Forbes Shire Council: Looking for fund­ing to support a project, event or initiative? The latest edition of our Grants Guide is out now. View guide here: https://mailchi.mp/cf338fda6171/forbes-shire-council-grants-feed-17328312 To receive the latest funding opportunities straight to your in­box, email grants@forbes.nsw.gov.au. The GrainCorp Community Grants offer up to $20,000 financial support to organisations and projects that contribute to the devel­opment and promotion of the community. Closes 28 February

Sheep Producers Australia: Calling all future sheep industry leaders. Applications are still open for the 2026 Next Generation Program – Global Sheep Forum, a unique leadership opportunity for sheep producers and industry-connected individuals aged 18–35. Participate in online masterclass­es, collaborate with peers from around the world, join the face-to-face program in Adelaide, South Australia, 5–10 July 2026 alongside LambEx 2026, travel to New Zealand. Applications close 16 February 2026. Apply here: www.sheepproducers.com.au/2026-leadership-opportunity

Parkes High School: Free community parent event with Dr Justin Coulson, one of Australia’s most well known parenting speakers. To be held in Parkes High School Hall, 3 March from 5.30pm-7pm. The Resil­ient Kids presentation focuses on helping parents understand how children develop emotional resilience, confidence and cop­ing skills, and how everyday challenges can support healthy development when guided by supportive adults. 

Native Vegetation Maps Information Session Series: NSW Farmers is host­ing a series of free Native Vegetation Map Information Sessions in: Forbes, Nyngan, Dubbo, Cowra, and Young. Light meal pro­vided and free for all attendees. Explore your property beforehand with the Check My Land NSW app. Registration required. Submit your questions when registering. Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/forbes-native-vegetation-map-information-session-2026.

Have Your Say On Our New Wetlands Name: There’s still time to vote on a name for the new wetlands site currently un­der development on Akuna Road. Parkes Shire Council are asking the community to choose from three proposed names: Wu­lulu Wetlands, Parkes Wetlands, Akuna Wetlands. Each option reflects local place, history and the area’s natural environment. Consultation closes at 5pm on 6 March. For more information and to cast your vote, visit: bit.ly/4qYMi0E.

Red Bend Catholic College: Day 1 for 2026, and it was a fantastic day welcoming Year 7 students to the College.

NSW Government – Free Learn To Swim Classes: Those who are the most at-risk of drowning including people from lowincome households, multicultural commu­nities, First Nations people and people in regional areas can access 10 free swim­ming lessons at participating providers. These lessons will not only save lives, but help build community and lifelong skills. Find your local program and dive in bit.ly/NSWLearnToSwim

The March Charge: Ready to feel good and do good this March? Join Cancer Council’s The March Charge and walk 85km. Join an amazing community and fundraise for life-saving cancer research. Sign up today: https://www.themarchcharge.com.au/

Office For Youth: Applications are now open for the NSW Government’s Holiday Break Autumn and/or Winter 2026 pro­gram. Applicants are encouraged to design high quality, fun and engaging activities for the exclusive participation of young people aged 12-24 years. Applicants can deliver the activities in the autumn and/or winter holidays. Eligible organisations can apply for $1,500–$10,000, which can be split across the autumn and/or winter school holidays. Please email grants@officefory­outh.nsw.gov.au with any questions, or find out more by visiting nsw.gov.au/Holiday­Break.

Cancer Council NSW: It’s more than a night in – it’s a moment to support the women who matter most. Get your friends together, stay in, and fundraise for people affected by cancer. Make it fun. Make it meaningful. Make it happen. Sign up now. www.doitforcancer.com.au/event/a-girls-night-in

Your Mental Health Matters Just As Much As Your Physical Health: Looking after your mental health doesn’t have to mean big changes. It can start with some­thing simple, like checking in with yourself or someone you care about. Staying con­nected, keeping active, and reaching out when you need support can make a big dif­ference. If things feel hard, you don’t have to wait. Support is available 24/7 across NSW: Call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 (free and confidential) or Visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/support

Parkes High School Welcome Year 7 2026: We were so thrilled to see all of Year 7 start their High School journey.

Forbes Shire Council Community Fund­ing Program Is Closing Soon: Applica­tions for the next round of funding close this Saturday 31 January. Not-for-profit groups in Forbes can apply for up to $5,000 to support projects in: sport and recreation, culture and the arts, community services or rural village enhancement. A total of $150,000 is available across two roundsof funding each year. Find out more or apply: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community-fund­ing-program. Need help with your applica­tion? Book an appointment by calling 02 6850 2300 or at community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Neighbourhood Central:Everyone should have their eyes checked every two years, but if you are having trouble with your eyes, are over 40, or have diabetes, you should get your eyes checked now. An Aboriginal Eye Health Clinic is being held Thursday 5 February. Contact Family Support on 6862 1872 for further information.

Primary Industries And Regional Devel­opment: The time is right for being safe and healthy while enjoying the sunshine.

The NSW Government has a collection of resources that will help you stay informed and prepared. The Hazards Near Me and

Fires Near Me apps have information on fire danger ratings, fires, floods and other warnings from NSW Rural Fire Service.

The Bureau of Meteorology app has all the latest forecasts. The Sun Smart app has information about UV ratings. Search Beat the Heat for information from NSW Health about heat-related illnesses and staying safe. Enjoy the sun and fun while staying safe.

NSW Road Safety: Is your child starting or changing schools this year? For safety tips to keep in mind as you start planning your childs new school journey, go to: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/commu­nity/schools/safety-around-schools.

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: The Trundle Bush Tucker Day is a not-for-profit group made up of a dedicated volunteer commit­tee members. The profits each year are do­nated straight back to local and surround­ing community groups who rely on these funds. Since the very first Trundle Bush Tucker Day in 1987, the committee has do­nated over $260,000 back into the Trundle community. The committee would like to thank everyone for their continued support of the annual Trundle Bush Tucker Day.

Save the date for the 39th Annual Trundle Bush Tucker Day, 5 September 2026.

Forbes Museum: The Forbes Museum will be open extended hours on Australia Day, Monday 26 January 2026 from 10am to 5pm. Visit after breakfast or before the party in the Park. ‘The Streets of Forbes’ by Shane Wode is available for purchase. Visit the heart of Forbes this Australia Day.

Summer Water Safety Reminder: After a series of drownings this summer holiday, the Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole and Shadow Minister for Water Steph Cooke are reminding everyone to take ex­tra care around our waterways. Whether it be a trip to the beach, dam or river, the community is encouraged to always wear a lifejacket, don’t drink and drive, adhere to speed limits and passenger limits, and check all equipment and vessels before departing.

Planning a clean out this summer? It’s great to donate but to make sure your preloved goods have a second life, only do­nate good quality items to charity stores during opening hours. If they’re closed or their donation bins are full, please don’t leave them outside. Instead, try rehoming or selling goods via local community plat­forms and online marketplaces. Otherwise, check with council about their annual bulky waste collection service.

Calling All Young Artists: Parkes Shire Council is creating new signs for the Parkes Wetlands – and they want your art­work to help bring them to life! Children and teens are invited to draw their favourite na­tive wetland animals, from birds and frogs to turtles and reptiles. Some drawings may be featured on the new signage. A drawing station available at Parkes Shire Library. Open until the end of summer.

Resilient Kids Presentation: Catholic­Care Wilcannia-Forbes presents Resilient Kids – Building Stronger Kids Through Life’s Challenges delivered by Dr Justin Coulson. Don’t miss this free community event on Tuesday 3 March at Parkes High School, 5.30pm – 7pm or on Wednesday 4 March, Forbes North Public School, 5.30pm – 7pm. For more information and to RSVP please contact 1800 067 067 or go to ccwf.org.au.

Sticker Off! Fruit scraps and peelings get the tick of approval when it comes to dis­posing of correctly into our FOGO green bin. But the tiny little stickers that come on some fruits is a big no no. Before placing your food scraps into your FOGO green bin, take a second to peel off the sticker and dis­pose of into your general waste red bin to prevent contamination of the compost.

Don’t Forget Your Parkes Elvis Festival Merch: Available during the festival, 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival Official Merchandise range in-store at ‘Elvis Central’ located on Festival Blvd, plus we have an exclusive range only available upstairs at the Parkes Leagues Club during the Feature Concert Shows. Note: Our clothing and souvenir range is available in store only at the Festi­val and is not available online.

 

Parkes Elvis Express: Let the Festival fun begin! Parkes Railway Station will turn into party central at 3:30pm on Wednesday 7 January when The NSW TrainLink Elvis Express rolls into town. Come along, bring your best dance moves, and welcome the festival crew in true rock ‘n’ roll style.

Amitie: It’s the most wonderful time of the year, it’s the Parkes Elvis Festival 2026 and we are so excited to welcome you all to our fabulous town. Throughout the festival we will be performing practically everywhere so come along, say hi and join in on all of the festival fun.

Parkes Shire Concert Band: Musicians are invited to join the Parkes Shire Con­cert band in the Evolution Mining North­parkes Operations Street Parade on Fes­tival Boulevard. Taking place on Saturday 10 January from 9am – 10am, come along and enjoy the party. Contact Music Director Duncan Clement on 0405 035 164.

Can Assist Parkes: Don’t let those empty bottles and cans go to waste! You can turn your recyclables into real support for coun­try cancer patients by choosing CanAssist at your local Return and Earn machine. A small act can make a big difference.

Bluey Live Interactive Experience: See Bluey and her little sister Bingo during their Live Interactive Experience at Cooke Park Main Stage. Get ready to play Magic As­paragus, Magic Xylophone, Keepy Uppy and more with your favourite Heeler duo. Saturday 10 January, 10:45am on the Cooke Park Main Stage (after the Parade) This is a free event.

Cool Off In The Parkes Region Pools: Including Parkes Aquatic Centre, Peak Hill Pool, Trundle Pool, Tullamore Pool. Kelly Reserve Splash Park, is a free water play area for kids, offering shaded seating and picnic spots. Lake Endeavour is also a scenic spot for swimming, kayaking and picnics surrounded by nature. Pack your swimmers and make a splash. For more information visit: bit.ly/4fWlQzW

Don’t miss your chance to take home a piece of Elvis magic.

K-HUB Forbes: The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is back at K-hub Forbes. If you are in the position to brighten someone’s Christmas this year, you can drop a new, unwrapped gift under the tree in store which will then be collected by our local Salvation Army for local children in need this Christmas.

R U OK? As all of us process recent dis­tressing events, please know that support is available. It’s normal to have feelings of sadness, anger, hopelessness, or to feel overwhelmed. You can find a full list of free and confidential support services at https://bit.ly/3Me8D6Y

Rural Women’s Network: Know someone doing great things in vocational education and training? Nominations are open for the 2026 NSW Training Awards. From learners to teachers, apprentices to organisations – there’s a category for everyone. Apply today! https://education.nsw.gov.au/skillsnsw/nsw-training-awards/how-to-enter

NSW Health: If someone is experiencing mental health distress, or you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, contact:

• Lifeline (24/7) crisis support 13 11 14

• Kids Helpline (24/7) support for children or young adults 1800 55 1800

• Beyond Blue (24/7) for mental health ad­vice and support 1300 22 4636

• Mental Health Line (24/7) on 1800 011 511 for advice and connection to spe­cialist mental health services

• Transcultural Mental Health Line (Mon to Fri, 9am – 4.30pm) 1800 648 911.

In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000). For more: www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/Pages/services.aspx

WIRES: Every year, WIRES assists many orphaned animals whose parents have perished on our roads. This is a difficult and time consuming responsibility shouldered by our carers. It is one they graciously ac­cept. But without your support, many ani­mals would not receive this life saving care. Learn more at https://hubs.la/Q03Y4Vqt0

Parkes Clean Future Alliance: With your help we can fight the NSW Government’s plan to send Sydney’s red-bin waste hun­dreds of kilometres to Parkes, to a waste incinerator near our farms, schools and homes. The Public Health Association of Australia states new incinerators should not be located near areas of food produc­tion and food grown near these facilities should not be consumed. Donate if you can and please share www.parkescleanfuture.org/action/donate

Yoorana Gunya Family Healing Centre Aboriginal Corporation: A friendly re­minder before the Christmas break, that the last day of 2025 is Friday 19 Decem­ber. We reopen on Monday 5 January 2026. Please make sure if you require an appointment call us on 6850 1222.

Parkes Shire Council: Feedback on the Draft Central West and Orana Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan clos­es this Sunday, 14 December. Don’t miss your opportunity to help shape the future of transport across our region. Last chance to have your say https://bit.ly/4hOvTIi

R U OK? When someone is struggling you might be tempted to try and cheer them up. But sometimes what they really need is for you to show that it’s safe to be sad. Re­member to check-in and ask how you can best support those you care about.

Forbes Youth Action Team: Free Holiday Movie. Join for a fun screening of Elf these school holidays on Monday 22 December, from 2pm – 4pm (Movie starts 2:10pm), Ages 6+, Free Zooper Doopers. Seats are free, but tickets are required – www.123tix.com.au/events/50750/christmas-movie-afternoon

Parkes Elvis Festival: The countdown is on – just 1 month to go until the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival kicks off. Get ready for unfor­gettable shows, iconic tribute artists, com­petitions, parades, and more. Don’t miss out on being part of this rockin’ celebration of The King. Grab your tickets, plan your outfits, and make your travel arrangements now – let’s make this festival the most elec­trifying one yet. https://www.123tix.com.au/events/parke­selvisfestival

Lifeline: If you find the holiday season challenging, you’re not alone. For many people this time can bring up a range of difficult thoughts and feelings. Explore tips and support for coping with loneliness this holiday season: ll.org.au/holidays

Forbes Flying Club: Why stay on the ground when you can take to the skies? Turn school break into a real flying ad­venture at Forbes Flying Club. Perfect for teens, parents or anyone who wants to fly. Holiday intro flights are now open, call 0428 343 866 to book your flight!

Georgie’s Hub – Anglican Parish of Parkes and Peak Hill: Christmas spirit is alive and well at Georgie’s Boutique. Lots of laughter and fun with our great custom­ers. Drop in between 10am – 4pm and pick up fabulous bargains.

Parkes Elvis Festival: Elvis fever is start­ing to ramp up. The Parkes Elvis Festival celebrated all things Elvis on national TV on Tuesday, 2 December on Channel 7’s The Morning Show. Hosted by Larry Em­dur and Kylie Gillies, the segment featured interviews and a performance from three popular Elvis Tribute Artists Paul Fenech, Anthony Petrucci, and Charlie Gaylard. Parkes Elvis Festival tickets available here: https://www.123tix.com.au/events/parke­selvisfestival

R U OK? ‘Tis the season to remember that some of us find this time of year tough. Our free Calendar of Connection has ideas to help you reach out and lend support to friends, family and colleagues. Download now ruok.org.au/holiday.

Legal Aid NSW: The Legal Aid NSW Do­mestic Violence Unit is here to help. They’re a compassionate team of lawyers, case workers, mental health professionals and financial counsellors working together to support people impacted by domestic and family violence. They can help with Family law (parenting, divorce, financial matters), Child protection, ADVOs and DFV-related legal issues and Emotional and financial support If you would like more informa­tion about the services we provide, please phone 1800 979 529. Read more here: www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/my-problem-is-about/my-family-or-relationship/domestic-and-family-violence/domestic-violence-support-services/domestic-violence-unit

NSW Government: New laws make it eas­ier to find ethical, accountable dog breed­ers in NSW. Breeders must have an official breeder ID number, ads must include the puppy’s microchip and breeder ID, female dogs can only have up to 5 litters (up to 3 by caesarean) in their lifetime, limits on the number of dogs per premises, breeders need enough staff to give all dogs proper care. These changes help protect animals and give everyone confidence when buy­ing a puppy. More info: https://bit.ly/NSWDog-Welfare Apply for a breeder ID here: https://bit.ly/NSW-Breeder-ID

TAFE NSW Forbes: TAFE NSW Forbes campus are looking for expressions of in­terest in some new courses they are look­ing to offer in 2026 should they get suffi­cient interest. These will be short courses that will run for several weeks and may lead to further study options. The courses are: Automotive, Animal Studies and Com­puting for Seniors. If you would like to ex­press your interest in any of these courses, ring the campus on 0438 565 918 or call in to the campus.

Worklocker Parkes: Wright Farming are rocking their @trademutt shirts for Movem­ber — raising funds, awareness, and a few questionable moustaches along the way. All for a good cause! Let Worklocker know who has got the best mo on their facebook page. You too can play your part by donating here https://au.movember.com/team/2483050

NSW Government: There’s a first-of-itskind digital service to help domestic and family violence victim-survivors stay safe. DV Notify sends text or email updates when an alleged perpetrator is released from cus­tody, so victim-survivors know what’s hap­pening and where to find support. Find out more: www.nsw.gov.au/dvnotify

Amazing Forbes NSW: Are you looking for a christmas gift for that hard to buy for person? or just want to thank your clients or staff for a big year? Don’t forget we do #amazing gift boxes at our Visitor Informa­tion Centre Shop! Talk to our friendly staff about giving the gift of Forbes this Christ­mas.

Central West Police District: Central West Police District participated in the White Rib­bon March and Service held at Forbes – Victoria Park – together, we stand against violence in all its forms and continue work­ing towards a safer, more respectful com­munity for everyone.

Visit Parkes Region: Did you know Peak Hill is home to Australia’s first upright silos! Built in 1918 as the nation’s first upright bulk wheat silos, and standing tall in the heart of the Parkes Region, these historic structures mark a turning point in Australia’s agricul­tural history, showcasing innovation that transformed the way wheat was stored and handled. For more info visit: bit.ly/4fWlQzW

R U OK? Conversations about the holi­day period and end of year gatherings can be overwhelming. If there’s someone you know who may find this time of year tough, you can make a difference by checking in and having a meaningful conversation. Find tips at ruok.org.au/holiday

The Forbes Historical Museum: Come and see the wonderful collection of mem­orabilia in the Girl Guides display at The Forbes Historical Museum. Classic Girl Guides uniforms, patches and badges, shields and trophies. Girl Guides played an important role in empowering young wom­en in Forbes and this display is a tribute to that legacy. Where: Forbes Museum, Cross Street, Forbes. When: 2pm to 4pm daily.

Parkes Picnic Races: The Parkes Picnic Races Committee have commenced their meetings in preparation for the 2026 event. The Committee will hold their monthly meetings at a different venue each time supporting our local sponsors. The Parkes Picnic Races are held annually on the Sat­urday of the June Long Weekend.

Forbes Shire Council: Only food and garden scraps are allowed in your FOGO green-lid bin. Packaging from your food does not belong in this bin. If your food packaging is cardboard, hard plastic or glass, it belongs in your recycling yellow-lid bin. If your food packaging is soft plastic or broken glass, it belongs in your general waste red-lid bin. Do the right thing and make sure only your food and plants go in your FOGO green bin.

Arts Outwest: Forbes and District Histori­cal Society has received a $6,900 National Library of Australia Community Heritage Grants to do a reservation Needs Assess­ment on the Paul and Hettie Wenz Collec­tion. The Paul and Hettie Wenz Collection consists of books from the personal library of Franco-Australian writer Paul Wenz (1869-1939) and his wife Hettie Dunne, of Nanima Station, Forbes. The Collection in­cludes books that Paul wrote. Read more under ‘Stories’ at www.centralnsw.com

Parkes Wetlands Transformation: Parkes Shire Council is inviting creatives from across Australia to be part of the Parkes Wetlands transformation. They are commissioning two to four public artworks that capture the spirit of this new environ­mental and recreational space. The budget is $100,000 to be shared across selected artworks. Location: Parkes Wetlands, Aku­na Road, Parkes. Expressions of Interest close 10am, 1 December 2025. Help us tell the story of connection, sustainability, and creativity through art. Download the EOI documents on the wetlands page: bit.ly/3ReQ714 For further enquiries contact: council@parkes.nsw.gov.au

Forbes Rugby Union Club: The Forbes Rugby Union Club are fired up, freshfaced, and ready to lead the Platypi through another season of bush footy. The new committee members are President Wayne O’Niell, Secretary Lily Boyd, VP Management Sam Parish, VP Senior Rug­by Ted O’Rafferty, Junior Rugby President Daniel Beard, VP Facilities and Develop­ment Randal Grayson, Treasurer Oliver Patterson, Social Secretary Sam Mackay, Registrar Jack Cole, Bar Manager Caitlyn James, Media Officer Siobhan O/Malley, Canteen Manager Ashleigh Dent, Ground Manager Sam Cox and Merchandise Man­ager Elliott Parker.