Articles Archives - Page 50 of 452

Resilient Homes Program Hits Next Stage Across Central West NSW

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Making the announcement at the Eugowra Showground is Deputy Mayor of Cabonne Council Jamie Jones, Janelle Saffin MP, Minister for Recovery, Member for Orange Phil Donato, and Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon.

Residents across the Central West of NSW impacted by the 2022 floods have begun to receive their free home assessment reports from the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s $40 million Resilient Homes Program.

Since applications for the Resilient Homes Program opened on 28 October 2024, the Reconstruction Authority has received 200 applications and undertaken 125 home assessments, with more to be scheduled.

The Resilient Homes Program supports resilience and safety so that people can continue to live in the communities they love. The program has three streams:

Home Buybacks – eligible homeowners in highest risk areas may receive a payment for the purchase of their home and land in areas that have a very high risk of future floods.

Resilient Measures – grant funding of between $50,000 and $100,000 to eligible homeowners to raise liveable areas of their home, relocate their home, rebuild a more resilient home or retrofit their home with more resilient materials and innovative design features.

Free Home Assessments – a flood resilience expert will help identify opportunities with eligible homeowners to increase the resilience of a home.

Eligibility for the Program takes people’s individual circumstances into account, with priority given to those facing additional barriers and challenges that could increase their vulnerability or risk in future flooding events.

For more information on the Resilient Homes Program in the Central West visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/resilient-homes-program-central-west or call the Reconstruction Authority Concierge Team on 1800 844 085

Snippets…

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Lewis Wilde will play Ben Hall in the upcoming play The Trial of Ben Hall, and Rodney Morrison will play the Sheriff.

Forbes Shire Council: Forbes Shire Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee will be performing The Trial of Ben Hall, a play written by Forbes solicitor Dominic Williams on Friday, 9 May at 6pm at the former St Andrews Church, Forbes. Don’t miss this chance to delve into the legend of Ben Hall and experience the trial he never had. It will be a fun night of history, drama, and community spirit that the whole family will enjoy! Secure your free tickets for a night to remember at www.123tix.com.au/events/47902/the-trial-of-ben-hall

Dolly’s Dream: Go blue on 9 May for Do It For Dolly Day – speaking up for young voices silenced by bullying, from bustling cities to the furthest corners of the outback.

From country towns to remote stations, we’ll paint our communities blue. We’ll bake, we’ll dress up, and we’ll stand united, because in rural Australia, we look after our own. Join us on 9 May for Do It For Dolly Day! Wear blue, raise awareness, and give a voice to those silenced by bullying. Every donation goes directly to Dolly’s Dream’s vital anti-bullying programs in schools across Australia, even in the most distant rural communities.

Kerin Health: Did you know Kerin Health are running four days of intensive swimming lessons these school holidays? There are limited spaces still available if you’re quick! Call reception on 0437 749 746 or book via their website: https://www.kerinhealth.com.au/swimming-lessons

NSW Government: Got five minutes? Your feedback can help shape how essential services are delivered in regional communities. Tell us what’s working and what could be improved. bit.ly/HYS-essential-services

50% Off Elvis Festival Merch: Now is your chance to grab official Parkes Elvis Festival merchandise for half the price! No code needed – discount applied automatically at checkout. But hurry, this offer is only valid until 30 April. Shop now: bit.ly/ShopPEF

The Wild Sows: An incredible $429,260 was raised by over 80 ladies as part of the 2025 Never Late Fe-mail Posite Bike Ride raising money for Wings4Kidz. The Wild Sows are proud to announce that we raised just over $44,500! We couldn’t have done this without the generous support of you, our community. There is still time to donate to Wings4Kidz to help our regional families

An amazing effort by The Wild Sows raising much needed fund for Wings4Kidz.

Let’s Get The Bush Connected This Election

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has called for commitments from all sides of politics to bridge the digital divide for rural and regional Australians in this election.

NFF President David Jochinke said that while significant investment has been made, we’re still a long way from fixing the rural and regional connectivity problem.

“Whether it’s calling for help in an emergency, coordinating logistics during harvest, or simply staying connected with loved ones – bush connectivity is not a luxury, it’s a lifeline,” Mr Jochinke said.

“Reliable connectivity is critical to keeping people outside major population centres safe and connected, both in times of natural disasters, and in daily farm life.”

Mr Jochinke said rural, regional and remote constituents deserved reliable and resilient connectivity, and he acknowledged productive discussions with telecommunication providers, but it’s time for the Federal Government to step up.

“This election, we’ve put all parties on notice: rural voters are tired of buffering, dropouts and excuses. They want to be connected” Mr Jochinke said.

The NFF has compiled a list of actions that would continue to improve bush connectivity.

The NFF’s Election Platform can be found here keepfarmersfarming.org.au

Peak Hill Community Luncheon And Information Session

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Volunteers should be proud of the wonderful contribution they provide to our communities.

On Wednesday 9 April, Parkes Meals On Wheels hosted a community luncheon and information session for their clients and residents at Peak Hill. The event was wellattended by Meals on Wheels clients, staff and board members, walk-in participants, local Council members, and hospital staff.

The wonderful team who catered for the event and also joined in the lovely day.

Some events truly highlight the importance of a service in a small country town, and this was one of those events. Elderly residents who attended the event spoke about the hardship they have accessing basic services, the extreme loneliness they suffer daily, and the struggles they face with every day life.

Meals on Wheels services across Australia promote that they are more than just a meal. Volunteers from all lines of work, provide such a valuable service to our communities. In Peak Hill, the phone call each week from our caring staff followed by a visit from the Meals on Wheels volunteers are the joy for some Meals On Wheels clients.

The simple small act of bringing someone a meal, and having a conversation is the highlight of their day, or even their week as they have no family in town, and no one who drops in for a cuppa. The Meals on Wheels team are always asking about their clienst well-being, while quietly ensuring that the person is ok, and then caring enough to report when that person isn’t coping.

On 21 May, Meals On Wheels will be celebrating Volunteers Week by hosting a morning tea at the Parkes Service Club.

The morning tea is their way of saying “thank you” to all of our amazing volunteers.

Protect Yourself Against The Flu Season

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Influenza is rising rapidly in Australia with more than 58,200 confirmed influenza cases already reported to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS) this year.

Health professionals warn the flu season is expected to peak earlier this year, with more than 22,400 confirmed cases in NSW, while the ACT has recorded more than 660 cases.

It’s a timely reminder for families and vulnerable members of the community to speak with healthcare providers about vaccination.

“The best time to get vaccinated is now, peak flu season is from June to September, so we want as many people as possible protected and vaccinated against influenza before that peak season hits to take pressure of our doctors and hospitals.”

“Quite often long weekends and school holidays are a time for family gatherings, you might be seeing the older relatives in your family, or those with babies, and we want to protect those individuals. It takes two weeks to get full protection from the vaccine so now is the opportune time.”

The flu vaccine is recommended for all Australians over six months of age[2] with modelling suggesting influenza cases may be higher than reported.

“Those who are at more risk of serious illness and hospitalisation have access to free flu vaccinations under the National Immunisation Program (NIP),” Lisa said.

Patients are encouraged to speak with their local pharmacist, or GP, to determine which vaccine is suitable and who qualifies for the NIP.

For information on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) visit: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/influenza-flu-vaccine

Applications Open For Parkes Shire Cultural Grants

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Local groups and organisations are encouraged to bring their creative ideas to life with the support of Parkes Shire Council’s 2025 Cultural Grants Program, opening on Thursday, 17 April 2025.

The annual program provides financial assistance to groups and organisations delivering artistic, musical and cultural initiatives that strengthen community development and contribute to the rich cultural life of the Parkes Shire. Grants of at least $2,000 are available, with a total funding pool of $10,000. Applications close 5pm on Friday, 23 May 2025.

Parkes Shire Council’s Manager Cultural, Education and Library Services, Kerryn Jones, encourages local groups to consider how their projects could benefit from a Cultural Grant.

“In 2024, we saw a fantastic range of projects funded, from children’s pottery workshops to cultural cooking demonstrations and a local poetry night,” said Ms Jones.

Demmi Watt from Trundle Bush Tucker Day Inc highlighted the impact on their event. “The Cultural Grant enabled us to host three free cooking demonstrations with Famous Australian Bush Cook Ranger Nick at the 2024 Trundle Bush Tucker Day.

The annual Cultural Grants Program aims to increase cultural activity in the community, encourage innovative creative events and workshops, help artists, crafters and musicians develop their skills, and provide funds to maintain or develop facilities.

To learn more about the program and apply, visit www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Community/Grants-and-funding/Councils-Grants-Programs or contact Council’s Manager of Cultural, Education & Library Services on (02) 6861 2338.

If you would like help with your grant application, please contact Council’s Grants Team at grants@parkes.nsw.gov.au

World-class Performers In The Heart Of Canowindra

April 16, 2025 By Roxane Manley

The Canowindra International Balloon Festival is renowned for its stunning hot air balloons and community spirit, but this year, the festival promises to soar even higher with the Home Ground Sounds Concert. Taking place on Friday, 2 May, at the Canowindra Oval, this electrifying event will feature some of Australia’s top musical talent, ensuring an unforgettable night for concert-goers.

Headlining the concert is Casey Barnes, a multi-award-winning Australian country music artist. With his impressive vocal range and captivating performances, Casey has earned his place as one of the country’s most respected talents. His chart-topping hits and energetic stage presence will undoubtedly light up the evening.

Joining Casey on stage are Furnace and the Fundamentals, the ultimate party band known for their high-octane performances.

Fresh from their UK tour, Furnace and the Fundamentals have played some of the world’s largest music festivals, and now they’re bringing their signature blend of funk, soul, and rock to Canowindra. Get ready for a show filled with infectious energy and non-stop dancing.

Also featured is Nathan Lamont, an up-and-coming star in the Australian country music scene. Known for his heartfelt lyrics and powerful performances, Nathan is making waves across the industry and will bring a fresh, exciting sound to the concert.

Bring your chairs, picnic rugs, organise a Grazing Box from IGA and come along for a great night out. There is a licensed bar on site and there is strictly no BYO or glass permitted into the concert.

Gates open at 5pm with the concert kicking off at 6:30pm. Hosted by Roundbox Group, this is a must-attend event for anyone looking to enjoy world-class music in the heart of Canowindra.

Forbes Rallies For A 24-hour Police Presence

April 10, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Members of the Forbes Neighborhood Watch Committee met with Member for Orange Phil Donato MP at his Forbes office, on Thursday 3 April, to hand over a petition filled with 2,760 handwritten signatures asking for a 24-hour Police Station and extra police for Forbes.

Mr Donato was grateful for the hard work put in by the committee to collect the signatures, unfortunately a petition needs 10,000 signatures in order to be debated in Parliament. However, the fact that this petition has over 500 signatures, means it will cause a written response from the Police Minister.

Mr Donato said, “Forbes is a considerable sized regional town which deserves to have a 24-hour police presence to ensure community safety.”

Neighbourhood Watch relies entirely on volunteers working together with the aim of minimising preventable crime, improving security and reporting crime activity. The Forbes Branch had been holding regular committee meetings and had been in operation in excess of 30 years.

President of the Forbes Branch, Lyn Ward has sadly announced, “Forbes Neighbourhood Watch has folded due to a lack of members. Forbes residents have been rightly concerned about the rate of crime and the lack of police presence in the evenings, but after being unsuccessful in attracting new members, the previous committee consisted of a handful of members, the eldest being 96 years and the youngest in their late 60’s.

Both Lyn Ward and Phil Donato want the Forbes community to stay vigilant and keep reporting crime and any suspicious activity.

Snippets…

April 10, 2025 By Roxane Manley

There is something for everyone to get involved in during Youth Week 2025.

Forbes Youth Action Team: We are so excited to celebrate Youth Week 2025 with an awesome line-up of events and activities happening across Forbes during Youth Week and the April school holidays. From workshops and creative sessions to fun social events and hangouts. This is your time to connect, create and celebrate what makes young people in our community so amazing. To register go to: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community/community-services-and-information/families-and-youth-services/youth-programs

Parkes Shire Council: With Easter, school holidays, and Anzac Day all in April, our roads will be busier than ever. Parkes, Forbes, and Lachlan Shire Councils, alongside NSW Police, are urging all road users to take extra care. Double demerits apply for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone, and helmet offences apply druing the following periods: Easter 17-21 April Anzac Day 2427 April. Expect extra police patrols focusing on speeding, drink and drug driving, seatbelts, fatigue, and distractions. Stay alert, obey the road rules, and drive to conditions. Read more at: bit.ly/4cgrdIn

Rural Women’s Network: The Hidden Treasures Honour Roll for 2025 is now open. Established in 2010 the Honour Roll has to date enshrined 1,348 women and girls as a lasting acknowledgement of their volunteer work. Whether it’s a family member, friend, colleague, community leader or yourself, now is the perfect time to nominate unsung heroes who go above and beyond. Find out more, check the eligibility criteria and nominate a volunteer in your life today to shine a light on their incredible contributions at: hiddentreasures.awardsplatform.com

R U OK? April is Stress Awareness Month. Someone that you know could be dealing with stress or going through a difficult time. Financial pressures, relationship difficulties, change at work or home, parenting struggles, health issues and grief can all take a toll. Check in with the people in your life. Talking things through can really help. For conversation tips, visit ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

PCYC Parkes: Book a Safer Drivers Course this School Holidays in Parkes on 23 April and Forbes on 14 April. In just five hours, get 20 hours off your log book and get one step closer to your P-plates Fully funded spots available for the Parkes Course, simply email the club for a voucher number: parkes@pcycnsw.org.au.

Parkes Energy Recovery Drop In Sessions Have Begun

April 10, 2025 By Roxane Manley

Locals from Parkes and Forbes and the surrounds, are invited to a Drop in Sessions being run by Parkes Energy Recovery, a consortium led by Tribe Infrastructure Group, to discuss their proposed Parkes Energy Recovery facility in the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (Parkes Precinct). The drop in sessions began at The Cooke Park Pavillion on Thursday 10 April and will continue on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 from 8am – 5pm.

The proposed facility will divert an estimated 600,000 tonnes of waste per annum from landfill and generate at least 60 megawatts of energy – enough to power 80,000 homes per year.

The consortium will now begin the process of wide community engagement and the planning and environmental approvals process for the facility that it will design, fund, own and operate on land leased from RGDC (Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation). If you have questions, concerns or are interested in knowing more information, then Council encourages residents to participate in the community engagement opportunities led by Parkes Energy Recovery. For information on the proposed facility, visit www.parkesenergy.com.au info@parkesenergy.com.au or call 02 8405 7915.

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