Arts OutWest is excited to launch the first year of the Arts OutWest Cultural Fund Microgrants – and is calling for artists and groups to apply.

This new program supports locally driven arts and heritage activity across the NSW Central West and is offered thanks to gener­ous donations from the public.

In 2026, two funding streams are availa­ble: Up to $1000 for individual artists and up to $2500 for groups, including arts organi­sations, collectives, local councils, arts and heritage businesses and artist–organisation partnerships.

Activities funded might include community art projects, workshops, exhibitions, perfor­mances, talks, story development, artist residencies, creative experiments, the crea­tion of new work and more.

Projects must take place between June and December 2026 and occur within the local government areas of Bathurst Re­gion, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Lithgow, Mid-Western Regional, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.

All applicants must discuss their idea with Arts OutWest before applying.

Full guidelines, FAQs, and the appli­cation form are available now at: https://artsoutwest.org.au/pf/arts-outwest-cultual-fund-microgrants/ Arts OutWest will hold a Microgrants information session online on Wednesday 1st of April at 5.30pm. Book via the artsoutwest.org.au website.

The completion of major upgrade works on Bogan Road.

Parkes Shire Council is pleased to an­nounce the successful completion of major upgrade works on Bogan Road, delivered under the Australian Government’s Remote Roads Pilot Program. The $3.186 million project has significantly improved approxi­mately 20 kilometres of Bogan Road, en­hancing safety, accessibility, and freight ef­ficiency across the network.

Key features of the project include the ex­tension of a sealed road for approximately 4 kilometres, along with important horizon­tal and vertical alignment improvements to provide a smoother and safer driving expe­rience. In addition, 16 kilometres of previ­ously unsealed road has been resheeted to improve drainage, pavement profile, and overall road condition.

Critical infrastructure upgrades were de­livered, including the construction and up­grade of multiple culverts and causeways to improve flood resilience and enable Higher Mass Limit (HML) access.

Mayor Councillor Neil Westcott said the project represents a significant investment in the region’s road infrastructure and future economic growth.

“This upgrade is an important step for­ward in improving freight efficiency and con­nectivity across our shire,” Mayor Westcott said.

“By extending the sealed network and im­proving road quality, we are supporting localindustries, particularly agriculture and trans­port operators, while also delivering safer and more reliable access for all road users.”

The improvements to Bogan Road will support increased productivity by enabling HML vehicles to operate more efficiently, reducing travel times and vehicle operating costs.

Council acknowledges the support of the Australian Government in delivering this project through the Remote Roads Pilot Program, and thanks contractors and staff involved in bringing the project to comple­tion. This project highlights the importance of continued investment in regional road in­frastructure to support growing communities and local economies.

Destination Central West (DNCW) is con­tinuing to work with industry, councils and government partners to support the region following the diversion of the Great Western Highway.

Transport for NSW has advised that the closure is expected to remain in place for at least three months while stabilisation works are undertaken. During this period, the Cen­tral West remains open and accessible via several alternative routes, and businesses across the region continue to welcome visitors. We recognise that this situation is evolving quickly and that many businesses are already responding to visitor questions and travel concerns.

DNCW is continuing support industry during this period, including; Monitoring visitor economy impacts through industry feedback and survey data, Providing clear visitor messaging and industry communica­tions resources, Working with councils and regional partners to support coordinated messaging Advocating to Destination NSW and NSW Government on behalf of the re­gion’s visitor economy. DNCW will continue providing updates to industry as the situa­tion evolves.

Businesses are encouraged to continue promoting events, experiences and regional travel while sharing clear information about alternative travel routes. For the latest road conditions, visitors should check:Transport for NSW and Live Traffic NSW

Last Saturday, over 70 people journeyed to celebrate the launch of the Promise Faith Centre Churches International Official Launch at its new headquarters at the for­mer Mamre Farm in Alectown.

Bishop Barry Cunnington, who leads this ministry, said he was thrilled with the day and the number of people who travelled far and wide, some from as far as Qld and Vic to celebrate their launch and learn more about the exciting things that are planned for the Central West.

“It was a wonderful day.” Bp Barry said.

“We were delighted to have the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Marg Applebee welcome us to this region and share her heart.”

He went on to share that this new head­quarters brings him back to his Central West roots, as he grew up in a farming fam­ily near West Wyalong.

“I have a real heart for the people of this region,” he said. “I’ve been there, in droughts, and dust storms, good crops and bad, and I know there are hurting people out there who need hope – hope that only Jesus Christ can truly give.”

Their first event coming up, however, is a 72hr, non-stop Prayer, Praise and Worship time in May with many coming from other states to join in worship and prayer to the Lord.

On the October Long Weekend, they are establishing an annual Camp Meeting with the focus to ‘Mobilise Aussies for Christ’ – to encourage and equip for mission – “To go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15

Interested in finding out more? Please head to their website www.promisefaith.com.au

Parkes Shire Council is calling on all local community groups and organisations to join a brand-new online Community Directory designed to help residents connect, belong and get involved across the Shire.

The new directory will make it easier than ever for people to discover local clubs, groups and activities – from sporting teams and hobby groups to cultural organisations, charities and volunteer services.

The directory is now live www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Community/Community-directory and is a key part of an exciting social cohe­sion project led by Parkes Shire Library and proudly funded by the NSW Government.

Parkes Shire Library & Information Servic­es Team Leader Tracy Dawson said the pro­ject is all about helping people feel welcome and connected, no matter where they live or how they’ve been part of the community.

Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott said community groups are the backbone of the region and play a vital role in building a strong, resilient Shire.

“Our sporting clubs, cultural groups, chari­ties and volunteer organisations are the heart of our communities,” the Mayor said.

“This directory will make it easier for peo­ple to find the groups that make our towns great. The more groups that register, the stronger and more connected our commu­nity becomes.”

Council is encouraging community groups to register, including: sporting clubs, social and interest groups, arts, music and cultural organisations, multicultural groups, men’s and women’s groups, youth and seniors groups, community service organisations and charities. For information or to register your group, visit www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Community/Community-directory