HARD WORK PAYS OFF… The Forbes Preschool team worked very hard putting together an immensely successful concert for the school’s 60 year celebration held in Nelson Park last Thursday. The school saw 1,000 family members and friends enjoying some spectacular singing and dancing.

Forbes White Ribbon Day: The Forbes Domestic & Family Violence Committee is inviting the entire Forbes community to walk with them in their annual White Ribbon Day March to be held on Friday, 23rd November. The walk is in support of Australia’s campaign to stop men’s violence against women. Everyone will meet at Cross Street in front of Carpet Court at 10am and will finish in Victoria Park. Here, our youth will share their thoughts on why it is so important to stand up and speak out against violence and how together we can all make Forbes a safer community for everyone. A free sausage sizzle will be provided for all participants.

Forbes Lions Car Boot Sale: The next Forbes and District Lions Club Car Boot Sale will be held on Saturday, 17th November. This will be held in the Lions Park beside Lake Forbes from 8am until 1pm. It will be our final sale for 2018 and proceeds from site fees will be donated to the Forbes Archery Club to help them get back on their feet. Members of the community are welcome to set up stalls to sell their wares. We cater for stalls of second hand goods as well as craft and produce stalls. Sites may be booked by phoning Peter on 0468 819 659 or Robyn on 6851 2209 or just set up and pay on the day. The cost is $10 per site. The Lions will be cooking up a storm on their BBQ with sausage sandwiches, bacon and egg sandwiches and the famous Lions Sandwich for sale. The Lions will also be selling tickets in a Hyundai car raffle for $1. If you have some items which need clearing out before Christmas or some Christmas goodies to sell come along on the day.

Rotary Ipomoea Christmas Tree Festival: Anyone can get involved in designing and creating a Christmas tree of any shape or material that reflects their love of Christmas time. Members of the community are invited to the official opening of the festival on Friday, 30th November at the Forbes Town Hall at 6:30pm. Enter a tree by phoning Helen on 6851 4930 or Sue-anne on 6851 5197, or send an email to sueanne.nixon@hotmail.com. Entry fee is $5. Anyone can enter any type of tree.

Head on down to the Visitor Information Centre Open Day on Saturday, 24th November from 9am to 2pm. The open day will feature tastings of local produce, Christmas cakes and puddings and many great gifts for Christmas. Children’s book author, Pat Clark will be there to sign her books and while you’re there, grab a delicious Devonshire tea as well.

SPECTACULAR… Our Canowindra Phoenix paper took out the top award for Best Business in Cabonne for 2018 at the Daroo Business Awards held last Friday night. The rest of the Phoenix team would like to congratulate and say how very proud we are of them! Well done to all the other winners. Here is the Publisher, Sarah Maynard accepting the Canowindra Phoenix’s award.

Forbes Lions Car Boot Sale: The next Forbes and District Lions Club Car Boot Sale will be held on Saturday, 17th November. This will be held in the Lions Park beside Lake Forbes from 8am until 1pm. It will be the final sale for 2018 and proceeds from site fees will be donated to the Forbes Archery Club to help them get back on their feet. Members of the community are welcome to set up stalls to sell their wares. We cater for stalls of second hand goods as well as craft and produce stalls. Sites may be booked by phoning Peter on 0468 819 659 or Robyn on 6851 2209 or just set up and pay on the day. The cost is $10 per site. The Lions will be cooking up a storm on their BBQ with sausage sandwiches, bacon and egg sandwiches and the famous Lions sandwich for sale. The Lions will also be selling tickets in a Hyundai car raffle for $1. If you have some items which need clearing out before Christmas or some Christmas goodies to sell come along on the day.

Huge Numbers For First Forbes CDS Golf Day: The inaugural Forbes Currajong Disability Services Charity Golf Day was held last Sunday at the Forbes Golf Club. The event, which was a fundraiser for Currajong Disability Services (CDS), was a three-person Ambrose team competition and attracted entries from Parkes, Forbes and Condobolin. In total there were 66 players. “We were absolutely floored with the interest and turn out for the event,” said CDS Communications and Marketing Manager, Dane Millerd. “We held a BBQ, lucky door raffles and trivia on the day as well. There was also a silent auction for some blue chip items,” said Dane. “In total there were 21 sponsors and 13 major prize events with final fundraising numbers still being counted. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our supporters. We couldn’t have a day like this without them!” said Dane. “The difference all our sponsors, staff, volunteers and contributors have made is immeasurable and it cannot be stated enough how much we appreciate all that has been done,” he added.

Scarecrow and Veggie Garden Competitions: Don’t forget the Scarecrow and Veggie Garden Competitions is on this Saturday from 9am at the Forbes Riverside Community Gardens.

Helen Carpenter was the winner of our Spring Photo Competition with this great photo. She has won a framed print from Farmer from Down Under. Congratulations Helen! Thank you to everyone who entered.

Forbes Country Music Club receives donation from RSL: Forbes Services Memorial Club General Manager, David Fitzgerald praised Forbes Country Music Club President, Phil Redding on Monday for the great work that has been done towards the Country Music Club this year. Being one of the club’s most successful years with the combined hard work of Secretary Helen Field, they were able to secure funding from many other major businesses this year. This paved the way for a very successful Forbes Talent Quest. This cheque will go towards next year’s Talent Quest. “I am honoured by the response and help given towards Forbes Country Music Club. This also helps us with fundraisers, where we too can give back to our community,” said Phil. Fundraising money has been donated to organisations such as the SES’s new sand bagging machine, the late John Rice fundraiser and this year’s members campout where a large amount was raised for the Cancer Council. “We are the guardians of the future. Without sponsors like the RSL, events such as the Talent Quest would be lost and there might be nothing for our future generations,” he said.

Water Notice Apologies: Council has been alerted that the recent water notices being received are a duplicate of the August accounts. Unfortunately an error has occurred at the mailing house which affects all water accounts that have been posted. Council is working to rectify this error and will have the correct accounts reissued as soon as possible. Water accounts received by email should not be affected. Council wishes to extend an apology for all ratepayers affected by this error and thank you for your understanding.

Water for skaters and their pooches: A new water bubbler has been installed at the Skate Park as part of the upgrades of this area. The bubbler includes a water fountain, drink bottle filler and a doggy bowl.

At the ski dam this summer: In the next few months some changes will be made at the ski dam. These include new and expanded playground equipment; beach area extended; new planting and irrigation in the gardens; upgraded amenities and new fencing and disabled parking and access.

Scarecrow and Veggie Garden Competitions: Don’t forget the Scarecrow and Veggie Garden Competitions is on next Saturday, 10th November from 9am at the Forbes Riverside Community Gardens.

CanAssist Forbes had some of their longstanding and hard working members receive award certificates at the recent NSW Centre for Volunteering Awards Night held in Bathurst. They were Chris and John Gorton, Lee Marsh, Kerry Dunstan and Carolyn Morrison, who was accompanied by husband Geoff.

THANK YOU’S ALL ROUND… Mega Farm Rescue Forbes had their ‘Thank You Night’ last Thursday. Council also donated a piano to their Gift of Music campaign where pre-owned musical instruments are repaired and revitalised, then distributed to disadvantaged children and youth in rural and remote Australia.

Older Australians Missing Out On Vital Exercise: A national survey by Australia’s national science agency has revealed how the health of older Australians could suffer if they don’t flex their muscles at least twice a week. The survey of more than 5,600 CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet subscribers found 65 percent of people aged 51 to 70 years, and 86 percent of people over 71, did not think resistance exercise was important for weight loss and overall health. “While resistance exercise is beneficial at any age, it becomes even more important as we get older and experience muscle loss associated with ageing,” CSIRO Principal Research Scientist, Professor Grant Brinkworth said. To learn more visit www. totalwellbeingdiet.com.

Competition Winner: Congratulations Colin Mckay! You have won a double pass to the Australian National Field Days. Please call 02 6344 1846 to claim your prize.

Eleven Beds Are Not Enough: Member for Orange, Philip Donato MP, asked the Minister for Mental Health, Tanya Davies MP to expand the Child Adolescent Mental Health Unit (CAMHS) in Orange. The CAMHS unit accepts admissions from 86 percent of the state across five Local Health Districts and has only 11 beds available. “There is sufficient space and infrastructure to double the number of beds. I’ve heard from families in the community whose child is placed on a waiting list. It is very stressful for everyone,” he said. The Minister’s response focused largely on community based treatment and keeping children out of hospital. “We aren’t talking about preventative measures here, we are talking about the most serious, acute cases whose last and only option is hospital.”

Helping Farmers Access The Farm Household Allowance: It is now easier for farmers to apply for the fortnightly Farm Household Allowance (FHA) hardship payment. The FHA application form has been changed and information sessions are being held on Saturdays at some regional Centrelink offices. Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud said: “The application form has been cut by a third. Farmers should also remember that a Rural Financial Counsellor (RFC) can help them fill out the form for free. To find out when and where the Centrelink information sessions are being held go to humanservices.gov.au/farmhouseholdallowance. To find out more or to make a submission online please go to https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/fha-review-2018.

It was National Kidsafe Day this week Tuesday. This is an initiative of Kidsafe Australia to increase awareness of unintentional childhood injuries and their prevention. Keep our kids safe around schools, by not making illegal and dangerous moves, like U-turns, three-point turns and double parking.

CONGRATULATIONS… Two hard working Forbes & District Lions Club members were honoured with the “James D Richardson” award at the Lions meeting held last week Tuesday. Graham Williams (middle) congratulated and thanked Raymond Judge (left) and Ian Bennett (right) for their hard work and dedication to Lions International and the community of Forbes.

Latest Competition: Don’t forget to enter our latest competition and you could be off to the Australian National Field Days. Fill out the form on the front page or enter via the website www.forbesphoenix.com.au or via Facebook.

Encourage Students to Nurture a Greener Future: Local primary schools and early learning centres are set to go on a journey to a greener future, with applications now open for the first round of the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program. The program is being funded from the sale of the Woolworths ‘Bag for good’. Sales to date have raised over half a million dollars towards the program which will help young Australians be hands-on with gardening and recycling projects. There will be at least 500 x $1,000 grants on offer in this round. To find out more and to apply visit: https:// landcareaustralia.org.au/woolworthsgrants. Applications close on 23rd November.

Spring Photo Competition: The Forbes Phoenix has teamed up with Farmer From Down Under Photography to launch a spring photo competition. We would love to see the great photos our readers can come up with. A wonderful prize is up for grabs – a framed picture donated by Farmer From Down Under Photography! Entries must be submitted to The Forbes Phoenix by Tuesday, 31st October. Entries can be sent to sales@forbesphoenix.com.au or via our Facebook page.

Forbes White Ribbon Day: The Forbes Domestic & Family Violence Committee is inviting the entire Forbes community to walk with them in their annual White Ribbon Day March to be held on Friday, 23rd November. The walk is in support of Australia’s campaign to stop men’s violence against women. Everyone will meet at Cross Street in front of Carpet Court at 10am and will finish in Victoria Park. Here, our youth will share their thoughts on why it is so important to stand up and speak out against violence and how together we can all make Forbes a safer community for everyone. A free sausage sizzle will be provided.

More than 180 people from all over Australia gathered in Forbes last weekend to take part in the Forbes Mega Farm Rescue. These amazing volunteers partook in a week of renovations to 14 farms in the Forbes district.

CONGRATULATIONS… Brooke Kelly was named the Central West Credit Union Sports Achiever for June. Kara Bellach was there to congratulate her. Brooke has been selected in the NSW team to compete at the National Interschool for Equestrian. She will compete against all states in Australia and also representatives from New Zealand.

Warbirds Downunder Temora competition winners: The lucky winners of our Warbirds Downunder competition are Gay Bayley and Jeff George. They will each receive a family pass to the event.

Latest Competition: Don’t forget to enter our latest competition and you could be off to the Australian National Field Days. Fill out the form on the front page or enter via the website www.forbesphoenix.com.au or via Facebook.

Greater Access To Drought Support: The NSW Government announced it is making it easier for farmers and their families to access the Drought Transport Subsidies and the Drought Assistance Fund. The current criteria is being lifted from a $1 million off-farm assets to $5 million, which means more farmers will now be eligible to access drought assistance. The criteria for ‘new entrants’ have also been created within the government’s drought assistance guidelines to support farmers who are new to the industry. In addition to amending the access criteria, it’s easier for farmers to get help completing and submitting drought support applications, with Local Land Services offices now providing this assistance. The Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) is open until 10pm weeknights, allowing farmers who have been out in the paddocks all day a greater opportunity to seek support. Department of Primary Industries (DPI) research stations and 37 Service NSW offices can also provide assistance to complete drought support applications. For more information visit www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au.

Spring Photo Competition: The Forbes Phoenix has teamed up with Farmer From Down Under Photography to launch a spring photo competition. Point your camera just about anywhere to get a scenic shot. We would love to see the great photos our readers can come up with. A wonderful prize is up for grabs – a framed picture donated by Farmer From Down Under Photography! The competition will run until October, with entries to be submitted to The Forbes Phoenix by Tuesday, 31st October. Entries can be sent to sales@forbesphoenix.com.au or via our Facebook page.

Scarecrow Competition Time: The challenge is set to build an amazing scarecrow for this year’s annual Forbes Community Garden Scarecrow competition. It is free to enter and the entry forms are available at Forbes Shire Council, Forbes Library and the Forbes Riverside Community Garden. Entries close on Friday, 2nd November.

CONGRATULATIONS… Elise Dukes of Forbes High School was awarded the prestigious Central West Young Volunteer of the Year award at the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards held in September.

Catch of the Week Winners: Thank you for sending your great fishing pics and please keep it coming! Luke Nealon was our September winner. Please claim your $25 voucher prize for Loomzy’s Fish ‘n’ Fix in Forbes, by contacting Linda van Coller on 0477 309 807 to arrange for collection.

Snakes and Snakebites: While 57 percent of snakebites happen in regional and rural areas – the majority happen near homes or buildings. Here are some basic precautions you can take to reduce your chances of being bitten: (1) Be careful where you put your hands and feet. Snakes like to hide where they can’t be seen, which includes holes in the ground, rock crevices, fallen logs or long grass. Use a torch if walking at night as many snakes are active after dark. (2) Wear protective clothing. Thick clothing like jeans and boots offer an extra layer of protection against bites. (3) Don’t pick them up or interfere with them. If you see a snake, give it space to move away, or go around it. (4) Let them know you’re there. Snakes can’t hear very well, but can sense vibrations in the ground. When walking in the bush, make noise and stomp your feet to scare off any nearby snakes.

Managing Your Crops: Finding it hard to make decisions about how to salvage crops affected by drought and/or frost conditions? NSW Department of Primary Industries have developed a calculator that helps to compare various management options. Check it out online at https://bit.ly/2IvBgf2.

Spring Photo Competition: The Forbes Phoenix has teamed up with Farmer From Down Under Photography to launch a spring photo competition. Point your camera just about anywhere to get a scenic shot. We would love to see the great photos our readers can come up with. A wonderful prize is up for grabs – a framed picture donated by Farmer From Down Under Photography! The competition will run until October, with entries to be submitted to The Forbes Phoenix by Tuesday, 31st October. Entries can be sent to sales@forbesphoenix.com.au or via our Facebook page.

Daylight Savings Time: As the sun shines later into the day, it’s the start of Daylight Saving Time this Sunday. Six months later at 2am on Sunday, 7th April next year – it will be time to wind the clocks back an hour.

THANKFULLNESS… As part of School Administrative and Support Staff (SASS) Recognition Week earlier this month, Forbes Public School held a special morning tea to celebrate their office staff, school learning support officers and general assistants to show appreciation for the hard work they do.

Storm Season Prompts Safety Precaution: Essential Energy is reminding residents to prepare their properties for storm season and minimise the risk of electrical safety incidents and power supply outages. Regional Manager Northern, Mark Summers issued the warning. “Storm season generally occurs from October through to March; however, unseasonably warm and dry conditions mean unpredictable weather could hit at any time,” said Mark. “Prepare your property before severe weather arrives by removing debris and overgrown vegetation from around the home, clearing gutters and checking that trees are a safe distance from powerlines. During a storm or severe weather, unplug electronic equipment like televisions and computers, stay indoors and if possible check social media via mobile phones for updates. Always assume fallen powerlines or any objects in contact with them are live and stay at least eight metres away from them,” Mark added.

Spring Photo Competition: The Forbes Phoenix has teamed up with Farmer From Down Under Photography to launch a spring photo competition. With Spring all around us, you can point your camera just about anywhere to get a scenic shot. We would love to see the great photos our readers can come up with. A wonderful prize is up for grabs – a framed picture donated by Farmer From Down Under Photography! The competition will run until October, with entries to be submitted to The Forbes Phoenix by Tuesday, 31st October. Entries can be sent to sales@forbesphoenix.com.au or via our Facebook page.

Get Online Week at Forbes Library – Try One Thing: On Thursday, 18th October at 10am, Forbes Library will be hosting a free information session for seniors or anybody who would like to learn a bit more about using computers and try one new thing using technology. Forbes Librarian, Bronwyn Clark said: “This is an opportunity for those who feel they have been missing out on the digital age to come to the library and try using our tablets or computers in a relaxed environment. They can find out about how we can help them with their computer skills and enjoy morning tea. Some of the activities we might try on the day include: how to use Skype, searching for tips and tricks and getting directions using online maps.” Please call Forbes Library on 6852 1463 to book your place for Get Online Week and try something new.

Sam Mackay (right) was awarded Young Participant for the 2018 Forbes Show for all his behind the scenes work. Forbes Show President, Doug Nadin congratulated Sam!

CONGRATULATIONS… Essjay Photography run by Sarah Hodge was voted by brides across the region as Central West #1 Winner Wedding Photographer 2018. The award winners were announced on Tuesday at Duntryleague in Orange.

Spring Photo Competition: The Forbes Phoenix has teamed up with Farmer From Down Under Photography to launch a spring photo competition. With Spring all around us, you can point your camera just about anywhere to get a scenic shot. We would love to see the great photos our readers can come up with. A wonderful prize is up for grabs – a framed picture donated by Farmer From Down Under Photography! The competition will run until October, with entries to be submitted to The Forbes Phoenix by Tuesday, 31st October. Entries can be sent to sales@forbesphoenix.com.au or via our Facebook page.

Schools Kits For Armistice Day: Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack is encouraging schools and students to become involved in this year’s Remembrance Day commemorations as it will mark 100 years since the end of fighting during World War I. “Its origins began on 11 November 1918 when the Armistice, which signalled the end of the Great War, was signed.” The Department of Veterans’ Affairs produce an educational pack for schools to promote the observance of Remembrance Day. Schools will receive the educational kit in September, with resources available to download on The Anzac Portal: http://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/.

Tough Penalties: Drivers using a mobile phone illegally will be penalised an extra demerit point, which means a total of five demerit points. The new law came into effect on Monday, 17th September. This means when double demerits are applied, you could be at risk of losing your licence. The fines will remain the same – $337 or $448 in a school zone. In NSW Learner, P1 and P2 licence holders are not permitted to use a mobile phone at all while driving. Fully licensed motorists are legally permitted to use their phone to make or answer calls or listen to music only if it is in a cradle, doesn’t obscure your view of the road and can be operated without touching any part of the phone, such as via Bluetooth or voice activation. Texting, emailing, social media and photography are all prohibited unless a vehicle is parked.

CONGRATULATIONS… The 2018 Indigenous Youth Of The Year was awarded to Kaiden Haynes of Forbes High School. The award was presented to him during the Naidoc Day celebrations held on Wednesday at South Circle Oval. Pictured with Kaiden is Mayor Graeme Miller (left) and Forbes High School Aboriginal Educational Officer (AEO), Barry Merrit (right)

Further Discounts For Farmers: Farmers in regional NSW will get more cash back in their pockets with rebates and refunds on heavy vehicle registration. The changes will come into effect from 1st November 2018. The NSW Government will provide partial refunds on previous heavy vehicle registration charges going back over three years. Farmers will also receive free registration over the next two years for their heavy vehicles. The registration rebate will apply to all renewals from 1st July 2018 until 30th June 2020. For producers who register their vehicles between 1st July and 1st November this year, the amount will be refunded. Farmers will still have to pay for Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance, personalised plates and relevant vehicle checks.

Spring Photo Competition: The Forbes Phoenix has teamed up with Farmer From Down Under Photography to launch a spring photo competition. With Spring all around us, you can point your camera just about anywhere to get a scenic shot. We would love to see the great photos our readers can come up with. A wonderful prize is up for grabs – a framed picture do nated by Farmer From Down Under Photography! The competition will run until October, with entries to be submitted to The Forbes Phoenix by Tuesday, 31st October. Entries can be sent to sales@forbesphoenix.com.au or via our Facebook page.

Be Connected at Forbes Library: Be Connected is a free Australian Government initiative helping people to make the most out of going online and it is coming to Forbes. Forbes Librarian, Bronwyn Clark said there’s never been a better time to get online. “Central West Libraries is now a partner with the Australian Government Be Connected program, so we are hosting free sessions with one-on-one training available,” Bronwyn said. “People can learn about online basics like using the internet, email, social media and just getting to know their device – phone, tablet or laptop. We have computer equipment people can use or they can bring their own device,” she said. Half hourly sessions will be held on Friday, 14th September, Friday, 21st September and Friday, 28th September. The sessions are available from 10:30am. Please call Forbes Library on 6852 1463 to book your place. All sessions are free.

The Lions Club donated $1,000 towards Forbes High School’s (FHS) fundraiser for their participation in the Schools Spectacular. Pictured in the back: Tim West, Nicholas Beard, Ryan Glennan, William Stamp, Graham Williams (President of Lions Club) and Safija Bristina (FHS Principal). Front: Nicole Patten, Kendi-Lee Morley- Diggins and Brodie Morley. The RSL Club also donated $1,200 towards the fundraiser.