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.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council proudly congratulates Susannah Davey, who has been recognised as the Family Day Care Educator Award winner at the Central West Early Childhood Awards held in Bathurst. Congratulations also to the wider Central West Childcare Services – Bangala-la Preschool and Family Day Care team for their nominations across multiple categories, a true reflection of their passion and commitment to early child­hood education.

NSW Government: Heading into the city from Sydney Airport? From 3 November, you can pay a flat $60 taxi fare (or $80 if travelling in a maxi taxi) to the CBD for the next 18 months. It’s part of a new trial to make things simpler, and it only applies from the airport to the CBD (not the other way around). Some first-time visitors have been overcharged with fares over $150, so this gives travellers peace of mind with clear, upfront pricing.

Forbes Shire Council: Community Fund­ing Program applications now open. Notfor-profit groups in Forbes can apply for up to $5,000 to support projects in: Sport & Recreation, Culture & the Arts, Community Services and Rural Village Enhancement. Find out more or apply: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au. Applications for this round close 31 January 2026. Need help with your ap­plication? Book an appointment 6850 2300 or at community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Central West Local Land Services: Got box gum or grey box grassy woodlands on your property? We are seeking landhold­ers in the Central West LLS region to help protect and restore these threatened eco­systems. Eligible landholders will receive technical support and assistance to carry out on-ground conservation works. EOIs close Tuesday 18 November 2025 Find out more – https://bit.ly/3I78sfT Not sure if you have these woodlands? Use the NSW Trees Near Me tool to find out: https://bit.ly/4ouHs9J

NSW Road Safety: In NSW, there are thousands of informal school bus stops (just like this one!), particularly in rural and regional areas. They may not be marked with signage or infrastructure, so drivers must, look out for flashing lights on the back of the bus advising that school kids are being picked up or dropped off, slow down to 40km/h, be aware that kids may run onto the road from in front of or behind the bus.

CanAssist Forbes Branch: A huge shout out and thank you to Forbes Ranch Sort­ing and Penning inc for choosing CanAs­sist Forbes as their charity for their annual sponsors sort, raising almost $5,000 for CanAssist. And thank you as well to the brave riders (pictured) who took part in the sponsors’ sort, and to the sponsors, and the general public for their generosity.

Visit Parkes Region: The wait is almost over – this weekend, the goodnessgrav­el cycling event kicks off! Saddle up for this ride through Parkes Region’s stun­ning gravel roads. Are you ready to make memories? For more info visit: https://bit.ly/4oVY23m

Forbes Shire Council: Have your say, Forbes. The Regional Wellbeing Sur­vey is your chance to help shape the fu­ture of our community and regional Aus­tralia. Complete the survey https://tinyurl.com/3rhx42dd More information www.re­gionalwellbeing.org.au

Central West Lachlan Landcare Inc: Thank you to everyone that joined us at Homegrown Parkes on Saturday, 11 Octo­ber. Our feedback survey is open until Fri­day, 31 October 2025 and we would love to hear from you. Go to: https://centralwestlachlanlandcare.org/2025/10/23/looking-at-landcare-23-10-2025-fantastic-goodies-up-for-grabs-for-survey-responses/

NSW Reconstruction Authority: Do you live in the Central West, were impacted by the floods and need extra support? Free personalised support is available for indi­viduals, families, landholders through Re­covery Support Services (RSS). Get help with: Social and emotional support, Recov­ery info and resources. Can’t get into town? Access support remotely or an RSS can come to you. See what support is available in your area: https://www.nsw.gov.au/emergency/floods/recover/support-services

R U OK? Sometimes our thoughts can feel like a tangled mess. But sharing them with someone, bit by bit, can help loosen the knots. For conversation tips please visit ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Ron Dunford Chemist Parkes: Thank you to our wonderful community for support­ing us in raising an amazing $920 for the McGrath Foundation, with all the proceeds raised going to such an amazing cause. Thanks to all our beautiful staff members who spent their weekend cooking up a storm. A big thank you also to Johnson’s Bakery for your kind donation. Congratula­tions to Anne H for being the delighted win­ner of our raffle! We hope you enjoy your gift basket.

Forbes Rodeo: Forbes Rodeo Commit­tee honoured one of their original legends with a Life Membership. JW has been on the committee right from the beginning and has helped to make Forbes Rodeo what it is today. Forbes Rodeo are planning for the new year in the new MEC.

R U OK? Exam time can be tough. If a school or uni friend doesn’t seem them­selves – maybe they’re stressing, procras­tinating, or shutting down – check in with them. A simple ‘are you OK? can go a long way. For more tips and helpful study re­sources visit: ruok.org.au/academic-pres­sure Don’t forget, if it’s all feeling too much, support is available. ReachOut Australia provides peer support, or get in touch with Kids Helpline Official 1800 55 1800 (24/7) or headspace 1800 650 890.

NSW Government: From 10 December 2025, children under 16 won’t be able to create or keep accounts on platforms where age restrictions are likely to apply, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X and YouTube. This is to help protect kids from harmful content and give them more time to learn safe online habits. Read the full FAQ here: bit.ly/social-media-age-restrictions

Parkes Clean Future Alliance: Check out the Parkes Plume Plotter. https://plumeplot­ter.com/parkes/ The Parkes plume plotter shows a prediction of the current amount of air pollution (at ground level) caused by emissions from the proposed incinerator at Parkes, NSW. This is an indicative plume plotter. Submissions to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Energy from Waste facilities in Regional NSW close on Friday, 31 Octo­ber. More information at: www.parkescle­anfuture.org

The Great Aussie Bird Count: Join Aus­tralia’s biggest citizen-science event – the Aussie Bird Count. This week, take part in the Aussie Bird Count and help track our feathered friends across the country! All it takes is 20 minutes in your backyard, local park, or favourite outdoor spot to count the birds you see. Submit your sightings via the Aussie Bird Count app or online. https://bit.ly/3Liyi1G

Local Spotlight – Great Inland Glossy Count: Want to do more? Join the Great Inland Glossy Count at Goobang Nation­al Park on Saturday 25 October. Help us monitor the stunning Glossy Black-Cocka­too and make a real impact. Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/47xLF6T

AgriWest Rural: This October, AgriWest’s very own Bill Ryan is lacing up for a 100km run from Condobolin to Forbes – joined by his two top mates, Sam Johnston and Sam Parish. Together, they’re hoping to raise funds to help fight homelessness in Aus­tralia. It’s a huge challenge for an incred­ible cause, and every donation helps make a real impact. Support their run here: www.neddsuncomfortablechallenge.com/fundraisers/FRC

CanAssist Forbes Branch: The CanAs­sist Forbes Branch were fortunate to be the recipient of $5,000 in the latest round of grants. This money will be a tremendous help in allowing the group to continue to assist Forbes and district residents and families undergoing treatment for cancer. Forbes CanAssist thanked Club Forbes for their generous donation.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council is inviting community feedback on the Draft Code of Meeting Practice, on public exhibition until 5:00pm, Sunday 3 November 2025. This important document outlines how Council meetings are con­ducted, including proposed changes, and more. Your input helps shape how Council operates and ensures transparency and accountability in decision-making. View the draft document and key changes and pro­vide feedback: https://bit.ly/48A8U16

Act For Kids: Talking to children about personal safety is one of the most impor­tant conversations you will have as a par­ent. But where do you start? How do you make it clear but not scary? We have free, age-appropriate resources to help kids (0–10 years) and their adults learn about personal safety in safe, simple ways. Ex­plore the Emmy & Friends book https://em­myandfriends.com.au/

Teddy Bears Picnic – New Location Alert: Don’t forget – this year’s Teddy Bears Picnic will be held at a new location. Join us on 1 November from 10am – 1pm at Frogs Hollow, right on the corner of Riley and Lawler Street. It’s a beautiful spot and perfect for a day of teddy bear fun!

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society: We love it when the youngest of our commu­nity get involved in our shows. The kids had a great time watching the show with their favourite parts being: “All the danc­ing” – Bryce, “The body parts” – Stephanie, “Watching the plant move as it was so real” – Lila and Danielle, “All of it” – Lucy. Open­ing night this Friday – www.parkesmandd.com.au

Forbes Shire Council: On 5 October, Council’s Projects and Town Presentation Grants teams joined forces to lay 3,000 square metres of fresh turf at Lions Park. A fantastic example of collaboration across departments, making a real difference for our community spaces. The Lions Park improvement works are part of the Forbes Lake Activation Parks and Amenities Re­silience and Betterment Project, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Govern­ments under the Community Assets Pro­gram. Learn more about the project here www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/major-projects

Gooloogong Recreation Park Markets: Sunday 12 October starting 9am – 1pm. Gooloogong Park Markets. Come along for a great day out. Coffee, BBQ, Donuts, Japanese, gluten free crepes, pies, fresh sweets, art, soaps, bric a brac, resin, can­dles, crystals, macrame, fabric, clothing, something for everyone. Make the trip, as always EFT can out so please bring cash.

Mental Health Australia: October 10 is World Mental Health Day. This year, Mental Health Australia is encouraging everyone to connect with the communities that mat­ter most. Connection helps us feel cared for and supported, and that’s vital for good mental health. This October, reach out to your federal parliamentarian and let them know that mental health matters to you. Learn how here: https://bit.ly/4pPKbMr

Flannery’s Pharmacy: This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is the second most commonly diagnosed can­cer in Australia. Regular check-ups and screenings are one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early. If you’re unsure when your next check should be, pop in to ask our friendly pharmacy team for guid­ance. We’re back with our Pink October Ladies Night where we discuss the many health issues plaguing women in Australia. Head to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/flannerys-ladies-night-2025-tickets-1689921734399 and book your seat for 30 October.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council is proud to announce its success­ful participation in the NSW Government’s Fresh Start Program, unlocking exciting employment opportunities for jobseek­ers and young people across the region. Through this program, Parkes Shire Coun­cil has secured funding for 11 new roles across rounds one and two, with 100% wage support and 15% on-costs covered by the NSW Government. These roles span a variety of fields, offering people a valuable entry point into local government. For more information, visit Current vacan­cies Parkes Shire Council.

Galari – River – Arts Forbes Inc: Day one of Just Ad Kids, did not disappoint. Brain­storming, ideas forming and creative con­nections. Kids from different schools and different towns came together. Bonds were made and new skills were learnt. Huge shoutout to Club Forbes for sponsoring Just Ad Kids and thanks to Forbes Shire Council for their support. Biggest thanks to Dane Millerd for trusting us with his idea, and Tree Faerie for her creative genius and energy. Stay tuned for Day two, when these little legends start filming their ad!

Parkes Shire Council: Council is seeking community feedback on two important draft studies: Draft Parkes Town Centre Flood and Drainage Study: bit.ly/3JVPKIW Draft East Parkes Flood Study: bit.ly/4n3Bw7p Both studies are on public exhibition un­til 5pm Monday 13 October. Submissions can be made in writing via: email coun­cil@parkes.nsw.gov.au, post The General Manager (Draft Parkes East Flood Study), Parkes Shire Council, PO Box 337, Parkes NSW 2870 or in-person at Council’s Ad­ministration Centre. Help shape the future of flood management in our community.

R U OK? The signs that someone is do­ing it tough might not be obvious. Connec­tion and kindness can help them feel less alone. It might take someone a while to open up about how they’re feeling. If you’re worried about them, let them know you care and will be there for them. And con­tinue to check in so when they are ready to talk, they know who to turn to. For more conversation tips, visit: www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Forbes Shire Council: Were you part of the magic of Street Dreams 2025? We’d love to hear what you thought. Street Dreams was the first in a three-year series and your feedback will help us shape future festivals and make them even better. Share your thoughts and ideas by completing our short online survey: https://yoursay.forbes.nsw.gov.au/street-dreams-2025-feedback

Parkes Early Childhood Centre Inc: Chil­dren and staff enjoyed listening to Sen­ior Constable Mullins about keeping safe on our bikes. We also had our helmets checked by Haylee and Kylie from Trans­port NSW. Did you know that children aged under 12 years must ride on the footpath when out with their families in the commu­nity? We had so much fun!