s anticipated many residents of NSW will stretch the ANZAC Day public holiday into a long weekend by taking Friday off work. It is also the final weekend of school holidays. This will result in higher traffic on roads across the state.

“The ANZAC Day public holiday coincides with the end of school holidays, and we anticipate a very busy few days on our roads,” Mr Toole said.

“Every time that you get behind the wheel of a car, please be responsible and think of those passengers in the car with you and other motorists on our roads so that everyone is able to reach their destination.

Connectivity Issues Spotlighted

April 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Communities across regional, rural, and remote Australia can now have their say on telecommunications issues as public submissions open on the Regional Telecommunications Review.

The input of local communities will form an essential part of the Review – held once every three years – which will see the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee deliver recommendations to Government.

The Review is closely examining the experiences of people in regional, rural, and remote parts of Australia with telecommunications delivery, as well as considering the unique needs of First Nations communities.

Residents, businesses and community organisations can make a submission, with the Terms of Reference – announced by Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP – outlining key issues for the Committee to examine. An issues paper has been released to help frame ideas.

Feedback from the public has been essential in previous reviews to ensure the Committee’s recommendations are well-targeted and based on evidence. For this Review there are three options available to have your say: attending a face-to-face consultation, providing a formal submission or completing a survey. The survey will be published in May 2024.

Since March 2024, the Committee has visited Western Australia and Tasmania for face-to-face consultations with local issues also forming an important part of the Committee’s considerations. More locations for face-to-face consultations will be announced shortly.

The 2024 Review is being led by the Hon Alannah MacTiernan, former Western Australian Minister for Regional Development as Chair of the Review Committee. She is supported by the Hon Fiona Nash, Ms Kristy Sparrow, Dr Jessa Rogers and Mr Ian Kelly.

To have your say just visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/2024- regional-telecommunications-review

Chair, the Hon Alannah MacTiernan went on to say “Access to telecommunications services is critical for regional residents and businesses across so many aspects of everyday life – and we want to understand the lived experience of these services so that future policy actions are well-targeted and backed up by evidence.

“We really encourage Australians in the bush to have their say via a submission or completing the survey in coming months, while we continue our face-to-face consultations across the country.

‘Waiting For Rain’ Finds New Home In Forbes Town Centre

April 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured is the sculpture “Waiting For Rain” and the artist Jimmy Rix. For more information, visit www.sculpturedownthelachan.com

The latest addition to the Sculpture Down the Lachlan public art trail has found a green oasis in the heart of Forbes to call home.

‘Waiting for Rain’ is now permanently located on the intersection of Rankin and Lachlan Streets (formerly known as the Pitt Stop takeaway site). The site has been transformed into a public greenspace in recent months.

Forbes Arts Society Chairperson, Trudy Mallick commended Forbes Shire Council for integrating the sculpture into its plans for the site and helping to make public art more accessible.

“Locals and visitors now have a greater opportunity to engage with world-class sculpture,” Trudy said.

“Art in public spaces plays an important role in regional communities. Public art provides economic, cultural and social benefits, and improves the aesthetic and overall experience of the built civic environment.”

Made from Corten steel and enamel paint, ‘Waiting for Rain’ represents the importance of seasonal rainfall for farming communities. Sculptor Jimmy Rix was compelled to create the piece following a trip to Forbes in 2018 amidst the then drought.

‘Waiting for Rain’ is Jimmy’s second sculpture to feature along the Sculpture Down the Lachlan trail; ‘Road Kill’ is located at the 4 Mile Reserve, and was unveiled in 2021.

The Sculpture Down the Lachlan expansion is part of the $7.2 million ‘Boosting the Lachlan Valley Economy Art Project’ which is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund, the Forbes Arts Society, Forbes Shire Council, Lachlan Shire Council and Evolution Mining.

Five Tips For Growing High-Vigour Canola Seed

April 25, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The Five tips for growing high-vigour canola seed is available on the NSW DPI website at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/broadacre-crops/winter-crops/canola-and-safflower/five-tips-for-growing-high-vigour-canola-seed

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) has released a new publication called Five tips for growing high-vigour canola seed to support producers using grower-retained seed for their canola establishment.

The publication outlines the key steps identified in a joint investment project between NSW DPI and Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) to improve seed vigour.

Colin McMaster, NSW DPI Research and Development Agronomist said how growers manage this year’s seed-crop could well determine the success of next year’s establishment and financial return.

“The margin of error in establishing canola is much smaller than it used to be, as we are now sowing less seeds, it is costing growers more money, and we are placing those seeds in more hostile seed-beds due to earlier sowing.

“Canola seed has less energy reserves than larger-seeded crops and, as a result, is more sensitive to poor establishment across a range of seasonal conditions and agronomic management practices.

“Research and field surveys have identified that growers often only establish half of what is sown, and if the autumn break was less favourable its likely to be much less,” said Mr McMaster.

To reduce financial risk, some growers in the low to medium rainfall zone use open-pollinated (OP) canola varieties because the seed is cheap to buy, and it will grow true to the parent crop.

These traits allow growers to confidently retain seed which can increase flexibility and reduce financial risk within the farming system, for example, if sowing conditions are marginal then seeding rates can be increased, or in the event of a failed establishment growers can spray out for an alternative option.

The guide also covers other agronomic factors to improve canola establishment including reduced sowing speed, adequate fertiliser separation from the seed, reducing stubble loads and shallow/uniform seed placement.

All Ages Podiatry & Mobility – Now Open 5 Days

April 18, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured is Karen Thompson, pop down to 89 Lachlan St, Forbes and say hi.’

After 8 years of providing podiatry services to Forbes, Parkes and surrounding towns, All Ages Podiatry is now offering a wide range of mobility equipment, and as such has been rebranded All Ages Podiatry & Mobility.

The mobility showroom and podiatry clinic at 89 Lachlan Street, Forbes is now open weekdays from 9am-4pm.

Along with this new offering comes a new face who may be familiar to some. Karen Thompson has now joined the team and will be operating the mobility store. Karen has lived in Parkes for over 50 years and was previously a Senior Service Advisor with a local home care provider. With years of experience in health and aged care, Karen’s knowledge will be an asset to the community.

“We’re excited to make mobility equipment more accessible to the Forbes community! From walkers and shower chairs to mobility scooters, recliner lift chairs and adjustable beds, we know that Forbes is going to benefit from having access to these aids all in one place right on their doorstep,” Mrs Thompson said.

Studies show that a lifestyle that is too sedentary can lead to a number of chronic conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. A mobility scooter can help you to maintain your mobility and independence as you age. With added accessories such as cane holders and rear walker holders, you can ride to your favourite park or waterfront, and park your scooter while you go for a walk. Visit our website to view our range of scooters and scooter accessories or phone 02 4396 5179 to enquire today! https://allagespodiatry.com.au/product-category/scooters/

“We have a range of equipment available for hire, and we will be offering delivery to Forbes, Parkes, and surrounding towns.”

To contact the store or to book a podiatry appointment, phone 02 6815 7123.

Snippets

April 18, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured out the front of the new Craft Corner premises is from left to right Sue Ridley, Craig Holmgreen and Liz Mulligan.

Craft Corner

Craft Corner would like to Welcome everyone to visit our new bright and roomy shop at 237 Clarinda St Parkes. (between the Butcher and Arnold’s).

Craft Corner showcases local arts and crafts. We are a not-for-profit run organisation staffed by a dedicated group of members and volunteers.

Located centrally at 237 Clarinda St Parkes. Take the time to come and browse our wonderful handcrafted items. We would like to thank our members and many others who helped us make the enormous task of moving so much easier. Craft Corner Parkes, Phone 68621034 Email – parkescraftcorner@gmail.com

Forbes Rugby Union Club

RUGBY IS BACK. Round one of the Blowes Cup this weekend sees our Men and Women head to Cowra to take on the Eagles. Colts will head to Mudgee to play their opening match of the season against the Wombats. Get out and about to support the mighty Platypi.

Parkes Leagues Club

School Holiday Fun at Parkes Leagues Club: Kids Bingo this Sunday, April 21st, at 2 PM!

Join us for a lively game of Kids Bingo where you can get a free book when you purchase one for $2. Choose between easy-to-use tablets or traditional paper books for a great time

Local Land Services NSW

Looking for somewhere to camp these school holidays? Camping on Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs) can damage vegetation and habitats and lead to rubbish dumping. Be sure not to set up camp on a TSR. If you’re not sure where your local TSRs are located, you can contact your nearest Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299 to find out. There are some beautiful places to camp in NSW, to find a spot, visit https:// bit.ly/3vDHWEW

Parkes Musical & Dramatic

Society

A few good tickets have been released for this Sundays matinee. Get in quick. The season is selling very quickly with over 75% of all tickets sold already www.parkesmandd.com.au.

Box office is open from 10.30am each Sunday and one hour prior to every performance.

Kerin Health

Term 2 Pilates is now open for bookings. Next term kicks off on Monday 6th May, running for 9 weeks across our Forbes and Parkes studio locations.

Good news – You loved the introduction of Matwork Pilates classes last term, so we’re bringing these classes back for Term 2, PLUS – We’re launching a special new class this term!

For more info, and details on the men’s pilates class – head to our website to read more.

To book your place in Term 2, you can book online via our website (link in bio) or you can call us directly on 0437 746 749

Forbes Youth Action Team

#CHILLFEST2024 Calling all food vendors with a passion for flavour and a knack for events! It’s time to showcase your talents at ChillFest. Applications close on April 30th. If you’re ready to be part of an unforgettable Forbes weekend, this is your chance to shine.

Are you a food Vendor – Apply now to set up at Chillfest 2024.

Parkes Painting Group Annual Art Exhibition Opening Night

April 18, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Three of the paintings that will be on display, from the following local artists from left to right Joan Ash, Carole Lowe and Kerry Davies.

Tonight, Friday April 19th, is the Opening of the Annual Art Exhibition from the Parkes Painting Group. The Parkes Painting Group have now been going for 22 years and the exhibition is a display of 23 artists from the group and also 12 potters from the Parkes Potters group.

This year there will be a special guest artist, Glenn Morton, who has brought along 14 paintings to display in his section of the exhibition. Parkes Painters have previously done a number of workshops with Glenn and Glenn also judged the art section of the last Parkes Show as well. Glenn is a professional artist and not only are we lucky to have him involved this year, but Glenn has kindly donated a piece of artwork which has been mounted and framed and it is the prize for the raffle that will run over the entire two weeks of the exhibition.

The exhibition kicks off with the opening tonight, from 6pm – 9pm, the cost is $20 (Pay at the door) and the cost includes wine and nibbles. For atmosphere we will have Steve Lyndsay on Piano and Mayor Niel Westcott will be delivering the Opening night speech. but then runs for another two weeks from Saturday 20th of April up until Sunday 5th of May. The exhibition is being held in the Coventry Room at the Parkes Library, open Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm and Saturday – Sunday 10am – 3pm. All are welcome to come along and entry is free after opening night.

Snippets

April 11, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured: Karen from Parkes Que Club together with PECC Teacher Michelle, PECC preschooler Codie & PECC Director Amii.

Parkes Early Childhood Centre Inc

Many thanks to Parkes Que Club Inc for your ongoing support towards our PECC Speech and Language Program. Your commitment to helping us to achieve best outcomes for our PECC children is greatly appreciated.

Central West Police District

Are you looking for a new career? Central West Police District is a great place to live and work.

And there are now even more reasons to join the NSW Police Force! You’ll be paid $30,000 as a recruit, and upon graduation receive a starting salary of over $80,000 plus allowances. If you’re ready to explore over 100 different career paths, start your application today https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment

Forbes Medicine & Mind

We are now taking bookings for flu vaccination clinics in April, Wed 17th (school holidays spots for kids) Tue 30th. To book 6852 2667 – appointments are limited.

Parkes Jockey Club

Expressions of Interest – Market Stalls

Parkes Jockey Club are currently taking Expressions of Interest from market stall holders wishing to secure a site at our Parkes Cup meeting on Sunday 19th May. Further info & EOI form can be accessed via the following link https://bit.ly/4aNaTgA

Forbes Youth Action Team

FYAT Presents: Forbes Drive in Movie

Join us on Friday 12 April at the Ski Dam for our Drive In Movie to kick off Youth Week watching TAG. Tickets Available per vehicle at https://www.123tix.com.au/events/42877/forbes-drive-in-movie Gates Open at 6pm for the movie to start at 7. FYAT will be giving out popcorn. You can even bring your own snacks if you wish. This event is funded by the Office for Regional Youth’s Holiday Break Program.

NSW Government

Stay up to date with all current warnings through the Hazards Near Me app – bit.ly/HazardsNearMeApp OR visit The Bureau’s website: bit.ly/BOMWeatherSummary.

If you live, work or regularly travel in a flash flood area, there may be no official warning for flash floods.

Stay out of rising water, look for safety in the highest available place.

Prevent damage to your vehicle. Move it under cover, away from areas likely to flood.

Avoid being swept away. Stay out of fast-flowing creeks and storm drains.

Never drive, ride or walk through flood water. Flood water can be deceptive and dangerous.

In life threatening emergencies, call 000 (triple zero) immediately.

If you require rescue, assistance to evacuate or other emergency help, call the NSW SES on 132 500.

Trundle ABBA Festival

Mamma Mia, here we go again. Tickets and camping for Trundle ABBA Festival 2024 went on sale from 10am on Saturday 6 April. Stay tuned for more info and don’t forget to sign up to our newsletter: bit.ly/TrundleABBAnews

Lachlan Valley Vets Forbes/Grenfell

Introducing our amazing new vet Dr. Ayla.

Ayla is off a farm in Hamilton Victoria and studied at JCU Townsville, graduating at the end of 2023. Ayla loves all animals great and small, with a special interest in sheep medicine.

Please give a warm welcome to Dr Ayla.

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 76
  • 77
  • 78
  • 79
  • 80
  • …
  • 424
  • Next Page »

Click here to download the recent issue (202) of The Forbes & Parkes Phoenix (1.9MB PDF) – 14th August 2026

SEARCH THE PHOENIX

STAY CONNECTED

The Forbes Phoenix would like to thank you, our Facebook friends, for your continued support and readership!

Recent Articles

  • Disability Inclusion Matters In Central West NSW August 20, 2026
  • Mayoral Notes August 20, 2026
  • Snippets… August 20, 2026
  • Forbes Garden Club Report August 20, 2026
  • Protecting Our Environment And Agriculture August 20, 2026

Phoenix Office 7/113-127 Rankin Street, Forbes NSW 2871

Editor 0432 337 278
editor@forbesphoenix.com.au

Sales 0432 337 278
sales@forbesphoenix.com.au

View our Privacy Policy. View our Conflict Resolution Process. View our Ethics and Complaints Policy. Want to advertise with us? Information on our Community Promotions.

We are always looking for new articles of interest to the local community.

Please feel free to submit an article for possible inclusion in a future issue.

To submit an article, click here to use our online article submission form.

Subscribe

* indicates required

Copyright © 2026 · Magazine Pro Theme On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

nsw government logo

The Forbes Phoenix's Digital Diversification of Free Regional Media project is proudly funded by the NSW Government Regional Media Fund