It is with immense pride that I received the Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award in the 2025 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government. This was presented by the Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig at Parliament House on Wednesday 22 Oc­tober.

I am deeply honoured to receive an award named after my dear friend and col­league, the late Mayor Lilliane Brady. Lil­liane was a trailblazer, a fierce advocate for regional communities and a woman of great strength and compassion. We shared many years of collaboration, friendship and mutual respect. I hope that my service to Forbes has reflected the same spirit of leadership and care that Lilliane embod­ied so powerfully. Several awards were presented recognising the dedication and tireless work of female elected representa­tives and council staff across NSW.

On Friday we will come together to hon­our the life and legacy of Steve Loane OAM, our former General Manager of Forbes Shire Council. Steve was a vision­ary leader, a mentor and a passionate ad­vocate for rural and regional Australia. Hisl

contributions to Forbes and the broader agricultural sector were profound and last­ing. A Memorial Celebration will be held on Friday 31 October at 2pm at the Cen­tral West Livestock Exchange. All are wel­come to attend and pay tribute to a man who gave so much to our region. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dolly’s Dream, a cause close to Steve’s heart.

This weekend, I invite families across Forbes to join us for one of our most be­loved community events – the Teddy Bears Picnic to be held on Saturday 1 November from 10am to 1pm at Frogs Hollow (corner of Riley and Lawler Streets behind the for­mer Bowling Club).This free event promises a magical day of fun, games, live entertainment and plen­ty of surprises for children of all ages. Bring your favourite teddy, a picnic rug and enjoy the joy and imagination that this day brings.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate childhood, and enjoy the outdoors together in our community.

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

What a weekend! The National BBQ Cham­pionships held right here in Forbes were nothing short of amazing. Our town came alive with the mouth watering aromas of barbecues, the buzz of excited visitors and the fun Forbes spirit of our community was on full display. From the moment the first BBQ was fired up, to the market stalls, live music and family friendly entertain­ment, the event showcased everything that makes Forbes a fantastic place to live and visit. A huge thank you to our sponsors, competitors, council staff and all the won­derful visitors —you made it all happen.

We had visitors from Newcastle, Mel­bourne, Perth, Tasmania and the Hunter Valley. We have had excellent reports from the many visitors who attended and local families who enjoyed the entertain­ment and activities. All on the lush green space of Grinsted Oval, which was filled with amazing BBQ food, laughter and fun all weekend.

Looking ahead, I’m delighted to invite families to our Teddy Bears Picnic on Fri­day 1 November, from 10am to 1pm at Frogs Hollow, corner of Riley and Lawler Streets (behind the former Bowling Club).

This free event promises a magical day of games, live entertainment, story time, and fun activities for children of all ages.

Bring your favourite teddy, picnic rug and snacks—or enjoy delicious food from lo­cal vendors. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with others and enjoy the outdoors in a safe, welcoming space.

Homeowners and community members are invited next week to the NSW Recon­struction Authority Resilient Homes Expo to help Resilient Homes Program make their homes more flood resilient. The Re­silient Homes Expo will provide information about the Resilient Homes Program grant process, development approval processes and how successful resilient building and relocation projects can be delivered.

Homeowners and businesses can visit information stands and speak with repre­sentatives from council, Reconstruction Australia, SafeWork NSW, Building Com­mission NSW and various industry asso­ciations and businesses interested in resil­ient building services. The event is at Club Forbes from 4pm to 7pm on Wednesday.

Until next week,
God blessPhyllis Miller, OAM – Forbes Mayor

Forbes has once again excelled in sustain­ability and community leadership, being recognised at the 2025 Tidy Towns Awards in Parkes on Saturday 11 October. Forbes took out top honours as Winner of Over­all Tidy Towns (Population Category C) and Community Spirit & Inclusion for the Welcome to Forbes events, while also re­ceiving Highly Commended in Young Leg­ends and Heritage & Culture for the Forbes Youth Action Team and Ben Hall Trial play.

These awards reflect the passion and pride our community shows every day.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved.

This week, our community is mourn­ing the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Dr Greg Whittaker, a well-respected and much-loved local doctor and obstetrician.

Dr Whittaker was the first doctor re­cruited to Forbes through Council’s Doc­tor Relocation Incentive Program 26 years ago – a milestone moment that marked the beginning of a renewed era of local health­care. Since joining our community, he has provided exceptional care to countless pa­tients, supporting families through some of the most important moments of their lives

with skill, kindness and compassion.

His dedication to his patients, his profes­sionalism, and his genuine warmth earned him deep respect among colleagues and the wider community. His contribution to healthcare in Forbes will not be forgotten.

On behalf of Forbes Shire Council , I extend our deepest condolences to Dr Whittaker’s family, friends, colleagues and patients during this very difficult time. Our thoughts are with you as we honour a life dedicated to helping others.

Council wishes to invite the community to celebrate the life of our General Manager, Steve Loane OAM, who passed away on Sunday 28 September. Steve was a valued leader and a much-loved member of our community who made a lasting impact on Forbes and the wider region.

A Memorial Celebration for Steve will be held on Friday 31 October at 2pm at the Central West Livestock Exchange, Forbes.

This will be a time for us to come together, reflect and honour his many contributions.

Steve’s legacy of leadership, kindness and community spirit will not be forgotten.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

I’m delighted to invite everyone to join us for the second annual Meet the Makers, happening at the Forbes Visitor Information Centre on Sunday 12 October from 10am unitl 2pm.

This event is a wonderful celebration of local talent and regional produce, giving you the chance to go behind the scenes, discover the homegrown delights, and chat with our passionate producers.

There will be free samples, food tastings and giveaways, showcasing the best of what our local area has to offer. I encour­age everyone, locals and visitors, to come along, meet the makers, and enjoy a taste of our region.

Here in Forbes, we love nothing more than great food, good company, and a dash of healthy competition. The National BBQ Championships Forbes is returning to Grinsted Oval on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October 2025 for two sizzling days of competition, entertainment and fun.

For the first time, the Grilling Prize Pool has been split into two exciting categories:

Local Legends Grilling for our homegrown talent, and General Grilling open to all BBQenthusiasts. This change creates even more chances for competitors to claim a share of the prize pool.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard barbeque legend, there’s a chance you could be crowned this year’s BBQ champion. Head to Council’s website to sign up.

Our community is filled with people who go above and beyond, whether through volunteering, leadership, or offering a helping hand when it’s needed most. The Forbes Shire Australia Day Awards are a wonderful way to acknowledge and thank these remarkable individuals.

Nominations are now open for the Forbes Shire Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, and Young Citizen of the Year.

Forms can be downloaded via Council’s website. Nominations close Friday 16 January 2026. Winners will be announced at the 2026 Australia Day celebrations in Forbes. It’s a simple way to say thank you and celebrate their incredible contribution to our community.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of our General Man­ager, Steve Loane OAM. Over eight years of dedicated service to Forbes Shire Coun­cil, Steve became much more than a col­league – he was a mentor, a leader and a true friend to many in our community.

Steve’s commitment to Local Government and rural communities was unwavering. His passion for the livestock industry and his dedication to fostering a strong, connected community were recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).Steve had a vision for Forbes Shire Council and guided our organisation with integrity, wisdom and care. His loss is deeply felt, but his legacy of leadership, service and community spirit will continue to inspire us all. Our deepest condolences to Lisa and his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the lasting improvements he made to the community he loved. Rest in peace, Steve.

What an amazing weekend we’ve just had in Forbes! The first-ever Street Dreams brought thousands of people out to enjoy interactive light displays, live performances, market stalls, and activities for all ages. Vic­toria Park was buzzing with creativity, col­our, and community spirit.

A huge thank you to our talented local artists, performers, volunteers, Council staff, and everyone who came along to join the fun. We’re also grateful to Transport for NSW for their support in making it all pos­sible.

As we start planning next year’s festival, we’d love for you to share your feedback, favourite moments and ideas via a short survey on our website. Thanks again to everyone who helped make it such a magi­cal night.

As the October long weekend approach­es, motorists are being reminded to take care on the road. Police will be out enforc­ing road rules, focusing on speed, seat­belts, mobile phone use, and motorcyclists not wearing helmets.

Double demerit points will apply for four days, from Friday 3 October through Mon­day 6 October 2025 (inclusive). Please take your time, plan your trips, and make safety your top priority so we can all enjoy a safe and happy long weekend.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

Get ready for an evening of art, light, and entertainment at Forbes’ newest event, Street Dreams, this Saturday, 27 Septem­ber, from 5 pm to 9 pm at Victoria Park.

The park precinct is going to be buzzing with light, colour, art, music and so many ways to get involved. You can drum, dance, make lanterns, have your hair braided or face painted, jump into a silent disco, or just wander through the stalls and soak up the atmosphere.

What I love most about Street Dreams is that it’s not just about watching, it’s about joining in. Whether you’re five or ninetyfive, there’s something here to spark your creativity and bring a smile to your face.

So, grab your friends, bring the family, and let’s light up Forbes together this weekend.

I’ll see you there!If your not-for-profit group has a project you’d like to bring to life, I encourage you to apply for the Forbes Community Funding Program. Grants of up to $5,000 are avail­able for projects in sport, arts, community services, or enhancing our rural villages.

With $150,000 available this year, this is a valuable opportunity to make a meaning­ful contribution to our Shire. Applications for this round close 31 January 2026.

For assistance with your application, please get in touch with our Grants Officer on 02 6850 2300 or community@forbes.

nsw.gov.au. For more information and to apply, visit Council’s website.

We’ve recently refreshed our internal structure under the Local Government Act, opening up some exciting new career op­portunities at Council.

From youth engagement to town pres­entation, water services and business sup­port, these roles are about more than just jobs, they’re about shaping the future of our Shire.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and make a difference in your community, I encourage you to explore the opportunities now available at Council.

Find out more via Council’s website, www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

Until next week.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

I’m thrilled to share that world renowned fire chef Patrick De Leon will be joining theNational BBQ Championships pit when this sizzling event returns to Forbes on Satur­day 18 and Sunday 19 October 2025. This is a great opportunity for BBQ fans to wit­ness one of the world’s most dynamic chefs in action right here in the Central West.

I want to extend a special invitation to lo­cal teams – gather your crew and register tocompete via our website. Whether you’re seasoned pros or just passionate about barbeque, this is your moment to shine, learn from the best, and be part of a truly unforgettable weekend.

I’m also counting down the days until Street Dreams on Saturday 27 September.

It’s going to be a night full of creativity, mu­sic, art and fun for everyone. I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and join in – try your hand at drumming, make a lino print or explore the amazing school-led installa­tions.

With market stalls, food and live perfor­mances too, there’s something for every member of the family. It’s a wonderful chance to connect with your community, try something new, and be part of a celebra­tion that’s uniquely Forbes. I can’t wait to see you there!Do you fish, kayak, swim, water ski, bushwalk, picnic, camp or simply enjoy tak­ing photos by the water? Whatever your fa­vourite way to experience our local water­ways, we want to hear from you. This week is your last chance to let Council know how you use and enjoy these spaces.

Forbes Shire Council, together with Parkes and Lachlan Shires, is developing drought management plans for our rivers, lakes, and dams as part of our Regional Drought Resilience strategy, funded by the National Drought Fund.

Your feedback will help shape how we manage these water bodies now and into the future. Share your feedback on the Recreational Waterbodies – Drought Man­agement Plan via www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say.

Until next week.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

On behalf of Forbes Shire Council and our community, I would like to congratulate the Forbes Magpies on their incredible effort in Sunday’s 2025 Western Premiership Rug­by League Grand Final. Going down 23 – 22 to the Dubbo CYMS in a nail-biting golden point finish was a heartbreaking way to end the season, but the courage, determination and sportsmanship shown by our Magpies was nothing short of inspiring.

Our players, coaching staff, volunteers and supporters should all be proud of the journey this season and the way the team has represented Forbes with pride and passion. Well done, Magpies – you’ve done our town proud!Last week I had the privilege of attending the Annual Conference of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) in Griffith. ALGWA brings togeth­er women in local government from across the state, providing both new and return­ing councillors with an opportunity to reset, gain fresh perspectives, and build practical skills to strengthen their leadership.

This year’s theme, Taste the Inspiration, reflected the motivation and empowerment that comes from embracing fresh ideas and innovative approaches in today’s everchanging local government landscape. I was also honoured to be re-elected as an Executive Committee Member of ALGWA, and I look forward to continuing to sup­port and advocate for women in leadership across local government.

I’m excited to announce the launch of our Spring School Holiday Program. There’s plenty on offer to keep kids busy, includ­ing circus workshops, skateboard paint­ing, first aid training and more! We’ve even added a brand-new Youth Connect event, which I know will be a highlight.

We are trialling a small ticket fee for some activities to help reduce no-shows, so more families get the chance to join in the fun. Spots always fill fast, so make sure you jump online at www.forbes.nsw.gov.au to book your child’s place. I can’t wait to see our young people out enjoying another great holiday program here in Forbes!

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM