Members converged in Forbes from eve­ry state and territory across Australia. Their aim was to get to know the area, spend money in the district and support local charities during their ten-day stay.

Robyn Miller, President of Forbes Even­ing Branch CWA sourced ‘Welcome to Forbes’ packs which were distributed to rally members.

The Bushtrackers held a spit roast com­petition, using the coals to then hold a camp oven competition the next day. The CWA were invited to judge the Bushtrack­ers camp oven cooking competition. Three members, Anne Reade (Forbes CWA), Gail McKay (Bogan gate CWA) and Vicki Williams (Evening CWA) put their judging skills to use, examining the cooking with the usual CWA judging criteria.

The Forbes Evening Branch CWA was then invited to cater for their farewell morn­ing tea with over 120 rally members attend­ing. CWA members prepared a delicious mixed spread, receiving many compli­ments for their efforts. To support the local community further, the Bushtrackers paid for all the ingredients.

Rally organisers shopped in Forbes for prizes for their auction at their gala dinner, catered for by Eat Your Greens.

Robyn Miller said, “It has been estimated that the Bushtrackers spent in excess of $26,000 in our local community during their ten-day stay.”

Through the proceeds of the auction and other activities, the Bushtrackers organis­ing committee were able to make consider­able donations to local charities. Some of the beneficiaries were: Toy Library $1,500, Sunshine Club $1,500, Forbes History Mu­seum $1,000, Forbes Town Library $1,500, Forbes CWA $1,500 for air-conditioning in CWA Hall, Forbes Evening CWA Branch $1,500 for Youth Education.

Music NSW and Arts OutWest will host a Music Industry Mixer to bring together peo­ple in the music scene in the Forbes and Parkes area.

Head along for networking on Thursday 23 October 6pm to 7.30pm at the Vanden­berg Hotel Forbes.

This event is led by MusicNSW Regional Coordinator for the Central West, Outback and West Darling regions, Sophie Jones.

Join Sophie and Arts OutWest’s Kylie Shead for an opportunity to connect, col­laborate, and explore opportunities in your local music scene. Let these organisations know who you are and what you do.

Local bands and independent artists, venues and others in the live performance and recording industry have been invited.

No need to book, just turn up.

Working with regional arts development organisations like Arts OutWest, the Re­gional Music Coordinator delivers develop­ment, builds relationships between local in­dustry and artists, and provides support for regional musicians, venues and live music professionals to grow regional touring.

Sophie Jones is an experienced tour­ing musician, one half of the duo Smith & Jones.

If you can’t make it to the Mixer you can book a one-to-one chat with Sophie Jones via sophie@musicnsw.com

Get ready to embrace the vibrant colors and rejuvenating spirit of spring at Canow­indra’s much-anticipated Spring Fling. From 25th – 27th October, Canowindra will play host to a delightful array of activities and events designed to celebrate the season and showcase the best of our community.

Stargazing with Donna The Astronomer

As a special highlight of the weekend, pre­pare for an extraordinary stargazing experi­ence with renowned science boffin, Donna The Astronomer. Donna will lead an insight­ful and awe-inspiring session under the stars, providing fascinating insights into the night sky. It’s a rare chance to deepen your understanding of the cosmos and marvel at the celestial wonders above. To book your tickets to the Stargazing experience, go to www.123tix.com.au

Accommodation Packages at Eddy’s Of Canowindra

Eddy’s Of Canowindra is rolling out the red carpet for Spring Fling with special accom­modation packages. Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of their charming rooms and take advantage of their exclusive Spring Fling rates. Perfectly located, Eddy’s offers easy access to all the activities organised in Canowindra while providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.

Edellen Flowers Workshop

Immerse yourself in the floral beauty of spring with Edellen Flowers. Join their flower workshop to learn how to create stunning floral arrangements that capture the essence of the season. This hands-on experience is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their floral skills or simply enjoy the art of flower arranging.

Finns Store Pop-Up Market

On Saturday, Finns Store will host their popular Pop-Up Market, featuring a fan­tastic selection of local products, artisanal goods, and unique finds. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans and discover one-of-a-kind items. Don’t miss out on the chance to shop and explore the pop up market and the vibrant offerings.

Garden Club Plant Stall

Spring is synonymous with blooming flow­ers and thriving plants, and the Canowindra Garden Club is here to help you green up your space. Visit their plant stall, outside IGA, to pick up a variety of spring plants, seedlings, flowers and gardening tips. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a budding enthusiast, this stall is sure to inspire your green thumb.

Grab your mates and fire up for an unfor­gettable night of tasty food, ice cold bever­ages, live music and plenty of dancing – all in the name of charity.

The Nedd Brockmann Gala Ball, which is being held at the historic Forbes Town Hall on Friday 4th October, is set to be an event not to be missed.

The aim of the black-tie charity ball is to support Bedgerabong born and bred Nedd Brockmann’s past achievements whilst also getting right behind him and his next big challenge: which is to run 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometres) in 10 days!All proceeds from the ticket and bar sales plus the fundraiser auction will be donat­ed to the charity: “We Are Mobilise” which aims at combating homelessness within Australia.

Sam Mackay, who is one of several young locals organising the event, said “We hope everyone gets around this event and supports the Brockmann Gala Ball.

There has been a lot of work behind the scenes to make it a really special evening”.

Head to the Forbes Gala Ball pages on either Facebook or Instagram or to 123tix.com.au get your ticket.