Special Interests Archives - Page 10 of 121

Why Young Australians Need Resilience, Not Just Restrictions

October 9, 2025 by Roxane Manley

As more than 200,000 Year 12 students across Australia prepare for their ATAR exams, the stress they face highlights a bigger national issue: too many young Australians are entering adulthood without the coping skills to manage life’s challenges. Without those tools, pressures can accumulate and contribute to serious mental health consequences – with suicide now the leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds.

At the same time, the Federal Government is preparing to tighten restrictions on young people’s access to social media, acknowledging growing concerns about its role in anxiety, loneliness, cyberbullying and harmful self-comparison. While reducing harmful online influences may provide some relief, bans alone will not solve the problem. Children also need to be equipped with the skills to manage stress, build resilience, and seek support much earlier.

LifeChanger Foundation is a preventative youth mental health and wellbeing non-profit that empowers young people to thrive. Through evidence-based school and community programs, it builds the social, emotional and resilience skills young people need to navigate life’s challenges.

For information about LifeChanger www.lifechanger.org.au

The Need For Nuclear Proven

October 9, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The Leibstadt Nuclear Power Plant in Switzerland. By Hansueli Krapf – Own work: Hansueli Krapf (User Simisa (talk · contribs)), CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=110649554

Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud said the ground-breaking comprehensive truth data’ of Labor’s renewables rollout proves the need for nuclear power in Australia.

Mr Littleproud said the Rainforest Reserves Australia and Steven Nowakowski analysis, which can be found at https://www.rainforestreserves.org.au/renewablestruthmap shows the shocking impact Labor’s all-renewables plan will cause on agriculture land, pristine natural landscapes and regional communities.

The mapping outlines the scale and size of every site in Australia and the footprint it will leave, with clickable, real-time data. It shows the vast amount of land being taken up by Labor’s 1126 projects, requiring 44,895.5 kilometres of new haulage roads for more than 300 wind projects, along with an additional 443,000 hectares of prime and for 545 new solar projects. The total number of solar panels proposed totals a staggering 584 million.

“This mapping vindicates The Nationals’ calls for nuclear to remain a key policy for the Coalition,” Mr Littleproud said. “We need to lift the nuclear moratorium for a balanced and technology neutral energy mix if we want to save what’s left of our agricultural land and our forests from Labor’s all-renewables approach.

“Australians need to understand, this mapping shows Labor is destroying the very thing we are trying to protect – the environment.

Environmentalist Steven Nowakowski said the mapping, released today, is the most comprehensive to date. “This is a trillion-dollar industry yet no one has done this mapping before,” Mr Nowakowski said.

Plan Your Christmas Early With Buddy Boy Kitchen Parkes

October 7, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The calendar has a way of catching us off guard. One moment it is spring, and suddenly Christmas is here. At Buddy Boy Kitchen, we know how important it is to have a place ready for gathering, celebrating, and sharing meals.

That is why our Christmas Menu is available for groups of 15 or more, from 3 November to 20 December 2025. Whether it is colleagues toasting the end of a big year, or families coming together before the holiday rush, our team makes planning simple and the celebrations effortless. Expect festive flavours, a warm atmosphere, and service designed to take the stress out of organising. From Christmas ham and cured Salmon to filet mignon, pan-roasted turkey, and Christmas pudding.

A festive gathering is about more than what arrives at the table.

It is the laughter that lingers between courses, the conversations sparked over a glass of wine, and the small details that make a night feel unforgettable. At Buddy Boy Kitchen, we create the setting, you bring the people, and together the evening becomes a story worth remembering.

If you’re not ready to celebrate Christmas yet, we are also open for breakfast from 6:30am and dinner from 5:30pm, Monday to Saturday. Our restaurant serves Happy Hour everyday from 4:30pm to 6:00pm, there is no better way to raise a glass before a Christmas feast.

Do not wait until the calendar fills. Organise your festive gathering now. Christmas Menu bookings and details at buddyboykitchen.com.au/christmas-functions-2025 or call 02 6862 5222.

The Little House

October 7, 2025 by Roxane Manley

On the way to work there is a little house. It sits off the side of the road, old brick chimney, nestled into the side of the house. It’s framed by large gum trees, glimmering in simple, understated beauty.

The kids are usually in the car, I point to it and tell them a story about who might have lived there, what life might have been like for them, it keeps them entertained for 5 minutes without an iPad so it’s a win.

Today, I drove by it alone, and I think about the woman who would have swept its floors every day, planted irises along the front, and cleaned out the fireplace. The stories it would hold.

Stories of a family sharing a bed, cuddling to keep warm on a frosty morning. Of laughter, hot soup and tales being told beside the glow of a fire.

The kids that grew up there wouldn’t have remembered if Mum rinsed the dishes or kept a clutter free house. But, they would remember her putting down the broom every now and then, running around outside with them, peals of laughter echoing through the trees, making the gum leaves dance and glimmer with joy.

And so I drive home, ignore the dishes, grab my boys and tickle them on the lounge, soaking up every laugh, smile and the sounds of their little voices. I ignore the ping of a new email coming in, the agitated beep of the washing machine’s completed cycle. And I think of the little house and its gum trees; smiling, nodding at me.

Bookings are now open for Kerin Health Mother’s Group, a place for new mothers and their babies to come together and share the adventure of Motherhood in a safe, supportive environment. To learn more, head to https://www.kerinhealth.com.au/mothers-group

Cash In On Clutter At The Garage Sale Trail

October 7, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Find out how a clear-out can give you more space, less stress, and even help the planet.

Following last year’s success, plenty of garage sales are expected across the Parkes Shire this November, as locals join over 400,000 Australians taking part in this year’s Garage Sale Trail – one of the country’s biggest second-hand shopping events.

Held over two weekends (8–9 and 15–16 November), the event sees thousands of garage sales pop up in streets, schools, front yards and community spaces around the country. Locals can host their own sale or join a market, taking part on one day or across both weekends.

Over 2,700 Parkes Shire residents participated in the two big weekends last November extending the life of almost 8,500 pre-loved items.

“It’s a fun and meaningful way for locals to take climate action, meet their neighbours and make some extra cash,” said Parkes Shire Council’s Waste Management Coordinator, Sharyn Ware. “Garage Sale Trail makes it easy to give your stuff a second life – and keep it out of landfill.”

Registration is free and includes access to downloadable signs, how-to guides and promotion tools – making it easy to take part. Last year, the average seller made $499, proving that selling second hand is as good for the wallet as it is for the planet.

“There’s something for everyone – from designer fashion and retro homewares to kids’ toys, tools, plants and books,” said Sharyn.

NSW EPA Executive Director of Programs and Innovation Alexandra Geddes said, “Garage Sale Trail is a fantastic campaign that supports the NSW Government’s target to reduce waste and illegal dumping.

“By taking part, you’ll be part of contributing to a more circular economy by getting as much use out of products and materials as possible and helping us generate less waste.”

Participation is free thanks to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Parkes Shire Council. Register now at bit.ly/GarageSaleTrailParkesShire.

Choose Clear Choice Septic Maintenance

September 25, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Born and raised in Yorkshire UK, Dave Rees now calls Forbes home after marrying a local girl. Three months ago Dave branched out and started his own business, Clear Choice Septic Maintenance.

What is a septic tank? A septic tank is an underground chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic through which domestic wastewater flows for basic sewage treatment.

After seeing so many septic tanks that in his opinion were being under-serviced, Dave decided to offer a premium service at a reasonable price.

Clear Choice Septic Maintenance offers a full septic tank service including air blower, all fixtures and fittings, with the ability to fit major components on the day should they need immediate replacement. Dave can also lodge the full system reports to the local council, saving his clients the hassle of having to do it themselves.

Dave prides himself on building relationships with his clients, and also offers a “training day” to occupants of homes with a septic tank who may not know the “do’s and don’ts” of having a septic tank.

Don’t delay, if you have a septic tank, call Dave today on 0431 005 180 and book in a service before any major issues occur.

Fire Meets Flavour In Forbes

September 25, 2025 by Roxane Manley

World-renowned live-fire chef Patrick De Leon will be joining the National BBQ Championships in Forbes on 18 and 19 October. Visit www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/2025-nationalbbq-championships.

World-renowned live-fire chef Patrick De Leon will be joining the National BBQ Championships pit when the sizzling event returns to Forbes on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October 2025.

Barbeque fans won’t want to miss the chance to see one of the world’s most dynamic chefs in action as the Central West heats up for another unforgettable weekend.

With over two decades of smoke and seasoning behind him, Chef Patrick is internationally recognised for his fusion of classic American BBQ, South American asado and South African braai. A favourite on the competitive circuit and a mentor to aspiring grillers, Chef Patrick is known for coaxing deep, layered flavours from flame, coal and hardwood smoke.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Patrick De Leon to the National BBQ Championships in Forbes,” said Mayor Phyllis Miller. “His incredible talent and dynamic live-fire skills will add something truly special to the event, celebrating the flavours and passion that make barbeque such a beloved tradition both here and around the world.”

Attendees can catch Chef Patrick in live demos throughout the weekend. Chef Patrick’s live-fire cooking, global BBQ fusion, coal and wood-fire control, and dry rub & condiment design will impress both seasoned pitmasters and backyard BBQ lovers.

This year’s event promises a full weekend of grilling, smoking, live demonstrations, music, market stalls, and kids’ entertainment – all in celebration of BBQ culture. The event is proudly presented in partnership with the Australasian Barbecue Alliance.

“This event brings our community together, attracts visitors from near and far, and showcases the incredible talent and flavours that make BBQ such a celebrated tradition, both here and around the world,” the Mayor added.

Lions Park Works To Enhance Popular Space

September 25, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Already one of Forbes’ most popular spaces for families, visitors and events, Lions Park is undergoing a major transformation, designed to improve access, usability and appeal for all ages.

The project will deliver new shade sails, an expanded playground with soft-fall rubber surfacing, and full restoration of the carpark to include all-abilities access from vehicles directly into the park.

The Lions Park improvement works are part of the Forbes Lake Activation Parks and Amenities Resilience & Betterment Project, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Community Assets Program. The Lions Park shade structures are funded under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership.

Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said the project builds on the park’s existing strengths and further positions it as a key community and events destination. “Lions Park is a favourite for family outings, weekend events, and community gatherings. This transformation will enhance what’s already great, making the space more inclusive, resilient, and welcoming,” Mayor Miller said.

“With better access, upgraded play spaces, and landscaping that complements the other improvement works being delivered around Lake Forbes, this park will be a true showcase of Forbes’ outdoor Forbes Shire Council lifestyle.”

Due to the level of construction activity and for public safety, areas of Lions Park will be closed to the public while works are underway. Access to walking paths and Oh So Sugar will remain open to pedestrians throughout the project.

Council looks forward to unveiling a refreshed, more inclusive and event-ready Lions Park later this year. For more information, visit www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

Free Child Restraint Checks In Parkes And Forbes

September 18, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Parkes and Forbes Shire Councils are ensuring that children are safe and secure when travelling in vehicles, with free child restraint checks by Authorised Child Restraint Fitters in Forbes on Wednesday 24 September and Parkes on Thursday 25 September 2025.

The Council’s Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, says that these free child restraint checking days are important in ensuring the safe travel of young children.

“Most of the restraints we have checked at previous events have had minor problems that needed fixing to ensure the safety of the child – such as tightening and untwisting straps, fitting gated buckles and correcting the seatbelt’s path through the restraint.

“It is important to have your child restraint checked regularly after prolonged use and installed correctly before use to ensure that your precious cargo is safe” Ms Suitor said.

The child restraint checking days will be held in Forbes on Wednesday 24 September from 11am – 3pm in the carpark at Forbes Rugby Club, and in Parkes on Thursday 25 September from 11am – 3pm in the carpark at Kelly Reserve.

Bookings are essential, phone 6861 2364 to secure your place.

School Holiday Fun Returns To Forbes With New Format

September 18, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Forbes Shire Council’s much-loved school holiday program is back with a new format, packed full of fun, creativity, and entertainment for children and young people of all ages.

As usual there will be a great variety of activities for our youth, including a circus workshop, skateboard painting, first aid training and art sessions. An exciting new Youth Connect event will also be part of the program.

For the upcoming school holidays, Council is introducing a small ticket fee for selected events as part of a new trial. The change aims to reduce no-shows and giving more families the chance to enjoy these popular activities.

Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said the trial was about supporting fairness and accessibility. “Our school holiday events are always in high demand, and when people don’t turn up, it means other children miss the chance to take part. By introducing a small ticket fee for selected activities, we’re hoping to encourage families to commit to their bookings and give more kids the opportunity to take part.”

Families are encouraged to secure their spots early. For more information about booking head to www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

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