General Interest Archives - Page 23 of 351

Public Drop-in Sessions To Help Shape The Future Of Central West Transport

November 13, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Residents across the Central West and Orana region of NSW are invited to have their say on the future of transport in their area through a series of public drop-in sessions.

“The Central West and Orana population is expected to grow by 11 per cent up to 2041 and we want to hear people’s ideas on how transport services and networks can change to support that growth.” Transport for NSW Acting Executive Director Partnerships and Integration West Holly Davies said.

Residents are invited to view the draft SRITP and speak with Transport for NSW staff at the following public drop-in sessions:

• Forbes: Town Hall, 4.30pm-7.30pm on Thursday 27 November

• Parkes: Cooke Park Pavilion, noon-3pm on Thursday 4 December

The draft Central West and Orana SRITP and supporting materials are available at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-west-and-orana, while copies of the draft plan are available at local libraries.

Submissions on the draft close at midnight on Sunday 14 December and can be made via the Have Your Say webpage, www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-west-and-orana by emailing engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au.

Topsoil Organics Wins Top Honours Again

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Lana and Dan Nicholson pictured receiving Topsoil Organics award at a black-tie event at Sydney’s International Convention Centre on Wednesday evening.

The state’s most innovative and forwardthinking businesses have come together and been celebrated at the NSW State Business Awards. Topsoil Organics from Forbes won the Excellence in Large Business Award.

The Excellence in Large Business Award recognises a business with more than 20 employees that has effectively driven growth and is able to demonstrate the specific strategies implemented to achieve business success and/or resilience.

Business NSW, Regional Director – Western NSW, Vicki Seccombe said “This is Topsoil Organics’ third win at the State Business Awards, having won Excellence in Small Business in 2022 and Excellence in Sustainability in 2023.

“Topsoil Organics is such an exciting and dynamic business and they are paving the way for our future. They have gone above and beyond in respect to innovation, sustainability and leadership. The initiatives being pursued demonstrates great ingenuity and it’s so exciting that it’s happening right here in Western NSW,” said Vicki Seccombe.

Topsoil Organics is a family-owned business that launched the Central West Nutrient Return Centre in 2021, diverting 200,000+ tonnes of organic waste from landfills into premium compost for broadacre farming. By transforming waste into energy and regenerative solutions, they are creating lasting environmental, agricultural, and community benefits for a cleaner future.

“All three winners should feel incredibly proud to be named amongst the State’s leading businesses and business leaders for 2025 and this win truly highlights the strength of the Western NSW business community,” said Ms Seccombe.

Clean Up Australia Day Registrations Are Now Open

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Clean Up Australia Day returns on Sunday 1 March 2026, and we’re calling on individuals, families, schools, and community groups across the country to register now and get in on the action to be part of Australia’s largest environmental movement.

Since its inception, over 23 million volunteers have joined the Clean Up effort.

In 2025, over 800,000 people volunteered across 8,000 events nationally during the Clean Up Australia Day campaign period.

Registrations for Clean Up Australia Day 2026 are now open. Volunteers can receive a free Clean Up kit, containing gloves, bags and other resources, with packs for individuals, families, community groups and schools available (businesses are asked to pay a small fee to cover costs).As an added bonus, if you register your Clean Up Australia Day event before 31 December, you will automatically be entered into an early bird competition to win one of five donated $500 Coles vouchers.

Terms and conditions apply.

With Business Clean Up Day on Tuesday February 24, 2026 and Schools Clean Up Day on Friday February 27, 2026.

Good Times At Goodnessgravel Parkes

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

twowheeltours, has years of experience in the bike industry including events, tours and races both here in Australia and around the world. They created goodnessgravel to combine their passion for creating memorable riding experiences with the real need to support local Australian communities. Just last week they held their fourth event of 2025 right here in Parkes.

Last week, 180 riders were at Harrison Park ready for the 7:30am, 8:00am or 8:30am roll out. Then it was just them, gravel, open plains, heat, rolling countryside, rest stops, volunteers, and plenty of smile-time.

Over 50% of the riders had gold number rider cards, meaning that they had ridden at least one other goodnessgravel event in the past – this also means that there are many new faces in the goodnessgravel family.

Thanks to the many people involved in these events including the Parkes Action Group, Eugowra Mens Shed and the Parkes Tourism for their tireless work. Then there were the event medics, mechanics, photographers, support vehicles, event staff plus the lead out roaming motorbike riders.

Thanks also to all goodnessgravel sponsors including Shimano GRX, MidCoast Council, Shimano Aust, Bombtrack, Smoove Lube, Bowy Active, SCV Imports, Heaps Normal, Panaracer, Apidura, Ass Magic, Lead Out Sports and LazerEvent participant Ian, who has participated in eight past goodnessgravel events, said to Will Levy of goodnessgravel and twowheeltours: “Will, I just want to say thanks for the event – sure I paid for the privilege – but that one was a cracker. Just the right mix of tough yet excellent and flowing downhill….with a touch of cruel uphill.”

goodnessgravel continues to hold events to encourage tourism to support local communities like Parkes. $10 from each entry is donated to local charities. To find out more information just check out https://www.goodnessgravel.com/

Building A Stronger, More Connected Parkes Shire

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Shire Council is proud to announce it has been awarded a NSW Social Cohesion Grant for Local Government to deliver the Gugaa: Connect the Dots Project – a bold and inclusive initiative designed to foster stronger, more resilient, and more cohesive communities across the Shire.

The grant of $59,596, is part of a statewide program aimed at preventing social division and hate-based incidents, and support Council’s efforts to build connection andbelonging within and between local communities.

Parkes Shire is a diverse and evolving community with a growing immigrant population and many transient workers in mining and transport. In the face of global tensions and rising divisive politics, the Gugaa: Connect the Dots Project offers a proactive and hopeful response.

Named after the Wiradjuri word for goanna – Gugaa, the overarching totem of the Wiradjuri Nation – the project will create permanent and mobile “Red Dots” in public spaces across the Shire. These dots, marked with QR codes, will connect residents to resources, mentors, and community networks, offering a safe and welcoming space for anyone wondering “How do I connect? Where can I belong?”The initiative also includes the launch of a “Living Library” program, where residents – both long-standing and newly arrived – can share their lived experiences as “books” to be “borrowed,” helping to break down prejudice and build empathy.

Through partnerships with Wiradjuri elders, local organisations, volunteers, and businesses, the project will fast-track integration and provide practical support in areas such as social connection and volunteering.

Parkes Shire Council invites all residents to participate in upcoming workshops and events as the Gugaa: Connect the Dots Project rolls out next year.

Nominations Open For Parkes Australia Day Awards 2026

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Shire Council is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups who make our community thrive.

Following the success of last year’s Australia Day celebrations, which saw hundreds gather in Cooke Park for a morning of music, recognition, and community spirit, Council is once again calling on residents to nominate local champions for the 2026 awards.

Nominations are open for the following categories: Community Awards, Cultural Awards & Sports Awards. These awards recognise individuals and groups who have made a significant impact in areas such as volunteering, sport, arts, culture, and civic service.

Nominations can be submitted via the Parkes Shire Council website. The process is simple and only takes a few minutes, all you need is a few details about your nominee and why you believe they deserve recognition. The deadline for submissions is 5pm, Thursday 5 December 2025.

For more information or assistance with your nomination, please contact the appropriate person: Community Awards Veronica Shaw 6862 9178, Cultural Awards Kerryn Jones 0428 709 467 or for Sports Awards Anthony McGrath 0418 477 823.

$35,000 Boost For Local Sport

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Brooke Plunkett (NPM) and Mayor Neil Westcott pictured with the Rising Star RecipientsSienna Eve Taylor, Joselyne Folau, Malia Morrison, (Front): Emanual Townsend, Harlen Corney.

Parkes Shire Council and Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations are pleased to announce the successful applicants from Round 2 of the 2025 Parkes Shire Sports Grants Program.

In this round, a total of $30,000 in funding has been distributed to seven local sportingorganisations, and $5,000 has been awarded to seven outstanding young athletes through the Rising Star Grant Program.

Mayor Neil Westcott congratulated the recipients and acknowledged the important role these programs play in supporting the growth of sport and recreation across the Parkes Shire.

“Our community has such a strong sporting spirit, and these grants help keep that alive by supporting participation, improving facilities, and helping young athletes reach their potential,” Mayor Neil Westcott said.

“We’re proud to continue working alongside Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations to deliver programs that strengthen our clubs, encourage healthy lifestyles, and invest in the next generation of local talent.”

Round 2 – 2025 Sporting Organisation Grant Recipients were Parkes & District Amateur Soccer Association Inc., Parkes & District Netball Association Inc., Parkes Australian Rules Football Club, Parkes District Cricket Association, Parkes Tennis Club and the Peak Hill Roosters Rugby League Football Club.

Round 2 – 2025 Rising Star Grant Recipients were Noah Jayet, Sienna Eve Taylor, Tori Bennett, Emanual Townsend, Joselyne Folau, Harlen Corney and Malia Morrison.

The Rising Star Grant Program is a joint initiative between Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations and Parkes Shire Council, providing financial support to individual athletes who demonstrate potential and commitment in their chosen field. Each recipient is also automatically entered into the Parkes Shire Australia Day Sports Awards, where one will receive the Ron Harrison OAM Rising Star Award.

The next round of the Parkes Shire Sports Grants Program will open up in early to mid2026. For more information, visit Council’s Grants Programs page on the Parkes Shire Council website.

Sports Grant Recipients – Brooke Plunkett (NPM), Mitch Cudden (Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association Inc), Ella McColl and Sam Rivett (Parkes Tennis Club), Graeme Bayliss (Parkes District Cricket Association), Mayor Neil Westcott.

Forbes Ski Dam Nature Playground Expansion Ready For Play

November 6, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The new play equipment and 3 metre picnic table at Forbes Lake Ski Dam.

Completed just in time for summer, the expanded Lake Forbes Ski Dam Nature Playground is now open and ready to explore.

Forbes Shire Council invites the community to come along and celebrate the completion of this exciting project, which has transformed one of Forbes’ favourite recreation spots into an even more engaging and family-friendly destination.

The project included drainage improvements, installation of new play equipment and bark chip soft fall, refurbishment of existing equipment, new seating, and landscaping.

The space now offers more fun, age-appropriate play experiences for young children and is expected to attract more families and visitors to enjoy the Ski Dam and its surrounds.

Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said the project is another great example of investing in spaces that enhance liveability and community wellbeing.

“The Ski Dam is such a special place for our community – a spot where families gather, children play, and visitors enjoy the outdoors,” the Mayor said.

“This expansion has made it even better, offering more ways for everyone to enjoy this beautiful space.”

The project was proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Local Small Commitments Allocation Program and delivered by Forbes Shire Council.

To celebrate, Council will be hosting a community opening event on Friday 7 November at the Ski Dam, commencing at 12 midday.

For more information about the Ski Dam Nature Playground, visit www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

Your Last Chance To Submit To Energy From Waste Inquiry

October 30, 2025 By Roxane Manley

A motion for a Parliamentary Inquiry into energy from waste proposals in NSW was successful after mounting opposition in Regional NSW. The Select Committee was established on 6 August 2025 and is chaired by Nationals MP Nicole Overall.

“I encourage anyone who hasn’t yet made a submission to consider doing so – this is the opportunity to formally raise any questions or concerns as we work to comprehensively address these proposals.” said Nicole.

Parkes Clean Future Alliance are urging those who have not yet made submissions, to do so today, as submissions close at 5pm. Ben Stead of PCFA said “The proposed Sydney landfills are projected to run out of space over the next 5 to 10 years.

After thermal energy from waste was rejected in Sydney, the NSW Government developed a framework that prohibits facilities in NSW as a precautionary measure to protect human health, but excludes Lithgow, Goulburn, Parkes and Tomago from those health protections.”

“Submissions under 250 words will still be counted but will be grouped together. Submissions over 250 words are more impactful.” said Ben.

The deadline for submissions is today, 5pm Friday, 31 October. Both individuals and organisations can make submissions, and you do not have to be located in Parkes. Anyone can make a submission and every submission counts.

To lodge a submission go to the Inquiry webpage www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/listofcommittees/Pages/committee-details.aspx?pk=337 and select the ‘Submissions’ tab.

National Ag Day Photo And Video Competition Is Live

October 30, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is excited to announce that the 2025 National Agriculture Day photo and video competition is officially open. With Ag Day on Friday 21 November, people have the chance to win a share in $5,000 cash thanks to competition sponsors Syngenta.

Ag Day is all about celebrating the people, places, and produce that make Australian agriculture unique. And what better way to share your story than through your own lens? Whether you’re a budding photographer, a videographer, or just someone with a smartphone and a keen eye, we want to see your take on life on the land.

Entries are open to all ages and skill levels, with prizes up for grabs, including $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second, and $500 for four runners-up. The judges are looking for photos and videos that capture this year’s theme, Stand with the Land.

To enter, upload your entries at agday.org.au/photography-video-competition and share your favourites on social media using #AgDayAU. The competition closes 5pm AEDT on Ag Day, Friday 21 November 2025. For more information about Ag Day, visit agday.org.au.

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