Forbes is brimming with creativity, and our young people will soon have the chance to showcase theirs through the free Street Dreams Youth Art Workshop. Open to ages 8 to 13, the workshop will run on Saturday 20 September from 12:30pm to 2pm at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre.

Participants will be guided in creating original artworks that will be proudly dis­played at the Street Dreams Festival on Saturday 27 September. With only 15 spots available, this is a special opportunity for our young creatives to shine. Register via Council’s website. I can’t wait to see their work on display.

This week marks the launch of the Scrap Together campaign, a new initiative sup­ported by the NSW EPA to help us make the most of our green-lid FOGO (Food Or­ganics and Garden Organics) bins.

In Forbes, we collect around 1,300 tonnes of food and garden waste each year, turning scraps into compost instead of landfill. It’s a great result, but food waste is still one of the biggest items going into red-lid bins. Head to Council’s social media pages for simple tips on how to keep food waste out of landfill.

I’m excited to invite all young people and families to a new youth event, designed to promote positive choices, wellbeing and community connection.

Youth Connect will be held at the Forbes Skatepark and Stephen Field on Tuesday 30 September from 12 pm to 3 pm, featur­ing inflatables, giveaways, food and activi­ties like NRL clinics.

This free event is proudly supported by the Forbes Community Drug Action Team (CDAT). For nearly 25 years, CDAT has been working to keep our community safe and healthy, running programs, education campaigns, and events that help young people and families make positive choices.

Events like this help build stronger, healthier and more resilient young people, which benefits our whole town.

Youth Connect is part of our school holi­day program, so keep an eye out for the lineup of activities coming soon!

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

I am very proud to share that Forbes has been named a finalist in the 2025 NSW Tidy Towns Awards. Running since 1981, the Tidy Towns program recognises and celebrates the outstanding efforts of communities right across regional NSW. It shines a light on the projects and initiatives that not only improve the environment but also strengthen com­munity pride and connection.

The winners will be announced at the 2025 Tidy Towns Awards Weekend hosted by Keep Australia Beautiful NSW from 10 – 12 October 2025 in Parkes.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has played a part in Forbes reaching this stage. Being named a finalist is a true reflection of your efforts and pas­sion for our town.

Our lakes, rivers and wetlands are among our community’s greatest treasures. But we know drought can have a big impact on how we use and enjoy them. With support from the Future Drought Fund, Council is devel­oping Recreational Waterbodies Drought Management Plans to help protect these special places during dry times.

To make sure these plans truly reflect community needs, we want to hear from you. Tell us how you use our waterbodies, how drought has affected those activities and your ideas for keeping them thriving.

I encourage everyone to take a few min­utes to complete the survey at www.forbes.

nsw.gov.au and help shape the future of our much-loved waterbodies.

The National BBQ Championships is re­turning to Forbes this October, and team registrations are now open!Last year more than 1,500 people joined us for great food, entertainment and the friendly Forbes atmosphere, with teams travelling from across NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia.

This year we’d love to see even more lo­cal teams take part. Whether you’re a pit­master or a backyard barbeque fan, it’s your chance to showcase your skills and be part of a fantastic community event.

Spots are limited. Register now via Coun­cil’s website and help make this year’s com­petition the best yet!God Bless, Phyllis Miller OAM

Council is continuing its commitment to maintaining critical infrastructure, with sew­er main relining works soon underway in North Forbes. From 19th August, specialist contractors Interflow will inspect, clean, and rehabilitate the sewer network across Sam Street, Calarie Road, Stonham Street, Mc­Donnell Street, and Honeysuckle Street.

These essential works help restore the sewer system to peak performance, im­prove service reliability, and protect our lo­cal environment. Some residents may need to provide access to backyards where sewer access chambers are located. If this applies to you, please contact Interflow on 0403 651 562 to arrange a suitable time. During the cleaning phase, residents are also encour­aged to keep toilet lids closed with a small weight on the lid (around 2kg).Thank you for your patience while this important work is completed.

Forbes is a great town for events and the countdown is on until Forbes comes alive with colour, light, and creativity at the brand-new Street Dreams Festival this September!This free community event will transform Harold Street, Victoria Park, and Town Hall with interactive light displays, creative installations, live performances, and delicious local food. Supported by the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program, this festival is part of a three-year series cel­ebrating our community spirit and showcas­ing the talent and energy that make Forbes a vibrant place to live.

The recent ‘Be Road Ready for Harvest’ Field Day at the Forbes Central West Live­stock Exchange was another highlight for the community, attracting 90 attendees.

Farmers, transport operators, machinery retailers, government agencies, and council staff came together to hear presentations on load restraint, fatigue, fire safety, and pow­erline awareness.

Hands-on demonstrations, including ma­chinery measurements and load restraint tri­als, gave participants practical insights into safe road travel during harvest. The presen­tations and other useful information will be available on a USB free for you to collect at ag resellers and machinery dealerships. If you missed the field day, free satellite ses­sions will be held next week at Tullibigeal, Jemalong and Alectown. Visit Council’s website to register and secure your spot.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

This week marks Local Government Week (LG Week) 2025. The annual celebration is designed to showcase the full range of services, programs, and infrastructure pro­vided by local councils. We have used the week to highlight some of our dedicated staff. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages to learn more about their roles and contributions.

We have also involved our future repre­sentatives in Local Government Week too! On Thursday, around 130 local primary stu­dents spent a hands-on day with Council, meeting teams from Landscaping, Waste, Planning, Tourism and Rangers, and even learning what it takes to become a future Councillor. What a great thought that some of these young children will grow up to be a part of Council!If you’re new to Forbes, I’d like to extend a warm invitation to our upcoming Wel­come to Forbes event on Thursday 28th August at SYLO Cafe and Eatery, Rankin Street from 5.30pm. Whether you’ve just arrived or have been settling in over the past few months, this is a great opportunity to meet some new people, chat with local sporting and interest groups and service providers and discover everything Forbes has to offer. Council is proud to host events like Welcome to Forbes because we know howimportant it is to feel connected and wel­comed when moving to a new town. Join us for a relaxed, family-friendly evening with light refreshments. Please RSVP by Thursday 14th August to events@forbes.nsw.gov.au or 6850 2300.

I encourage all residents impacted by re­cent flooding events to attend the upcom­ing Resilient Homes Expo at the Eugowra Showground next month. Hosted by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the Expo is designed to support homeowners by con­necting them with expert advice and prac­tical information on rebuilding stronger, safer and smarter.

The event will run from 4pm to 7pm on Wednesday 3rd September and will feature representatives from the NSW Reconstruc­tion Authority, local councils, SafeWork NSW, Building Commission NSW, and a range of industry experts and service pro­viders.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

Work on the Johnny Woods Crossing up­grade is progressing steadily, with the cul­vert replacement now complete. Crews have begun installing a new 3-metre-wide concrete footpath along the western side, replacing the original pathway. Once com­plete, both new pathways will connect seamlessly with the existing Lake Forbes trail network. Weather permitting, land­scaping works are scheduled to take place over the next fortnight.

Funded through the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Fund, the redevelopment will im­prove flood resilience, enhance pedestrian access and safety, upgrade public amenity, and renew critical infrastructure. The pro­ject also complements broader improve­ments being delivered around Lake Forbes as part of the Lake Forbes Activation Plan.

I’m excited to share that Council has been named a finalist in two categories for the 2025 Youth Week Awards: Best Small Council with the Most Outstanding Youth Week Program and Most Inclusive Youth Week Program.

These awards celebrate the outstand­ing efforts of local councils across NSW in delivering Youth Week programs that champion youth involvement, inclusivity, innovation, community partnerships and meaningful impact. Winners will be an­nounced at the Local Government Awards Gala in Sydney on August 7.

Next week marks Local Government Week (LG Week) 2025. The annual cel­ebration is designed to showcase the full range of services, programs, and infra­structure provided by local councils. LG Week is also a chance to shine a light on the people behind the scenes – the dedi­cated staff who go the extra mile to support our residents. Keep an eye on our social media pages next week as we introduce you to some of those passionate staff members.

Local primary school students will be spending a jam-packed day with Coun­cil on Thursday 7 August from 9.30am to 2.30pm to see first-hand some of the activi­ties we do.

Our goal is always to work in partnership with our community, delivering services and infrastructure that reflect your values, needs, and priorities.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

Forbes saleyards is on fire, smashing re­cords again with a pen of heavy lambs sell­ing for an incredible $460 a head — a new Australian record! This standout sale was part of one of the biggest sheep auctions held at the sale­yards, with over 59,000 sheep sold. That included 43,250 lambs and hoggets, plus 16,800 mutton, attracting buyers and sell­ers from across the state.

These numbers are a huge testament to the quality of our local producers. Forbes saleyards to prove it’s one of the top facili­ties in the country and a key playerin the national sheep industry. A big shoutout to all the producers, agents, and the saleyards team — what an amazing result!As a community, we all have a role to play in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our pets – and that includes our feline friends.

Our Rangers are encouraging cat owners to microchip and register their pets to help ensure lost cats can be quickly returned home. Please also consider keeping cats indoors or within a secure outdoor enclo­sure, especially at night. This helps protect both your pets and local wildlife. Thanks for supporting a safe and pet-friendly commu­nity.

A reminder that National Tree Day is this Saturday 26 July. Join our commu­nity planting event from 10am to 12pm on the corner of Federation Boulevard and Olympic Street. Wear sturdy shoes, warm clothes, a hat or beanie, and bring water and snacks. Tools will be provided. Regis­ter at nationaltreeday.org.au. I hope to see many of you there lending a hand to make Forbes even greener!This week is your final opportunity to ap­ply for Council’s Community Funding Pro­gram. Local not-for-profit groups can apply for up to $5,000 in cash or in-kind support for projects that support sport, culture and art, community, or rural enhancement. Ap­plications close 31 July — don’t miss your chance to make a difference!

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

If you’ve visited Lions Park these school holidays you may have noticed work un­derway around the playground and café area. Contractors are preparing footings for new shade sails over both areas, the need for this identified by the community during consultation as part of the Lake Forbes Ac­tivation Plan. These improvements will cre­ate a more welcoming, user-friendly Lions Park for locals and visitors to enjoy yearround. We appreciate your patience while these works are completed.

Council is proud to be joining Central West Lachlan Landcare to celebrate Na­tional Tree Day on Saturday 26 July. We’re inviting community members to come along from 10am to 12pm on the corner of Federation Boulevard and Olympic Street to help plant trees next to the Goldridge Housing Development.

This is a wonderful chance to get out­doors and make a lasting contribution to the environment. Please wear sturdy shoes, warm clothes, and bring a hat or beanie, along with water and snacks. Gar­dening tools will be provided. To register, visit nationaltreeday.org.au. I hope to see many of you there lending a hand to make Forbes even greener!This year marks 160 years since the death of Ben Hall, one of Australia’s most fascinating bushrangers. To commemorate this milestone, Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee is proud to once again present the unique event, The Trial of Ben Hall.

Back by popular demand, this interactive play lets audiences explore an important chapter of our history in a creative and en­gaging way. Performances will be held on 2nd and 3rd August at St Andrews Church on Harold Street, with tickets available through 123tix. I look forward to seeing you there supporting our local performers and enjoying this special piece of history.

And finally, another stellar week at the Central West Livestock Exchange. A Na­tional Price Record broken for lambs with a sale of $454 per head for a pen. Huge congratulations to the vendors and agents – what a wonderful asset to our community the saleyards are.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

Stephen Lawrence MLC announced that Forbes has been awarded funding for Forbes Street Dreams – a brand-new im­mersive art and cultural festival that will transform Forbes into a vibrant celebration of creativity and community.

Planned for Saturday 27 September from 5:00pm to 9:00pm, the event will activate Harold Street, Victoria Park, and Town Hall into dynamic spaces filled with art installa­tions, interactive light displays, live perfor­mances, and delicious food.

Forbes has a strong and proud history of hosting art events and festivals and we will be working with these committees to de­liver a unique and completely funded night of culture and fun for the community. What a treat! Thank you to our local police who have conducted raids on local businesses four times in the last month – each time seiz­ing illegal products. As a result two people have been charged and some large fines have been issued.

I think you will agree there has been an increased police presence in our commu­nity – it is very much appreciated. Remem­ber to call 000 if you or your property is in immediate risk.

As the President of Local Government NSW, I spent some time this week with councils from the Northern Rivers of NSW.

These areas have again endured extreme flooding and it has been insightful and hopefully comforting for them to have rep­resentatives in the area who understand the plight of flooding. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.

Did you see the story about Ryan Glen­nan on the local news this week. It was a lovely story about Ryan, who first began working at the Central West Livestock Ex­change for council. He is now working for VC Reid and was selling at Monday’s cattle sale. Just a quick note in the last financial year, we have yarded over 78,000 cattle and calves, 1,738,394 sheep and lambs and over 6500 pigs. What an amazing live­stock selling centre.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM

What an amazing weekend of sport! On Sunday, Forbes played host to more than 3,000 junior athletes and supporters from across NSW for the annual Youth Soccer Gala Day. A total of 85 teams competed in over 180 thrilling matches throughout the day. Congratulations to Forbes District Soccer Club for organising an outstand­ing event. Days like this not only energise grassroots sport but also deliver a valuable boost to the local economy.

One of the standout moments was the official opening of the Youth Strength and Conditioning Gym. It’s the first of its kind in regional Australia and features cuttingedge equipment designed to support the development of young athletes.

The weekend also drew players and sup­porters to town for the Forbes Platypi and Forbes Magpies Juniors Home games.

On Monday, around 2,000 people attend the Catholic Schools Rugby Trials Day. All the sportsgrounds looked amazing and the crowds were very appreciative.

I wish to thank the Minns State Govern­ment for its commitment of $20.2 million for the Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Re­development in the 2025/26 State Budget.

The new operating theatre will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and built tothe highest modern medical standards.

The redevelopment ensures the continued delivery of essential services, expands the capacity to perform a broader range of sur­gical procedures, and delivers the health­care our community deserves.

This week I welcomed the launch of a new three-year partnership between Local Government NSW and the NSW Govern­ment to help councils tackle the root caus­es of domestic, family, and sexual violence.

The Pathways to Prevention Strategy will support the delivery of primary prevention programs like unconscious bias training, gender equality initiatives, and awareness resources.

Councils are central to our communities and, when well-resourced, are well-placed to lead on social issues. Violence of this kind is preventable. With the right tools, councils can help stop it before it starts.

God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM