The current wave of COVID-19 infections continues to grow and all NSW residents are urged to ensure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations and to practise COVID-safe behaviours. 

There are fears the number of serious illnesses and death toll will increase significantly as the latest wave is driven by the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. 

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said figures showed 56% (or 1,232 cases) of COVID-related deaths this year were in people who have had two or fewer doses. 

“We are at the beginning of the third wave of Omicron which is likely to peak in late July or early August. This increase in community transmission brings with it greatly increased risks for those not up to date with their vaccines,” he said. 

“The best way you can protect yourself from serious illness or worse is to get every vaccination that is available to you.” 

If you are fully vaccinated you have a 65% greater protection against hospitalisation or death from Omicron than two vaccine doses alone affords, according to data from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance. 

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said in addition to booking in for a booster, people should exercise common sense and wear a face mask in public indoor spaces, where physical distancing cannot be maintained. “Face masks, hand hygiene, staying home when ill, testing yourself when symptoms present, physically distancing, all these measures are not new to us,” Kerry said. 

Elderly people and those with underlying health conditions are reminded to speak to their GP or health professional about antiviral medications if they contract COVID-19. Antivirals work best when taken within five days from when symptoms onset. 

COVID-19 booster doses are recommended for anyone 16 years and older who had their last dose of a primary course at least three months ago. To find your nearest vaccination clinic, visit nsw.gov.au. 

We all know what to do when we are injured, but how many of us know where to go when we are experiencing mental health issues?

While 20% of Autralians are impacted by mental health, it still seems to be a taboo subject in our modern lives. 

Actor and mental health champion Sam Webb addressed this often painful subject speaking to about 200 students and community members at the Fobes Mental Health Expo on Tuesday.

Sam started his presentation with two words: I’m fine. “These are two of most dangerous words spoken every day. They were the last two words I heard from my good friend the night before he took his own life in 2013.”

Sam, who flew in from his home in Los Angeles, co-founded the mental health charity LIVIN after the death of his friend committing to helping people and organisations understand the importance of mental health and making wellness a priority.

Speaking from the heart his presentation focused on simple tools and strategies to live better, make a difference and be of service to other people. 

“Don’t take ‘I’m fine’ for an answer any more. A lot of people use those two words just as a blow off, and what they really want to say is: Help Me!”

Sam said the “cool mantra” It Ain’t Weak To Speak was not just about mental health but could be applied to all aspects of life, like an upcoming exam, or relationship problems. He gave the audience some tips about talking to someone who is struggling. “Be honest, and don’t be afraid to have a hard conversation. It is about listening, and not trying to fix anything or solving problems.”

Another strategy Sam focused on was being adaptable in life. “It is not cool to hide your pain, and it does not get you anywhere. Find your north star – identify what you’re good at and value yourself and your worth. You have the power to make a difference in your life. It is OK not to be all right.”

For Sam self-care is vital. “We cannot help anyone properly if we do not look after ourselves first.” He said running was his best self-care option, while some answers from the audience included drawing, and talking to a friend.

Sam ended his presentation with a story about a fellow presenter who had survived a suicide attempt. He said the most important message from the survivor was that he felt instant regret the moment he jumped off a bridge.

Forbes resident Brodie Dukes has worked hard to turn her dreams into reality. 

Brodie has been studying for a Certificate IV via distance education for three years at the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing to achieve her goal of becoming an optical dispenser and to continue providing Forbes with the latest optical technology and services. 

Brodie has been with Eyewear Specs for five years. “I had never considered becoming an optical dispenser until I met Fiona Hayward, Owner and Manager of Eyewear Specs. We discussed Fiona’s role and that got me interested and thinking about becoming an optical dispenser,” said Brodie. 

When Fiona offered her a traineeship, she was quick to seize the amazing opportunity. “I enjoy the community spirit Forbes has as well as being able to help provide our community with their eye health and visual needs. 

I hope to continue to learn and grow my skills as an optical dispenser and to be able to help grow Eyewear Specs to allow us to continue to provide Forbes and surrounding areas with the latest optical technology and services.”