The Trundle Bush Tucker Day drew a huge crowd last Saturday with lots of fun competitions, like the billy boiling race, and entertainment by Troy Cassar-Daley. (Photo: Jo Quarmby)
Regional Health Advisory Panel: Mayor of Parkes Cr Ken Keith is one of the local leaders appointed to the new Regional Health Ministerial Advisory Panel. The panel forms part of the NSW Government’s response to the Rural Health Inquiry with support in principle for 41 of the 44 recommendations. Other local leaders included are Orange GP Dr Anna Windsor and Broken Hill Midwife Meg Austin. The government will be recruiting 10,148 full-time equivalent staff to hospitals and health services across the state over four years – the nation’s largest-ever health workforce boost.
Rural Crime: A new Rural Crime Investigator position in Orange has been created for two specialist investigators backed in by the existing two specialist investigators in Parkes. Rural crime specialist investigators focus on a range of crimes from theft of stock, grain or wool, rural arson and fraud, firearm offences, to cruelty to animals or trespassing. The new position has boosted the total number of Rural Crime Investigators in the NSW Police Force to 53.
Nominate A Tradie: Our Tradie of the Month competitions in Forbes and Parkes, sponsored by Gunn’s Menswear and Totally Work Wear respectively, continues this month. Readers can nominate a tradie, male or female, to go into the draw. Simply drop into Gunn’s Menswear or Totally Work Wear with your nomination, or send us an email at editor@forbesphoenix.com.au or editor@parkesphoenix.com.au.
Central West Photography Competition: ‘Central West Unmasked’ is this year’s theme for Regional Development Australia Central West’s (RDA Central West) annual photography competition. Entrants are encouraged to capture the true essence and hidden gems of their hometowns. Entry is free and open to all ages. The closing date is 5pm on Friday, 30th September. Entrants can submit up to four photographs. More information at www.rdacentralwest.org.au
It’s Magpie Season! Magpies usually breed between August and October and will beak clap, whoosh above your head and screech to warn other birds, animals and humans to stay away from their eggs or newly hatched chicks. Forbes Shire Council will be placing warning signs in areas where there are swooping birds. Magpies tend to only swoop within 100 metres of their nest. Stay calm if you are swooped, and don’t run or wave your arms. Magpies are protected. If the attacks continue or are extremely aggressive contact NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
It is that time of year again and best to wear your helmet when cycling during magpie season, and look out for warning signs.