It is with immense pride that I received the Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award in the 2025 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government. This was presented by the Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig at Parliament House on Wednesday 22 October.
I am deeply honoured to receive an award named after my dear friend and colleague, the late Mayor Lilliane Brady. Lilliane was a trailblazer, a fierce advocate for regional communities and a woman of great strength and compassion. We shared many years of collaboration, friendship and mutual respect. I hope that my service to Forbes has reflected the same spirit of leadership and care that Lilliane embodied so powerfully. Several awards were presented recognising the dedication and tireless work of female elected representatives and council staff across NSW.
On Friday we will come together to honour the life and legacy of Steve Loane OAM, our former General Manager of Forbes Shire Council. Steve was a visionary leader, a mentor and a passionate advocate for rural and regional Australia. Hisl
contributions to Forbes and the broader agricultural sector were profound and lasting. A Memorial Celebration will be held on Friday 31 October at 2pm at the Central West Livestock Exchange. All are welcome to attend and pay tribute to a man who gave so much to our region. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dolly’s Dream, a cause close to Steve’s heart.
This weekend, I invite families across Forbes to join us for one of our most beloved community events – the Teddy Bears Picnic to be held on Saturday 1 November from 10am to 1pm at Frogs Hollow (corner of Riley and Lawler Streets behind the former Bowling Club).This free event promises a magical day of fun, games, live entertainment and plenty of surprises for children of all ages. Bring your favourite teddy, a picnic rug and enjoy the joy and imagination that this day brings.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate childhood, and enjoy the outdoors together in our community.
Until next week,
God bless
Phyllis Miller, OAM – Forbes Mayor