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Forbes Phoenix

‘Tie A Yellow Ribbon…’

May 13, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Yellow ribbons have become synonymous with National Road Safety Week which starts on Sunday with Forbes Town Hall lit in yellow for the week.

Forbes, Parkes and Lachlan Shire Councils will be getting behind this initiative with a range of activities to help raise awareness of road safety as they’ve done since 2017. This includes honouring the memory of the 1,200 lives lost and more than 44,000 seriously injured on Australian roads each year.

During the Week, road users are encouraged to take the pledge to Drive So Others Survive, including not being distracted while driving, not speeding and to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“During National Road Safety Week 2022, yellow ribbons will be displayed all across the country to remember those we have lost on the roads and to remind us to drive safely,” said Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor.

“Our fleet vehicles and staff will proudly display yellow ribbons. Members of the public are encouraged to pick up a vehicle sticker and/or lapel ribbon for free from our administration offices in Parkes, Forbes, Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo.

“Our email signatures will display the National Road Safety Week artwork for the week. In Parkes the monument on Memorial Hill and the Sir Henry Parkes statue will also be lit in yellow.

“We are encouraging our staff and locals to sign the pledge to Drive So Others Survive www.roadsafetyweek.com.au,” Melanie said.

100 Variety NSW Bash Cars In Forbes

May 13, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

The Forbes Public School will be a hive of activity on Wednesday morning when they host the participants in the 30th Variety NSW Bash for breakfast before 100 cars will depart at 8am on the next leg of the rally to Ardlethan.

The Bash will visit rural and remote communities bringing much needed tourism revenue and equipment for schools. More than $45,000 worth of grants will be given to regional NSW schools, while more than $12,000 is spent at each lunch stop along the route and more than $70,000 at each overnight stop, including Forbes.

Variety Bash cars are renowned for bringing fun and excitement to the communities they visit with themed cars from Paw Patrol, Bob the Builder and Hot Wheels to Lightning McQueen, Scooby Doo and The Flintstones.

This year’s event starts on Sunday, 15th May at Foreshore Park Newcastle and will head to Spring Ridge, Dubbo, Ballimore, Quambone, Cobar, Condobolin, Forbes, Ardlethan, Wagga Wagga, Wyangala, Bathurst, Wattle Flat, Hunter Valley before finishing back for the Family Fun Day in Newcastle on Saturday, 21st May.

The breakfast at Forbes Public School will be open to the community who can come and view the cars. 

CWA Tea Rooms Return For Centenary At Easter Show

May 13, 2022 By Sue Cunningham

Robyn Miller busy making scones at the Royal Easter Show. Karen Wright irons the many CWA aprons for volunteers working in the tea rooms.

Two Forbes CWA members worked at the ever-popular Tea Rooms at the Royal Easter Show this year for their fourth time after a COVID break of two years.

It is a major fundraising activity for the CWA, and after two years of no show, the CWA members were excited to be baking scones and selling produce again.

Forbes CWA Evening Branch President Robyn Miller and Vice-President Karen Wright worked the morning shifts on Saturday, 9th April and Sunday, 10th April. 

“It was terrific to be able to get back to the show for a milestone year as the Royal Easter Show celebrated their 200th anniversary and CWA its 100th,” said Karen. Robyn said: “Our jobs in the tea rooms this year included ironing the CWA aprons worn by each volunteer (about 60 members per day are needed to staff the Tea Rooms), packing items into the inaugural CWA show bags, cutting of scones and putting them onto oven trays for baking and working on the promotions table selling raffle tickets, merchandise and homemade goodies.”

“The shifts each day were only four and a half hours long but were ‘jam packed’ as the Tea Rooms are so popular with show goers,” said Robyn.

“There were often long lines of people patiently waiting for the next hot fresh batch of scones to come out of the oven,” said Karen.

They were both were very excited and privileged to attend the official opening of the show by Princess Anne. “This was full of pomp and ceremony with her arriving in a horse drawn carriage, having groups of the defence forces marching and a flyover by the Air Force Roulettes,” said Karen.

Support the local CWA’s Open Garden at Helen and Kingsley Green’s property Booklyn on Victory Rd on Saturday, 21st May from 2-4pm. Entry is $10 including afternoon tea. 

By Sue Cunningham

Forbes North Public School To Host Biggest Morning Tea

May 13, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Eleanor and Bethany Osborne attended the Biggest Morning Tea at Forbes North Public School in 2018. The school will once again host the event on Thursday, 19th May. (Photo credit: Lucy Cambourn Photography)

Next week Thursday, 19th May is a BIG day for the school community of Forbes North Public School.

There is great excitement to welcome parents and carers back on site as the school will once again host a Biggest Morning tea to raise funds for Cancer Council and people impacted by cancer. The return of the popular event to the school calendar is hoped to provide an opportunity for families to be welcomed on to school grounds and to raise much needed funds.

This will be the first Biggest Morning Tea at Forbes North for Principal David McGaw who is looking forward to meeting families on the day. “We are delighted to be able to open our school gates to our community for such a worthy cause,” said David.

“I look forward to sharing a cuppa with our visitors.” Students and visitors will join school staff in the school courtyard to share morning tea and make donations.

Around 150,000 Australians are diagnosed with cancer every year, meaning there are many families impacted. Every single dollar raised makes such a life-changing difference in funding vital cancer research, prevention programs and support services for cancer patients and their families.

For more information about the Biggest Morning Tea at Forbes North find us on Facebook or contact the school on 6852 2187.

Ride-on Mower Racing Champs In Forbes

May 6, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Forbes is hosting the All Australian Ride-on Mower Racing Championships this weekend at the Forbesauto Sportsclub with 82 competitors from four states taking part. 

All the action and excitement will take place at 205 Hoopers Road, Forbes from 9am on Saturday with the finals on Sunday after lunch. 

Two Forbes locals, Dave Teale and Craig Bratton, not only did all the hard work to get the event here, but will also be competing. 

The competitors will be doing laps on a track in different categories depending on whether the mower is standard or was modified. Some competitors do a lot of work to make their mower look spectacular, while some of them have motorbike engines. 

Don’t miss the action this weekend!

Hundreds Of Rally Cars In Forbes Tomorrow

May 6, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

A total of 250 cars worth less than $1,000 will take part in this year’s Shitbox Rally covering 3,600km and passing through Forbes tomorrow afternoon.

The Central West will see the 250 cars taking part in this year’s Shitbox Rally when the 500 participants will pass through Forbes tomorrow afternoon on their way to Trundle where they will overnight.

The teams of two will leave Wollongong on Saturday, 7th May in cars worth less than $1,000 (aka shitboxes) and travel 3,600km to cross the finish line seven days later in Mackay, Queensland. The rally is the largest independent fundraiser for the Cancer Council with over $30 million raised since the rallies began. The $2 million target for this rally is well in sight with current fundraising totals at over $1.7 million.

James Freeman who founded Box Rallies (Shitbox and Mystery Box Rally) after losing both of his parents to cancer within 12 months of each other said: “Shitbox Rally is not a race, but a reward for fundraising  efforts. This is a chance to explore Australia, drawing teams from around the country to help achieve the extraordinary. This year will be another incredible rally starting for the first time in Wollongong and finishing in Mackay. As with all rallies though, the route will be on the roads less travelled as we make our way into the Outback.” 

The impact of COVID in 2020 and 2021 has made it particularly difficult for teams to fundraise and Box Rallies has seen its expected fundraising total for the period cut by as much as $7.2 million. Rallies are the reward for raising vital funds for cancer research but when the reward is unable to take place, the fundraising slows considerably.

The rally cars are expected to go through Forbes from around 4pm and can be spread out over two to three hours. Arrival time in Trundle is from 5pm.

Stay And Explore

April 20, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Whether you have some down time between concerts, a few extra days to explore or plan to visit again in the future, Amazing Forbes has an abundance of activities for every kind of explorer.

From its stunning natural environment, including the Lachlan River, Lake Forbes and Forbes Wetlands (Gum Swamp bird hides) to exciting public art trails, history and Wiradjuri culture.

Sculpture Down the Lachlan is an exciting trail of larger-than-life sculptures situated along the Lachlan River from Forbes to Condobolin (including the towering goanna sculpture at the Forbes Wetlands). Discover more sculptures and murals in town, including sculptures and Story Poles at the Forbes Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre on Lake Forbes. Why not stop in for a yarn and discover more about Forbes’ Wiradjuri heritage?

Forbes boasts a rich and colourful history, and gold rush past – a giveaway is the magnificent architecture that lines the streets to this day. Many of the buildings are part of the Heritage Trail (and several appeared in the hit film ‘The Dish’).

Not to be underestimated is the unique boutique shopping district where you’re bound to find something amazing. So, when will you next Find Yourself… in Amazing Forbes?

He Was There – Charles Stone And His Time With Elvis

April 20, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Don’t miss this once-in-a lifetime opportunity to hear from Charles Stone at the Parkes Elvis Festival and ask questions in two informative sessions. See him at the Parkes Little Theatre at 1pm on Friday, 22nd April and 4pm on Sunday, 24th April.

For the first time in Australia, and only at the Parkes Elvis Festival, you will be able to listen to stories from Charles Stone.

Charles joined forces with Elvis and his manager Colonel Tom Parker in the 1970s and toured around America. He took care of business until Elvis’ death in 1977.

Charles has worked with many amazing talents throughout his career, and has years of memories and personal stories to share, but nothing compares to his time spent on tour and in Vegas with Elvis, the Colonel, and all the enthusiastic, supportive fans.

There is nothing he enjoys more than having the opportunity to relive his Elvis years as he shares his memories and experiences during frequent speaking engagements around the world.

How did you get connected with the Parkes Elvis Festival?

I have always wanted to visit Australia and my friend Alicia Dean at Graceland recommended me to the festival and we were able to work something out so I could come this year.

How do you feel about coming to the Parkes Elvis Festival?

I am so excited to be coming and just cannot wait to be there. It has been on my bucket list for a long time. Bruce Jackson was one of my best friends.

What have you heard about the Parkes Elvis Festival?

I really had not heard much about it until Mark Anthony told me about it. He said it was one of the best Elvis festivals anywhere. I look forward to meeting Elvis fans and sharing my stories with Elvis and the Colonel.

Are you surprised that a small country town in the middle of Australia has such a big Elvis Festival?

When I looked Parkes up on the map, I was totally amazed that such a large festival was in the middle of nowhere so to speak. I live in Texas and we have places in the middle of nowhere as well but not as big as Australia’s.

When you were touring with Elvis, did you ever think his legacy would live on for so many years and all over the world?

Touring with Elvis, none of us ever thought that his legacy would live on like it has all over the world. I don’t think he ever thought it would be what it is.

Why do you think Elvis has such an enduring legacy after all these years?

Elvis was one of a kind. He was not only the greatest singer in the world, he made rock and roll worldwide. And for the girls of course he was a very good-looking man.

What is your favourite memory of your time with Elvis?

My most memorable time with him was when he asked for my wife and daughter to come to the dressing room at a concert and take a photo with him.

Do you have a favourite Elvis song, or one that brings back good memories?

I don’t really have one favorite song but I do like ‘If I could Dream’ and ‘Laudy Miss Claudy’.

‘I’m So Excited About Seeing The Festival In Person’

April 20, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Jeff Lewis will perform at the Cooke Park main stage on: Thursday, 21st Apr 3:15pm (15 minutes); Friday, 22nd Apr
4:30pm (30 minutes); Saturday, 23rd Apr 7pm (15 minutes) and Friday, 22nd Apr 2:30pm (30 minutes).

Jeff Lewis hosts the popular Elvis Week after parties in Memphis, has won the Last Chance Ultimate at the Hard Rock in Memphis and competed in the Elvis Presley Enterprises Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest himself. This is Jeff’s first time performing in Australia and he will emcee and perform at the Parkes Elvis Festival, and host the first ever after party of the festival.

How do you feel about coming to the Parkes Elvis Festival?

Going to Australia has always been a dream of mine. I first fell in love with Australia after seeing Crocodile Dundee in college. I am so excited about seeing the festival in person, but I am also excited about seeing so many friends in Australia I have met online through my Facebook Live Shows. It will be great to finally perform for them in person. Plus, any time I get the chance to sing with the band Tributes In Concert Band (TIC), I’ll take it. I think they are the best Elvis band in the world.

What have you heard about the Parkes Elvis Festival?

I have heard it is the biggest festival in the world. Also, that the fan base is incredible. I know this is going to be an experience I will never forget. But the most important thing, I heard the fans are HUGE Elvis fans, that is why we do this.

In your award-winning career as an ETA, and with your long history of performing with ETAs, do you hope to see some fresh talent in Parkes?

I respect anyone who picks up a microphone, puts on the sideburns, and pays tribute to the greatest entertainer in history, Elvis Presley. We all do this because of our love for Elvis. There are so many performers in Australia I have only seen online, I can’t wait to see them pay their tribute in person.

Why do you think Elvis has such an enduring legacy after all these years?

I get asked this question a lot. The simple answer is, he was great. He was one of the best singers that ever lived and definitely the most charismatic performer that has ever taken the stage. The more complex answer is how he was able to reinvent himself in so many ways.

Now here we are, 45 years after his death, and we are still celebrating Elvis with Festivals all over the world and soon, a movie that will create a whole new generation of fans.

What keeps you connected to Elvis?

There is never a time I don’t love hearing Elvis. I’ve always been a huge fan, but I never dreamed I’d be making a living due to my love for him. The more Elvis fans I meet, the more of the Elvis world I experience, the more I learn about Elvis. I also see pictures and hear songs I had never heard. The coolest thing about this experience are the experiences I’ve had meeting and becoming friends with people that worked with and knew Elvis. That has really given Elvis a third dimension for me.

Do you have a favourite Elvis song to listen to and a favourite one to perform?

I love to perform the more obscure songs from the 70s like ‘Heart of Rome’, ‘Padre’, and a lot of his gospel songs, my favourite being ‘He Touched Me’. ‘Separate Ways’ has always been one of my favourites to listen to, but as soon as I say that, I think of a few hundred more I love hearing.

Meet 2022 Wall Of Fame Honouree Brian Cadd

April 20, 2022 By Maggi Barnard

Brian Cadd will be inducted on the Wall of Fame at Kerry
Reserve today, 20th April at 2pm (free event), and his
one-hour show follows at 5:30pm at the Parkes Services
Club (ticketed event).

Australian singer-songwriter, keyboardist, producer and record label founder, and staple of Australian entertainment for over 50 years, Brian Cadd is this year’s Elvis Wall of Fame honouree.

You’ve received many awards and honours in your career, how do you feel about being honoured on the Wall of Fame at the Parkes Elvis Festival?

All awards are special. Making it onto the Wall of Fame is a wonderful honour. I truly appreciate it and look forward to the ceremony and my time in Parkes. Being able to do a show as well is most exciting.

Do you listen to Elvis? Do you have a favourite Elvis song?

I think everyone listens to Elvis from time to time. He was a huge part of my musical upbringing when I first started to learn the piano. Blue Suede Shoes is still a tremendous song and recording. Very simple and perfectly written, performed and recorded.

What can fans expect to hear at your concert in Parkes?

All the hits and memories. Some stories and some laughs. The most fun I can have is onstage and the audience usually goes right along with it.

Why do you think Elvis has such an enduring legacy after all these years?

He was really the first truly unique rock artist we experienced. There were others before him but no one had anywhere near his originality. And now, sixty years on, there may still not have been anyone quite as unique

Do you think the Parkes Elvis Festival plays an important role in the music landscape in Australia?

To me the true test of a vibrant music scene is about the variety of musical experiences the audience can enjoy. We are blessed with lots of lovely festivals in Australia, celebrating a wide diversity of tastes. The Elvis Festival is a superb example of that. A most deserved place in our musical landscape.

Have you ever performed an Elvis song?

I’m 75 years old and have been playing in front of audiences since I was 13. I can’t imagine how many times I’ve played an Elvis song.

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