Florence Samuels: I have finished all of our Christmas shopping so that we can celebrate an early Christmas here in Forbes before heading to the Central Coast to spend time with family over the holidays.

Debbie Prior: I have great intentions to be ready early but unfortunately life gets in the way! However, I have started my Christmas shopping and with such unique and beautiful stores in Forbes, it’s not hard to find something a bit different and out of the ordinary. The feeling at Christmas is always a positive and happy one and after the events of the last few weeks, it is good to have something special to look forward to.

Bri Cellendoni: I have all my parcels ready to post, I am stocked up with Christmas accessories to wear to work and help spread a bit of Christmas joy. I just really want to help spread a positive attitude and help make a few people smile.

Jo Payseno from Ray White Parkes: I would highly recommend applicants pay close attention to the following three things when applying for a rental property 1. Make sure to fill in your form correctly 2. Upload all of the correct documents that have been requested 3. Please don’t take it personally if you miss out on a property, keep reapplying.

Janssen Mores from Century 21 Parkes: It is extremely important to double or triple check your application before you go ahead and submit it. Going back and forwards can take time and you don’t want to miss the perfect property because your application was not complete. Also alert your rental references and make sure they are contactable.

James Rollo from the Navy (right): We are about 50 members of the Navy, while the Air Force has about 40 members helping the community in Forbes to get back on their feet. This week we have been at Forbes Public School to help the kids get back to school. We are very happy to help out, and the community spirit is great. Everyone has been so accommodating. We will be helping as long as required and until the job is done. 

Duane Burke and Bob Callow from Fire and Rescue Perisher Valley 426: We are part of strike team November and have been here for five days. Today we are helping out at Forbes Public School. We have been given specific tasks to wash out all the mud and debris, and also to get rid of any hazardous material.

Verlissity Mill: I am motivated to want to help people and communities because I find it is so rewarding to be able to help people in their time of need. I am currently an aged care nurse. I have been with the SES for three years and was previously with the RFS for 12 years. 

Matthew Hando: I’ve been with the SES for eight years because I love helping people. I am a level 3 diving tech and I do vertical water rescues amongst other things. I have worked at some major flooding events at Moree, Forbes and the recent Lismore event. I am motivated to inspire more young people to join the SES.