Articles Archives - Page 81 of 424

Snippets

March 14, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Tickets available from Shire council offices.

Forbes Seniors Variety Concert

The New South Wales Seniors Festival 2024 concludes on Sunday 24th March with the Seniors Variety concert in Forbes Town hall commencing at 2.00pm. Performances by Tapestry – Acapella ensemble, James Whalan – Tenor, Kimberly Ryan – Soprano, Muriel Lancaster – organist and Forbes U3A Singers led by Elaine Huckel. M C will be Alison Lockhart. The entry donation is directed to GIVIT a Forbes Shire council administered organisation to benefit those suffering from natural disasters in the community. The afternoon tea is not to be missed.

Parkes Shire Council

Don’t forget to take part in NetWaste’s Community Waste Survey, and help us to better understand community knowledge of and satisfaction with Council’s waste services and facilities.

The survey will close this Friday 15 March, and can be found here: surveymonkey.com/r/PLF6RVL

For more information, visit bit.ly/4bT63Q0

Beyond Blue

Despite it’s importance to our physical and mental health, less than half of the people in Australia feel a strong sense of belonging.

Journaling is a mindful, judgement-free activity where you can unpack your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. We’ve developed five journal prompts for you to explore your own sense of belonging! So get writing

Parkes Shire Council

NOTICE OF WORKS

Council wishes to advise works are being undertaken at Burrawang Park Bogan Gate from 12 March to the 28 March 2024.

NSW Government

Starting from this month NSW residents with an overseas driver licence must convert to an NSW Driver Licence if you’re planning to stay on our roads. Changes include:

– If you arrived before 1 Jul 2023, you have until 1 Mar 2025 to get an NSW Driver Licence

– If you arrived after 1 Jul 2023, you have 6 months to get an NSW Driver Licence.

More info here bit.ly/ServiceNSWOverseasLicence

AWN Parkes

Tuesday sheep sale results:

Tuesdays sheep and lamb market saw most of the usual buyers present and competing. A smaller yarding of 18,000 was recorded with mixed quality presented. In comparison to last weeks sale trade weight lambs were up to $5 easier alongside heavies and extra heavies following a similar trend. Light lambs saw slightly dearer trends in comparison to last weeks sale. The mutton job held firm with numbers similar to last week.

For a full detailed market report feel free to contact one of our experienced livestock agents.

Forbes Shire Council

Survey extended!

Have you been impacted by the floods? Complete the survey now to share your thoughts on the housing program that is part of the $100 million Central West Recovery and Resilience package, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments.

https://www.nsw.gov.au/central-west-recovery

Hard copies are available at Council or by calling 133 003 227

Surveys Have Been Extended to Tuesday 2 April. For assistance, chat with our Community Recovery Officers at Town Hall.

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society

We will be at Homegrown this weekend at 10.30 on the big stage! Come along to see everything home grown…including us

This Saturday in Cooke Park from 10.30am.

Forbes Oldest Service Club In Crisis

March 14, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The Rotary Club of Forbes needs your support.

The town’s longest serving services club, The Rotary Club of Forbes is in danger of folding up as a service club. The main cause is a decline in membership due mainly in the inability to attract new members to an organisation that is comprised mainly of senior citizens.

Chris Finkel, president since 2021 informed this paper that not one of the club’s existing twelve members was prepared to relieve him of the club’s presidency for the incoming Rotary year of 2024/25.

“I’d like to continue on as a member of the Forbes club” stated Chris.

“However, even now, I’m a generation behind Australia’s baby boomers and we need people from generations X and Y with new ideas to ensure that Forbes

Rotary survives as an active service club in this town in the years ahead.

This past year through fundraising events mainly through our catering van sales, Bunnings sausage sizzles and other events we’ve been able to provide over $20,000 in assistance to the not so fortunate locally, nationally and

internationally.

In addition, in a combined effort with our sister club, Forbes Ipomoea Rotary we’ve been able to provide $40,000 in $200 gift cards which have been handed out to the Forbes and Eugowra November 2022 Flood victims through the offices of the Forbes Rural Financial Counselling Service, the Uniting Church and Catholic Care” Chris concluded.

A special meeting will be held in the Forbes Sport and Recreation Club at 6.15pm on Tuesday 19th March 2024 with past members, Friends of Rotary and current members to discuss the future direction of the Forbes Rotary Club.

All other interested parties and would be members are also requested to attend.

A list has been compiled of potential residents and a letter will be mailed out to them.

There’s Always More To Do

March 14, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Parkes High School Principal Sandra Carter was in attendance with students Jessica Townsville (Captain) and Kelsey Mann (Vice Captain)

Two hundred very happy people recently attended and enjoyed Parkes Que Club’s International Women’s Day celebration at the Services Club where they took time to both consider the advances in women’s rights as well as how much more still needs to be done.

There were four tables set up with local arts, crafts and products that everyone could see and purchase if they wished, and there was two excellent guest speakers to tell us about their careers and dispel the notion that you have to be educated in the city to be successful.

Tracy Hambridge grew up in Parkes, then went to Uni and became a dietitian. Tracy now leads a team of 12 women at Food Standards Australia and New Zealand which sets food standards and keeps the food supply safe for both countries. Her important work, which she loves, takes her to many countries across the world and is most satisfying.

Janna Flanagan had no tertiary education but worked for a while in real estate. She was a stay at home mum but eventually got another position, again in real estate, was so enthusiastic and keen to learn, that now she is Elders branch manager. Janna’s main message was that women frequently undervalue themselves. She supports other women, guiding and teaching them, and urges women to find what makes them happy, do it and just be themselves.

We were also treated to some delightful traditional dances and a beautiful song from our local Filipino Australians. By Pam Nankivell

Dear Fellow Forbes Citizens

March 14, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The ROTARY CLUB of FORBES has been a part of the Forbes community for over 75 years working to support charities in the community, in Australia and in many countries around the world.

Unfortunately time is catching up with us and with the exception of a couple of younger members we all well into our 70s and beyond.

It has now reached crisis point and we are in danger of having to close this wonderful organisation in this town if we cannot Inject some younger members into our club.

We realise that you all have many commitments to family, work and of course mortgages.

All the older members are keen to hand over running of the club to younger members with new ideas and these members are more than happy to step into the background to give advice only when we are asked to and help when asked.

On Tuesday 16th of April 2024 at the Forbes Services and Memorial Club at 6.15pm we will be having an information night and would like to invite you to come along, have a couple of drinks and some nibbles with us at the cost of our existing members.

If you would like to attend we would appreciate getting an RSVP to Grahame Uphill on 0427 640 065 Email: dorso@westserv.net.au or Chris Finkel on 0429 661 358 by Friday, 12th of April 2024.

Please give this your earnest consideration, we think you will find it a most fulfilling experience.

CWA Collaboration Brings Result

March 7, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured is Heather Mackinnon (chair of CWA sub-committee) and Maria Willis (representing Forbes Shire Council) admiring the CWA Centenary Seat.

The two CWA Branches in Forbes collaborated to celebrate the Centenary of NSW Country Women’s Association by providing a lasting memorial to the CWA women in the Forbes and District, they did that by purchasing a centenary garden seat. This seat is now in Victoria Park, Forbes for all of the public to use.

With the help of a Community Grant provided by the Forbes Shire Council, CWA was able to purchase a wrought iron backed seat made by the Wagga Iron Foundry. The seat features the CWA symbol and the dates 1922 and 2022 adorn the back of the seat.

“There are so many ladies from the local area who have worked tirelessly for the community so we thought this would be a timely tribute to them and a useful way to remember their commitment to rural and regional communities,” commented Heather Mackinnon, a member of the joint sub-committee working hard to see this project through to its completion.

“Forbes CWA Branch celebrate their 100 th birthday in 2026 so there is a long history of community work and advocacy here which needs be acknowledged,” said Sue Cunningham, another member of the sub-committee.

“It’s a very proud moment for CWA to be able to provide this seat for the public to

use, showing that CWA is still alive and active. That’s really important," Jan Kerr, Vice President of NSW CWA said.

‘To be able to put something in a public place that commemorates the longevity of CWA in NSW is a really great thing to have been able to do,” Jan commented.

The Forbes CWA and the Forbes Evening Branch members wish to thank Sarah Savage and the Forbes Shire Council for their assistance in making this project, in recognition of all of the local CWA work, possible.

Inland Rail Ramps Up

March 7, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The Inland Rail project including upgrades to the Daroobalgie Road level crossing will take place this week during an 88-hour possession that will close the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Sydney to Melbourne line from Forbes to Goobang Junction on the 9th – 12th March, Inland Rail and rail infrastructure contractor Martinus will carry out works at sites across the Stockinbingal to Parkes section, upgrading the existing line to accommodate double-stacked freight trains.

At Daroobalgie, north of Forbes, level crossing works will be undertaken including upgrades to the existing under track and road drainage. Daroobalgie Road will be closed at the level crossing during these works, with detours via Calarie Road for properties west of the rail line, and access from the Newell Highway for residents east of the line.

Reconditioning works will also be carried out to support the future installation of new turnouts for the Daroobalgie crossing loop later in the year.

Track works will continue in Forbes, with piling taking place during this possession in preparation for future track lowering works under the Wyndham Avenue road bridge.

Track works will commence at Forbes Yard, including track removal of a turnout and yard lines, and resurfacing to achieve horizontal clearances between rail lines and structures. Tamping works will also be finalised at Bribbaree Yard, completing the GrainCorp site and meeting the requirements for Inland Rail.

Information https://inlandrail.artc.com.au/where-we-go/projects/stockinbingal-to-parkes/works-notifications/.

Melvyn Maylin, Inland Rail Director Program Delivery (Albury to Parkes), said “The 88-hour track possession is an important opportunity for the construction team to complete a large volume of work in a short time.

Thanks For Cleaning Up Our Towns

March 7, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Pictured are students at The Learning Ladder in Forbes and cadets from Parkes HQ brigade.

More than 21 million Aussies have participated in Clean Up Australia activities and events over the past three decades.

What was started over thirty years ago, by an “average Australian” who had a simple idea to make a difference in his own backyard has now become the nation’s largest community-based environmental event.

Of course, Australia’s environmental challenges can’t be solved in just one day, so Clean Up Australia works with community, government and businesses to provide practical solutions to help us all live more sustainably every day of the year.

Rhiannon Shell from The Learning Ladder in Forbes told us “On Friday the 1st of March the children and educators at The Learning Ladder in Forbes participated in Clean up Australia Day. All the children put on their gloves and ventured outside to begin picking up any rubbish they could find.”

The Parkes HQ brigade organised troops for 2024 Clean-up Australia Day. They were joined by some local community members who assisted the junior and senior members and they took 2 trailer loads of rubbish to the tip.

Jack McGrath from Parkes HQ brigade wanted to send a shoutout to “Parkes Shire Council for their support and to Kenny McGrath-Parkes, Shire Councillor, for the lend of his trailer and for assisting on the day.

To all the kids who are not yet old enough to help out with this fantastic event, we appreciate you coming and checking out our new appliance. It was great to be in the community today.”

Snippets

March 7, 2024 by Roxane Manley

Thank you to our wonderful school ambassadors for their leadership.

Official Parkes High School

NAVAL CEREMONIAL SUNSET

PHS Captain, Jessica Towns, and Prefects, Danilo Bottaro-Porter, Jesse Woods and Frasier Beaton, represented PHS at this evenings Naval ceremony in Cooke Park.

The ‘Ceremonial Sunset’ is derived from the oldest of naval ceremonies, dating back centuries to the age of sail. Ceremonial Sunset reflects the worldwide naval tradition of saluting the lowering of the ensign at sunset each day in ships in harbour and shore establishments.

Central West Farming Systems

Want to hear about farmers experiences on rotations with legumes, Nitrogen banking and early sowing?

See you Monday 18th of March at the CWFS Fettell Centre.

We are fortunate that John Kirkegaard CSIRO and Mathew Dunn NSW DPI are hitting the road for a series of workshops with Riverine Plains, Southern Growers inc, FarmLink and Central West Farming Systems to discuss the project: Improved Drought Resilience Through Optimal Management of Soil and Water https://riverineplains.org.au/improved-drought-resilience-through-optimal-management-of-soil-and-water/

To register bit.ly/3OTFNLq

Life Pharmacy Forbes

Your gut is the brain of your immune system. The microbial community that lives on and in the human body exerts a major impact on human health, from metabolism to immunity. Human health and the human microbiome are what AP Probiotics researches every day.

We have their entire range of probiotics in store, designed for every stage of life, and most common health needs. From sleep and mood health to IBS and children’s immunity, come in and ask our pharmacists about our new range of AP Probiotics.

Parkes Shire Council

Council is seeking Expressions of Interest for the leasing of the following land:

• The former Driver Reviver site at Kelly Reserve for the purpose of a “Kiosk”

• Vacant Cropping Land (Peak Hill Airport Land)

• Farmland off Hamilton Road, Parkes NSW

To find out more and submit an expression of interest, visit the links below:

bit.ly/FormerDriverReviverSite

bit.ly/PeakHillAirportLand

bit.ly/ParkesVacantLand

Ron Dunford Chemist Parkes NSW

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and our team are here to put the spotlight on this common and painful condition.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition where tissues like the ones inside the uterus are found in other parts of the body, with symptoms including:*

Pain in the stomach, back, and hip areas

Pain during menstruation, bowel movements or urination

Discomfort during intercourse:

There is no current cure, our pharmacy team are here to support you if you or someone you know has Endometriosis. Come and chat with oUr Pharmacist to see how we can help

*https://endometriosisaustralia.org/about-endometriosis/

Forbes Sports Person of the Year

Association

FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL FAIR GO AWARD

This award is chosen by Forbes Shire Council and is presented to an organisation within our community that is inclusive and accepting of all participants regardless of their race, gender, religion or ability. The 2023 Forbes Shire Council Fair Go Award goes to Forbes Public School Forbes Public School are encouraging and welcoming to all participants and are inclusive regardless of age, ability and skillset.

Forbes Public School have been very successful
with individual and team sporting representation in
numerous sports..

Mayoral Notes

March 7, 2024 by Roxane Manley

I’m sure you are all noticing like me the days getting shorter and suddenly we are now in Autumn and the leaves are beginning to change. Our new trees in Lachlan Street have begun a new chapter of their lives to make our CBD greener and cooler.

Research has shown that these trees will make a world of difference in summer when they are able to cool our streets by up to 8 degrees, which is much-needed on those 40+ degree days that never seem to end.

I am so happy to see another stage of our CBD Masterplan – that involved so much community consultation – in progress and the beautification of our town progressing for our residents and visitors alike.

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Declan from 7News about a couple of Council’s major projects being undertaken for the community. We visited both the Multipurpose Equestrian Centre (MEC) and Spooners Oval to chat about how these facilities are progressing.

It really is hard to miss the massive shed behind the Racecourse with its shiny new roof! Every time I see it in the distance, I am amazed and excited by the potential of this facility, and I’m sure I’m not alone.

We are so grateful to the NSW Office of Sport for providing the funding to ensure this project could be realised for the more than 15 different horse sport groups in our community. We continue to finetune the master plan for this precinct with our user groups and look forward to the stages that will follow.

Out at Spooners Oval, we inspected the massive pad that is ready for a new grandstand to be built on top.

With such a rich sporting culture in our town, the Spooners Oval upgrades will also bring so many opportunities for local sport in our community.

Until next week, God bless
Phyllis Miller, OAM – Forbes Mayor

New SPAA Manual Brings Grower Insight To Precision Ag

February 29, 2024 by Roxane Manley

The publication was launched by Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Western Panel chair Darrin Lee at the Grains Research Update. (left to right) GRDC Grower Relations Manager West Luke Dawson, GRDC Western Panel Chair Darrin Lee, SPAA Executive Officer Angelique McAvoy and SPAA President Phil Honey at the launch of the PA in Practice III manual.

Australian grain growers will benefit from new insights into precision agriculture (PA) for the grains industry with the release of the PA in Practice III manual.

Produced by the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia (SPAA) with GRDC investment, the manual is part of the project precision fertiliser decisions in a tight economic climate.

Mr Lee said Australian growers were eager to implement PA into their farming practices, and for many the goal was limiting per hectare fertiliser usage while maintaining crop yields.

“Through our National Grower Network (NGN) and grower feedback mechanisms, GRDC has identified grower demand for education and extension to optimise the outcomes of PA adoption,” Mr Lee said.

“Growers want to know the questions they should be asking suppliers, agronomists, and consultants. They want to be aware of potential challenges and have the chance to listen to other growers’ success stories and advice.”

Mr Lee said a 2021 grower survey by SPAA and GRDC indicated that more than 50% of respondents wanted to use precision agriculture to make planting and fertilising decisions based on more data.

“Through the updated PA in Practice manual, growers have access to over 100 pages of content detailing PA throughout the season: pre-sowing, sowing, in-crop and at harvest.”

SPAA Executive Offer Angelique McAvoy said the manual catered to all grain producers, agronomists or advisers regardless of their knowledge of PA.

“PA in Practice will remain a vital SPAA educational resource that will be integrated into webinars and other learning platforms. It will play a key role in bridging knowledge gaps and addressing barriers to the adoption of PA,” Ms McAvoy said.

The manual’s release complements a national series of seven SPAA variable rate technology workshops supported by GRDC investment and delivered in 2023, which provided training to support growers’ fertiliser decision making.

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