This year’s Australia Day Award nominees have now been announced, and their stories are a reminder of just how much kindness, effort and passion exist in our own backyard.
Each of the 2026 nominees reflects the spirit that holds our community together.
I look forward to celebrating these amazing humans at the Citizen of the Year Gala Night this Sunday at Town Hall.
I wish to invite everyone to come together next Monday to reflect on our shared history, connect with community, and celebrate the spirit of mateship as part of the 2026 Australia Day celebrations.
Start the day with a community breakfast at the picturesque Lake Forbes. Enjoy a relaxed morning by the lake with family and friendsFinish the day at Party in the Park in Lions Park, culminating in the spectacular Battyes Bridge fireworks display at 9pm.
All the event details can be found on Council’s website. I look forward to seeing you all there.
Apex Park is about to enter a new and exciting chapter, with transformation works l
scheduled to commence next week. The major upgrade of the “Aeroplane Park” will include new play equipment featuring an impressive 8.7-metre tower with three slides, rubber soft fall, new pathways, seating and landscaping, a new amenities block and improved drainage and car park facilities.
This upgrade aims to enhance accessibility, improve amenities and ensure the playground is designed to withstand major flood events.
The work is expected to take approximately six months, ready in time for spring.
With more people enjoying the pathways and open spaces around our beautiful Lake Forbes, a new 30km/hour speed zone has been introduced along Gordon Duff Drive.
Additionally, three rubber speed cushions and new signage have also been added.
These traffic calming measures create a safer environment for everyone – especially children, lake walkers and users of South Circle Oval.
God Bless
Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM