NSW SES Forbes Unit: Last weekend, NSW SES members from Forbes, Parkes, Cootamundra, Cowra, Albury and Lake Cargelligo travelled to Cowra to participate in a Chainsaw Operators Course. It was a great weekend of hands-on training, building valuable skills and working alongside members from across the region. Congratulations to everyone who participated.

Clarinda Parkes Boutique & Henrys Pantry: Henrys Pantry wishes to publicly thank all donors for their incredible support and ongoing donations of eggs, cakes andslices, fruit and vegetables and more. We appreciate you so very much. Your kindness to our community pantry is awesome. Parkes and surrounds boast a population of tireless givers with big hearts that genuinely care for our community. From Kerrie and the Pantry Staff.

Parkes Shire Council: You may have noticed that the willow tree closest to the car park at Bushman’s Dam was removed. The removal is part of the reconstruction and flood resilience works currently underway. Willows are a significant environmental weed in NSW and are listed as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS). Garden beds with native plants and trees will soon be planted.

Vinnies Central & Far West NSW: What does it mean to be a Vinnies member? It’s showing up. It’s listening. It’s lending a hand. It’s doing what you can. Across NSW, Vinnies members and volunteers are making a difference every day. Whether you have a few hours to give, there’s a place for you at Vinnies. Call: 02 6862 5758 or email: wcfsvdp@vinnies.org.au

Forbes Shire Council: With spring underway, please be mindful of magpies in a couple of areas around Forbes where swooping activity has been noticed. Hotspot areas around the lake include: the ski dam end and Bundaburrah Crossing and the Dreaming Centre, behind the NAB building. Magpies are generally not aggressive, but during nesting season they can become protective of their territory.

NSW SES Parkes Unit: Members of the NSW SES Parkes Unit were at the recent Parkes Show when displaying their large animal rescue skills. You may have spotted them set up near the Victoria Street entrance, where attendees of all ages stopped to check them out. They also gave away starter emergency kits to those willing to sign a pledge promising never to drive, ride, walk, play or enter floodwater.

Community Road Safety Grants: Got an idea to help make roads safer in your community? Community organisations across NSW can now apply for funding, with grants of up to $5,000, or up to $30,000 for larger projects. Applications close at 4pm, Monday 28 September. Apply now: bit.ly/road-safety-grants

Dolly’s Dream: Not every bullying situation looks the same. That’s why we’ve created a free Bullying Support Hub with practical advice for every stage of the journey. Free. Trusted. Available whenever you need it at: dollysdream.org.au/help-and-support

PCYC Parkes: Join the Peak Hill Community Outreach Day and help strengthen connections across our community. This event showcases services, builds relationships. Come along Monday 12 October at Peak Hill Central School from 12pm to 3pm and enjoy a free BBQ, interactive activities.

National Rural Women’s Coalition and Network: We want to hear from women over 18 years living in rural, regional and remote Australia about their experiences of women’s healthcare. You can choose not to answer a question or stop the survey at any time. Please do not provide any identifying information. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VF6C7PM

headspace: Need help supporting a young person’s mental health? headspace has a range of expert resources and services that can help. Partners in Parenting elearning, Adults Supporting Young People text-based group chat, eheadspace, Selfhelp resources. Sign up today to support your young person’s mental health at: https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phone-support/parents

Philip Donato: Local small business owners can access up to four hours of free business advice through the Service NSW’s Small Business Advisory Program? Whether you need support with business planning, marketing, finances, staffing, AI, or growing your business. Register here: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/business/small-business-advisory-program

Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera tions: At Northparkes Open Day, you’ll have the chance to get up close with some of the impressive machines that help keep our operation moving. It’s a rare opportunity to see these incredible machines up close. Saturday 24 October. Don’t forget to grab your free tickets: bit.ly/NorthparkesOpenDay

Connect the Dots: Parkes Shire Council invites residents to enjoy a morning of music, drumming, games, a BBQ and community connection at this free event. Enjoy performances by Gracey Denham-Jones Music, Rob Shannon, Kitty Stitt – By Kitty, The Fijian Singers, Tapestry Choir, Molly Moon, Parkes Community Choir, Parkes Shire Concert Band and the Parkes Ukulele Group. Saturday 26 September from 10am-12pm at Kelly Reserve, Parkes. Find out more: bit.ly/ParkesConnectTheDots

Know the E-bike Rules Before Your Child Rides: Central West Police District advise only legal e-bikes can be ridden on public roads and paths. A legal e-bike must: have a maximum continuous rated power of 500 watts, provide motor assistance only while pedaling (or throttle-only assistance up to 6km/h), cut motor assistance once the bike reaches 25km/h. NSW Police also have powers to seize illegal e-bikes being used on roads and road-related areas, and riders must wear an approved bicycle helmet and follow the same road rules as all bicycle riders. For more information, visit the Transport for NSW E-bike webpage: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/bicycle-riders/ebikes

NSW Government: Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home. That’s why the NSW Government is increasing funding for all 52 Staying Home Leaving Violence services across NSW by 50% over the next four years. Staying Home Leaving Violence services supported more than 9,200 victimsurvivors last financial year. The new funding will help more people access practical support, including safety planning, home security upgrades and help navigating the legal process. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available: NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 65 64 63, 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 and in an emergency, call 000. Learn more: bit.ly/staying-home-leaving-violence

Forbes Children and Youth Hub: The Office of Children and Guardian and Forbes Shire Council are hosting a day of interactive workshops for those working in child related organisations to better understand and implement the Child Safe Scheme. Learn more about the Child Safe Scheme and how to further implement strategies to keep children and young people safe from harm and abuse. Workshops are being held at Forbes Town Hall on Thursday 22 October from 9:30am – 4pm. Book now for this free event: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/child-safe-roadshow-forbes-tickets-1998935187957

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes: This week is National Child Protection Week, and the theme is ‘Every Conversation Matters: Shifting Conversation to Action’. At CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes, their ongoing pledge is to continue to promote and protect the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in the communities in which they work and live. What action you can take, big or small, to help children thrive?

Top Blokes Foundation: Some things are better together. Carry 10kg and walk (run, or roll) this October. The vest represents the weight many young men carry in silence. With your support, we’re building a stronger, more connected generation of young men. Are you in? Sign up today for the Lift the Load Challenge at https://join.lifttheload.org.au/challenge

Australian Cancer Research Founda tion: Bravery comes in all shapes, styles and colours. Sign up NOW to shave, cut or colour your hair and back brilliant research. Be brave and shave, cut or colour any day this September. Take bold action and choose to Colour your hair any colour, Cut your luscious locks from long to short or Shave it all off. Sign up at any time during September at https://fundraise.acrf.com.au/event/brave-shave-2026/home

Just A Farmer: Trundle and surrounding communities are invited to a free community screening of Just A Farmer at the Trundle War Memorial Hall on Thursday 17 September. Screening starts at 6pm and supper will be provided. The evening will include a discussion panel and an opportunity for conversations after the film. Please RSVP to cwllandcare@gmail.com or text 0418 611 053.

Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge: Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge is back! Complete an uncomfortable activity every day, for 10 days in a row, between 19 – 28 October to raise funds for We Are Mobilise, for those experiencing homelessness in Australia. Do something that makes you Uncomfortable and sign up today at: www.neddsuncomfortablechallenge.com/register/challenge-2026

R U OK? R U OK? Day 2026 was on Thursday 10 September. The day called for action, and is a reminder that any day is the day to check in with the people you care about. In 2026, the message is simple: ‘If you’re thinking it, Ask R U OK? Any Day’. Conversation tips and crisis support contacts can be found at ruok.org.au

Bernardi’s Marketplace: Bernardi’s present CWA Eugowra Branch with $2,500 as the 1st Place Winner of Round 1 of their Building Better Communities program. Thanks to the incredible support of customers and local community members, this funding will help support the valuable work the branch does for Eugowra and surrounding areas. The Country Women’s Association has a long history of bringing people together, supporting those in need, and strengthening rural communities. More information on Building Better Communities: https://bernardis.com.au/community

Visit Parkes Region: Are you ready to ride The Dirty Dish? Mark your calendar for 19 September and get set to explore the Parkes Region on two wheels at the Dirty Dish cycling event. With great riding, country roads and plenty of spectacular Central West scenery, it’s the perfect way to experience the region from a different perspective. For more info and registrations visit: bit.ly/4oVY23m

WIRES: Become a WIRES volunteer and help rescue native wildlife in need. Join local volunteers in Orange on Saturday 12 September for a face-to-face wildlife rescue workshop. Sign up today at www. wires.org.au/wildlife-training/rescue-andimmediate-care-course

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: Country storytelling with a bit of rock energy, Scarlett Gee is bringing her sound to Bush Tucker Day. Hailing from Orange, NSW, Scarlett Gee is known for a high-energy live show that mixes crowd-favourite covers with her own original music. Saturday 5 September 2026 at the Trundle Showground. Tickets are on sale now https://bit.ly/4gH9myI

Beyond Blue: Make your club a gamechanger for mental health. Any sport, any size can take part. Sign up for a Mental HealthMatch with Beyond Blue andAustralia Post -breaking stigma and supporting our communities together. Sign up and host a match at www.mentalhealthmatch.com.au

Vinnies Parkes: We wanted to let you know that the blue Vinnies donation bins have been permanently removed. Moving forward, we kindly ask that all donations be brought directly to Vinnies Parkes during the following hours: Monday to Friday: 10am to 3pm. Donations can be dropped off either through the front door or the back door—whichever is most convenient for you. Donating outside of these hours contributes to illegal dumping which volunteers are forced to clean up. Dumping can attract fines of up to $4,000.

Official Parkes High School: Year 10 students Charlotte and Savannah, will be volunteering all this week with the Parkes Show Committee in the lead up to the Parkes Show next week. The girls will be assisting with administration in the Show Office located at the Parkes Show Ground. A reminder that school hours on Tuesday 1 September will be 9am – 12pm for the gazetted half day.

Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge: Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge is back. Complete an uncomfortable activity every day, for 10 days in a row between 19 – 28 October to raise funds for We Are Mobilise, for those experiencing homelessness in Australia. It doesn’t have to be running – It can be anything but it has to be a challenge that makes you feel uncomfortable – that’s Sign up today at: www.neddsuncomfortablechallenge.com/register/challenge-2026

Street Dreams 2026: Street Dreams Festival is back in Forbes on Friday 25 September, bringing a wave of creativity, light and entertainment to the heart of town. Experience a brand-new live music stage, interactive light installations and an expanded program of underwater-inspired activities across Harold Street, Court Street and Victoria Park. Best of all, it’s free!

BlazeAid Grants 2026: Are you a farmer looking to improve your bushfire preparedness? BlazeAid’s All Fired Up Grants are now available, providing funding support for Private Fire Fighting Unit upgrades, including pumps, water tanks, hoses, radios, PPE and more. Applications open: 1 September 2026. Learn more: www.blazeaid.com.au or email afu@blazeaid.com.au

Parkes Elvis Festival: We’re excited to invite volunteers to be part of the team behind the magic of the 2027 Parkes Elvis Festival. Volunteers are the heart of the Parkes Elvis Festival, and we are incredibly grateful for the dedication, passion and generosity they share year after year. We simply couldn’t do it without them. To join our festival family, visit: bit.ly/ElvisVolunteer

Stop. Think. Protect: Scams Awareness Week runs from 24 to 28 August. Whether it’s fake emails, unexpected phone calls or online schemes, scammers always find new ways to gain your trust and steal your money or personal information. For simple steps on how to stay safe, visit: www.scamwatch.gov.au/stop-check-protect

Forbes Show: Whether you were crowned recently or many years ago, we would love to see you as we mark a wonderful milestone, celebrating the 150th Forbes Show. So many amazing women have been part of our Show’s history over the years. You are warmly invited to join us at the 150th Forbes Show on: Friday 11 September and Saturday 12 September.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council has been named a finalist in the 2026 Fleet News Group Fleet of the Year Award, recognising the innovation, efficiency and continuous improvement happening right here in our Shire. Our Fleet team works behind the scenes to keep Council moving – maintaining the vehicles, plant and equipment that help us look after roads, parks, waste services, water and sewer infrastructure, and much more. Vote for Parkes Shire Council: bit.ly/VotePSCFleet

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: Make sure to be prepared with cash before arriving in Trundle, as there is one ATM at the Trundle Services & Citizens Club and there will be limited card use at the bar at Trundle Bush Tucker Day. Most vendors will have their own eftpos machine but some may be cash only. It is always handy to bring some cash so you don’t miss out on anything.

TAFE NSW Forbes: Are you interested to learn about the basics of studying Beauty? TAFE NSW Forbes will be running an introductory course starting in October 2026. Mondays, 9am-3.30pm. Learners cannot be enrolled in school. Places are limited so secure your spot now: https://online-enrolments.oneebs.tafensw.edu.au/Enrol/Process/GetStarted/165/12370432

TAFE NSW Parkes: Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your artistic skills, the Statement of Attainment in Studio Practice – Drawing can help bring your creative ideas to life through. Virtual classroom – off campus, Tuesdays: 25 August 2026 to 25 June 2027. For more info or to enrol: https://www.tafensw.edu.au/course-areas/art-and-design/courses/statement-of-attainment-in-studio-practice-drawing–900-82856

Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW: Whether fundraising for causes at a local level or lobbying governments on a range of important issues at state level, CWA membership helps make a difference. Join in August to receive two months bonus membership. Find out more at https://cwaofnsw.org.au/Web/Web/Membership/Membership.aspx

National BBQ Championships Forbes: Two months to go until the National BBQ Championships Forbes. From sizzling grills to slow-smoked perfection, the countdown is officially on. Nominate your team today at https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/events/events-2026/october-2026/national-bbq-championships-forbes Interested in sponsoring the event? Email events@forbes.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6850 2300.

Parkes Shire Council: Does your sporting club need an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)? Funding of up to $3,000 is available to help eligible sporting organisations purchase an approved AED package. The Parkes Shire Council Grants Team is ready to help with your application. Contact them at grants@parkes.nsw.gov.au. You can check eligibility requirements before applying here: https://bit.ly/4g6pbNB

Central West Police District: Due to recent changes in the firearms legislation, you will need to have passed a safe storage inspection in the last 10 years prior to applying for a permit to acquire (PTA). If you are in the Central West area and want to book a safe storage inspection, email your name, address, firearms licence number and phone number to CWPDFIREARMSENQ@police.nsw.gov.au or visit www.police.nsw.gov.au/online_services/firearms

Australian Cancer Research Founda tion: Stand with the brave this September for the Australia Cancer Research Foundation. Shave, cut or colour your hair and help raise vital funds for cancer research that saves lives. Do it for Australians affected by cancer – their bravery is worth celebrating. Sign up at https://fundraise.acrf.com.au/event/brave-shave-2026

Gotcha4Life: Rally your crew and join the 24 Hour Row for Mental Fitness on 12–13 September 2026. Whether you’re rowing from your gym, sporting club, school or workplace, this is a challenge anyone can take on. Show up for your mates. Strengthen your community. Champion mental fitness. Sign up now: 24hourrow.com.au

NSW Government: Have an old, inefficient top-loading washing machine? Eligible households can swap their top-loader for a water and energy efficient model for just $250, including delivery, installation and a 2-year warranty. It can help save around $300 each year on water, energy and detergent, plus roughly 20,000 litres of water. Check your eligibility and apply: water.dcceew.nsw.gov.au/washing-machines

Forbes Shire Council: Forbes residents can now enjoy a simpler, more user-friendly way to manage waste and recycling! Council is transitioning to a new platform, LoopedIn Councils. What you need to do: Download the new LoopedIn Councils app and delete the old iRecycle Waste App from your device. Stay up to date with Collection schedules, Bin reminders and Recycling tips and guidance.

Parkes Crop Swap: Parkes Crop Swap is on again this Saturday 8 August from 9am – 11am. You can swap produce, seedlings, cuttings – anything related to the love of being sustainable and sharing in the garden. Access via 33A Albert St, drive up the driveway and park (limited spaces). You can also park up at the Memorial Hill carpark and wander down through the gate. Please like Parkes Community Arts Facebook page to keep up to date.

Australian Bureau of Statistics: Time to lock-in and log in, because Tuesday 11 August is Census night. You can fill out your Census form as soon as you receive your letter with instructions. For more information, go to census.abs.gov.au/help Grant Opportunity: Funding is now available to help deliver projects that strengthen, support and prepare local communities across NSW. Grants of $50,000 to $300,000 are available under four funding categories: Arts & Culture, Community Infrastructure, Disaster Readiness and Sport & Recreation. Applications close 17 August 2026. Learn more and apply: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/clubgrantscategory-3-fund

Bogan Gate Landfill Is Now Closed: The Bogan Gate Landfill closed as of Thursday, 30 July 2026, in preparation for the construction of the new Bogan Gate Transfer Station. In the meantime, residents can access the Parkes Waste Facility, which is open: Tuesday to Friday: 8:30am to 4pm. Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 4pm. For further information, please contact Council’s Environment and Sustainability Team. For more information; https://bit.ly/4cc592O

Steptember Australia: Walk, run, dance or skip your way through Steptember and help babies with cerebral palsy take their first steps. Take on 10,000 steps a day throughout September. Join the FREE fitness challenge today https://www.steptember.org.au

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: Family recipe? Secret ingredient? Signature dish? The National Bush Cook Off is your chance to put it to the test. Whether you’re entering the Junior, Entrée, Main or Dessert category, you’ll be competing for great prizes and the chance to be recognised on stage at the Trundle Bush Tucker Day. Free to enter. Entries accepted from 12:30pm–2:30pm at the Ag N Vet Judges Tent. Start planning your winning dish now. Book your tickets here: https://bit.ly/4gH9myI

Household Chemical Clean Out: Got old chemicals gathering dust in the shed or garage? Now is your chance to get rid of them for free. Household Chemical Cleanout (HCC) events are rolling out giving you a safe, free and easy way to dispose of the nasty stuff you can’t put in your regular bin.

Drop off items like: solvents and household cleaners, floor care products, ammonia based cleaners, pesticides and herbicides, poisons, pool chemicals, hobby chemicals, motor fuels, fluorescent globes and tubes, acids and alkalis, smoke detectors, paint and paint-related products, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, car and household batteries and motor oils and cooking oils. Drop off at Bogan Gate Waste Depot Condobolin Road on Friday 11 September from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

Visit Parkes Region: Experience the magic of the night sky with Stargazing at Bogan Gate. Don’t miss this free event hosted by Inland Astro-Trail and Bogan Gate Primary School. Discover the wonders above as you enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars in the charming village of Bogan Gate. On Thursday 13 August 6pm – 9pm at Bogan Gate RV Park in Hutton Street.

Find all the event details on the Visit Parkes What’s On Calendar – bit.ly/468noDX

Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera tions: Could your community group do more with a little extra funding? Northparkes Operations is proud to support projects that make a real difference, through the Northparkes Community Investment Program. Whether you’re planning a new initiative, upgrading equipment, delivering a community event or creating opportunities for local people. Applications close 30 October 2026. For information https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DDR2TN2

Street Dreams Returns: Street Dreams will light up Forbes on Friday 25 September 2026. From 5pm – 9pm, Victoria Park will be transformed into a flowing, luminous underwater realm – inviting the community to dive into an enchanting water-themed celebration of art, light and performance.

Inspired by oceans, rivers and the movement of water, Street Dreams 2026 will unleash a sensory experience filled with shimmering lights, immersive soundscapes, aquatic-inspired art installations, live performances and vivid colour. Free to attend, the 2026 Street Dreams Festival is the second year of a three-year series that aims to strengthen social connection, support local creatives, and enhance the vibrancy of the Forbes community through inclusive, accessible arts programming.