This Friday marks for many the official start of the festive season! It is the time to officially put up your Christmas tree and decorations (if you haven’t already), revel in the sounds of Christmas carols everywhere and look forward to time with family and friends. 

For our young residents now is the time to start penning letters to Santa telling him just how good you have been over the past 12 months! Letters can be posted in the special Santa Mailbox at Council’s front office – all letters will get a letter back, so please don’t forget to include your postal address. 

Don’t forget the ingenuity of Rotary Ipomoea’s annual Christmas Tree Festival in the Forbes Town Hall this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I just love seeing what people come up with – there are so many clever people creating some amazing masterpieces get along and have a look. 

Don’t forget too FREE child car restraint fitting checks will be held in Forbes’ Lions Park car park on Wednesday 6 December. This is perfect timing as so many prepare to travel this festive and end of year holiday season. Details on booking your spot are on our Facebook page and website. 

The way we treat each other personally, professionally and socially is a basic right. At our meeting last week Council passed its Customer Service Charter and Statement of Business Ethics, which outlines what you as our customer can expect when dealing with any member of staff. It also outlines what we, as a provider, should expect from you and our obligations as an employer. It may seem like common sense, but if you are keen to know more, please head to our website or get in touch with our staff. 

I want to mention again the annual Citizen of the Year Awards – plus Junior and Senior citizens. 

Nominations are being taken now, forms can be downloaded from our website and returned complete via community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or to Council’s office. We all know someone who has given so much to our community whether it be as a volunteer or has excelled in sporting or academic fields. We love the people of our community – visiting dignitaries, tourists everyone who comes to Forbes always comments 

White Ribbon Day is being held in Forbes at Lions Park on Friday 24 November, a day focussing on bringing an end men’s violence towards women. This year already 58 women have been killed by a current or former partner, that’s around one wife/ friend / mother / daughter / niece / every 9 days. It is a national crisis. 

White Ribbon Day starts at 10am and includes a march around the lake, guest speakers, support services and a free barbecue lunch. Make sure you RSVP to show your support to this important issue by getting in contact with Council’s Community team on 6850 2300 or email community@forbes.nsw.gov.au. 

Talk2mebro is bringing a community support and suicide prevention session to Forbes Ski Dam this Saturday morning, and I urge everyone to take part in this free event. Council is proud to sponsor this as it promotes important conversations that we need to have, our whole community is impacted when we lose someone to suicide. The morning will see beginner breathwork, ice baths (not compulsory!), coffee, breakfast and a chat with the Talk2mebro team.

For more information and to register please head to Eventbrite, or to our website. 

Lifeline Central West is also hosting an Accidental Counsellor Course on Monday 27 November, aimed at giving you skills if you find yourself in the position of supporting a family member, friend, customer through a crisis – focussing on recognising, responding and referring. To register for this free course: 

https://lifelinecentralwest.org.au/event/W03_AC/

I am honoured to have been elected to the LGNSW Board as Regional/Rural Vice President at the recent annual conference in Sydney. It is another avenue that I am excited to explore in advocating for all issues regional and rural, and I am excited about ensuring that our country voices are heard, our issues are raised and I look forward to representing this vital sector of NSW. 

Finally, this week is Asbestos Awareness Week. With all the ongoing repairs and renovations after last year’s devastating floods, please be mindful and careful of any work you are undertaking yourself. If you are not sure, check it out, and if you do happen to have asbestos – please for your own health and that of others, get professional advice and dispose of it legally. 

Until next week, God bless.
Phyllis Miller, OAM – Forbes Mayor

Last week was a week to pause and remember. Forbes marked the anniversary of the armistice of World War I – something history should never forget, with a small ceremony and the minute’s silence to remember the sacrifices in the past and of those who are still serving their country. 

We also remember the horrific floods of last year, and the terrifying inland tsunami that hit Eugowra and days later ravaged an already flooded Forbes. Two lives were lost, hundreds of homes and businesses, livestock and people in both towns are still living with the fallout – so many in pods still waiting for their homes to be rebuilt. To the people of Forbes and Eugowra, our hearts are always with you. There was a great flurry of activity this week in the Harold Street car park next to the former church as an established palm tree was removed and replanted in the new Goldridge Estate – a new home just like you could have in the beautiful new estate! Council and local contractors worked on removing the tree – which I believe weighed around 9 tonne give or take a tonne. 

It is another big couple of weeks politically and locally. I have been in Sydney for the Local Government NSW annual conference (131 motions have been listed for debate covering almost 300 issues – including the housing crisis forum) and on Tuesday Parliamentary Secretary Janelle Saffin visited Forbes and spoke with support agencies to help develop a plan for the distribution of the $100m of flood support funding package. 

It was our monthly Council meeting today Thursday 16 November and Reading Down Town Day tomorrow (Friday 17 November) – the power of the written word on minds of all ages, especially in building the blocks of our young ones, should never be underestimated. Forbes celebrates 70 years of Meals on Wheels on 23 November, such a wonderful service for the community – just imagine how many hot and nutritious dinners have been delivered over those seven decades! The Forbes Domestic and Family Violence Committee will host White Ribbon Day at Forbes’ Lions Park on 24 November – march around the lake, listen to guest speakers, sign the pledge, enjoy a free lunch and support services. Contact our Community team at Council on 6850 2300 to RSVP or for more information 

Until next week, God bless! 

Phyllis Miller, OAM – Forbes Mayor 

Fantastic news this week with the announcement from our Premier Chris Minns that $50 million has been earmarked for our region for rebuilding after the devastation of the 2022 floods. I have long been lobbying for this – our residents need to be able to raise their buildings or rebuild and retrofit with materials that can withstand future floods. There will be more floods, and a home is a huge investment that one cannot just walk away from. It will give me no greater pleasure than to bring such good news to people whose lives have still not had the chance to return to normal. The finer details of the funding will be worked out between affected area, but it is a solid start Now we just need the Commonwealth Government to come to the party.

Last week spoke of Forbes being innovative and progressive, and this week further proves my point At the start of the week, I had the great pleasure of welcoming the Rural Doctors Network for a workshop and tour. Forbes was the venue of choice in recognition of how proactive Forbes Shire Council is in attracting and retaining medical services over the past two decades. We recognise how important it is to have these facilities and opportunities here for those who are not well enough to travel, or are not able to travel, and as a hub for our smaller towns. There is always so much room to grow and improve and networks such as this are so important in keeping the focus back on rural health.

I also spoke at a parliamentary inquiry into the mining sector last week, and whilst this topic can be divisive, it is important to understand that for many regional areas, mining is the backbone of a community, and its importance cannot be downplayed. We do all want however for this to be done safely and sustainably, and as consciously of environment and culture as possible, and this is what we need to keep in mind. These companies invest so much in employment, infrastructure, community support each and every year.

Finally, what an amazing day at the National BBQ Championships on Saturday. The atmosphere was amazing, the cooking demonstrations second to none, the entertainment was spot on – and how proud are we to keep the title of the BBQ champs in Forbes, congratulations Station 294! Both our visiting teams (one from Rockhampton, and another from Emu Plains) both said they will be back – bring on the challenge i’ say!!! I look forward to what next year will bring.

Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor

 

This week I had the pleasure of hosting AR Bluett judges, an award that is presented to an innovative and progressive council every year. It was no trouble to show them everything that we are proud of here, and the progress that we as a Council are making to ensure our community continues to thrive, with or without challenges.

Of course there were the obvious highlights – the relocation of the Visitor Information Centre to the former Lachlan Vintage Village and all the work that is being done in partnership with the local government around our Lake Forbes precinct – but there is a lot of innovation behind the scenes as well.

The Water Treatment Plant has had a major upgrade, we are working with our local businesses to aid them in adapting to changes in liquid trade waste compliance, the manner in which we dealt with communications to you, our beloved and resilient community, during the devastating floods last year, just to name a few.

These amazing achievements, only made possible by our dedicated and professional staff, support from the community, business and government, have seen Forbes short listed for the Regional Category-one of two. The winner will be announced on 12 November.

The gloves are off, the tongs are shining and the heat is definitely on at Grinsted Oval this Saturday. Who is the champion barbecuer? Will the title stay in Forbes, or will it head north to our Queensland foodies? This Saturday the much anticipated National BBQ Championships is set to sizzle, and just as with the majority of our events, there is sure to be something for everyone – I can’t wait to meet our celebrity chef Hayden Quinn’ All the details can be found on the National BBQ Championships Forbes Facebook page or the Forbes Shire Council website. Spectating at this event is FREE but make sure you register your attendance at 123tix.com.au

Finally, the state’s housing crisis is still in the spotlight. Forbes is no stranger to housing shortage, and is continually working towards addressing this, for example by releasing land at Goldridge Estate, and working with the government for housing solutions in north Forbes. It is important however, to understand councils are not to blame for the crisis – we approve 97 per cent of applications submitted, it is a complex issue and There is so many contributing factors – not the least shortages of materials and labour, rising interest rates, falling house prices.

Enjoy your weekend, and God bless.

Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor

October is a special month for raising awareness of so many important issues, and amongst these is National Safe Work Month. Council takes this so very seriously and are continually monitoring and improving workplace safety. This October we are urging our employees to ‘Just Ask’ – when it comes to safety no question is too silly, and our employees can ask for help or training, or clarification – anything. We would love to see other businesses in Forbes follow – all we ask is ‘just ask’, for everyone’s safety.

This Saturday sees the return of Teddy Bears Picnic, a favourite event in our community! Make sure you grab your favourite stuffed toy and head on down to Lions Park from 10am to 2pm. There is so much to see and do and so many community groups – including schools – have joined in to help us celebrate Children’s Week, bringing home just how important our little people are and how important it is for them to have access to play, leisure and activities. There will be a jumping castle, special guests – Bluey and Bingo – (but shhhh keep that a surprise for the children!!), balloon twisting, giant games, face painting and so much more.

Myself and Mayors from Parkes and Condobolin have held talks with REX Airlines after it recently announced a reduction in the number of services to Parkes. We all know how reliant we are on this service for quick, safe transport to Sydney as a destination or through point. It is so important for business, medical, and leisure, so it was quite a blow to hear this announcement. Whilst we would love to see the service remain as it is and we are assured that it will be reviewed in March next year, we are adamant that it if it must be reduced, the timeslot needs to be acceptable for country residents. At the moment it seems to be a midday timeslot.

Finally, I urge you to stay aware of weather conditions, particularly for total fire bans. Hot, windy days combined with a greater amount of grass fuel after the wet year last year, are causing great concern. Please remember that a total fire ban means no fires in the open, or doing any activity that may spark a blaze (for example welding, grinding or slashing). Fines and penalties apply.

Enjoy your weekend, and God bless.

Phyllis Miller, OAM

This Saturday will see Australians make their choice on the Voice referendum. Regardless of which way you choose to vote, voting is compulsory – but please be aware there isn’t any voting at the Town Hall for this referendum. Instead, polling will be at 42 Templar Street (the old Elders building!) or at the other traditional locations such as Forbes Tennis Club in Church Street, Forbes High School in Wyndham Ave and Bedgerabong Public School. Pre-polling is of course available at 42 Templar Street until 6pm on 13 October. Every vote counts. 

While you are out and about voting, why not take the extra time and check out the eight magnificent gardens entered into Forbes’ annual Open Gardens. Open on Saturday and Sunday, come and get some inspiration, stop for refreshments catered for by the Men’s Shed, and help support numerous charities. It is heart-warming to see the recovery and the beauty of our town even after the devastation major floods can bring. Well done – and thank you – to the eight gardeners for welcoming visitors into their realm this weekend. 

There should indeed be visitors alike too – aside from the above, Forbes Jockey Club is hosting its Spring Races on Saturday complete with six races, Fashions on the Field, bar TAB and canteen facilities, and Forbes Autosports Club is holding a motocross and dirt track ride park day on Sunday 15 October. 

If you are organising an event, please get in touch with our Events/Communication team at Council. We can help you get the word out, not just to the general public but to other businesses in town that may benefit or assist you – food outlets, accommodation, shops that may like to extend trading hours for your event and so on. Indeed, make sure you sign up to our weekly what’s on newsletter (send an email to events@forbes.nsw. gov.au) so you can stay in the know. 

Finally, I urge you to get your team together for the National BBQ Championships at the end of this month – 28 October, and you could be in the running to win part of the $10,000 prize pool and a BBQ. Take advantage of the early bird registration discount which will apply till 18 October. I am so excited to meet our celebrity chef judge Hayden Quinn. Spread the word. 

Enjoy your weekend, and God bless. 

Phyllis Miller, OAM 

Hasn’t this short week gone quickly after the long weekend on Monday. The whole town was buzzing with visitors over the weekend – like many, I had my family home and we enjoyed a lovely lunch out at the refurbished Forbes Inn – it was packed. 

Talking local businesses, congratulations to Turner’s Furniture One’s move to larger premises in Lachlan Street. Watch this space as there is more exciting CBD business news coming up. We are very lucky in Forbes to have so many exceptional small businesses. 

October is Small Business Month, so please go out and support all our amazing small businesses in town. We are also in the enviable position of having large major retailers in town and interest from more. 

I think the ‘Bunnings is moving’ rumour is swirling again, so just to reassure everyone, Council is its landlord and we have not heard anything about it closing or moving. 

Forbes has now had visits from major portfolio ministers such as Planning and Emergency Services, Roads and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, who after discussions with our Council has extended the completion date for further local and regional road funding. 

Minister Aitchison has announced a further $4.6million to improve the local and regional roads network for road repairs to local and regional roads. We are extremely grateful for this money with the extended deadline for all works to be concluded by June 2027. This extension represents a realistic and fair opportunity for natural disaster impacted communities to complete permanent road repairs. 

Our roads and works crews working really hard at the minute, so please bear with us while we continue this mammoth task to repair and rebuild our local roads. Please continue to contact Council to report any serious and dangerous road issues. Council is working hard to keep up the short term fixes until more permanent and extensive road repairs can be undertaken on our local roads. Thank you for being our eyes and ears while our teams are busy. 

October is Small Business Month and this year it aligns with Mental Health Month; a great opportunity to promote mental health and wellbeing in small businesses. According to research, those in small business have an increased risk of concern due to the unique stressors faced. Our Forbes shire has so many wonderful small businesses and it is important to look after them and for them to have places they can turn to for help. A website, funded by the Australian government is available with information, free training, resources and contact numbers; please visit www.aheadforbusiness.org.au Importantly for our area, this website also covers agribusiness. If you are a small business owner, please take a look – we have had our fair share of stresses over the past years, and are sure to face more. 

The Forbes Challenge Cup last Saturday which saw a pre-season game between Canberra United FC and Western Sydney Wanderers FC was a huge success. Going down to a penalty shootout, the atmosphere and sportsmanship on show was amazing. I give full credit to the players for their willingness to mingle and share their love of the sport with all who converged on the Botanical Gardens. I have absolutely no doubt that those youngsters left with an even greater love for their sport. Congratulations to all involved. 

Don’t forget there is still plenty to do for the last week of school holidays – the outdoor movie night on Friday night, Children are Stinky theatre night, the opening of the town pool on Sunday and so much more! 

Did you notice the colour of our Town Hall at night? This week it turned purple to highlight ITP Awareness (Immune Thrombocytopenia), a platelet disorder – find out more on the website www.itpaustralia.org.au At many different times throughout the year, our Town Hall changes colours for varying causes and reasons. Keep your eyes fixed on our beautiful landmark! 

Enjoy your week and don’t forget to put your clocks forward before you go to bed on Saturday night for the arrival of Daylight Saving! 

God bless 

Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor 

The end of this week also means the end of Term 3 for our school students – and it also means the end of the classroom world for our latest Year 12 students. For this group of young men and women embarking on the 

HSC study period, hang in there – there is only a little while to go!! Maintain your study program, but most importantly remember to keep up your self care, check in on your mates and if you are celebrating the end of 

formal schooling, please make sure to do it safely. 

For parents of all other school aged children, Council and other businesses in town have organised so much for your children to do these holidays there is no way they can be bored! I know we are kicking off with a mural workshop – how amazing would it be to leave your mark in town? We also have the very popular fishing workshops, craft days, Children are Stinky theatre show, Creative Community Concepts, Magic Festival, and outdoor movies. But don’t forget all the other great stuff we have here too – skatepark, BMX track, the town pool which 

will open on 1st October, library and more. Please make sure you support these wonderful events, we are so lucky to be able to secure so much for our young people. 

The community has so many other events coming up – the Forbes Challenge Cup between the Western Sydney Wanderers and Canberra United at Botanical Gardens. I am so excited to see a game of this level being played here! And a bowls carnival too. 

I am also pleased to announce that rebuilding works at the Homemaker Centre have started, as too has remediation works on Pitt Stop corner. Both of these projects may seem a long time in the making but there is so much work that goes on behind the scenes with many agencies involved, planning, securing of contracts and so on. 

Enjoy your week – enjoy your school holidays! God bless. 

Phyllis Miller, OAM
Forbes Mayor