Roxane Manley

Roxane is a true local to the Forbes and Parkes areas. Having been with the Phoenix for a number of years, she is passionate about her region and loves being involved with the local community.

Let The Festive Fun Begin

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Get ready to delight in the fun and entertainment tonight from 5pm in Templar and Rankin Streets.

The Forbes Business Chamber is pleased to bring some festive cheer to the community, with the annual Forbes Christmas Carnival being held from 5pm today, 9th December.

“There will be market stalls, giant games, rock climbing wall, bungee trampolines, jumping castles, merry-go-round and arts and craft activities. Food will be provided by lcal businesses and food vans that will be dotted around the site,” said Aaron Acheson, President, Forbes Business Chamber.

The carnival will be located in the central business area of Templar and in Rankin Streets. The Committee ask that vehicles are removed from the site no later than 12 noon for the street closures to take place prior to set up beginning.

“Forbes and the surrounding villages are well and truly due for a celebration after the serious weather that the district has experienced recently. There will be so much to see and do, such as face painting, free balloon hand outs and even a visit from Santa and Mrs Claus,” said Aaron.

Entertainment and music will be on the stage located at the junction of the two streets.

Thanks to the many people who have offered to assist and participate. Many businesses have been very generous with time and funds and have worked tirelessly to bring the Christmas spirt alive in Forbes.

Five $500 draws have already taken place, with three of the lucky winners being: Lisa Grayson, John Slessor and Susan Earl. People are encouraged to keep clicking on the QR code every time they purchase at a participating business to go in the draw to win. The colourful Find It In Forbes Christmas tree will be displayed outside participating businesses.

How prepared are you for Christmas?

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Florence Samuels: I have finished all of our Christmas shopping so that we can celebrate an early Christmas here in Forbes before heading to the Central Coast to spend time with family over the holidays.

Debbie Prior: I have great intentions to be ready early but unfortunately life gets in the way! However, I have started my Christmas shopping and with such unique and beautiful stores in Forbes, it’s not hard to find something a bit different and out of the ordinary. The feeling at Christmas is always a positive and happy one and after the events of the last few weeks, it is good to have something special to look forward to.

Bri Cellendoni: I have all my parcels ready to post, I am stocked up with Christmas accessories to wear to work and help spread a bit of Christmas joy. I just really want to help spread a positive attitude and help make a few people smile.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Rallies To Support Eugowra Residents

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Eugowra residents devastated by flash flooding can continue to call on CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes (CCWF) for financial counseling services.

It continues CCWF’s commitment to the town of about 700 people since disaster struck on November 14, tragically claiming two lives. More than 200 buildings at Eugowra were damaged or destroyed by the flash flooding, authorities report.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes chief executive officer Anne-Marie Mioche visited Eugowra, and the organisation donated goods worth thousands of dollars to provide immediate relief.

“Members of our team at Forbes and Parkes did not hesitate, they wanted to be there for the people of Eugowra who have lost so much,” Ms Mioche said.

CCWF staff worked alongside defence force personnel going from house to house, and listened to people’s stories of survival, and provided information about CCWF services.

Eugowra sits outside the Catholic Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes, but has links with Forbes.

Bishop Columba Macbeth-Green, Bishop of the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes, travelled to Eugowra to support the neighboring community, where he said there were people who had “lost everything, in the true sense of the word”.

Bishop Columba, whose father’s family came from Eugowra, offered reassurance to the “strong and resilient” residents of the small town.

For more information on how CatholicCare can support you contact them for assistance on 1800 067 067

Snippets…

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

No cash, no worries. You can now tap and go to donate to The Salvation Army when stationed outside of Bernardi’s Supermarket in Forbes.

New Rules To Help Farmers Build Resilience: Farmers can now repair, restore, and rehydrate dry land without just relying on rainfall, thanks to changes to planning rules announced today by the Department of Planning and Environment. The Department’s Executive Director of Infrastructure Policy Jonathon Schipp said it is now easier for landowners to restore streams on their property through landscape rehydration techniques, without the need for development approval. A step-by-step guide will be released shortly, detailing what approvals farmers need to implement landscape rehydration techniques and rehabilitate eroded streams. For more information, visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/isepp-landscape

Get In Control Of Your Digital Health: The last few years most Australians have spent their holidays in the backyard or on a balcony due to the impact of COVID-19. As the world opens back up, tourism experts are forecasting a bumper holiday season –so if you’re planning on travelling, ensureyour My Health Record is up to date. Theteam at the Australian Digital Health Agency can explain why. For more information go to www.digitalhealth.gov.au

Free Legal Diary And Calendar For Seniors: Avoiding scams, planning for retirement, making a will or getting financial help are just some of the topics included in the free 2023 Legal Topics for Seniors Diary, which is available for collection or ordering online. A free 2023 Legal Topics for Seniors wall calendar is available for seniors which includes important dates such as the NSW Seniors Festival, Grandparents Day and the school holidays. Seniors can collect the 2023 Seniors Diary from their local Legal Aid NSW office, local library, State Member of Parliament’s office, or order online at www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/publications/order-a-publication

Skate, Scooter And Bike Facilities For Parkes And Trundle: Parkes Shire Council has secured $500,000 from the NSW Government through the Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF) and $300,000 from the Federal Government through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP) Phase 3. The funding will be used for the development of the Trundle Skate Park, the Parkes Pump Track and to upgrade the Parkes Skate Park. Councillor Jacob Cass said, “Facilities like these are hugely popular amongst youth in the community and offer a space for them to learn new skills, build friendships.”

Life Pharmacy in Forbes has set up a small stand with FREE donations that are available for flood victims.

Our Bloke – Ben Smith

December 9, 2022 By Roxane Manley

Ben Smith

Where were you born? Forbes Hospital.

Were you named after anyone? No.

Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of? Our two children Tyson 10 and Ruby 7.

What historical moment stands out most in your memory? The September 11 terrorist attacks and the Cronulla Sharks 2016 premiership.

What’s the single best piece of advice you’ve ever received? You can count your true mates on one hand.

What’s the greatest risk you’ve ever taken? There has been a few but one Saturday at Hawkesbury races is still etched in my memory (and nightmares).

What are the three things you would take to a deserted island? My family, TAB app and a boat to get us back.

If you had to spend $10,000 today, how would you spend it? Book a family holiday overseas, go searching for the next winner then shout Chinese late.

When are you happiest? When my family is happy and healthy and when I’m having a beer, a laugh with my mates and backing a winner.

Roxane Manley

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