Articles Archives - Page 8 of 436

Mark 2 May On Your Calendar For The 2026 Trundle Abba Festival

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Get ready for glitter, groove and good times at the 2026 Trundle ABBA Festival presented by Trundle & District Progress Association. The duo behind the Festival’s inception, Gary Crowley and his wife will be back on deck coordinating the event this year, following their successful involvement during the first 10 years of the Festival.

Festival highlights will include International ABBA tribute sensation ABBASBACK®, returning with a full orchestra and choir. There will be a world dancing record attempt to Dancing Queen and Waterloo – right here in Trundle, and an exclusive sneak peek of Parkes M&D’s new smash hit, Sister Act.

The I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do wedding vow renewals will be led by Parkes’ very own musical minister, Rev Craig Bland accomanied by a choir. Enter the singing competition, with the top three finalists performing live on the main stage, or strut your stuff down Trundle’s main street in the Fashions of the Festival catwalk competition.

The festival features a stellar live music lineup, including the legendary Handpicked band featuring Orange’s most prominent rock musicians, plus local crowd-favourites and rising stars Easy Goin’ and Dirty Dark Horses – get down and giddy up!The 2026 ABBA Festival kicks off on 2 May at 11am and finishes up at 8pm. Festival goers are then encouraged to continue the festivities by enjoying entertainment provided by the Trundle Services Club who will have a cracking band and also the Trundle Hotel.

Tickets are now on sale so head to the website for information www.trundleabbafestival.com.au

Snippets…

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Welcome Year 7 2026 Red Bend Catholic College.

Red Bend Catholic College: Day 1 for 2026, and it was a fantastic day welcoming Year 7 students to the College.

NSW Government – Free Learn To Swim Classes: Those who are the most at-risk of drowning including people from lowincome households, multicultural communities, First Nations people and people in regional areas can access 10 free swimming lessons at participating providers. These lessons will not only save lives, but help build community and lifelong skills. Find your local program and dive in bit.ly/NSWLearnToSwim

The March Charge: Ready to feel good and do good this March? Join Cancer Council’s The March Charge and walk 85km. Join an amazing community and fundraise for life-saving cancer research. Sign up today: https://www.themarchcharge.com.au/

Office For Youth: Applications are now open for the NSW Government’s Holiday Break Autumn and/or Winter 2026 program. Applicants are encouraged to design high quality, fun and engaging activities for the exclusive participation of young people aged 12-24 years. Applicants can deliver the activities in the autumn and/or winter holidays. Eligible organisations can apply for $1,500–$10,000, which can be split across the autumn and/or winter school holidays. Please email grants@officeforyouth.nsw.gov.au with any questions, or find out more by visiting nsw.gov.au/HolidayBreak.

Cancer Council NSW: It’s more than a night in – it’s a moment to support the women who matter most. Get your friends together, stay in, and fundraise for people affected by cancer. Make it fun. Make it meaningful. Make it happen. Sign up now. www.doitforcancer.com.au/event/a-girls-night-in

Your Mental Health Matters Just As Much As Your Physical Health: Looking after your mental health doesn’t have to mean big changes. It can start with something simple, like checking in with yourself or someone you care about. Staying connected, keeping active, and reaching out when you need support can make a big difference. If things feel hard, you don’t have to wait. Support is available 24/7 across NSW: Call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 (free and confidential) or Visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/support

Parkes High School Welcome Year 7 2026: We were so thrilled to see all of Year 7 start their High School journey.

Welcome Year 7 2026 Parkes High School.

School Is Back – Remember Road Safety

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

The new school year has resumed for thousands of local students in Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are reminding local drivers and parents about children’s safety around schools.

The Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said that road crashes account for over half of all accidental deaths among children aged 5-14 years old.

“Children are vulnerable road users. They are at risk in the traffic environment because of their size, their inability to judge speed and distance, as well as the fact that they may behave unpredictably.”

“Drivers are reminded to slow down, pay extra attention and be patient when schoolresumes as there are more cars, buses and cyclists on the road and young pedestrians crossing the streets. Over the long summer break it is easy to forget just how busy and congested the streets around schools can get.”

Obey the parking signs around schools.

They are there to keep children safe. There are 40km/h school speed zones around all schools in NSW. Most school zones are operational between 8am – 9.30am and 2.30pm – 4pm on school days, when the lights are flashing.

Advanced Warning Signs Rolled Out At Rail Level Crossings

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Wandary Road advance warning signage.

New advanced warning signs have been installed at rail level crossings aimed at improving road safety. The new signage is designed to reduce the risk of collisions and near misses at level crossings by increasing motorist awareness.

The upgraded signage can now be seen at key approaches, including Wandary Lane, Herbert Street and several other locations across the Forbes Shire.

Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said, “Safety is our top priority. These new warning signs are a simple but effective way to protect drivers at rail crossings. We encourage everyone to stay alert and take extra care when approaching these areas.”

‘The Naked Artist Journey’ Explores Creative Self Expression

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Maralyn Nash’s book ‘The Naked Artist Journey – 7 Steps to peel back the layers & rediscover your joy through art & creative selfexpression’ is the story of her life through art, adventurous travel and art therapy.

“The inspiration to write this book originated from a long ago travel memory as a hippie in the medieval kingdom of 1970s Kathmandu and discovering a very magical book on mandalas in a bookshop tucked away in a winding laneway off Durbar Square.”

“After art school, non-western art, spirituality and a bohemian lifestyle became my artist’s muse with an exotic array of adventurous journeys throughout India, Africa, Egypt, Greece and the Pacific Islands,” said Maralyn.

Forming a creative backdrop for the rest of her book, Maralyn has written expressively on the early days of being a pioneering Art Therapist in Sydney, taking the reader on many twists and throughout, overcoming numerous challenges in later life.

Maralyn has further divided her book into seven sections to represent the seven chakra mandalas with a series of art therapy creativity exercises to inspire the reader on their own creative, healing journey.

Check out Maralyn’s website link below for information to book her upcoming workshops at the Marramarra Maker Space, Parkes Library, Introduction to Art Therapy’ on Saturday 7 February 10am-3pm and ‘Mandala Creation’ on Saturday 21 February 10am-3pm.

Join Maralyn at the Parkes Library on Wednesday 11 February 6-8pm for her upcoming Author Talk and book signing, showcasing her travel journals and selected artworks including a reading from her Indian travel experiences.

This is a free event, and bookings are essential to phone Parkes Library on 6861 2309 for catering purposes. Maralyns book ‘The Naked Artist Journey’ is also available at Inkwood & Ivy Bookstore in Parkes and at The Book Dispensary in Forbes. www.maralynnash.com.au

Back To School: Don’t Forget Their Eyes

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

As families prepare for the new school year, many parents work through the usual checklist: new shoes, new pencils, sticking labels on everything. But there’s one important item that’s often overlooked: an eye test.

Children’s vision plays a crucial role in learning, behaviour and confidence at school. Yet many kids don’t realise they have a vision problem. To them, the way they see the world is “normal,” even if the board is blurry or reading is uncomfortable. That’s why parents need to be strong advocates for their children’s eye care.

More children are becoming shortsighted than ever before. Compared to previous generations, today’s kids spend far more time doing close work, particular digital devices and far less time outdoors. This shift is contributing to a rise in vision problems at younger ages.

Undetected vision issues can quietly affect a child’s ability to concentrate, read, follow instructions and participate confidently in the classroom. They can also impact behaviour, as children who struggle to see may become frustrated, tired or disengaged. Often, these problems aren’t obvious, and it takes more than a parent’s keen eye to pick them up.

The good news is that early detection makes a real difference. Identifying vision problems early allows for timely treatment and better long-term outcomes, particularly as a child’s eyes are still developing.

We recommend a comprehensive eye test before starting kindergarten, and then every two years throughout school or sooner if concerns arise. As part of your back-to-school routine, adding an eye test to the checklist is a simple step that can have a lasting impact on your child’s learning and wellbeing. Book your child’s eye appointment on 6963 5577 or www.hansenoptom.com

New Anglican Minister Commissioned For Parkes And Peak Hill

February 5, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Reverend Steve Cimarosti pictured with hi wife Louise and children at the Parkes Radio Telescope.

The Anglican Parish of Parkes and Peak Hill will formally commission the Reverend Steve Cimarosti as its new minister at a special service on Saturday 7 February at 10.00am, to be held at St George’s Anglican Church, Parkes.

The commissioning marks the beginning of Steve’s ministry across the Parkes and Peak Hill communities. The service will be attended by parishioners, local clergy, and invited guests, and will include prayers, readings, and the formal commissioning by the Diocesan Bishop, Mark Calder.

Parish representatives have welcomed Mr Cimarosti’s appointment, noting his commitment to pastoral care, community engagement, and faith expressed through service.

Mr Cimarosti commented, “Louise and I are looking forward to meeting you and serving our Lord together with you!” Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the commissioning service and join in welcoming Steve, Lou and their family to the district.

Nedd Brockman Named 2026 Young Australian Of The Year

January 29, 2026 By Roxane Manley

“A young man inspiring millions through ultra marathon running to help solve homelessness” is how they describe Nedd Brockman. The Prime Minister announced Nedd Brockaman as the 2026 Young Australian of the Year in a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra.

At the 66th Australian of the Year Awards announcement, the award recipients were presented with a handcrafted glass trophy, a traditional Indigenous coolamon and clap sticks.

Nedd Brockmann had a goal – to run across Australia and inspire people to do more for themselves and the homeless. He wanted to do something to highlight homelessness, its complexities and prove that it’s solvable.

So, in 2022, he ran from Perth’s Cottesloe Beach to Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, completing a 3,952km journey over 46 days, and becoming the fastest ever Australian to do so. Nedd, now 27, raised over $2.6 million from over 37,000 individual contributors.

He went on to start Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge in 2024, and with his team, has raised over $8 million for those experiencing homelessness.

He also raises funds for his charity partner, Mobilise, to change lives through innovative programs to reduce the number of people sleeping rough. Find more info here https://wearemobilise.org.au/

Public nominations for the Australian of the Year Awards close on 31 July. If there’s someone you think should be considered for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards, you can nominate them now at australianoftheyear.org.au.

Snippets…

January 29, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Do you or your group need community funding? Apply now for assistance through the Forbes Shire Council Community Funding Program before it is too late.

Forbes Shire Council Community Funding Program Is Closing Soon: Applications for the next round of funding close this Saturday 31 January. Not-for-profit groups in Forbes can apply for up to $5,000 to support projects in: sport and recreation, culture and the arts, community services or rural village enhancement. A total of $150,000 is available across two roundsof funding each year. Find out more or apply: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community-funding-program. Need help with your application? Book an appointment by calling 02 6850 2300 or at community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Neighbourhood Central:Everyone should have their eyes checked every two years, but if you are having trouble with your eyes, are over 40, or have diabetes, you should get your eyes checked now. An Aboriginal Eye Health Clinic is being held Thursday 5 February. Contact Family Support on 6862 1872 for further information.

Primary Industries And Regional Development: The time is right for being safe and healthy while enjoying the sunshine.

The NSW Government has a collection of resources that will help you stay informed and prepared. The Hazards Near Me and

Fires Near Me apps have information on fire danger ratings, fires, floods and other warnings from NSW Rural Fire Service.

The Bureau of Meteorology app has all the latest forecasts. The Sun Smart app has information about UV ratings. Search Beat the Heat for information from NSW Health about heat-related illnesses and staying safe. Enjoy the sun and fun while staying safe.

NSW Road Safety: Is your child starting or changing schools this year? For safety tips to keep in mind as you start planning your childs new school journey, go to: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/community/schools/safety-around-schools.

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: The Trundle Bush Tucker Day is a not-for-profit group made up of a dedicated volunteer committee members. The profits each year are donated straight back to local and surrounding community groups who rely on these funds. Since the very first Trundle Bush Tucker Day in 1987, the committee has donated over $260,000 back into the Trundle community. The committee would like to thank everyone for their continued support of the annual Trundle Bush Tucker Day.

Save the date for the 39th Annual Trundle Bush Tucker Day, 5 September 2026.

New committee members are always welcome for the Trundle Bush Tucker Day. The next meeting will be held 4 February, 6.30pm at the Trundle Services and Citizens Club. Follow Trundle Bush Tucker Day on Facebook for updates.

2026 Community Recognition Awards

January 29, 2026 By Roxane Manley

Member for Orange Philip Donato MP hosted the Orange electorate’s annual Community Recognition Awards at the Australian National Field Days Function Centre, honouring the dedication and achievements of local individuals and organisations.

Ninety seven Recognition Award recipients were acknowledged for outstanding service to the community or for significant personal and professional accomplishments. Mr Donato personally presented certificates to each award recipient.

“Our region is built on the strength of its people, and these awards are about recognising those who give their time, skills and energy to make our community a better place,” Mr Donato said.

“Whether through volunteering, leadership, service or personal achievement, each recipient has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

Each certificate presented was formally endorsed with a speech delivered by Mr Donato in the NSW Parliament.

“Every year, this event highlights just how fortunate we are to live in a community where people genuinely care about one another.

“Many of those recognised go about their work quietly and without expectation of acknowledgement, which makes it especially important that their efforts are celebrated by the community they support.” Mr Donato said.

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