CWA news: The Forbes CWA and Bedgerabong always celebrate a combined Christmas lunch. This year it was held in the CWA Hall on 3rd December with the workload and food divided between the two branches. It was most enjoyable with refreshing punch, cold meat and salads followed by desserts and rum ball and mint slice with coffee. Members of the Forbes CWA are making head scarves, bandanas and breast cushions for people suffering from cancer. These are available at the Glass Menagerie and Undercover Sleepwear and Lingerie.
Merry Christmas to everyone from Forbes CWA!
Mental health over festive period: Christmas is a festive time for most people, but it can also be a difficult period. People can experience stressors such as conflict, feelings of isolation, grief and missing of loved ones, which can sometimes lead to substance abuse issues. Rural communities may also be dealing with financial hardship, uncertain weather and market forecasts, as well as unexpected adverse situations. Camilla Kenny and Di Gill of the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) have practical tips on how to look after your mental health and wellbeing: stay con-nected with family and friends; volunteer to work with a charity; get involved in social
activities such as a community Christmas function; being mindful of your diet and getting enough sleep and exercise; being careful of excessive alcohol intake and avoiding other substances; and trying mindfulness exercises and relaxation techniques. Remember it is essential to seek help for any mental health or drug/alcohol concern over this period. If you have any concerns about yourself or a loved one, please contact the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 (free call for landlines) or Drug & Alcohol Helpline – 1300 887 000.
Christmas Market: The Forbes Handicraft Centre Christmas Market Day is tomorrow in front of the shop in Lachlan Street from 9am to 1pm. This is a perfect opportunity to get organised for Christmas: there will be cakes, plum puddings, slices and other treats; fresh farm produce, in season fruit and vegetables, fresh farm eggs and a huge variety of plants; and presents ideas from the new supply of handmade
and handcrafted goods. There will also be homemade milk ice blocks in six different flavours, and a homemade ice cream in four different flavours.