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Forbes Phoenix

Dine With Basil, Sybil And Manuel!

April 8, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

Expect nothing short of guaranteed fun and a brilliant night out as you climb inside the BBC’s iconic Faulty Towers TV show and experience it from the inside out…

Yes, you can be part of the action in Parkes as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve up mayhem on a plate alongside a 3-course meal and two hours of non-stop laughter.

It took Allison Hattenfels, Manager of Bushman’s Motor Inn, four years to get this top attraction of London’s theatre scene to come to Parkes. The good news is the show will run for two nights on Wednesday, 27th and Thursday, 28th April.

“It is a very different and fun experience,” said Allison, who decided she wanted it to come to Parkes after she had seen in Young.

“The actors are extremely quick witted and react instantly to any quips made by audience members,” said Allison.

Book a table with friends by calling 6862 2199 or go to www.bushmansmotorinn.com.au

A bus service will run from Forbes.

Speedway Exhibit A Car Lover’s Dream

April 8, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

Holden Driving Team Special Vehicles owner Peter Champion with the VE-VC 30th anniversary vehicle that will be on show at the Speedway Exhibition. He will be at the exhibition to talk about the launch of the Blue Meanie Trilogy.

Car enthusiasts cannot afford to miss this year’s Speedway Exhibition at the Parkes Elvis Festival featuring 40 iconic and prestigious cars at the former Broderick’s car yard in Clarinda Street.

Inspired by this year’s Speedway theme, a diverse blend of unique cars have been brought together for the first time ever. Sharing the showroom floor will be a rare collection of Holden Dealer Team (HDT) special vehicles, special Commodore builds, the Anniversary Edition Commodores together with group A cars and a 1980 Peter Brock Marlborough Holden Dealer Team race car.

The exhibition will also see the official unveiling of the 2015VF “Blue Meanies” in sedan, wagon and ute configuration based on the 1985 HDT VK Commodore SS Group A ‘Blue Meanie’ released by Peter Brock and the HDT.

The range racing cars will include the 1977 Brian Burt and 1978 Everlast Ford XC Coupes, an Alan Moffat Tribute Ford Mustang and Peter O Donnell’s BMW 335i which has completed more laps of the famous Bathurst track than any other car.

The list also includes a Porsche 911 GT3, MK1 Ford GT40 and 1965 Shelby Cobra along with NASCARs and a range of speedway cars. As if that isn’t enough to whet your appetite, the feast of horsepower continues with a 327 HK Bathurst Monaro, a VL Walkenshaw Commodore and other powerful cars to get your motor revving.

To further enhance the racing experience, a state-of-the-art virtual reality racing car simulator, as used by professional drivers around the world, will get your adrenaline pumping as you try to be the King of the track.

The display will also include racing memorabilia such as bonnets from various racing cars, racing suits and a diverse selection of intriguing and fascinating collectables.

The Speedway Exhibition official launch at 11am on Wednesday, 20th April is open to everybody where you’ll hear from owner of Holden Driving Team Special Vehicles, Peter Champion who will share some thoughts on the cars and launch of the Blue Meanie Trilogy.

The HDT VC race car will also be on display at the Speedway Exhibition at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival. The exhibition, to be held in the former Broderick’s car yard in Clarinda Street, is sponsored by the Bogan Gate Pub, and funded by the NSW Government. The exhibition will run from Wednesday, 20th April to Sunday, 24th April from 9am to 5pm with free entry. Everyone is invited to attend the official launch at 11am on Wednesday, 20th April where you’ll hear from owner of Holden Driving Team Special Vehicles, Peter Champion. He will share some thoughts on the cars and launch of the Blue Meanie Trilogy.

Lots On For Youth

March 25, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

Students can look forward to a full program of activities during Youth Week and over the school holidays starting today. It’s best to register as soon as possible as activities are being book extremely fast.The program includes a wide range of events ranging from movie screenings, pedal boats and laser tag to obstacool, a fishing workshop, DIY clay workshop, cultural art creations – terracotta pots and table top games.

There will also be a Safer Drivers Course to provide learner drivers with the knowledge they need to reduce road risks and prevent accidents by becoming a safe driver. A booking is required for this course. Go to https://www.pcycdrivereducationprograms-sdc.org.au/book-a-course

Forbes Shire Council is partnering with Yoorana Gunya for the Cultural Art Creations – Terracotta Pots. You will learn about dot painting and complete your very own terracotta pot dot painting to take home. This workshop takes place on 14th April at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre.

For the full program and registration go to the Forbes Shire Council website www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community/community-services-and-information/families-and-youth-services/youth-programs. For more information contact Council’s Youth Officer at 6850 2300 or youth@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Free Mental Health First Aid Courses

March 25, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

A free Mental Health First Aid Course will be presented at the CWA Rooms in Forbes on 7th and 8th May sponsored by the Parkes Rotary Club.

The course teaches people simple, practical first aid skills for helping someone who is experiencing mental health problems, and will be presented by Phil Worrad, Rural Mental Health Coordinator for the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program.

Participants will learn the signs and symptoms of common and disabling mental health issues in adults, how to provide initial help, where and how to get professional help, and how to provide first aid in a crisis situation. It will cover topics such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, psychosis and the misuse of drugs and alcohol.

“Drought, floods, mice plagues, bushfires and now the rising cost of living are having a severe impact on the mental health of rural communities,” said Robert Shore, President of Parkes Rotary. “There is a need for courses like these so people can continue helping each other.

“People who have done this course previously all said it was excellent. One teacher said it was the best, most useful professional development she has ever done.”

The course is educational in learning how to assist others as a first responder, and not a therapeutic or support group.

The course will run from 9am to 4pm over the two days, and is open to community members over 18 years of age.

To register ring Robert on 0427 627244.

Maz To Play Forbes Town Hall Organ At NSW Rural Women’s Gathering

March 25, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

Maz Rees is excited to be playing the Forbes Town Hall pipe organ at the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering on 3rd April.

The NSW Rural Women’s Gathering is all about women in our community and Forbes resident Maz Rees has been added to the program to welcome attendees with a rousing performance on the beautiful Town Hall pipe organ.

Maz will be playing the organ on Sunday morning, 3rd April, and if you’ve never heard this organ being played, and love the sound of a pipe organ, this will be the perfect opportunity to experience this special instrument in all of its glory.

The organ was built in 1981 by Brown & Arkley in Northmead and was commissioned by former Forbes Shire Councillor and local business owner, Paul Coles. Paul provided a number of parts from his collection, including some of the metal pipes that were made in Germany.

The organ was constructed using mechanical action parts mostly made of wool. The casework was built from Amora, a South East Asian mahogany-like hardwood.

After its initial installation, the organ has moved location twice, with its final home now at Forbes Town Hall. The organ is located on a small raised platform allowing it to be moved within the Town Hall for special events.

There is still time to register for the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering until Monday, 28th March. The registration fee has been discounted and includes the Saturday Gathering, workshop options, gala dinner and Sunday Gathering. Alternatively, each event can also be booked separately if you can’t join for the whole weekend. Go to https://forbes2021nswruralwomensgathering.com/registration/

Volunteer At Elvis Festival

March 18, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

The Parkes Elvis Festival is back and on the lookout for volunteers to help make this year’s event a success.

Volunteering at the festival is open to people from all walks of life, and with different skills and experiences. There are many ways to volunteer, including setting up event spaces and signage, ushering guests, assisting with a multitude of events both inside and outdoors and transporting VIPs.

“The change of date along with impacts of Covid-19 have resulted in a need for new volunteers,” said Festival Director, Tiffany Steel. “We have more than 100 volunteer roles to fill. If you have specific interests, we can place you in a role where you can learn and get on-the-job experience whilst helping on one of the most popular festivals in Australia.” said Tiffany.

Employee volunteering programs are a great way for businesses to show their corporate social responsibility and provide employees with the opportunity to contribute to the community.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be involved with the sponsorship of the festival’s volunteer program,” said General Manager of Central West Credit Union Brett Hartin. “Volunteers are the life blood of regional areas, and this is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community.”

In the spirit of Elvis, each volunteer will receive a t-shirt, hat, water bottle, bag and will get to have a whole lotta rockin’ and rollin’ fun. To apply visit www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au. Volunteer induction will be on Monday, 21st March from 6 to 7:30pm at the Cooke Park Pavilion.

Win Tickets To Sydney Royal Easter Show

March 18, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

The Sydney Royal Easter Show is back this year from 8th to 19th April and The Forbes Phoenix readers stand a chance to win a family pass by entering our competition.

The show offers 12 hours of free entertainment every day and an astounding showcase of agricultural excellence.

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW will also be celebrating its bicentenary, commemorating its heritage, and shining a spotlight on the evolution of the organisation and Australian agriculture.

Some of the highlights include the National Young Judges competitions featuring two students from Forbes competitors from 2021 and 2022.

The show has the biggest collection of rides in Australia. You will be spoilt for choice with all the classics and family favourites plus two new Australian rides including the Twister, and the Aviator, where you’ll see the show from new heights of 100 feet.

Peppa Pig Meet and Greet – everyone’s favourite bossy little pink pig is ready and waiting to say ‘oink oink’ and pose for a photo at the Pig Pavilion every day of the show. She’s cheeky, fun, and always looking for a muddy puddle to jump in!

To win a family pass to the Sydney Royal Easter Show answer the question below:

What is your favourite thing about the Sydney Royal Easter Show?

 

Entries drawn Monday 28th March 2022

NSW Rural Women’s Gathering Shaping Up

March 4, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

The Central West Lachlan Landcare NSW Rural Women’s Gathering truly is the gift that keeps on giving! From scenic garden tours and an idyllic stopover at Girragirra Retreat and treks along the famous Forbes Art Society sculpture trail through to the recent announcement of Australian comedy royalty, the hilarious Jean Kittson, who will be coming to Forbes on April 2nd as the Gala Dinner Guest Speaker. Kittson, who is no stranger to town, will no doubt be a hit with the crowd with her devilish comedy and quick wit.

The Amazing Women With Vision themed event will be running from April 1-3 in Forbes, and involve a number of functions and activities. It will also include country singer Melinda Schneider and Cressida Cains who’s story should serve as an inspiration to many.

Forbes Shire Council will also be involved joining other sponsors including the Department of Primary Industries, AWI, CWA NSW, HE Silos, Ram HP and NSW Farmers so mark it on your local  calendar.

Got to www.forbes2021nswruralwomensgathering.com or find out more on how to attend a plethora of spectacular events.

Bogan Mobile For Sale But Hope Remains For 2023 Festival

February 11, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

FOR SALE: The famous Bogan Mobile from the 2019 Australia’s Biggest Bogan Festival is for sale on Forbes Parkes Buy Swap Sell and the Australis’ Biggest Bogan Festival Facebook page for those interested. ABBF may return for 2023 according to reports however nothing has been confirmed yet. INSET: Comedian Chris Franklin signing the Bogan Mobile at Bogan Gate in 2019 with comedians Half-Cooked Chip, Luke Acheson and Benny Bogan.

The famous Bogan Mobile is up for sale and already there is interest in the sentimental, uniquely designed vehicle.

“The cheeky paddock basher is in fairly good condition and only needs a little bit done to it,” said Debbie Martin, who bought the car at the one and only Australia’s Biggest Bogan Festival in 2019 at Bogan Gate to help raise vital funds for the Bogan Gate community and Currajong Disability Services.

“I need to get rid of it so I am happy to listen to offers from $650,” said Debbie.

The Bogan Mobile was initially secured by a former committee member from Parkes and was on display at the inaugural event nearly three years ago. All attendees on the main day of the festival were asked to sign it.

“A lot of attendees signed it and it is a one-of-a-kind,” she said.

“I have been putting it online on Facebook on Forbes Buy Swap Sell if anyone wants a look at it.”

And while there is no festival in 2022 either after two years of COVID enforced cancellations, there is talk of another event in 2023. While nothing has been confirmed and organisers are still to resolve it with the Bedgerabong Picnic Race Club Committee, the demand and level of enquiry has meant that discussions about a 2023 are back on the table again.

“Whoever buys it hopefully can bring it to the next festival and we sell it again,” said Debbie.

Contact Debbie via the Buy Swap Sell page or Australia’s Biggest Bogan Festival Facebook page for more info.

Step Up To Clean Up Now

February 11, 2022 by Maggi Barnard

 

Registrations are officially open and Forbes residents are urged to get in early and sign up for Australia’s largest community-based environmental event, Clean Up Australia Day (Sunday 6th March, 2022), as the environment feels the effects of a COVID-19 hangover.

The opening of volunteer registrations comes after lockdowns and changed habits fuelled a significant increase in household waste. The last two years have seen significant increases in single-use plastics, alongside unprecedented numbers of face masks, takeaway coffee cups, and food packaging littering our footpaths, parks, and waterways.

Forbes Shire Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM, said it’s more important than ever to protect Forbes unique environment by stepping up on Clean Up Australia Day.

“I encourage volunteers to sign up early to show their commitment to improving our most precious environment. Registration is really easy, and all community-based participants receive a free Clean-Up kit containing gloves, bags, and other resources, with packs for individuals, families, or groups available. Clean Up Australia Day is the opportunity to do some good for our Shire – to roll up our sleeves, get out there and take action.” Ms. Miller said.

“Signing up now means you’re making a pledge to protect not only Forbes environment but join the movement to protect Australia’s environment too. Together, we can make a meaningful, long-lasting difference to the parks, beaches, rivers, and pathways near us.”

To register or donate, please visit cleanup.org.au.

• Clean Up Australia Day 8am, VictoriaPark, Harold St Forbes Sunday 6 March
• Schools Clean Up Day Friday 4 March
• Business Clean Up Day Tuesday 1 March

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