NSW Government: If you’re storing fuel at home, only store small quantities. Fuel vapours are highly flammable, it is best to keep only what you need for things like the mower or generator. Overbuying for any reason or use means friends, neighbours and regional communities could go with­out. Find out more about fuel security nsw.gov.au/fuel

Sheep Producers Australia: From con­cept to on-farm decisions, through the Green Sheep Project, Glenelg Hopkins CMA is helping producers understand their natural capital, improve grazing systems and access future market opportunities.

Need more Green Sheep Project informa­tion? Register for the Sheep Producers Australia newsletter: https://www.sheep­producers.com.au/updates

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council advises there will be temporary road closures and parking restrictions in place for the Light Up Parkes Event and Fireworks Display on Saturday, 18 April 2026. Affected areas include parts of Clar­inda Street and nearby carparks/laneways in the CBD. View the closure details here: bit.ly/4tuoHpo or contact Council on 02 6861 2333.

Cancer Council’s Do It For Cancer: Get fit and raise funds with just 31 minutes of exercise a day throughout the month of May. To support Aussies impacted by can­cer sign up today to the F Cancer Fitness Challenge at www.doitforcancer.com.au/event/f-cancer-fitness-challenge.

The Forbes Inn: The Forbes Inn is now serving dinner 7 nights a week at Sylo. Head along for a relaxed evening, great food and good company.

Landcare Australia: Want to receive the next Landcare in Focus newsletter straight to your inbox? Subscribe to get your copy of this online publication and read inspir­ing stories from across the landcare move­ment. Subscribe today: https://landcar­eaustralia.org.au/subscribe/

R U OK?: You can care deeply and still worry about getting it wrong. But being there for someone isn’t about having the perfect words or solutions to their chal­lenges. It’s about giving them the space to talk about what they’re going through and reminding them they’re not alone. For tips on how to have supportive conversations visit: ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Improved Access To Lake Endeavour: Parkes Shire Council advises that Lake Endeavour will be closed to the public from Monday, 13 April 2026 while works are un­dertaken to deepen the launch channel. No access to the dam during construction. Road closure at the intersection of Lake Endeavour Road & Bindogundra Road. Expected reopening: 9 May 2026 (weather permitting). This important upgrade will improve safety, accessibility, and usability. Read the full media release here: https://bit.ly/4skURCV

Philip Donato MP: Successive govern­ments have failed to invest in the roadway infrastructure to future-proof our region. Yet this single fragile corridor still carries over 12,000 vehicles a day. When it fails, the re­gion fails with it. With the indefinite closure of the Great Western Highway, we are left with a dangerous detour which has proven vulnerable to closure, further impacting our region’s vital connectivity with Sydney and eastern seaboard. Phil’s message is “We cannot rely on a single, outdated route across the mountains. It’s time to invest. It’s time to connect. It’s time to future-proof regional NSW.” Sign the petition https://shorturl.at/GKly8

Forbes Library School Holiday Activi­ties: Join us at Forbes Library to discover the vibrant world of DIY by knotting friend­ship bracelets and mastering the rhythmic charm of French Knitting. We will make a simple friendship bracelet with a spe­cial weaving tool, and then make our own French Knitting loom to get started with a special project. All materials will be provid­ed. This activity is designed for ages 8+. Forbes Library, Friday 17 April 10.30am – 11.30am. Free. To book your spot go to: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1986487616937

Proposed Energy from Waste Facili­tiesPublic Forum: The proposed Energyfrom-Waste facility at Parkes continues to raise serious concerns across our com­munity and it’s critical that local voices are heard. The NSW Parliament’s Select Com­mittee on Proposed Energy from Waste Facilities will be in Parkes on 13–14 April, providing an important opportunity for residents to have their say directly. Public Forum. Many in our region are question­ing why regional communities should take on metropolitan waste—particularly in an agricultural area like Parkes. I encourage anyone with an interest in this issue to at­tend, have your say, and ensure our com­munity’s voice is clearly heard. Register to attend via www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/listofcommittees/Pages/com­mittee-details.aspx?pk=337

Parkes Dragon Boat Club: What a lovely time was had on Lake Endeavour introduc­ing dragon boating to a great group of kids from Trundle Central. Beth coached the crew, while Linda swept and Chrisso and Pelcho came to help out. The group of year 6 to year 12 students enjoyed the range of drills and the fun of the session, with lots of smiles and laughter throughout the pad­dle. “They really are among the best of any group of students I’ve ever coached!’ said Beth. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with them and their teachers.”

Canowindra International Balloon Chal­lenge: The Canowindra International Bal­loon Challenge kicks off with the Welcome Street Party and BBQ Competition on Saturday the 11 April. There are a host of events during Balloon Week, including dai­ly balloon launches, a trivia night, paint and sip, fashion show, flickerfest and open gar­dens. The final weekend kicks off with the Home Ground Sounds: Friday Night Live concert headlined by party band Furnace And The Fundamentals on Friday the 17th of April. Balloon Week culminates with the Cabonne Community Glow on Saturday the 18th of April, with market stalls, live mu­sic, food trucks and of course, glowing hot air balloons. Details on the website Canow­indra International Balloon Challenge.

Central West Police District: Do you own a private e-scooter? E‑scooters are treated as motor vehicles, and they can’t be rid­den on roads or footpaths. Please keep in mind – Riding an e‑scooter on the road or footpath can lead to fines or even a court appearance. If your child rides one in a road‑related area, you may also be fined.

Most importantly, we want everyone to stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks. So, be­fore you buy or jump on a private e-scoot­er, check the current rules in NSW. https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/road-users/e-scooters

Forbes Riverside Community Gardens: On Saturday, 28 March Forbes Riverside Community Gardens held a free compost and worm farm workshop and free sau­sage sizzle, on their flash new BBQ, do­nated by FBS Handicraft shop. There was also a lucky door prize of a recycled worm farm with worms – winners Gail and Tom are ready to put the new found knowledge to the test. Come down and support your Community Garden at 59-71 Reymond St Forbes.

Henry Parkes Centre Open Day – Satur­day 11 April: Join the team on Saturday 11 April, 9am-3pm for a fantastic day of free museum entry, live music, a community BBQ, kids activities, local produce tastings and more. Bring the whole family and enjoy a great day out celebrating one of Parkes’ most iconic attractions!

Forbes Show: Did you know the Forbes Showground is privately owned and oper­ated by the Forbes PA&H Association? Un­like many showgrounds across NSW that are owned by local councils. This means the maintenance, improvements, and run­ning of the grounds rely heavily on volun­teers, fundraising, events, and the support of our local community. Every event held at the grounds, including the Forbes Show, markets, and community activities helps contribute to the upkeep and future of this important local facility. Thank you to every­one who supports the Forbes PA&H.

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: The national cooking competition is back, so dust off those camp ovens, dig through the fam­ily recipes, perfect your secret ingredients and get ready for the 39th National Bush Tucker Day Cook Off. To purchase early bird tickets and to book camping at Trundle Showground go to: https://linktr.ee/trundlebushtuckerday

Red Bend Catholic College: Red Bend Catholic College recently held thier annual Open Day, providing a fantastic opportunity to showcase the school grounds, classes, activities and students. Families travelled from all over NSW to participate. Enrol­ments for next year close 1 April, and you can find more information at www.redbend­cc.nsw.edu.au/enrolments

Generocity Church Parkes: It is not long now until the annual Easter Egg Hunt and Church Service at Cooke Park. This is one of the highlights of the year, so bring your family and friends along. Generos­ity Church Parkes are still collecting small Easter eggs for the day, so please consider purchasing a few to drop off, at church, on Sunday.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes: In this week of the autumn equinox, we’d like to take a moment to appreciate the beauty of our landscape, here in the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes. We are honoured to provide social services here. Our support: parents and children, mental health and wellbeing, families & relationships, home­lessness and domestic violence and finan­cial counselling. Call on 1800 067 067 to find out more.

Parkes Leagues Club: Parkes Leagues Club is proud to continue supporting the next generation of Rugby League players in our community, with a $10,000 donation to The Parkes Marist Junior Rugby League.

Supporting local sporting groups is some­thing the Parkes Leagues Club is passion­ate about, and they’re proud to help ensure these organisations can continue to grow, develop young talent and provide great op­portunities for local kids.

NSW Reconstruction Authority: Don’t let outstanding efforts go unnoticed. If you have been inspired by a resilience pro­ject, refer them to AIDR to enter the Re­silient Australia Award across 8 categories: community, business, government, local government, school, photography, mental health and wellbeing, and research for im­pact. Information at www.aidr.org.au/raa

Parkes & Forbes Upcoming Safe Drivers Courses: Safer Drivers Courses will be held in Parkes on 28 March and 17 April, Forbes on 10 April. The course teaches young drivers strategies so they can drive solo with more confidence. Participants must be under 25 years of age, hold a cur­rent learners permit, have 50 hours on their log book. Those who hold a concession card may be eligible to pay nothing. Book­ings at: pcycdrivereducation.org.au

Multicultural NSW: Help your creative kids celebrate Harmony Week and Multi­cultural March with new printable colouring sheets. They can colour in a shared meal, discover beautiful flowers from around the world, and even learn how to say “hello” in different languages. Download the colour­ing sheets and start the fun at multicultural.nsw.gov.au/colouring-sheets-for-kids/

Western Local Land Services: Rates no­tices from the NSW Government’s Local Land Services will be in your mailbox soon.

To better understand your rates notice, visit https://bit.ly/3NRsRbl If you require further assistance, the customer service team is available to help on 1300 795 299.

Life Pharmacy Forbes: This March Life Pharmacy Forbes is proud to support the Share the Dignity Drive. Life Pharmacy Forbes is an official drop-off point, and the community is invited to get involved. Do­nate essential period products and help support women and girls experiencing period poverty. Every contribution makes a real difference. Drop your donations in-store throughout March, help support those in need and share the dignity with some­one in our community.

R U OK? Sometimes the kindest thing you can say to someone who has had a tough day is, “That sucks. Want to talk about it?”. Avoid dismissing and instead acknowledge how hard it may be and give them the op­portunity to vent.

Parkes Shire Council: Under 25 and live in Parkes? Join our panel and be the first to help shape council decisions! Young peo­ple haven’t always had a voice in local de­cision-making – we’re changing that. Join Parkes Shire’s People’s Panel and share your views through short, online surveys on issues that affect your future. Join the People’s Panel: bit.ly/3ZTWqfp

Central West Police District: Online grooming starts with chats, games and compliments. Protect your child and learn more www.esafety.gov.au/protecting-chil­dren or thinkuknow.org.au Have info? Tip us off in confidence nsw.crimestoppers.com.au or 1800 333 000 Help protect our kids online.

Red Bend Catholic College: You’re invit­ed to our annual Open Day on Sunday, 22 March. Come along for a tour of the school, between 10am and 1pm. RSVP: https://shorturl.at/zVlTb

NSW Government: Drought-affected farmers across the state can now get more help including bigger loans and a new loan that is easier to access. The new loan in­cludes reduced documentation require­ments, more flexible security options, and an upfront payment option to help get funds sooner. Support services also include free feed and water testing, and help with pest control. Learn more: bit.ly/loans-drought

Trundle ABBA Festival: Dust off the flares, warm up those vocal cords and start practising those dance moves, because Trundle is getting ready to say “Thank You for the Music!” Get ready for an epic music lineup with ABBASBACK – the interna­tional ABBA tribute sensation, Handpicked, Dirty Dark Horses and Easy Goin’. Plus: food trucks, drinks, sweet treats, sneak peek of Parkes M&D’s Sister Act. Don’t miss the action on 2 May, Forbes St, Trun­dle. Tickets at: trundleabbafestival.123tix.com.au/events

Landcare Australia: 2026 State and Ter­ritory Landcare Awards are now open. Do you know an environmental leader, out­standing group or organisation that de­serves an award in your region? Start your free nomination before 31 July 2026. Learn more: https://ow.ly/XIHS50YpZqX

Parkes Shire Council People’s Panel: Parkes Shire Council is inviting residents aged 15 years and over to join the Parkes Shire People’s Panel – an online commu­nity panel designed to help guide the future direction of the Shire through. By joining the People’s Panel, residents will be invited to share their views through short, online surveys on services and places that mat­ter to everyday life in Parkes Shire. If you would like to join the People’s Panel, regis­ter via the link below: https://survey.places­core.org/s3/parkes-panel-form

NSW Aboriginal Land Council: NSWALC is excited to announce the 2026-2027 round of its Regional Event Grants are now open. These grants aim to support Abo­riginal organisations and events to support and promote Aboriginal culture or sporting achievements. For more information and to apply, head to the Regional Events page https://alc.org.au/regional-event-grants/

NSW Department of Education: Every public-school student in NSW can now ac­cess opportunities to pursue their talents and potential with the Inspire program, roll­ing out high potential and gifted education (HPGE) offerings in every public school. All high potential and gifted opportunities are now listed on school websites, making it easy for parents and carers to see what’s on offer.

CUC Parkes: Coffee Club is running throughout March, and we will be visiting two local cafés as part of our fortnightly morning catch‑ups. These sessions run from 9am to 10am, and we will purchase a beverage of your choice. Coffee Club is open to registered CUC students, CUC Alumni, and community members who are interested in learning more about the CUC.

March dates and locations are:

• 6 March at Be Café

• 9 March at Roasted Kombi (Outback Kombi)

• 20 March at Be Café

• 23 March at Roasted Kombi (Outback Kombi)

Forbes Shire Council: Become the neigh­bourhood waste champion or settle that recycling argument at home by joining us and our local waste educator. Turn your household into the neighbourhood recy­cling champion with this free and family friendly recycling workshop! Facilitated by local waste experts from EnviroCom Aus­tralia, this hands-on workshop will give you all the skills you need to master your yel­low bin at home. Grab a free ticket at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/forbes-free-recycling-workshop-tickets-1977481112239

NSW SES Forbes Unit: Forbes SES mem­bers recently took part in a ‘Drive Opera­tional Vehicles’ course. If you are looking for a way to make a real difference in 2026, why not join the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and become part of a team that helps communities when they need it most. If you have ever thought about join­ing the NSW SES go to www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/unit-volunteer

Parkes Shire Council: Contamination has a cost. When incorrect items are placed in recycling bins, they can disrupt the re­cycling process and lead to higher costs and more waste going to landfill. Recycling right helps protect our environment and make the most of our resources.

National Driver Fatigue Week: This week is National Driver Fatigue Week. Did you know that driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as drink driving? In fact, being awake for 17 hours has a similar effect on driving performance as a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05. Identify the signs of fatigue early, like yawning and sore/tired eyes, and avoid driving tired.

R U OK? Skipping training, getting in­jured often or being less themselves – are all signs a teammate could be struggling. Register for the free Hey Sport, R U OK?resources to help teammates look out for one another and have life-changing con­versations: ruok.org.au/sport

Service NSW Business Bureau: Big rule changes are coming in 2026 – and your small businesses may be affected. From trade businesses to cafes, childcare and the real estate industry, new rules may change how you operate and compete.Check out what’s coming and how to get ready. https://www.smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au/news-podcasts/news/what-nsw-small-businesses-need-to-know-new-laws-new-rules-new-opportunities-in-2026

Forbes Shire Council IWD Event: To the trailblazers, change‑makers, quiet achiev­ers, loud dreamers and every incredible woman in between. Grab your gals and guys (all welcome) for an inspiring morn­ing on Friday 6 March, from 6.30am to celebrate International Women’s Day. Get your tickets at www.123tix.com.au/events/50699/forbes-international-wom­ens-day-breakfast

SW SES Parkes Unit: The Parkes SES Unit are looking for volunteers aged 16+ for a variety of roles, including: flood res­cue, storm response, administration and support roles, community engagement and more. Are you ready to step up? Apply now at www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer

Forbes Men’s Shed: Looking for good company, a laugh, and something to do? The Forbes Men’s Shed is a place to con­nect, share skills, and have fun. Meet new mates and catch up over a cuppa. Work on hands-on projects — big or small. Learn, teach, or just chat. Open to all men whether retired, working, or looking for something new. Come along, get involved, and enjoy the company.

Parkes Shire Council NSW Seniors Fes­tival Program: Explore our full line-up of free events including expos, films, art, well­being, workshops, performances and more across Parkes and Shire townships. For full program and to register for events at: bit.ly/SeniorsFestival2870. For more infor­mation, event registrations, or assistance, call the Parkes Shire Library on 6861 2309.

Forbes Medical Centre Bulk Billing: If you have a Medicare card, you will be bulk billed 100% of the time for eligible services at Forbes Medical Centre. With daily ap­pointments available with both male and female GPs, phone the team on 6851 1300 to make an appointment or book online via Hotdoc. Forbes Medical Centre, caring for our community.

Central West Lachlan Landcare: Central West Lachlan Landcare are supporting the Peak Hill HEART (Healthy Eating, Activity & Resilience Together) Project as part of the Building Healthy Communities Chal­lenge. This project will run until the end of April, but will have ongoing benefits to the community of Peak Hill. Join the Peak Hill HEART page to follow what is happen­ing and find out more about the project at centralwestlachlanlandcare.org/projects-3/peak-hill-building-healthy-communities-challenge/

Forbes Youth Action Team Youth Drop‑in Sessions: Looking for a relaxed space to hang out, study or unwind after school? Head to Forbes Youth and Com­munity Centre (YACC) Every Wednesday during the school term from 4pm – 6pm for ages 12 – 18. These free drop-in ses­sions offer quiet study areas, recreational activities and a safe, youth‑friendly space. No bookings required – just drop in! For information, visit www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/youth-drop-in

Parkes Men’s Shed: Parkes Mens Shed is a non profit shed designed for men to socialise and Do Projects for themselves or community. Come for a chat and a cup of coffee or be involved in some projects for the shed. Enjoy fellowship with other men in a friendly environment.

Forbes Shire Council: Looking for fund­ing to support a project, event or initiative? The latest edition of our Grants Guide is out now. View guide here: https://mailchi.mp/cf338fda6171/forbes-shire-council-grants-feed-17328312 To receive the latest funding opportunities straight to your in­box, email grants@forbes.nsw.gov.au. The GrainCorp Community Grants offer up to $20,000 financial support to organisations and projects that contribute to the devel­opment and promotion of the community. Closes 28 February

Sheep Producers Australia: Calling all future sheep industry leaders. Applications are still open for the 2026 Next Generation Program – Global Sheep Forum, a unique leadership opportunity for sheep producers and industry-connected individuals aged 18–35. Participate in online masterclass­es, collaborate with peers from around the world, join the face-to-face program in Adelaide, South Australia, 5–10 July 2026 alongside LambEx 2026, travel to New Zealand. Applications close 16 February 2026. Apply here: www.sheepproducers.com.au/2026-leadership-opportunity

Parkes High School: Free community parent event with Dr Justin Coulson, one of Australia’s most well known parenting speakers. To be held in Parkes High School Hall, 3 March from 5.30pm-7pm. The Resil­ient Kids presentation focuses on helping parents understand how children develop emotional resilience, confidence and cop­ing skills, and how everyday challenges can support healthy development when guided by supportive adults. 

Native Vegetation Maps Information Session Series: NSW Farmers is host­ing a series of free Native Vegetation Map Information Sessions in: Forbes, Nyngan, Dubbo, Cowra, and Young. Light meal pro­vided and free for all attendees. Explore your property beforehand with the Check My Land NSW app. Registration required. Submit your questions when registering. Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/forbes-native-vegetation-map-information-session-2026.

Have Your Say On Our New Wetlands Name: There’s still time to vote on a name for the new wetlands site currently un­der development on Akuna Road. Parkes Shire Council are asking the community to choose from three proposed names: Wu­lulu Wetlands, Parkes Wetlands, Akuna Wetlands. Each option reflects local place, history and the area’s natural environment. Consultation closes at 5pm on 6 March. For more information and to cast your vote, visit: bit.ly/4qYMi0E.