General Interest Archives - Page 53 of 351

Australia’s 3G Networks Switch Off From 28th October

October 24, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Australia’s 3G networks will shut down from 28th October and the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) is urging all Australians to act now and “Check Your Tech” to ensure they will stay connected once the networks are switched off.

Telstra and Optus will switch off their 3G networks from 28th October 2024. TPG Telecom-owned Vodafone has already closed its network in January 2024.

This means that devices that depend on the 3G network will no longer work. 3G devices will no longer be supported and will not be able to make calls, including emergency voice calls to Triple Zero on any Australian mobile network.

This closure will also affect some 4G devices that default emergency calls to 3G.

While these devices can make normal 4G voice calls, they push emergency calls to 3G and so won’t be able to make an emergency call after the closure.

In addition, devices that have been purchased overseas or from a retailer selling imported phones, might not be fully supported once the 3G network shuts down Impacted devices may also include smartwatches, tablets, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms.

Local Wheat Growers Encouraged To Enter Agshows NSW Competition

October 24, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Northern NSW judging (pictured) is now complete. Southern, Central and Western regions are still to be judged.

As the 2024 growing season faces setbacks due to adverse weather conditions, wheat growers across New South Wales are encouraged to showcase their expertise and innovation by entering the prestigious AgShows NSW Suncorp Bank Championship Dryland Field Wheat and Durum Competition.

This highly anticipated annual competition celebrates excellence in wheat production and provides an opportunity for growers to be recognised for their hard work in overcoming challenging conditions.

With frosts and dry weather across NSW throughout September, private forecasts predict Australia’s national wheat crop may fall below 30 million tonnes—well short of the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences’ (ABARES) September forecast of 31.8 million tonnes.

Stephen Hatty, Chair of the Wheat Advisory Committee, encourages growers to take part: “While we may see a lower national wheat crop this year, the competition remains an excellent opportunity for growers to demonstrate the effectiveness of their management practices under difficult conditions.”

The competition is open to growers from all regions of NSW, with 30th October the cut-off for growers in our region. To enter the competition, growers should contact their local competition coordinator. A full list of local coordinators can be found on the AgShows NSW website, along with entry forms and judging criteria.

Judging will begin shortly after the regional deadlines, with regional winners being announced later in the year. The state winner will be revealed at the Wheat Presentation Dinner in Dubbo on 12th January 2025.

Don’t Ghost The ATO

October 24, 2024 By Roxane Manley

CPA Australia is urging all Australians to dust the cobwebs off their tax returns and ensure they are lodged by the Halloween deadline: 31st October 2024.

But don’t be fooled by scammers who target taxpayers rushing to the finish line.

“Failing to lodge your tax return on time could ultimately mean a scary penalty,” says CPA Australia’s Tax Lead, Jenny Wong. “Rushing to lodge can also result in more tricks than treats as scammers will target people with last-minute calls to action, or promises of substantial refunds.

“So, if you haven’t already done it, set aside some time over the next week to compile your evidence and get your return in on time. Or seek expert advice from a registered tax agent who can assist, especially if your finances are complicated.”

Individuals who lodge their own tax returns are required to do so by 31st October, but those who use a tax agent have longer to lodge, as long as they are on their agent’s books by the end of October.

“We’re all busy and time can get away from us, but lodging your tax return on time is really important,” says Ms Wong. “Leaving it until the last minute comes with the risk that you cut corners, get things wrong and don’t submit your return accurately.

You could ultimately receive a less favourable outcome as a result.

“If submitting yourself through myGov, make sure you check the pre-filled information is correct, and don’t just copy and paste the same deductions as last year.

If you do miss the deadline, Ms Wong says to contact the ATO as soon as possible.

World Class Bush Art Trail Complete After 13 Years

October 24, 2024 By Roxane Manley

The recent unveiling of ‘Brumbies Run’ by Brett Mon Garling, the final sculpture completing the Sculpture Down the Lachlan trail after 13 years.

What’s 100km long, took 13 years, and features brumbies, goannas, birds and lovable dogs?

After 13 years in the making, the worldclass public art trail ‘Sculpture Down the Lachlan’ is complete with the final work ‘Brumbies Run’ by Brett Garling installed.

Featuring 25 installations over 100 km from Forbes to Condobolin in Central NSW, the bush’s version of Bondi’s ‘Sculpture by the Sea’, attracts thousands of road-trippers who marvel at the quirky and unique largerthan-life artworks which follow the Lachlan River along the Lachlan Valley Way road.

‘Brumbies Run’ is a bronze sculpture located at Warroo Reserve off Lachlan Valley Way. It features wild horses running, kicking, flaring nostrils and leaping, and represents the freedom, spirit and enthusiasm of so many Australians.

The trail launched in 2011 and aimed to celebrate the diversity of the rural community, its artistic edge, culture, people and stories. Over the years it has gained international recognition with visitors enjoying the trail, nestled amongst golden grasses and majestic red river gums.

Other recent installations are ‘Waiting for the Rain’ by Jimmy Rix (April 2024) and ‘Between the Silence’ by Clancy Warner (May 2023). Plus, don’t miss Stephen King’s the ‘Tower’, the original ‘amazing’ sign at Forbes, a 12-metre steel goanna ‘Varanus’ and the 6-metre ‘Heart of Country’.

The brainchild of Sculpture Down the Lachlan is local artist Rosie Johnston who was unrelenting in her passion to see art embedded in nature by some of Australia’s leading creatives.

At the end of the Sculpture Down the Lachlan trail, travellers will find themselves at Condobolin’s iconic ‘Utes in the Paddock’.

The unique collection of 20 Holden Utes is such a drawcard that Lachlan Shire Council constructed its new Visitor Information Centre at the site.

For more information you can contact the friendly staff at Amazing Forbes NSW

Communities Urged To Take Extra Care As Risk Of Thunderstorm Asthma Increases

October 24, 2024 By Roxane Manley

People prone to respiratory conditions like asthma or hayfever are being urged to take extra care ahead of predicted thunderstorm activity across Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD).

Each year from around mid-October to mid-November, asthma and hayfever sufferers may be at greater risk of severe symptoms due to high pollen counts, and weather conditions like those are predicted across the region in coming weeks.

Western NSW Local Health District Public Health Physician, Dr Victor Carey, is urging people with asthma or breathing problems, and those impacted by hayfever in spring, to take extra precautions when thunderstorms are expected.

“People should be alert, not alarmed. It is incredibly important for people to be aware they could be at risk. Airborne pollens are at their highest levels at this time of year,” Dr Carey said.

“Thunderstorms can cause pollen grains to explode and release fine particles which can be inhaled more deeply into the lungs.

Even people who don’t have asthma should take extra precautions during thunderstorm season.

“Anyone with diagnosed asthma should be proactively managing their symptoms.

Carry your asthma medication with you at all times during high-risk periods and make sure your family, school and workplace has a copy of your asthma management plan.

Breathing difficulties can be life threatening. In the event of a breathing emergency dial Triple Zero (000) immediately.

More information can be found on the NSW Health website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/thunderstorm-asthma.aspx

Community Impact: Parkes Return And Earn

October 24, 2024 By Roxane Manley

A big thank you to the Parkes Shire community for your involvement in the Return and Earn container deposit scheme – you are making a difference!

With every bottle, can, and carton you recycle, you’re not only reducing litter but also earning along the way, helping keep our environment clean and putting money back into the community.

You can find three return points in the Parkes Shire, including: Parkes Metroplaza 299 Clarinda St (Machine), the newest return point at Parkes Services Club (machine) and Peak Hill Caravan Park at 2 Ween St (over the counter).

Machines offer you cash vouchers, electronic payment (via the Return and Earn app) or the option to donate. Over the Counter sites offer you cash refunds and some offer the opportunity to donate.

Not all bottles, cans and cartons are included in Return and Earn. Remember, even if a container isn’t eligible for a Return and Earn refund, it can still be recycled through your household recycling collection, offering a 10c refund to consumers for depositing eligible drink containers.

Calculate the impact of yourself, your school, or business, visit: https://returnandearn.org.au/

Mamma Mia, Here We Go Again

October 17, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Make sure to have cash on hand before arriving—ATMs will be limited, and we don’t want you to miss out on the fun.

Parkes Shire Council is excited to announce the F-ABBA-LOUS lineup for the 2024 Trundle ABBA Festival, returning on Saturday 19th October.

As Australia’s only and original ABBA festival, this year’s Trundle ABBA Festival will be bigger and better than ever, featuring a spectacular array of performances that will have fans dancing the afternoon and night away. Headlining the festival is the worldrenowned ABBA tribute band, Bjorn Again.

These super troupers are back by popular demand after their sensational performance last year, bringing us all ABBA’s greatest hits.

This year’s festival marks the 10th anniversary of Trundle ABBA Festival and the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s historic Eurovision win with “Waterloo.” Join us for a day of F-ABBA-LOUS fun as we celebrate the music and magic of ABBA in the charming regional town of Trundle. Joining the lineup are: Furnace and the Fundamentals, Disco Revolution, Andante Andante Choir and DJ DiggzGeneral Manager of Parkes Shire Council, Kent Boyd, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “The Trundle ABBA Festival was created by the Trundle community, from humble beginnings it is now a landmark event for our whole community and beyond. We are thrilled to be celebrating the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s Eurovision win in such a spectacular fashion.

“With this year’s incredible lineup and the continued support from ABBA fans worldwide, Trundle is set to shine brighter than ever. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Trundle for a day of music, dancing, and unforgettable memories,” Mr Boyd said.

Tickets for the 2024 Trundle ABBA Festival are on sale now bit.ly/ABBAtickets2024.

For information, visit www.trundleabbafestival.com.au or contact the Parkes Visitor Information Centre on 02 6862 6000. Trundle ABBA Festival is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

The Future Of Housing For Parkes Assured

October 17, 2024 By Cr Neil Westcott

Parkes Shire Council has recently purchased the 330-hectare property Harrowvale, to commence designing a future residential suburb. We anticipate the land purchase will be funded by future industrial land sales and will not be activated until existing residential land is significantly taken-up.

Harrowvale is situated on the eastern edge of Parkes, between Henry Parkes Way (Orange Road), Military Road and Cookamidgera Road. It has quality arable soil, slopes gently from east to west and is predominantly above major flooding levels. The location of Parkes on the national transport network is an unassailable fact and has driven the NSW Government investment in the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (SAP). It is forecast that the SAP has the potential to create up to 3,000 jobs across a range of industries over the next 30 years, particularly, Freight and Logistics, Warehousing, Value-add agriculture, Plant based meat substitutes, Innovative Grains, Cold-Chain Logistics, Resource recovery and recycling, E-Waste Recycling, Plastics Recycling, Renewable energy, Critical minerals and Data Centres.

The State Government is progressing industrial development in the SAP and has a potential of over a billion dollars of investment over the next five years in leading edge energy and recycling technology, right on the edge of Parkes. It is important to ensure there is suitable land to meet the needs of our existing community, looking for their first home, seeking to upsize or moving to downsize existing homes.

By Cr Neil Westcott
Mayor of Parkes Shire

Music Industry Mixer In Forbes

October 17, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Music NSW and Arts OutWest will host a Music Industry Mixer to bring together people in the music scene in the Forbes and Parkes area.

Head along for networking on Thursday 23 October 6pm to 7.30pm at the Vandenberg Hotel Forbes.

This event is led by MusicNSW Regional Coordinator for the Central West, Outback and West Darling regions, Sophie Jones.

Join Sophie and Arts OutWest’s Kylie Shead for an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and explore opportunities in your local music scene. Let these organisations know who you are and what you do.

Local bands and independent artists, venues and others in the live performance and recording industry have been invited.

No need to book, just turn up.

Working with regional arts development organisations like Arts OutWest, the Regional Music Coordinator delivers development, builds relationships between local industry and artists, and provides support for regional musicians, venues and live music professionals to grow regional touring.

Sophie Jones is an experienced touring musician, one half of the duo Smith & Jones.

If you can’t make it to the Mixer you can book a one-to-one chat with Sophie Jones via sophie@musicnsw.com

Australian Summer

October 17, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Little bodies sprinting through sprinklers on the lawn. Shady swimming holes in the local creek. A bag of mixed lollies from the pool canteen, the smell of chlorine and hot chips wafting through the hot afternoon air. The heat is fast approaching us and so much of our lives revolve around water.

Last year, in a neighbour’s pool, my son swam for the first time. He kicked his little legs and managed, somehow, to get across the pool unaided. For the first time in what felt like his lifetime, I breathed deeply.

He had learnt how to move through the water and get to the edge independently.

The very infancy of a lifetime of being able to swim. His little face was radiant. The red circle google marks only accentuating his beaming smile.

I want my son to thrive in an Australian summer. To jump with glee into the shady creek hole with his friends. To swim across the local pool with pace when he sees the hot chips arrive. To feel the thrill of moving through the water to play ‘classic catch’. To burn some teenage energy by following the black line up and down during swim training.

To learn to swim: for safety, for confidence, for exercise and most importantly – for fun.

We are excited to offer our community swimming lessons with our fully qualified swimming teachers this summer commencing 4th November 2024 in Forbes and Parkes. You can book your child’s place by phoning our reception on 0437 749 746.

Head to our website for more information.

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