What an amazing weekend of sport! On Sunday, Forbes played host to more than 3,000 junior athletes and supporters from across NSW for the annual Youth Soccer Gala Day. A total of 85 teams competed in over 180 thrilling matches throughout the day. Congratulations to Forbes District Soccer Club for organising an outstanding event. Days like this not only energise grassroots sport but also deliver a valuable boost to the local economy.
One of the standout moments was the official opening of the Youth Strength and Conditioning Gym. It’s the first of its kind in regional Australia and features cuttingedge equipment designed to support the development of young athletes.
The weekend also drew players and supporters to town for the Forbes Platypi and Forbes Magpies Juniors Home games.
On Monday, around 2,000 people attend the Catholic Schools Rugby Trials Day. All the sportsgrounds looked amazing and the crowds were very appreciative.
I wish to thank the Minns State Government for its commitment of $20.2 million for the Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Redevelopment in the 2025/26 State Budget.
The new operating theatre will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and built tothe highest modern medical standards.
The redevelopment ensures the continued delivery of essential services, expands the capacity to perform a broader range of surgical procedures, and delivers the healthcare our community deserves.
This week I welcomed the launch of a new three-year partnership between Local Government NSW and the NSW Government to help councils tackle the root causes of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
The Pathways to Prevention Strategy will support the delivery of primary prevention programs like unconscious bias training, gender equality initiatives, and awareness resources.
Councils are central to our communities and, when well-resourced, are well-placed to lead on social issues. Violence of this kind is preventable. With the right tools, councils can help stop it before it starts.
God Bless,
Phyllis Miller OAM