Letter to the Editor
I believe it is wise to take the time to write to the people of the Orange Electorate making it very clear why I see the importance of standing up here for my principles, my country values and the people of this region. The catalyst for my decision to stand as an Independent, apart from the many people who approached me to do so, was the proposed ban against the greyhound industry.

I believe the values of democracy in country areas in New South Wales are being eroded and this is our opportunity to voice our concerns not only over the greyhounds but other issues that are important to us such as forced amalgamations, which this Coalition promised would never take place. I do not believe in forced amalgamations as I believe that country people have the right to participate in the decision making process of issues surrounding the
future of our regional towns and villages.

I will also work hard to close the gap of inequity in funding for rural roads and transport infrastructure. There is also parking at the Orange Health Service, TAFE and its cutbacks, a respite centre for Forbes and other issues for which I am prepared to fight. I have also been working very hard to find investors to bring an export abattoir to Forbes as this could create 800 jobs for the area.

We need a member who is going to listen to the real issues of real people and who will stand up for the values of country people. I am a businessman of 36 years, a farmer, a family man and someone who empathises with the issues that you face as country people. Send this government the message that country people will fight for their rights and Vote 1 Munro for strong representation in Parliament.

Scott Munro

Dear Editor,
Thank you for providing such a valuable asset to our community. My clients are avid readers of the Forbes Phoenix; and as they are mostly on the aged pension, money is always an issue. They often tell me how much they love the Phoenix, because they can keep up to date with the community happenings without having to spend a cent.
Monica Wren, Administrator
Forbes Neighbourhood Central

Dear Editor,
While I was riding around the paddocks wallowing in self-pity, awaiting the floodwaters to arrive, I was convicted of my selfishness. Although I was somewhat pleased to have the day off work because of floodwaters, I was reminded of the dedication and commitment of the teachers and staff of Bedgerabong school. A day off school whoopee – no not for them at all. Phone calls were constantly being made to ensure the school could and would be operational.

Arrangements were being made to ensure staff could be transported from Forbes to Bedgerabong through floodwaters just for the Bedgerabong children to proceed as usual with their learning! What a slap in the face! Where was my commitment? Where was my dedication? I would like to thank and give a massive thumbs up to the
teachers and staff at Bedgerabong school for everything they do. They are absolutely amazing.

Katy Brown

It is wonderful news about the expansion of The Phoenix, and its move to provide the Forbes community with another avenue to obtain the latest information about their region. Since I entered Federal politics in the early
2000s the media world has changed dramatically and gone are the days dominated by print media. Instead we have a seven-days-a week news cycle. I must admit that I am a hard-copy person and still enjoy spreading out the Saturday paper on the kitchen table, but I acknowledge the cost and limited media capabilities that
come with this.

However, I am pleased that The Phoenix is bucking the trend, and will supply both a print and online edition of their paper. This decision I’m sure will be an added benefit to the Forbes community. I wish The Forbes Phoenix and its editor John Rozentals all the very best for the future, and I look forward to reading the tales from the Forbes region.

The Hon John Cobb MP
Federal Member for Calare

It gives me great pleasure to welcome The Forbes Phoenix and their first edition to Forbes. The ethos of the paper I absolutely love. Live local, Love local, Support local. That is what country life is all about. Local support across the business and retail sector is what builds strong economies in our towns and cities. Every Friday The Phoenix will be available free to all and sundry. Local content, news and sport will be included. Cheryl Newsom, the owner, from Canowindra, is very excited about the paper and her enthusiasm is infectious.
Good Luck and Good Reading!

Cr Phyllis Miller OAM
Mayor, Forbes Shire Council

I would like to congratulate The Phoenix on their venture into Forbes. Canowindra has certainly embraced The
Phoenix as an important part of its community and I’m sure The Forbes Phoenix will be an important hub for news, views and community events.

The Hon Andrew Gee MP
State Member for Orange