Red Bend Catholic College: We were for­tunate to be joined by Aunty Florence Onus for our Sorry Day assembly. Florence is a Birrigubba, Bidjara and Jagalingu woman from North and Central Queensland and is a survivor of the Stolen Generation. Flor­ence spoke about our shared Australian history and her personal family story, and we thank her for her insight.

Women NSW: Are you ready to return to work? Future Women Jobs Academy is a free, year-long virtual program designed to empower women with the knowledge and connections needed to return to work and thrive. The program begins on 4 August 2025 and concludes in June 2026. This program is free, flexible, and self-paced. Applications close on 21 July 2025. Learn more here: nsw.gov.au/fwja

Lock it or lose it! Central West Police Dis­trict continues to see a spike in Steal from Motor Vehicle offences in the Forbes town­ship. The majority are from unlocked vehi­cles, however there have been incidents where the window has been smashed.

Please do not leave valuables in your vehi­cle overnight. Sensor lights and CCTV are also an excellent deterrent.

CUC Parkes: Did you know that the CUC offers a coffee machine, complete with fla­voured syrups, tea, and hot chocolate in the kitchen for students? Every Monday at 10am, we invite students to join us for a Monday Morning Catch-Up at CUC Parkes.

Our Centre Manager, Jacob, and Learning Skills Advisor, Brooke, will be present to engage in friendly, informal conversations.

Companionions Thru Cancer Inc: The Parkes Companions Thru Cancer Group held A Biggest Morning Tea on Wednesday 21 May at the Parkes Red Cross room rais­ing an amazing $843.16. Thanks to all who supported this important event.

Henry Parkes Learning Community: Last term, staff from Parkes High School, Parkes Public School, Parkes East Public School and Middleton Public School, took part in a 10 week exercise challenge. Nine­ty-nine public school staff members took part and each donated $10 to join. The four schools then recorded their accumu­lative exercise hours each week to get an overall champion school. Congratulations to Middleton Public School who took out the honours this year. Middleton staff then chose Ronald McDonald House Orange to receive the funds raised.

Forbes Shire Council: Members of the Humber Car Club gathered at the Forbes Visitor Information Centre with their vintage treasures gleaming in the car park. Julie Ridley had the crowd captivated with tales of the Lachlan Vintage Village about its rich history and its enduring charm. What a way to celebrate 50 years of memories, herit­age, and horsepower!

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council advises that, effective Monday 2 June 2025, all customer enquiries and services relating to planning matters will be managed through Council’s main Cus­tomer Service area, located at Parkes Shire Council’s Administration Building, 2 Cecile Street, Parkes. This change is part of Council’s commitment to improving ser­vice delivery and ensuring a more stream­lined experience for customers through a centralised point of contact. Council appre­ciates your cooperation and understand­ing. For further information or assistance, please contact Council during business hours on (02) 6861 2333

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: Trundle Bush Tucker Day 2025 is a highly anticipated family friendly event in the Central West. A day full of wholesome entertainment, delicious flavors, and unforgettable memo­ries. Tickets on sale now for Trundle Bush Tucker Day 2025 on the 6th September: www.123tix.com.au/events/46970/trundlebush-tucker-day-2025

Philip Donato MP: Calling all teachers and principals! Take advantage of new travel subsidies for regional schools and bring your students to NSW Parliament for a free, hands-on learning experience. Visit the Parliament of NSW Education website to find out more: https://education.parlia­ment.nsw.gov.au/

Forbes Domestic & Family Violence Committee: Western NSW Local Health District provide a number of amazing ser­vices for those affected by Family and Domestic Violence. – PARVAN (Preven­tion and Response to Violence Abuse and Neglect) – Community Health and Social Work. If you or someone you know needs help, call Parkes Community Health on 6861 2400 or Forbes Community Health on 6850 7300. If you are in immediate danger cal 000.

PCYC Parkes: Get 20 hours off your log book and be a step closer. In just 5 hours, get 20 hours off your log book and learn how to; Recognize hazards, Identify safe gaps in traffic, Reduce crash risk. Fully funded spots available for the Parkes Course being held on 23/05/25 – MUST email the club at parkes@pcycnsw.org.au for voucher number to use this offer.

Talk2MeBro Forbes! Talk2mebro’s Con­scious Connection is coming! Unearth hid­den traumas, release emotions, & embrace well-being with Talk2mebro’s Conscious Connection Workshop. Join our intensified workshop and experience breathwork & ceremonial cacao like never before. Limit­ed spots available 6:30 PM – 9:45 PM Date: Fri, 30th May 2025. Get your tickets today: https://events.humanitix.com/talk2mebro-conscious-connection-workshop-forbes-fri-30th-may-2025

Central West Police District: Operation Amarok X is a statewide offender focused operation with Central West Police Dis­trict actively working to arrest outstanding offenders, serve Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) and conduct compliance checks. This operation underscores our unwavering commitment to preventing and addressing domestic and family violence.

Parkes Shire Council: Council is advis­ing that a temporary shoulder closure will be in place to facilitate the construction of kerb and gutter from the intersection of Bogan Street through to the intersection of Ward Street, Parkes. Works are scheduled to take place from 7:00am on Monday, 19 May 2025, through to 5:00pm on Friday, 1 August 2025, weather permitting. For infor­mation visit: bit.ly/44ZZ2vN

Volunteering Australia: Join us for an online celebration as we shine a spotlight on the millions of volunteers making an extraordinary impact on their communities. Friday 23 May, 12pm – 1pm. Register now and be part of this special event. events.humanitix.com/connecting-communities

Parkes Picnic Races: The Parkes Picnic Races committee are thrilled to announce that local legends EasyGoin’ will be hitting the stage at the Parkes Picnic Races on Saturday 7 June. So dust off your picnic rug, gather your mates, and get ready for a fun-filled day of racing, relaxing, and rock­ing out. Book your tickets now at https://bit.ly/parkespicnicraces

Central West Police District: Lock it or Lose it! Please lock your doors at night, fur­ther stealing incidents have been recorded in Forbes and Parkes where opportunistic offenders have gained entry through un­locked doors.

Neighbourhood Central: Keast Park was bursting with colour, laughter and commu­nity spirit at Healthy Harold’s Colour Run. It was fantastic to see the whole community connect to celebrate health and wellbeing. A huge thank you to our local community partners who volunteered and to all that came along and joined in the fun.

CUC Parkes: Our printer has made the journey to our new Centre at 7–9 Court Street. We know everyone learns different­ly — for some, having hard copies of notes and study materials is essential. Come and check out our new Centre, register for free, and enjoy access to free printing

Forbes Blue Sky Outdoor Experts: Mick and Karen Roylance and all the Team at Blue Sky Forbes and their Families would like to thank all the emergency services involved in the devastating fire, which has sadly taken the entire inside of our store.

We would also like to thank the wonder­ful community of Forbes, Parkes and sur­rounds for the many well wishes, flowers and touching comments. We will keep eve­ryone updated with our next steps. We will come back from this stronger than ever.

Northparkes Oval Lighting Update: A light pole at the south-west corner of North­parkes Oval has been removed due to safety concerns. Power to all lights is cur­rently off, but a temporary solution will be in place within two weeks to support night training. Please avoid the area near the removed pole. For information, visit: bit.ly/3YrjMbT

Ronald McDonald House Charities Cen­tral West NSW: Jenni McGee, Nurse Man­ager – Parkes Hospital will be joining us for CEO Walk in my Shoes (CWIMS) Parkes is the number one town where our families come from. Since opening RMHC Central West has supported 356 families from the Parkes Shire, over 2,223 nights, represent­ing accommodation savings of $333,450.

Jenni said: “I am doing this because I know how much it means to have support when you need it most and to make sure that no-one feels like they have to go through things alone.” Learn more and show Jenni your support – visit https://www.ceowalkin­myshoes.org.au/fundraisers/jennimahon

The Forbes Historical Museum: Longstanding and dedicated volunteer, Shane Wode will be selling his book “The Streets of Forbes” on Friday night at The Trial of Ben Hall. If you are one of the lucky 100 people to have secured tickets for this hotly contested trial, please consider bringing some cash to buy a copy of Shane’s book. We will also have CD’s and DVD’s for sale. These items are for sale every day at the Museum.

Forbes Youth Action Team: Celebrating the incredible talent from the FYAT art com­petition. A big thank you to Kim Featherson and Katie Ragg, the ladies from the Forbes Art Society joined as judges. Kim and Ka­tie shared that they were blown away by the quality of entries across all categories! Winners: 5–10 years winner Willa Thorn­ton, 11–17 years winner Imogen Collits. Highly Commended Awards: 5-10 years Darby Edgerton, 11-17 years Saranchuluu Zorig.

Rural Women’s Network: The RWN is running a survey of people across rural NSW to answer these questions and more. Have your say at bit.ly/RWNSurvey2025 before the end of May 2025.

Parkes Shire Libraries: Storytime and Rhyme Time return for Term 2 next week at Parkes Library! Storytime is for pre-school children aged 3-5 and Rhyme Time is for babies ages 0-3. For bookings, please ring the Library on 6861 2309.

R U OK? As humans, we crave connec­tion. That’s why life’s ups and downs are better shared. Create space for your peo­ple to share the good and bad times. Fol­low our four steps: www.ruok.org.au/howto-ask

Dolly’s Dream: Bullying shatters lives, but together, we can create a kinder, safer world for everyone. This Do It For Dolly Day, let’s go blue and take action: Wear it, wave it, or bake it. Host a blue event. Fundraise to support Dolly’s Dream. Every donation directly supports programs that protect children and strengthen communi­ties across Australia. Go blue on 9 May and make an impact.

PCYC Parkes: Healthy Harold’s Colour Run is returning to Parkes. Come and join the fun. Wednesday 7 May, 3.30pm – 5.30pm, Keast Park, Parkes NSW. This free event is a great way for families to enjoy time together while learning about health, safety and wellbeing: Run, walk or skip your way through a colourful chalk course. Enjoy a free BBQ and fun givea­ways throughout the afternoon.

Forbes Evening Branch CWA: On 29 April Forbes CWA and Forbes CWA Evening Branch participated in the ACWW Walk the World Day with friendship, to raise aware­ness of their work and to support their char­ity. Some of CWA values include support­ing each other, advocating on community issues, sustainable development and the protection of the environment and social Issues. CWA gives women a voice to help make change.

Her Name Is Molly: Forbes and Parkes residents left their lights on for Molly on Tuesday 22 April. Molly Ticehurst lost her life to domestic violence in April 2024. A year on from Molly’s passing, and the hashtag #hernameismolly has lit up facebook with photos of people from all across Australia leaving a light on for Molly. Households, businesses, councils and sporting grounds all paid tribute to Molly by leaving a light on and shining a bright light on domestic violence issues.

1800RESPECT: Support is available for people experiencing violence and abuse.1800RESPECT is the national do­mestic, family and sexual violence coun­selling, information and support service. Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, chat online or video call via the website https://1800respect.org.au

Visit Parkes Region: The town with a heart of gold is calling! Wander the leafy main street, discover hidden gems in charming antique stores and the charm of the Carrington Hotel, and don’t miss the breathtaking views from the open cut gold mine walking trails. Peak Hill is the perfect place to stop, explore and soak up history, nature, and small-town charm. Learn more at bit.ly/4idL4cB

Forbes Garden Club: The Forbes Gar­den Club bus trip to Tumbling Downs Ol­ive Grove at Bogan Gate is on Thursday 15 May, leaving at 9.30 am and also visit­ing three gardens in Parkes. We need 30 members and friends on the bus at a cost of $35 each which includes a Devonshire tea. Pack lunch or food can be purchased at Parkes Services Club. Ask your friends or family to join us we need numbers for this to go ahead. Treasurer Lloyd Gerdes can be contacted on 6851 4494.

Parkes Shire Council Need Your Help: The 2025 National Awards for Local Gov­ernment are underway, and we need your support to help Parkes Shire take home the win. Our entry is Fleet Optimisation and Innovation: A Smarter Approach to Asset Management. Parkes Council is a final­istsin two categories: Productivity through Infrastructure and Outstanding Rural and Remote Council. Want more information? Go to www.infrastructure.gov.au/nalg/

Early Voting In Forbes: If you wish to vote before the Federal Election Day on Sat­urday 3 May 2025, simply pop into Town Hall for pre-polling. For further information about the 2025 Federal Election visit www.aec.gov.au

Forbes Shire Council: Forbes Shire Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee will be performing The Trial of Ben Hall, a play written by Forbes solicitor Dominic Williams on Friday, 9 May at 6pm at the former St Andrews Church, Forbes. Don’t miss this chance to delve into the legend of Ben Hall and experience the trial he never had. It will be a fun night of history, drama, and community spirit that the whole fam­ily will enjoy! Secure your free tickets for a night to remember at www.123tix.com.au/events/47902/the-trial-of-ben-hall

Dolly’s Dream: Go blue on 9 May for Do It For Dolly Day – speaking up for young voices silenced by bullying, from bustling cities to the furthest corners of the outback.

From country towns to remote stations, we’ll paint our communities blue. We’ll bake, we’ll dress up, and we’ll stand united, because in rural Australia, we look after our own. Join us on 9 May for Do It For Dolly Day! Wear blue, raise awareness, and give a voice to those silenced by bullying. Every donation goes directly to Dolly’s Dream’s vital anti-bullying programs in schools across Australia, even in the most distant rural communities.

Kerin Health: Did you know Kerin Health are running four days of intensive swim­ming lessons these school holidays? There are limited spaces still available if you’re quick! Call reception on 0437 749 746 or book via their website: https://www.kerinhealth.com.au/swimming-lessons

NSW Government: Got five minutes? Your feedback can help shape how essen­tial services are delivered in regional com­munities. Tell us what’s working and what could be improved. bit.ly/HYS-essential-services

50% Off Elvis Festival Merch: Now is your chance to grab official Parkes Elvis Festi­val merchandise for half the price! No code needed – discount applied automatically at checkout. But hurry, this offer is only valid until 30 April. Shop now: bit.ly/ShopPEF

The Wild Sows: An incredible $429,260 was raised by over 80 ladies as part of the 2025 Never Late Fe-mail Posite Bike Ride raising money for Wings4Kidz. The Wild Sows are proud to announce that we raised just over $44,500! We couldn’t have done this without the generous support of you, our community. There is still time to donate to Wings4Kidz to help our regional families

Forbes Youth Action Team: We are so excited to celebrate Youth Week 2025 with an awesome line-up of events and activi­ties happening across Forbes during Youth Week and the April school holidays. From workshops and creative sessions to fun social events and hangouts. This is your time to connect, create and celebrate what makes young people in our community so amazing. To register go to: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community/community-services-and-information/families-and-youth-services/youth-programs

Parkes Shire Council: With Easter, school holidays, and Anzac Day all in April, our roads will be busier than ever. Parkes, Forbes, and Lachlan Shire Councils, along­side NSW Police, are urging all road users to take extra care. Double demerits apply for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone, and helmet offences apply druing the following periods: Easter 17-21 April Anzac Day 2427 April. Expect extra police patrols focus­ing on speeding, drink and drug driving, seatbelts, fatigue, and distractions. Stay alert, obey the road rules, and drive to con­ditions. Read more at: bit.ly/4cgrdIn

Rural Women’s Network: The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll for 2025 is now open. Established in 2010 the Honour Roll has to date enshrined 1,348 women and girls as a lasting acknowledgement of their volunteer work. Whether it’s a fam­ily member, friend, colleague, community leader or yourself, now is the perfect time to nominate unsung heroes who go above and beyond. Find out more, check the eli­gibility criteria and nominate a volunteer in your life today to shine a light on their in­credible contributions at: hiddentreasures.awardsplatform.com

R U OK? April is Stress Awareness Month. Someone that you know could be deal­ing with stress or going through a difficult time. Financial pressures, relationship dif­ficulties, change at work or home, parent­ing struggles, health issues and grief can all take a toll. Check in with the people in your life. Talking things through can really help. For conversation tips, visit ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

PCYC Parkes: Book a Safer Drivers Course this School Holidays in Parkes on 23 April and Forbes on 14 April. In just five hours, get 20 hours off your log book and get one step closer to your P-plates Fully funded spots available for the Parkes Course, simply email the club for a voucher number: parkes@pcycnsw.org.au.

Kerin Health: Megan and Carmen rep­resented Kerin Health at the networking event and forum hosted by CSU Three Riv­ers Department of Health. The theme was Thrive 2025 ‘Innovations from the heart of rural health’. So many amazing things are happening within rural health and collabo­rating with other allied health providers to bridge the gap.

Calling All Youth Leaders: The NSW Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is looking for young people aged 12-24 from diverse backgrounds across NSW to help advise the NSW Government on issues that mat­ter. This is your chance to have your voice heard and represent children and young people across the state. Learn more and apply before 20 April at acyp.nsw.gov.au.

Young Farmer Business Program: Are you a tradie, farmer, or gardener aged 1825? The 2025 Global Footprints Scholar­ships is a chance to gain international work experience and make a real impact on the planet. If you’re passionate about sustain­ability and working in agriculture, horticul­ture, or trades, this is your opportunity to travel the world and make your mark! Ap­plications open 1 May 2025. Find out more and apply at www.globalfootprints.org.au

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society: Tickets on sale now for Mamma Mia. Pur­chase your tickets online at www.parkes­mandd.com.au or pop in to the box office at Parkes Little Theatre on Sunday from 10.30am – 12pm.

Australian Schools Plus: Schools Plus Teaching Awards supported by Common­wealth Bank are closing in one week! Nominate or apply for the Awards before 9am on 8 April 2025. Twelve outstanding teachers or school leaders will receive a prestigious $20,000 award, including $10,000 for a high impact school visit pro­gram as well as a 12-month Teaching Fel­lowship. To nominate or apply, visit www.schoolsplus.org.au/teachingawards/

TAFE NSW Forbes: Statement of At­tainment in Aboriginal Site Works (90083366V01) ran from March 24 – 27 March. Students had the privilege of participating in a hands-on course, gaining valuable skills and knowledge from Uncle Victor. Students learned how to record informa­tion and knowledge on Country, while gain­ing insights from both the Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal perspectives. The course culminated in a BBQ lunch at the Dreaming Centre, where high school student danc­ers showcased their talents with the Yanu Mun-Yana dance, gifted to them by Uncle Stu McMinn.

Homegrown Parkes: Help us welcome Chef Jack Brown to Homegrown Parkes this Saturday, 29 March. Jack, who has spent some time in the Central West, is an Indigenous chef trained in traditional French cuisine. Jack will be providing a workshop in the Cooke Park Pavilion from 11am – 12pm and you are invited to join in. For further information please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org twitter, fa­cebook or Instagram @cwllandcare

Forbes – It’s Your Turn For A Plot Twist! Young people aged 8 – 14 years are invited to choose the books they want to go into Forbes Library. There will be snacks, prizes and games! Be prepared to have fun. It is all happening on Friday 4 April from 4pm – 5pm at The Book Dispensary in Forbes, 4 Templar Street. Please note this location for the event. Choose the books you’d like to read for your local library and get first dibs on your selection. So come along and bring your parents for supervision if under 12 years of age or be signed in by a parent or carer for Plot Twist. Bookings essential online through Try Booking: www.trybook­ing.com/events/landing/1368351 or by call­ing Forbes Library on 6852 1463 or The Book Dispensary on 1300 002 871.

NSW Farmers: Farmers must not be left without the funding needed to put Aussie grown food on tables, NSW Farmers has warned as the Albanese Government deliv­ers its latest federal budget. Poor infrastruc­ture, telecommunications and biosecurity are just some of the challenges farmers will be left to face alone if federal funding is not increased, NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said. “Our government keeps talking about a future made in Australia, but how about a future grown in Australia? As we head to the polls, our politicians can’t for­get the fact that people need fresh, Aussie grown food at fair prices. We need to keep our farmers farming.”

Charles Sturt University Health Forum: CSU is hosting a forum in Parkes today, Friday 28 March, 8am to 3.30pm for health students. Dive into a full day of insightful talks and presentations on ‘Innovations from the heart of rural health’ from health professionals working in speech pathology, physiotherapy, pharmacy, health promo­tion, paramedicine, First Nations health, dementia care, and research. The day in­cludes an incredible line-up of speakers. Find more details at: https://threerivers.csu.edu.au/news-and-events/events/2025/thrive-2025-parkes