Generous Donation: Laurel Vale Station donated four Angus steers at Forbes cattle sale to be auctioned off with all proceeds donated to a specific organisation to help out with the NSW and QLD floods. The steers were sold to Nutrien Forbes for $10,000 and they put them back up for auction and made $6,285. This means a grand total of $16,285 was raised!

Overture Shuttle Bus: There will be a special shuttle bus running from Forbes to Parkes return for Overture on 2nd April. The cost is $10 + booking fees per person, and the bus will depart from and return to Forbes Town Hall. Leave your car at home, and relax and enjoy the evening. Remember you can BYO to this event. There will also be a licenced bar and takeaway food options at the event with plenty of local cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs surrounding Cooke Park. Spaces are limited, so please pre-book at https://www.123tix.com.au/events/31184/forbes-parkes-overture-shuttle#content Tickets to Overture are still available via www.123tix.com.au/events/23498/overture

Indigenous Celebration: Lions Park will come alive on Friday, 8th April for a fun-filled afternoon to celebrate our indigenous community from 4:30-8pm. There will be cultural activities, arts and craft, interactive displays plus bungee trampolines, pedal boats on the lake (from 3 – 6pm), Girri Girri games (until 6:30pm), and a drumming workshop. The first 300 attendees will receive a $10 voucher to spend at any of the food vans at the event! Complete all the activities in your free event passport and go in the draw to win awesome prizes! A free bus will depart Jenny Murphy Park at 4:30pm, and return trip departs Lions Park at 8pm. For more information contact Council’s Community Relations Officer at community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or 6850 2300.

Calling Artists: Creatives from across regional NSW have the opportunity to develop artwork that shares their perspective on the future for the regions. Regional Futures is a two-year statewide creative project funded by Create NSW and delivered by the NSW Regional Arts Network representing 15 member organisations. An Expression of Interest process is currently open and applications close 28th March. The artists selected from each region will become a part of a group of 15 creatives. For more information www.regionalfutures.net.au

Holiday Fun: It’s just two weeks until the school holidays start. Check out the Forbes Youth Action Team facebook page and sign up for the amazing school holiday events www.facebook.com/FYouthAT

Correction: The Rotary project number for flood donations is Project 47-2021-22 and not Project 48-2021-22 as was reported in last week’s story. Club president Chris Finkel requested that donors look for Project 47 by going to the Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) website, click-on “Projects” and enter 47-2021-22 to donate to the flood recovery.

Can you play an instrument? The Forbes Town and District Band is doing a membership drive and would love to hear from you. “We are searching in earnest for rusty, lapsed or budding musicians to join our community band,” said Sue-anne Nixon, publicity officer. The band meets on Monday nights from 6pm-7pm for learners, and 7pm -9pm for main band members. The band hall is at 165 Rankin Street- opposite Bernardi’s. We welcome experienced, lapsed or learners. Contact the band leader Hannah, on 0402 039 785 for more information.

Child Protection Framework: Weaving the Net is a community development project which works with the Aboriginal community, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal workers, government, and non-government organisations to develop a local child protection framework. Agencies in the local area are also invited to participate so that they can assist in providing services. The involvement of community members and service providers is integral to the success of the program. Join the Opening Forum on 22nd and 23rd March from 10am to 3pm at the Uniting Church Hall, 27 Browne Street in Forbes. Contact Debbie Gaudie on 6850 1234 for more information.

Buckle Up In School Bus: Students in regional communities can now buckle up and ride to and from school more safely with seatbelts installed in every dedicated school bus in rural and regional NSW. Under the $237 million seatbelt program more than 2,500 buses were fitted with seatbelts. For more information on the program, visit: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/operations/buses-and-coaches/rural-and-regional-seatbelt-program-taskforce

Country Arts Support: Arts OutWest is calling for people with exciting small local arts projects in mind to apply for the Country Arts Support Program (CASP). The CASP 2022 round is focused on community-based, locally developed arts and heritage activities to benefit people in the Central West. Applications can be for $500 up to $3,000 for projects happening between 1st June and 31st December. Applications close at 5pm on Thursday, 21st April. To apply check the guidelines at artsoutwest. org.au and call Arts OutWest to discuss your proposal on 6338 4657.

Boosting Teacher Numbers: More teachers are on their way to public school classrooms across NSW with the opening of the next round of applications for two NSW Government teaching programs. The Mid- Career Transition to Teaching program attracts mid-career professionals into a Masters of Teaching to become a high school Mathematics, Science or Technology or Applied Studies teacher, working part-time in a school after six months, with intensive wraparound support to make the shift to teaching. The FASTstream targets teaching graduates and experienced teachers with leadership ambition and talent to accelerate their career journey.

Forbes TAFE Launches GROW Program: Forbes TAFE was very excited this week to launch the start of the GROW program. In a statement on their Facebook page, Forbes TAFE said – “This is a wonderful opportunity for our young learners to participate in training over multiple trades in preparation to join the workforce. Thank you to our sponsors Evolution Mining and Forbes Shire Council. To Gunn’s Menswear and Cahills Footwear Parkes and Forbes we appreciate being able to work with our sponsors to fulfil our uniform requirements locally.”

Forbes Rotary Ipomoea Markets Tomorrow: Don’t forget the Forbes Rotary Ipomoea Markets are on tomorrow Saturday, 12 March at Lions Park from 8:30am to 12:30pm. Come along and enjoy what should be another amazing day with plenty of food, fun and sun not to mention local produce.

Forbes Town And District Band: Forbes Town and District Band is encouraging learners to come along Monday nights from 6-7pm as it looks for new members. The Band Hall is at 165 Rankin Street opposite Bernardi’s. Any questions call Hannah on 0402 039 785.

Farewell Forbes Phoenix: They say nothing is permanent except death and taxes and sadly, this will be my last issue as Editor of the Forbes Phoenix. Thank you to everyone who has supported me specifically and the paper – especially over the last 13 months. It has been an experience I won’t forget. Hopefully I see some of you around in my new roles throughout my travels in the Central West and beyond. Take care and always support local. Dane Millerd

Bernardi’s Building A Better Forbes: Aruma Forbes were the recipients of a $2,500 donation from Bernardi’s Building Better Communities Program in a real boost for the NDIS organisation. Aruma Forbes plans to use the donated funds to purchase tables and chairs for their HUB to use as a central meeting place to connect with one another. Some goals include:
• Building Social Skills in a group setting.
• Learning New Life Skills – Setting a table and dining etiquette when eating out.
• Social Activities – Holding events (Parties and Biggest Morning Tea).
• Craft activities, Bingo and Puzzles.

“We thank Aruma for all the work they do in the Forbes community,” Bernardi’s said in an online statement on Facebook.

Forbes Visitor Centre Gift Shop: Councillors last weekend had a sneak peek at the new Visitor information Centre shop at the Railway and it looks incredible! Stop by for amazing tourism merchandise and a great range of books! You won’t be disappointed!

Vampire De Haviland: Council wishes to advise that some structural issues have been identified in the Vampire jet, located adjacent to Apex Park. A member of the Forbes Community with a keen eye noticed some cracks forming in the fuselage around the nose cone and promptly notified Council. For the safety of the public FSC have cordoned off the area while they investigate. This may be ongoing due to the specialised nature of the aircraft. Please obey site signage while they determine next steps. Council recognises the community significance of the vampire jet and will do their best to resolve the issues in a timely manner.

International Women’s Day – Legendary Local Ladies Night Tomorrow Night: International Women’s Day – Legendary Local Ladies Night is tomorrow night Saturday March 5th from 6-9pm at Forbes Town Hall. Ticket price includes canapes, 3 x Cocktails, entertainment and a compli mentary gift bag for each attendee. Additional drinks will be available for purchase on the night. All proceeds will be donated to Running For Premature Babies. Tickets available at www.123tix.com.au

Meet Our Local Forbes SES Volunteers: This week’s volunteer is Forbes SES Unit Heath Richardson. Heath first joined the SES as a member with Parkes Unit in 2018 when he was 35 as he wanted to be a part of something worthwhile. Not long after, Heath became a member of Forbes SES Unit where he is currently a Senior Operator and a Trainer and Assessor (both a great asset to Forbes Unit). Outside of the SES, Heath is a Branch Manager of a rental company. Throughout the November 2021 floods which passed through Forbes, Heath was one of the many members who gave their days to help out with other emergency services. “As many of us would agree, what we like most about the SES is the camaraderie between both members and units as well as the fact that no two jobs are the same. If you’re thinking of joining the SES then I definitely advise you to think long term rather short term and to be committed,” Heath said.

Recycle Trays Available At Forbes Shire Council: Have you got your free recycling tray yet? Hurry into Forbes Shire Council Administration Office and grab your free tray today as they are quickly running out. They are so handy for taking your recycling out to the yellow lid bin rather than throwing your recycling into landfill.

Yandharra Visions Come To Light: Forbes Business Chamber with the support of Forbes Shire Council will present a breakfast for women at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre beside beautiful Lake Forbes on 8 March. The breakfast will be presented to the participants on gorgeous laid tables under the shade of the massive gum and willow trees that surround the lake. Close by will be the Wiradjuri sculptures and Dreaming Centre.

Proud Wiradjuri woman and founder of Yandharra, Rose DeJong will present her vision of Yandharra in Forbes. Yandharra will offer many indigenous people the opportunity to train, participate and be included in the world of hospitality. Rose will share her thoughts about Wiradjuri culture simply through the food on your plate.

Tickets are limited and cost $15 at: www.123tix.com.au/events/30826/lets-yandharra-wiradjuri-for-eat-together-iwd-breakfast.

Crimestoppers Visit Victoria Park: A Crime Stoppers NSW community safety event was held at Victoria Park, Forbes on Tuesday by Insp. Shane Jessep and Peter Price. Locals came to have a coffee with authorities to get more information particularly about the permanent National Firearms Amnesty and keeping communities safe. If you know something, say something before it’s too late. Information may be provided online or call 1800 333 000. Your call, it does make a difference.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Gala Ball Online Silent Auction Open: Ronald McDonald House Orange are very excited to announce their RMHC Gala Ball Online Silent Auction is now open. https://app.galabid.com/orange/register

Holding the auction online, means you don’t need to be in the room at the ball on 12 March to participate. However should you wish to attend, tickets may be purchased online at: www.123tix.com.au/events/23841/the-gala-ball

Get Your Elvis Festival Passes Online: Get organised and purchase your festival shuttle bus passes online now. Bus passes are available for Parkes, Peak Hill and Forbes, plus return coach transfer to the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope. Shuttle bus services are available between Parkes and Forbes throughout the Festival thanks to Forbes Shire Council. Book online at https://bit.ly/22shuttle. For the CSIRO Radio Telescope book at https://bit.ly/22Dish

Teaching School Hub Coming To Forbes: A Teaching School Hub is coming to town. Catholic Education Wilcannia-Forbes (CEWF) and Alphacrucis College have teamed up to deliver a new program that will allow school leavers or others interested in the education system to work in support roles while completing their teaching studies. For more information on the new CEWF Teaching School Hub, contact Carmen Walsh by email: recruitment@wf.catholic.edu

Coalition’s Education Push In The Bush: This week Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack MP and the Federal Government made further strides in rural communities with Australia’s first Regional Education Commissioner Fiona Nash. Mr McCormack and Ms Nash were both pleased to discuss plans to ensure regional and rural students have the best possible access to high-quality education no matter their postcode. This comes on the back of key announcements made by the Federal Government last week with CSU in Parkes.

Vanfest Gathering Steam: Music lovers and concert goers are urged to sign up now for pre-release announcements about Vanfest. There are also a variety of member only perks. Go to www.vanfest.com.au

Nelson Twins At Club Forbes: We all need a good laugh so get your tickets today for the Club Forbes Comedy Night being held on Saturday, 7 May at 8pm. Come along and be entertained by Mick Meredith, Barry McLeod and the Nelson Twins. Tickets are $29 plus booking fee and can be puchased at www.123tix.com.au/events/30068/comedy-night-club-forbes

Dead Fish At Lake Forbes: DPI Fisheries has received a report of a fish kill in Lake Forbes. It is estimated that hundreds of fish have been affected, predominantly non-native Carp. The cause is likely linked to recent high flows in the region and associated water quality issues related to blackwater. DPI Fisheries will continue to work with partner agencies and stakeholders to manage and monitor water quality and river conditions. Community members are encouraged to report any fish deaths or observations through the Fishers Watch hotline on 1800 043 536.

Garden Club Notes: The first Garden Club meeting for 2022 will be held on Tuesday, 22 February from 1pm at the Uniting Church Hall, Browne St, Forbes. Please bring along a special bloom from your garden.

International Women’s Day: International Women’s Day will be celebrated on Saturday, 5 March at the Forbes Town Hall from 6pm – 9pm. Be inspired by ‘legendary local ladies’ and feel nourished with amazing canapes and delicious cocktails. The ticket price includes canapes, three cocktails, entertainment and a complimentary gift bag for each attendee. Additional drinks will be available for purchase on the night. All

proceeds will be donated to Running For Premature Babies. Tickets are available at www.123tix.com.au/events/30767/international-womens-day-legendary-local-ladies-night

Seniors Variety Concert: Head down to the Forbes Town Hall on Sunday, 27 March from 2pm – 4pm for the annual Seniors Week Variety Concert, presented by Forbes Shire Council and Forbes U3A. Featuring live music and afternoon tea, all for a gold coin donation. All proceeds raised will be donated to the Red Cross Forbes Branch. Performances by some of Forbes’ amazing local talent. Tickets are available at www.123tix.com.au/events/30765/seniors-variety-concert-2022

Royal Far West Op Shop (RFWOS) Volunteers Are The Best: So locals can get to know the volunteers, RFWOS will be featuring a volunteer each week.
Name: Helen Brinckley
Age: 81
Where were you born? Kempsey.
How long have you lived in Forbes? 45 years.
What are your hobbies/interests? Gardening.
What do you enjoy about volunteering? Meeting different volunteers.

Town Hall Renos Complete

After receiving funding from the NSW State Government to complete works at the Harold Street premises, the Forbes Town Hall refurbishment is complete and looks AMAZING! In an online statement FSC Mayor Phyllis Miller said she “couldn’t wait to utilise it and welcome everyone back!” Already the newly renovated space has been put to good use during the Australia Day celebrations most notably the Citizen of the Year Gala Dinner.

Goldridge Estate Update

Forbes Shire Council are happy to report that despite the wet weather, the water and sewer for Stages 1 and 2 of the subdivision works are now complete! The site has been a hive of activity with stormwater works to be carried out as part of the next phase of the process.

Free RSA Courses To Help Ease Big Staff Shortages

The NSW Government will fund 5,000 fee-free Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) courses to support new workers to enter the hospitality industry and help ease the staffing pressure on licensed hospitality venues. The hospitality sector makes up over 2 percent of total gross value added to the NSW economy and supports more than 300,000 jobs.

NSW Government Treasurer Matt Kean said the courses were vital to address shortages. The RSA courses will be available through TAFE NSW and private providers who already offer government subsidised programs.

Don’t Forget The Rotary Ipomoea Markets Saturday Feb 12

The RIM start at 8:30am-12noon at idyllic Lions Park. Plenty of food and a great space for the whole family! More info on their Facebook page or call 0427 201 445.

Have You Heard Vera Blue’s New Cover?

Our own Vera Blue (Celia Pavey) covered The Kid Laroi and Justin Bieber hit ‘Stay’ for Triple J’s Like A Version last week and nailed it! If you haven’t heard it, track it down and give it a listen!

Water And Sewer Team Hard At It

With all the recent floods, any changes to water should be reported to Forbes Shire Council on 02 6852 2300 during business hours or 1300 978 633 after hours and a team will be sent over immediately. Forbes Shire Council is responsible for a huge amount of infrastructure of around 250km of buried pipes, 2 treatment plants, 5 reservoirs and 23 pump stations.

AgCAREERSTART Registrations Open

AgCAREERSTART is a structured gap year program that introduces young Australians to a career in agriculture. Over 12 months, you will be matched with an on-farm job, given training and development, and gain access to industry events and experiences with your AgCAREERSTART cohort. To find out more about being a gap year participant or on-farm host, register your details at www.agcareerstart.com.au/home

Headspace NSW Parent and Carer Sessions – Western NSW Local Health District

With the commencement of the 2022 school year, new sessions are starting in February for parents and carers to attend a free mental health education session hosted by the Headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation. The sessions aim to:
• Strengthen your understanding of mental health definitions.
• Enhance your conversational approach to mental health and well-being.
• Build skills and strategies to support young people, including transition to work and study.
• Build awareness of local, state and national supports available to young people.
• Increase your knowledge and understanding of the mental health challenges facing young people today.
• Introduce you to some of the skills and strategies to encourage and support help-seeking.

There are two online webinars being held across the Western NSW LHD on:
• 7th February: Helping my young person during COVID. Registration: https://bit.ly/3I6Plge
• 14th March: Helping my young person during COVID. Registration: https://bit.ly/3flbTh5

Rotary Ipomoea Markets Are Back

Rotary Ipomoea Markets are every second Saturday of the month at Lions Park and will return Saturday February 12th. Come along and enjoy the market atmosphere at Lions Park, beautiful shade, new playground equipment, great coffee, hot breakfast available from the Rotary Breaky Van, and over 20 stalls show-casing local produce, hand-made arts and crafts, new and repurposed goods and plants. Rotary Ipomoea members will have a stall and look forward to sharing Rotary project information. Please contact Rotary Ipomoea on Ph 0427 201445 or find us on Facebook.

Boss Skills Coming To Forbes

NSW Farmers and Prime Super are bringing “Boss Skills” to Forbes on February 8th from 10am. Join us for an informative session on your obligations as a farm business employer. You can attend in or online attendance available. Register via https://form.jotform.com/holleyt/boss-skills-registration-form

Forbes TAFE Update

The Forbes G.R.O.W (Getting Ready for Opportunities to Work) is a course that is a great opportunity for students 16-24 who have left school and/or are unemployed. The course is free, runs 5 days a week for four months and students receive nationally recognised training in a variety of areas from how to operate heavy equipment, construction, motor bikes, plant trees, chemicals, chainsaw, landscaping, welding, customer service, presentation skills and computers. This fantastic opportunity is limited to 12 students so register now! RTO 90003

NSW Women’s Rural Gathering Rego Open

Registrations and Preliminary Program are online via https://forbes2021nswruralwomensgathering.com/registration/

Don’t forget to book your accommodation. There are some fabulous speakers and entertainment lined up!

Inland Rail REF Approval Docs On Public Exhibition

Inland Rail are placing two Review of Environmental Factors (REF) approvals documents on public exhibition from 3 – 24 February 2022. One of these documents covers the Stockinbingal to Parkes project’s Horizontal Clearances, including works at Caragabal and Quandialla at and the other one is for Lachlan River Bridge in Forbes. For more information regarding the project head over to: https://inlandrail.artc.com.au/where-we-go/projects/stockinbingal-to-parkes/status/

Well Done Forbes SES

Last week a boat overturned in Forbes and NSW SES Forbes Unit assisted NSW Police with locating an overturned boat and its occupants on the Lachlan River. All persons and the boat were returned safely to dry land.

 

New Sculpture Design At Club Forbes

The Damian Vick steel sculpture of the Rising Sun now takes pride and place on the Templar Street wall of Club Forbes.

The Rising Sun is a dynamic piece that is as versatile as it is dramatic. Having been designed and built in two halves allows it to be used in three distinct ways: hung flat on a wall, used as a divider for a space, or positioned in a corner. This particular screen was donated to the Club Forbes to commemorate the centenary of the first world war.

Vick, a Melbourne-based artist, has three sculptures in Forbes including The Hunter located at the Gum Swamp Bird Hide on the Newell Highway, The Heart of Country located 80km from Forbes on the Condobolin Road and the Rising Sun.

Eugowra Community Children’s Centre Grant

Member for Orange Philip Donato MP earlier this week officially announced the successful grants funding application by the Eugowra Community Children’s Centre Inc. for the purchase and installation of new flooring in the centre, artificial grass in the outside yard, a split system air conditioning system and an exhaust fan for the cot room.

The successful application was part of the 2020 NSW Government-funded Community Building Partnership Grants Program with Eugowra Community Children’s Centre Inc. receiving $14,750 of the $299,829 distributed to 20 projects across the electorate.

Travel Boost For Regional Seniors

Applications are open for the expanded 2022 NSW Regional Seniors Travel Card, allowing even more seniors to pocket their $250 pre-paid Visa card that can be used for fuel, taxis, pre-booked NSW TrainLink Regional trains and coaches, and select community transport services. Go to service.nsw.gov. au/regionalseniorstravel

Make It A Date At Forbes Library On Fridays At 10.30am

Forbes Rhymetime returns to Forbes Library on Friday 4th February, and Storytime on Friday 11th February at 10.30am during the school term.

Reading aloud to your child is also a great opportunity to share time together and bond as well as improve reading skills.

So make a date for Fridays at Forbes Library at 10.30am for lots of fun with stories, songs, games and craft.

Please let us know you are coming along by booking your place online via Eventbrite.com.au, register via the CWL website events page, or call us on 6852 1463.

Empowering Future Female Leaders

The NSW Government recently launched a new round of the Future Women Rural Scholarship Program to help women living in rural and regional NSW achieve their goals.

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the program is about boosting the leadership potential of women living in remote, rural and regional NSW.

Applications are open to women living in remote, rural and regional NSW aged 18- 39 years old. Applications close today and recipients will be announced on 14th February, 2022. The NSW Government has partnered with Future Women, an organisation delivering virtual events, leadership training and a curated digital network to its members. To find out more, please visit: futurewomen.com

 

There is a changing of the guard at Forbes Arts Society. At the recent AGM Dr Karen Ritchie Chairwoman of Forbes Arts Society officially resigned from her seat and Trudy Mallick was overwhelmingly voted in to take the chair position. Karen may have stepped down from the chair, but she has taken the role of Secretary and Dr Keith Mallette remains as the ordinary member.

“During my two-year term as President of the Forbes Arts Society (FAS), much effort has been expended commencing and progressing the projects of the NSW State Government Restart Grant program – ‘Boosting the Lachlan Valley Economy through Art Embedded in our Amazing Environment, Forbes NSW,” said Dr Ritchie.

The funded project consists of the Sculpture Down the Lachlan Trail between Forbes and Condobolin, redeveloping the Gum Swamp area with refurbished and new bird hides, walkways and sculptures and purchasing and redeveloping the derelict, former Forbes District Ambulance Station into an art gallery and cultural hub.

“The past two years have been incredibly busy but very exciting and stimulating and I would like to extend my thanks to the hard-working members of the FAS.”

Incoming President Trudy Mallick thanked Dr Ritchie for all her efforts.

“I am indebted to the work Karen has commenced as Chair of the Forbes Arts Society and look forward to completing the building and the sculpture trail in 2022. The next twelve months will be an exciting and no doubt challenging time for all of us, however the sculpture trail and bird hides will be wonderful attractions and the culture centre will be an incredible meeting place and art gallery for the townspeople and visitors to Forbes alike.”