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Forbes Phoenix

What’s On @ The Parkes Shire Library & Cultural Centre

July 6, 2023 by Roxane Manley

GET THE FACTS ABOUT THE VOICE REFERENDUM 

Australia is having a conversation about the Voice referendum being held later this year. It’s about whether we should change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. The Parkes Shire Library has information booklets available that have been issued by the Australian Government providing information on how a referendum works; the referendum question and constitutional amendment; what the Voice is and what would it do?

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Board Games Day Friday: Families are invited to drop into Parkes Library to enjoy playing a board game with friends and family. Friday 7 July during library opening hours. FREE event. 

Kids Flicks @ Parkes Library: For students in Kindergarten to Year 6. Come and enjoy a junior movie and popcorn! Wednesday 12 July, 10:30am – 12pm. FREE event in person bookings essential. 

Picasso Faces: Learn about Picasso and play a game to create an art-work in his style. Tullamore Library Wednesday 12 July, 11:30am – 1pm. $2pp, bookings essential on 6861 2309.

Paint Like A Pro: Learn about Pro Hart and create an artwork using his methods. Peak Hill Library Thursday 13 July. $2pp, bookings essential on 6861 2309.

LITTLE BANG DISCOVERY CLUB RETURNS TO PARKES LIBRARY

Young scientists and their lab assistants gathered in Parkes Library during June for the Little Bang Discovery Club. The children made amazing discoveries by predicting, testing, conducting experiments and more! Stay tuned for information on future sessions of Little Bang Discovery Club.

YOUTH LIBRARY LOCK-IN

Young people aged 12-18 years are invited to come to our popular Library Lock-In event. Enjoy games, a free dinner and exclusive use of the Parkes Library. Monday 31 July, 5:30-8pm. Bookings open 17 July at events.humanitix.com/July23youthlockin

Forbes To Host Football NSW Country Cup

June 29, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Forbes and District Soccer Club will host the Football NSW Country Cup for under 12s, 14s and 16s girls on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 7th to 9th July.

The club had received entries for nine under 12s teams, seven under 14s teams, and six nder 16s teams.

This is the first time a Lachlan District Club has hosted the cup so not only do we have all of our girls teams participating, we would love to see lots of families and friends supporting our Lachlan girls from Forbes, Parkes, Grenfell, Young and Cowra soccer clubs over the three days.

The following Forbes & Lachlan Utd girls have been selected for final FNSW Country U/14 Selection Camp for the National Championship to be held at Bathurst 5th to 7th July; Josie Mckenzie (Forbes and Canberra Croatia), Ruby Schofield (Young & Canberra Croatia) and Indiana Kennedy (Parkes and Blacktown Spartans). If successful in making the final 16 they will play against Australia’s best at the National Championships in Wollongong from 9th to 13th October. 

Special mention for Nick Zannes who has progressed into the FNSW TSP program as U/15 Goalkeeper and heads to Goulburn this Sunday for the boys selection process. 

Good Luck to all of you!

Free Holiday Camps For Regional Kids

June 29, 2023 by Roxane Manley

More than 300 kids from regional NSW will enjoy a free overnight camp at a sport and recreation centre these school holidays.

The NSW Office of Sport is offering the overnight camps at seven sport and recreation centres across the State.

Regional kids aged 12-15 are eligible for the program which includes all activities, meals and accommodation.

The camps feature a range of activities, including mountain biking and BMX, stand-up paddleboarding and survival skills with all activities supervised by qualified instructors. All sport and recreation centres also cater for special diets, medical conditions and allergies.

Camp dates and locations:

• Lake Burrendong: 3-5 July
• Broken Bay: 3-5 July
• Milson Island: 5-7 July
• Borambola: 5-7 July
• Lake Keepit: 5-7 July
• Point Wolonstoncroft: 10-12 July
• Berry: 10-12 July

The Holiday Break camps are funded through the Office of Regional Youth’s Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative as part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Strategy.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said: “Holiday Break camps are an opportunity for kids to challenge themselves, learn new skills and have fun.

“And with camps from Borambola in the Riverina to Lake Keepit in the North West and Broken Bay on the Central Coast, we’ve got all corners of the State covered.

“So, if your kids love sport, adventure or nature, book them into one of the NSW Government’s free Holiday Break camps these school holidays.”

For further information and to register call 13 13 02 or visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/holiday-break-camps

“For Our Elders” NAIDOC Week At Forbes North

June 22, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Forbes North Students participate in a Yarning Circle in 2022 NAIDOC celebration.

Staff and students at Forbes North Public School will be recognising the role Aboriginal Elders play within our community through a range of activities planned for our School NAIDOC week which will run from June 26th to 30th. Across all generations Elders have played, and continue to play, important roles as they share knowledge, culture, singing and dancing, land management and politics to name a few.

The week of activities begins with a smoking ceremony on Monday. On Tuesday students will take part in a range of activities including art, storytelling, games, beading and weaving, and caring for land and water activities. Students will be wearing their sporting house colours and take part in creating an image of the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag.

Wednesday will see all students visiting the School Kitchen to make and sample Johnny Cakes. Thursday the Forbes North Wiradjuri Choir will perform at local schools. Friday will see Forbes High School and Forbes North come together to take part in Girri-Girri sports.

Families and communities are encouraged to keep an eye on the School newsletter for information about opportunities to visit their children and take part in NAIDOC activities during the week. The newsletter can be viewed on the Schools Facebook page, online on the School website or by contacting the School 6852 2187. 

Forbes Frost And Fire This Saturday

June 16, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Sneaky Sound System will be headlining this years Frost and Fire event.

Forbes Ski Dam has closed to the general public as preparations ramp up for this Saturday’s Frost and Fire winter solstice celebration.

Loads of wood are being delivered, the finishing touches are being put on the Ski Dam site, food and an exciting entertainment program is organised – all that is left now is for ticketholders to arrive, put their feet up and celebrate the long nights of winter with family and friends.

Frost and Fire boasts an impressive entertainment bill, starting with the talents of Grenfell musician Belinda Day and Forbes musical royalty Cler, Em and Jo. Indie sensation Birdee will take to the stage ahead of nationally renowned Sneaky Sound System.

Sydney Fire Dancers, Ice Queen and cultural performers Dyagang Boys Koori Dance Group will wow their audiences – and who could forget the dramatic lighting of the Frost and Fire effigy.

What has fast become one of Forbes’ masthead events, Frost and Fire is about celebrating the change in season at an affordable family friendly event. Tickets are $15 per adult with children under 18 free.

Secure your Frost and Fire tickets through 123tix.com.au. Parking at the event has sold out, so please be aware that buses will run between the Ski Dam and Town Hall and Renfree Street every 20 minutes for the duration of the event.

First fires will be lit at 4pm, and gates close at 10pm – Pack a picnic rug or chair.

National Parks Association Of NSW Lachlan Valley Branch Walks

June 16, 2023 by Roxane Manley

The National Parks Association of NSW, Lachlan Valley Branch Walks always welcome new walkers. If you are interested, following are the upcoming planned walks.

Wednesday, 21st June: Property of Clive Hawken, 1035 Cookamidgera Rd, Cookamidgera. Leader Clive and Graeme MacRaild 0474 041 082. Medium 3-4kms, some climbing. Time to be confirmed, check with Graeme the night before.

Wednesday, 19th July: Conimbla National Park. Meet 9.30am at Gooloogong Memorial Park, corner Main St (Lachlan Valley Way) and King St (Warraderry Way). Hard 6-8kms climbing, scrambling. Leaders Liz and Graeme MacRaild. Contact Liz 0455 915 989.

Wednesday 16th August: 16 Gunning Gap, Forbes. Meet 9.30am at Forbes Railway Station. Easy 4kms. Leader Peter Cannon 6866 1225.

Saturday 9th September: Goobang National Park, Bumberry Ridge Trail. Meet at Lions Park, Molong Rd Parkes 9am or at Bumberry Ridge Trail rest area 9.20am. Medium on track and off track 6 kilometres, steep sections. Leader Martin Bell 0429 346 586.

Please contact the walk leader the night before the walk if you intend to join. A $2 donation for each walker is appreciated. Walkers are reminded to bring along enough food and water for the entire day as well as suitable clothing, footwear, hat and sunscreen. A pair of good binoculars and a fold up chair for the post-walk cuppa.

Walkers are reminded to bring along enough food and water for the entire day as well as suitable clothing, footwear, hat and sunscreen. A pair of good binoculars and a fold up chair for the post-walk cuppa.

Easy: (5 to 10 kilometres) Mostly flat to slightly undulating topography. Walks are mostly on tracks or fire trails and of moderate distance. Walk suitable for those with a minimum level of fitness.

Medium: (5 to 8 kilometres) May be over moderate hills or rough terrain. May involve some off track walking. Walk may involve shorter distance overall due to rougher conditions. Suitable for an average fitness level.

Hard: (5 or more kilometres) Walk may involve hilly or mountainous terrain, rough tracks, a trackless route or an extended distance. Walk suitable for above average fitness level.

Don’t Miss The Social Event Of The Year

June 9, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Who will win the coveted Coradgery Cup in 2023? Pictured is last years winner Neon Moon with jockey Tony Cavallo. Inset: Local band Foxxy Cleopatra will once again be entertaining the crowds this Saturday.

It is once again that time of year, and all the elements are coming together for the premier event of the Parkes social calendar. The Parkes Coradgery and Diggers Picnic Races will be held this Saturday 10th June. So, dust off your fascinators and race gear and be sure to get involved in this great local event. 

Fashions on the Field is one of the highlights of the day offering an array of prizes and prestige to the glamourous colts and fillies. The Fashions on the Field categories this year will once again include: Elegant Lady, Stylish Man, Millinery and Best Dressed couple. 

The spectator area is looking great and the track is in top notch condition for the day’s five-race program. The renovated grandstand and covered bookies rink complete the excellent facilities for punters and a relaxed environment offers something for everyone, making this venue one of the best in the Central West. 

The June long weekend has long since become a ‘back to Parkes’ weekend, with many residents opening their homes to friends and relatives who return to Parkes to celebrate for the weekend. 

The event attracts visitors from all over the state, as well as from interstate. 

There will be food on offer from the Quota ladies, who are back in the saddle driving the canteen in the newly renovated grandstand space. There will also be full bar facilities on course. 

Several commercial and private marquees will be providing food and alcohol, so gather your friends and join a group for an afternoon of fun and entertainment. 

Much loved local band, Foxxy Cleopatra, has been invited to perform on the day to provide entertainment for all to enjoy. 

Organise a group and head along for a great day out. Gates open at 11.30am and entry is $20 for adults, under 16 years are free. Get your tickets before the event from 123tix or at the gate on the day. 

Get Fired Up For Frost And Fire

June 9, 2023 by Roxane Manley

It is time to get fired up, time is running out to get your tickets for one of Forbes’ flagship events. Pictured is one of the amazing fire performers “Ice Queen”.

The popular Frost and Fire celebration is back at Forbes Ski Dam on Saturday 17th June.

Whilst following a similar program to previous events, this year will feature a greater range of dining options. Guests are invited to pre-order decadent grazing trays and other delicacies from various regional providers; or they can explore the amazing tastes that will be available on-site. Liquid refreshments will also be available but not available for pre-order. Pre-order food is available at the Amazing Forbes NSW website; www.amazingforbesnsw.com

Guests will be entertained from 4pm, with an impressive line-up of regional and nationally acclaimed artists and performers. Grenfell musician Belinda Day will kick off the entertainment bill, to be followed by local musical maestros Emily Pavey, Clynton Breen and Jo Stephenson back by popular demand, indee artist Birdee and the not-so-sneaky notes of Sneaky Sound System.

Fiery performances from an awe-inspiring Ice Queen and the Sydney Fire Dancers, the traditional lighting of the Frost and Fire effigy, a beautiful smoking ceremony and cultural performance by Dyagang Boys Koori Dance Group.

Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said the event was about drawing together a community and its visitors.

“It’s a great opportunity to take a step aside from the busy-ness of life, to celebrate the obstacles we have overcome in the past year and to look forward to the next,” Mayor Miller said.

“There is honestly no better way to spend an evening than around a fire bucket with a drink, food and fantastic company and thrilling live music and entertainment.”

Tickets available through 123tix.com.au. Free shuttle buses running every 20 minutes from Forbes Town Hall and Renfree Street. Tickets just $15 for adults (18 years and over), children are free.

Third Annual Parkes Yard Dog Trial

June 2, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Locals are encouraged to register before the 10th June (no late entries).

Parkes Yard Dog Trial will be held on 18th and 19th June at the Parkes Showground and organisers are looking forward to welcoming competitors from throughout NSW and Victoria.

The trial will be run in conjunction with NSW Yard Dog Association. Competing dogs accumulate points towards end of year championships.

There will be a local section for dogs that reside within 100km radius of Parkes. The locals that competed last years had an enjoyable time trialling their dogs and were encouraged by the support from the judges and the other competitors. It would be great to see more local competitors this year.

The starting time each day is 7.30am and the public are encouraged to come along and have a look.

The event is fortunate to receive strong sponsorship support from the following businesses: Inland Petroleum, Westonfence, Quality Wool, Wakely Shearing, Tanswell Transport, Nick Williams Livestock Pregnancy Scanning, Agriwest, AA Blatch, Nutrien Ag, Dwyer Contracting, Timtrac Industries, Parkes Central Butchery and CopRice.

Parkes RFS Headquarters will be catering and coffee will also be available.

For enquiries about the event please contact Bernard Dwyer on 0428 653 233.

Get Ready To Picnic With Style

May 26, 2023 by Roxane Manley

The popular Fashions on the Field always attracts entries from far and wide. The winners from 2022 were (L-R) Baeden Wakefield (Stylish Man), Ashleigh Smith (Elegant Lady), Deb Parish (Millinery), Carmen and Ian Hatherly (Best Dressed Couple).

It is once again that time of year, and all the elements are coming together for the premier event of the Parkes social calendar. The Parkes Coradgery and Diggers Picnic Races will be held on Saturday 10th June. So, dust off your fascinators and race gear and be sure to get involved in this great local event.

Fashions on the Field is one of the highlights of the day offering an array of prizes and prestige to the glamourous colts and fillies. The Fashions on the Field categories this year will once again include: Elegant Lady, Stylish Man, Millinery and Best Dressed couple.

The spectator area is looking great and the track is in top notch condition for the day’s five-race program. The renovated grandstand and covered bookies rink complete the excellent facilities for punters and a relaxed environment offers something for everyone, making this venue one of the best in the Central West.

The June long weekend has long since become a ‘back to Parkes’ weekend, with many residents opening their homes to friends and relatives who return to Parkes to celebrate for the weekend.

The event attracts visitors from all over the state, as well as from interstate.

There will be food on offer from the Quota ladies, who are back in the saddle driving the canteen in the newly renovated grandstand space. There will also be full bar facilities on course.

Several commercial and private marquees will be providing food and alcohol, so gather your friends and join a group for an afternoon of fun and entertainment.

Much loved local band, Foxxy Cleopatra, has been invited to perform on the day to provide entertainment for all to enjoy.

Organise your friends, family or co-workers and head along for a great day out. Gates open at 11.30am and entry is $20 for adults, under 16 years are free. Get your tickets early from123tix.

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