Special Interests Archives - Page 40 of 118

Forbes’ Newest Australian Citizens

July 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Three new citizens were welcomed as Australian citizens in a ceremony presided over by Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM on 21st July.

Last Friday, 21st July, the Forbes Council Chambers were once again full, as friends and family witnessed Emily Newham (Vanuatu), Amy Smith (New Zealand) and Fionnuala Young (Ireland and United Kingdom) officially become Australian citizens.

Mayor Miller conducted the ceremony and presented the three women with a welcome gift and their Certificate of Citizenship in front of guests and a number of councillors.

“Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, as well as home to the oldest surviving culture in the world. Since 1949 Australia has welcomed over 5.7 million new citizens to our shores. We are proud to say that 13.4 per cent of Forbes’ population are born overseas and have chosen Forbes as their home,” Mayor Miller said.

Australian Citizenship symbolises our unity as a nation. Making the Australian citizenship pledge represents commitment to Australia and its people, the values we share and our common future. It also symbolises the sense of belonging to the country where new citizens have decided to make their home.

Choosing to become an Australian citizen is a very important commitment to make, and a significant part of Australia’s future. Forbes Shire Council places high importance on Australian Citizenship and hosts several ceremonies throughout the year.

“Welcoming Australia’s newest citizens, and welcoming them to Forbes especially, is one of my favourite roles as Mayor of Forbes.

“I can appreciate the fact that living in Forbes is enough to make anyone want to make living here permanent!” said Mayor Miller.

Australian Citizenship Day is held annually on September 17, a day to celebrate what unites us as Australians, whether we are citizens through birth or by choice.

NSW Farmers Welcome New Board Member

July 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

During the Annual Conference this week, Oscar Pearse a Moree based cropper, has been elected to the NSW Farmers Board.

The father of three, who has deep family roots in the states North West, stated a sustainable future for farming was critical to feed families and protect the country. Mr Pearse explained that farmers are esteemed for safeguarding useful resources of soils, pastures, and key natural areas, yet regularly the financial returns aren’t there and expressed his hopes this will soon change.

“I’m honoured to be elected to the NSW Farmers Board and look forward to making a positive contribution to the future of our Association and our industry,” Mr Pearse said.

Helen Carrigan, retiring Board member and wool producer explained that she would be moving interstate to be closer to family. She thanked NSW Farmers members for their support and wished Mr Pearse all the best.

Mrs Carrigan went on to say that it was a tremendous pleasure to work with NSW Farmers and although she will no longer be actively involved with the organisation, she will continue to be keenly interested in the Association’s work.

Innovative Climate Tool Expands To Support More Farmers

July 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

The Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO have unveiled a new name for their digital information product ‘My Climate View’, along with useful updates to help more farmers make informed decisions now to build climate resilience for decades to come.

Previously known as the Climate Services for Agriculture online platform, My Climate View is unique in providing farmers with critical data to assess how climate trends, including changes to temperature and rainfall, might impact their business for specific commodities and date ranges in their location, to a 5 km2 resolution.

My Climate View has been updated with: The Australian Government’s Climate Services for Agriculture program is a collaboration between the Bureau of Meteorology and Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO.

Bureau of Meteorology Program Director, Climate Services for Agriculture, Elizabeth Johnston said My Climate View is a product that has been designed by farmers for farmers.

“The Climate Services for Agriculture team has engaged extensively with Australia’s agricultural sector to understand what climate information and services the sector needs and how it is best presented,” Ms Johnston said.

My Climate View is free to all users. CSAEnquiries@csiro.au.

Feedback Sought On Window Safety Proposal

July 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

DPE Executive Director of Infrastructure Policy Jonathon Schipp has stated public input is crucial to inform any proposed new laws aimed at preventing small children accidentally falling from windows.

“We want to hear the community’s views on proposed changes requiring safety devices to be fitted in most homes on windows less than 1.7 metres from the floor, if the floor is two metres or more above ground level,” Mr Schipp said.

Since 2013, child-proof safety devices have been required for windows above a certain height in new bedrooms of most homes and all strata buildings in NSW, such as apartments and townhouses.

“We know that cost of living pressures means many people are doing it tough at the moment, and we want to hear from the community on this and other issues they feel should be examined.”

The discussion paper responds to the NSW Deputy State Coroner’s recommendations after the death of a three-year-old who fell from a third-floor residential apartment window which did not have a safety device.

To view the discussion paper and to provide feedback by 21 August 2023, visit: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/window-safety

Embrace The Magic Of Winter At The Orange Region Winter Fire Festival

July 20, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Orange360’s Winter Fire Festival showcases the best of what’s on offer in our communities in Winter.

This season, join us for the hottest winter celebration of the year – the Winter Fire Festival. Running across two weekends from the 4th – 13th August, the Winter Fire Festival showcases Orange and the villages of Blayney and Cabonne at their winter best! The festival program comprises a range of events in our region’s cellar doors, restaurants, villages, and other venues that celebrate the magic of winter.

The chill of winter is no match for the warmth of Orange’s hospitality. The region’s charming cafes, pubs, cellar doors, and restaurants offer cosy retreats complete with crackling fireplaces, comfortable armchairs, and friendly locals eager to share stories. Sample freshly roasted coffee, savour house-made specialties, or enjoy a warming glass of local award-winning red wine.

Close to home, is WoodFired Eugowra which is happening on Saturday, 5th August. Nothing ignites the soul like an afternoon with friends and family along the Mandagery Creek. Be warmed by the crackling fire as you take in local artisan food including woodfired pizza and low and slow meat. Sample regional wine, cider, and beer whilst you sit back and enjoy live music from local musicians. The kids will be entertained with a jumping castle, face painting and their own food options. Bring the family and venture to Eugowra for a cosy Saturday afternoon! This is a free event but registration is required to secure entry.

Orange360 General Manager, Ned Sweetapple commented, “We’re proud to showcase what we love about this region in winter. The Winter Fire Festival is our regions antidote to the cold and is the opportunity to celebrate all the good things about our Winter season and the fun to be had! Hearty, warming meals, sipping cold climate wine and artisan drinks around the bonfire, sharing stories, music, dance and laughter with friends and strangers under starry crystal-clear skies.

Bookings for all events during the festival can be made by visiting Orange360’s website, www.orange360.com.au

Stay On The Safe Side: Choose The Right Vehicle For The Job

July 20, 2023 by Roxane Manley

By making informed decisions about equipment and vehicles prior to beginning a task, we can create safer working environments in the agricultural industry.

According to the 2023 Safer Farms Report, 64% of fatalities on Australian farms in 2022 were attributed to farm vehicles or mobile farm machinery. Since 2001, nearly 30% of all on farm fatalities can be attributed to two vehicles: tractors and quad bikes.

Farmers rely on different vehicles for a wide range of tasks, each task demands a specific vehicle with the necessary features and capabilities. Choosing the right vehicle significantly reduces the risk of injuries and fatalities. To select the right vehicle:

Assess Job Requirements: Begin by assessing the specific needs and requirements of the task and consider factors such as load capacity, terrain conditions, and manoeuvrability. Matching the vehicle’s capabilities to the job requirements is crucial for optimal safety.

Consider Operator Comfort and Familiarity: A comfortable and familiar vehicle promotes operator confidence and reduces the likelihood of incidents. Ensure that all operators, including contractors, receive appropriate information and training to handle the chosen vehicle safely and efficiently.

Evaluate Safety Features: Prioritise purchasing vehicles equipped with safety features designed to protect operators. Features such as seat belts, roll bars, and enclosed cabs offer crucial protection in the event of a rollover. Don’t compromise on safety and never circumvent safety mechanisms when selecting vehicles.

Maintain and Inspect Regularly: Establish a regular maintenance and inspection schedule. Routine checks of brakes, lights, tyres, and other essential mechanisms ensure that the vehicle remains in prime working condition. Promptly address any repair needs to prevent potential hazards.

Promote Communication and Training: Encourage open communication among farm workers to share insights and experiences related to vehicle safety. Check operators have the necessary licences. Provide comprehensive training to all operators, emphasising safe operating procedures, load limits, and any specific considerations related to the chosen vehicles such as speed limits, age limits and required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Registrations Open For 30th Annual Rural Women’s Gathering

July 20, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Women from across rural, regional and remote NSW can register now to hear from and connect with an inspirational athlete, journalist and agricultural business woman at the 30th annual Rural Women’s Gathering held from 25th – 27th August.

The theme of the 2023 Gathering is “30 years, still going strong and getting stronger” and will see women convene in Orange, three decades after the city hosted the first Gathering in 1993.

Keynote speakers include Australian Rugby Union Player Grace Hamilton and ABC News rural reporter Sarah Hawke, who both hail from Orange. Joining them is Founder of Ability Agriculture and 2022 NSW ACT AgriFutures Rural Womens Award Winner, Josie Clarke.

“The Gathering brings women together to share experiences, learn and support one another. It is an important event to help regional women feel connected to each other, through friendship, mentorship and professional resources and services.”

The Gathering also provides a valuable opportunity for women to share their insights and ideas for their communities with key decision makers in the NSW Government.

The event is hosted by Australian National Field Days and organised by a committee of volunteers, with support from the NSW Government’s Rural Women’s Network. Register at: https://nswwomensgathering.com.au/

The New Parkes Elvis Festival Team Are Out Of This World!

July 20, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Pictured left to right is Events and Festival’s Specialist, Rochelle, Festival Producer Julian and Event Sponsorship and Attraction Officer Charlotte. Missing from the photo is the Brand and Marketing Coordinator, Bec.

There will be no more “Suspicious Minds”, as the new Parkes Elvis Festival Team have been announced and they “Can’t Help Falling In Love” with Parkes.

Festival Director Julien Poluson was joined this week in Parkes by colleagues Rochelle Livingstone, Festivals and Events Manager and Charlotte Lepriere, Sponsorship and Marketing to discuss everything Elvis. Julian will be residing in Parkes, whilst Rochelle and Charlotte will be working remotely and returning to Parkes as needed.

Julian’s background is in arts, music production and public arts events. His career started at the Hobart Mercury Newspaper, in the 90’s he worked in the Australian Music Industry, before moving to East Timor and then Cambodia where he went working for three months and stayed for 12 years.

Julian went on to say that as a team they are all “Very much part of a transition, an evolution of the festival. It’s gone from being a conversation around a bar in a hotel, to a community committee run festival, to a semi council run, to now fully run within the corporate framework, and the framework is good, it secures it and means the investment of everyone’s time, sponsorship money, talent, patience and enthusiasm, it all pays off over the long term and way into the future”.

The team are busy collaborating with each other and Julian said they are excited to bring “More colour, more diversity, more youth, more culture, the Wall of Fame story, developing Theatre.”

Sounds Of Country On Lake Forbes At Sundown

July 13, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Rising stars of Australian country music, and the new backing band for Lee Kernaghan, Hurricane Fall will headline Sundown Sounds.

Rising stars of Austraslian country music, Hurricane Fall will be the headlining act at Forbes’ inaugural Sundown Sounds on Lake Forbes. The event will take place at Lions Park on 5th August, with music starting at 5:45pm.

This high energy country rock band will be joined by Katie Jayne and band, and our very own Gracey Denham-Jones.

Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said the inaugural Sundown Sounds event is a definite nod to our country roots.

“I am looking forward to pulling on the boots for an evening of good food, good music and great times with old and new friends” Mayor Miller said.

You can check out Council’s Facebook event to listen to the Sundown Sounds Spotify Playlist. Sundown Sounds is a free event funded by the NSW Government.

“Grab your mates, grab your esky and join us by the lake for what is sure to be an epic evening of live music.”

Sundown Sounds is a BYO event. Food vans and a bucking mechanical bull will be available. All ages are welcome.

Tickets are free, but essential and are available to online at www.123tix.com.au/events/37984/forbes-sundown-sounds

Putting The Heart In Your Business

July 13, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Actor Samuel Johnson with his sister Connie, who lost her battle with cancer.

The Forbes Business Chamber will be hosting special guest, actor Samuel Johnson, for breakfast on the 20th July at Club Forbes.

Samuel Johnson has long been advocating for Precision Medicine as a standard of care for all Australian cancer patients. Access to clinical trials and the latest technologies is currently not available outside major population centres. Love Your Sister has initiated a multi-partner, multi-million-dollar expansion to correct the inequity.

Love Your Sister has partnered with Macquarie University, and selected the Dubbo region to be the first trial.

Love Your Sister has committed $1.2M to a world-first, co-designed sustainable model for clinical trials that draws on local resources and expertise as well as those of the government, university and pharmaceutical sectors.

Most importantly, the patient wins. This impactful initiative will help patients stay close to home and their support networks rather than being required to travel long distances to receive the latest treatments.

Love Your Sister has already funded half and is relying on businesses and community leaders from Dubbo and other communities to help meet our commitment.

“This world-first model only works if everyone gets on board, including individuals, local community groups and businesses, not only from Dubbo but the surrounding towns as well,” said Samuel Johnson.

All eyes will be on Dubbo and surrounds as Love Your Sister, the Oncology Department at Dubbo Hospital, the Western NSW Clinical Trial Support Unit, NSW Health and Macquarie University initiate a model for bringing international standard clinical trials to regional, rural and remote locations.

Chamber members are entitled to one free ticket, please email the chamber to register your business delgate. Additional tickets are available at www.123tix.com.au/events/39534/putting-the-heart-in-your-business-breakfast-with-samuel-johnson

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