Special Interests Archives - Page 83 of 118

Self-Care In Isolation

April 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Forbes resident Tracey Mowbray is maintaining high spirits in isolation by getting stuck into the front garden.

As government guidelines and laws constrict to curb the spread of COVID-19, more people are taking social distancing measures and following the advice to stay home unless attending an essential task. While this is a commendable sacrifice to ensure the health of individuals and the community, the limited social contact can impact our mental health. Isolation may trigger feelings of loneliness, anxiety, helplessness and depression, however, there are ways to protect and boost your mental health and immunity.

It is important to keep busy, if you have a hobby or household project you have been putting off, now is your chance to start and complete it. If you have always wanted to learn a new language or skill there are apps and websites that can be accessed for free and put the information you need right at your fingertips. Skillshare, Duolingo, Masterclass and Scholastic are offering free virtual classes during this time. Feeling that your time is being optimised can reduce feelings of anxiety and helplessness, so keeping routine with scheduled projects and hobbies can contribute to positive feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction.

If news and social media increase your anxiety, digital distancing may help to alleviate stress while giving more time to do more healthy and productive things like reading a book, practicing yoga or even dancing. It is also important to reach out to friends and family. No one is in this alone, so call friends, neighbours, family and talk. Hosting a digital party through a video conference can also lessen the social isolation people may feel.

There are many mental health services that can be accessed from home, offering phone and online services. Beyond Blue, Kids Helpline, MensLine Australia, Open Arms, Lifeline and Suicide Call Back Services are just a few available in Australia. The most effective way to receive mental health support help is to ask for help.

Forbes Mayor Asks Community To Stay Home

April 3, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Mayor of Forbes, Phyllis Miller OAM

Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM has urged Shire residents to fully support and comply with the stay home directions from Federal and State authorities.

“As we all battle with the introduction of the Coronavirus into our lives, this simple action of staying home could save the virus from spreading into our community,” said Mayor Miller. “Council is in daily contact with NSW Health and the State Authorities and we will continue to update the community on the latest communications.”

Council Town Hall has closed its doors to the public, but services continue to operate inside under new social distancing protocols. Forbes residents will still be able to talk to Council staff regarding DA’s and planning proposals over the phone and via email. The health and safety of Council staff and the public are the main priority and social distancing is the most effective means of ensuring this. So while there will be no face-to-face interactions, it is still business as usual for Council.

Council is now exploring the potential for Council meetings to be conducted electronically through online systems that enable Councillors to attend from locations off-site due to new social distancing laws.

“It is important the community continue to check the Council and State Government websites and refrain from relying on social media commentary for their information,” said Mayor Miller. “The new Australian Government Coronavirus App has the most up-to-date information you need.”

The April Council Meeting is scheduled for 16th April.

Business Or Bust

March 27, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

The Forbes Business Chamber Inc. is mindful that many businesses have had to alter their hours of operation to accommodate the current COVID-19 crisis that the nation is facing.

“As far as possible, we are encouraging all businesses to develop an EFTPOS or direct deposit system to eliminate cash transactions where possible. Ring and order and pay over the telephone or by card when you collect. The Chamber is dedicated to supporting all of the Forbes businesses at the present time,” said Forbes Business Chamber President, Marg Duggan.

“All clubs, pubs, gyms and group centres have already closed. Many other businesses had to close or be limited from Wednesday night. Other businesses are working on reduced hours, staffing levels have been cut and some people have lost their jobs. Our local supermarkets are overrun and having difficulty keeping the shelves stocked. Please encourage your staff to buy normal supplies and not to become a victim of the panic buying stupidity that is rampant. Please look out for our elderly, check on your neighbours and encourage all people to think socially instead of selfishly,” added Marg.

Please note that all Forbes Business Chamber activities, training and the BOSCARS have been cancelled.

Forbes Parents Make The Call

March 27, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

There was a different feeling in the air on Monday morning for many parents of school-aged children in Forbes. After having received conflicting advice in statements by Prime Minister, Scott Morrison and NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian the night before, many parents decided to keep their children at home on Monday. The number of children whose parents have opted to keep them at home is expected to increase throughout the week. Forbes Public School are offering home learning packs for students to complete at home in the two remaining weeks of school before the Easter school holidays commence.

Mother of four and Forbes resident Julie Blume decided to withdraw her one-year-old son and six-year-old daughter from day-care and school, taking leave from work to manage doing so stating that she has decided to withdraw her children but is continuing school work at home, doing a little bit at a time with plenty of breaks in between. Julie went on to explain, “I work with the elderly and have also stepped away from work to care for my children, with the situation changing daily it gives me some relief knowing that we are doing our part by following the governments advice.” Julie’s thoughts and actions have been mirrored by many other parents of school children in the Forbes Shire and is a trend that can be expected to continue.

Gladys Berejiklian and Mark Scott, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, have both advised that it is a “good idea” for children to stay home. As it stands at the time of printing, schools will remain open for children whose parents work in essential services to keep the community operating.

Polaris Ceases Quad Bike Range

March 6, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Polaris will not be selling their quad bike range (ride on ATV’s) from October this year due to changes in government standards for quad bikes.

As a retailer of Polaris, Forbes Small Engines have informed customers they will continue to stock all Polaris quad bike models, however some models have already sold out.

Paul and Maree Westcott have been selling quad bikes for many years, but noticed the market had been steadily moving towards the side by side ORV models.

“We still have many customers that use ATV’s/quad bikes and this is why we will continue to stock Polaris quad bike models for as long as they are available.”

Managing Director of Polaris Australia & New Zealand, Alan Collins said, “Over recent years the Australian off-road vehicle market has experienced record levels of transference as farmers transition en masse from quad bikes, to Side by Side vehicles, Polaris has led this transition with its industry leading range of 30 vehicles with ROPS, and the market shift has been helped along in no small part by the safety rebates offered by SafeWork NSW and WorkSafe Victoria.”

Polaris maintains its view that the market itself would end up signalling the end for quad bikes over coming years anyway through sheer lack of demand driven by the availability, benefits and range of side by side vehicles.

Polaris has committed to continuing to support all ATV/quad bikes with parts, accessories and warranty support for the next decade.

If you are an avid user of quad bikes and Polaris in particular, now is the time to get in touch with the Forbes Small Engines team before it’s too late and stock has run out.

Do You Know Your Health Numbers?

March 6, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Take a positive step for your wellbeing with a health check with our Pharmacist or Registered Nurse.

“With high blood pressure, obesity, smoking and physical inactivity being key risk factors for preventable illnesses, improving even one of these areas can have a significant impact on your health and wellbeing,” said Pharmacist Sarah Hazell.

The Pharmacists or Registered Nurse at Flannery’s and Life Pharmacies can check a range of indicators, including blood pressure, BMI and blood glucose and can discuss healthy lifestyle recommendations with you. “If our Pharmacist or Nurse picks up on anything that may need further assessment, we refer the patient to the Doctor.”

“Some people may like to monitor their blood pressure at home using one of our Omron blood pressure machines which provides an accurate reading,” said Sarah. “However, our Pharmacists and Registered Nurse are always available to conduct blood pressure testing and to provide information and advice.”

If you would like to know more about your health numbers, call in to Flannery’s or Life Pharmacies for a free ‘Healthy Numbers Check’, no appointment is necessary.

Live life well with Flannery’s and Life Pharmacies, Forbes.

RDA Central West Doubles Down On Drought Focus

March 6, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Sheep finding food on travelling stock route east of Grenfell.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Central West is calling on all levels of government, business and the community to remain focused on the ongoing impacts of the drought across the Central West. This position was formally reiterated at the most recent RDA Central West board meeting.

Convening in Bathurst last month, the board of RDA moved a motion to ensure supporting the communities impacted by drought and supporting the provision of key services was the priority focus of the organisation for 2020.

RDA Central West Chair, Christine Weston said that recent rains in some regions have been most welcome, but the recovery from the drought is a long and ongoing process.

“As a farmer I have directly been impacted by this debilitating drought on a daily basis. It hammers output, productivity and confidence.”

“The recent rain has provided a temporary boost for some communities, but we are nowhere close to the road to recovery. This is why drought support and recovery is the key priority for RDA Central West in 2020,” said Christine.

There continues to be sad drought-affected consequences, such as the closure of the Trundle grocery store and farmers across the region still spending thousands a day on stock feed, the economic and social impact on our communities has been immense.”

Christine took the opportunity to remind residents to shop local and support their community when they can, and encourage family and friends to stay, shop and visit in the Central West.

“Backing local communities and local businesses drives jobs, boosts confidence, and by visiting our region it is a simple way to show your support, and say we are here and we want to help,” said Christine.

RDA Central West acknowledges the efforts and drought response measures already announced by both the State and Federal Government.

Celebrating Catholic Education

February 28, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Catholic Schools Week is being celebrated across the Diocese of Bathurst and Catholic schools will be offering a variety of activities and educational initiatives to showcase their values to members of the community. There are 33 schools in the Bathurst Diocese contributing to the long and rich tradition of quality Catholic schooling in this country.

Having contributed to the fabric of Australian society in the past, Catholic schools continue to strive to partner with families and their local community to provide a holistic, quality education for students.

Founded on the view that each human being is unique, possessing their individual gifts and talents, catholic schools are professional learning communities, relentlessly focused on calling forth and developing each student’s potential.

Nursing And Midwifery Graduates To Be Dispersed Throughout Western NSW Hospitals

February 28, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

More than 100 new nurses and midwives will begin working in Western NSW Local Health District hospitals this year as part of their annual new graduate intake.

WNSWLHD Nursing and Midwifery Transition and Workforce Manager, Jackie Corliss, said the recruits are part of the NSW Government’s record $2.8 billion investment to boost frontline health workers by 8,300, including 5,000 nurses and midwives, over four years.

In WNSWLHD the nurses and midwives will join hospitals at Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo, Coolah, Condobolin, Narromine, Peak Hill, Gilgandra, Gulargambone, Coonamble, Walgett, Blayney, Cowra, Forbes, Rylstone, Parkes, Baradine, Collarenebri, Grenfell, Warren, and Mudgee. “The new graduates will work in all clinical areas including surgical, medical and paediatrics,” Jackie said.

This news must come as somewhat of a relief to Forbes residents. Since the Parkes Maternity unit has closed, Forbes Hospital continues to take on the maternity care for Forbes women as well as those from Parkes and some from as far as Condobolin. An astounding accomplishment with such a limited number of nurses and midwives, OBGYN’s and Anaesthetist’s being brought in from elsewhere. The lack of reliability and consistency is a concern for many.

It is no secret that healthcare in Western NSW is lacking in staff, resources and funding and this is all too apparent when one is faced with the results of such neglect. Hopefully Forbes will see significant, positive changes over the course of the plan.

Seniors Festival In Full Swing

February 21, 2020 by Maggi Barnard

Meditation in motion, Tuesdays Tai Chi class was a great opportunity to exercise, socialise, and have fun.

Forbes has been celebrating the NSW Seniors Festival this week with its very own Give It A Go Festival.

The week-long celebration kicked off last Sunday showcasing exceptional talent at the Seniors Variety Concert in the Town Hall with proceeds going to the CWA Drought Relief. The concert, attended by many, was followed by a scrumptious afternoon tea which was generously provided by Council whilst supporting local businesses.

Yoga, croquet, indoor bowls, talks by renowned historians, dancing, fishing and drawing have been included in the festival’s line up this year, to include something for everyone.

On Tuesday, Cheryl Shirvington and Sandra Nicholson led a class of 25 ladies in Tai Chi at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre. Cheryl and Sandra teach the class weekly and said that the best thing is that it is suitable for all abilities and fitness levels, with no commitment required. The classes are also a great excuse to socialise.

Forbes resident Alison Baker attended Tai Chi and saw it as “proof of what a great community Forbes is,” stating, “we are so grateful to the Council for all they do, not just for the seniors,” a sentiment shared by many attending the class on Tuesday.

The NSW Seniors Festival continues until Sunday with the Seniors Social Sundowner on the back deck at the Forbes Sport and Recreation Club from 4pm-6pm. RSVP to Council on 02 6850 2300.

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