Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council is pleased to announce the official results of the recent local government elec­tions. Congratulations to Cr Neil Westcott, who has been re-elected as Mayor, and Cr Marg Applebee, who has been re-elected as Deputy Mayor, both serving their second terms. We look forward to their continued leadership. We also welcome the newly elected Councillors: Neil Westcott (Mayor), Glenn Wilson, Marg Applebee (Deputy Mayor), Bill Jayet, Louise O’Leary, Douglas Pout, Kenny McGrath, Joy Paddison, Mat­thew Scherer, George Pratt. Special thanks to all the candidates for their dedication, and to the residents of Parkes Shire for a voter turnout of nearly 86%! Your involve­ment plays a key role in shaping the future of our community. For information, visit: bit.ly/2024LocalGovernmentElection

Lifeline Central West: Did You Know – we offer free, independent, confidential Finan­cial & Gambling counselling all over the Central West? To make an appointment with us, call: 1300 798 258 or email: info@lifelinecentralwest.org.au

Regional Development Australia Cen­tral West: Register for free Cyber Security Workshops brought to you by NBN Co and RDA Central West. Small business owners in Central West New South Wales are invit­ed to participate in a series of free, handson cyber security workshops aimed at em­powering them with crucial knowledge and tools to safeguard their online operations. The workshops will be run in October 2024 in Wellington, Parkes, Condobolin, Lithgow and Blayney. The event is free but regis­tration is essential via link: https://events.humanitix.com/host/rda-central-west

R U OK? Four in five people say they feel better about managing their situation hav­ing talked it through. If you know someone is going through a tough time, check in, ask R U OK? and show them that you care and are there to support them. For tips on how to continue the conversation visit: www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Forbes Shire Mayor and Deputy Mayor Election Results: At the declaration of the newly elected Forbes Shire Council on Wednesday 2 October, Councillor Phyllis Miller and Councillor Chris Roylance were reelected unopposed as Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Forbes Shire Councillors – Sarah Sweeney, Jenny Webb, Aidan Clarke, Phyl­lis Miller, Chris Roylance, Michele Herbert, Marh Duggan, Steve Karaitiana and Brian Mattiske, elected following the September Local Government election.

Parkes Elvis Festival: It’s under 100 days until the 2025 Parkes Elvis Festival, and we’re ready to roll with that Easy Come, Easy Go energy! With over 200+ events lined up, we can’t wait to see everyone soaking in the fun and feeling the rhythm.

Tickets here: bit.ly/ParkesElvisTickets Ap­plications for the 2025 Ultimate Elvis Trib­ute Artist Contest are closing soon. Enter bit.ly/ParkesElvisFestivalUETA

Fire and Rescue NSW Station 294 Forbes: Fire Permits are required in the Forbes, Parkes, Lachlan and Weddin LGAs for all fires during the Bush Fire Dan­ger Period which is between 1st October (Midnight Tonight) and 1st April 2025, and at All times in Fire and Rescue districts around the state.

Double Demerits: Motorists are being re­minded that double demerit points will be in place over the October long weekend for four days, commencing on Friday 4th Oc­tober 2024 and ending on Monday 7th Oc­tober 2024 (inclusive). Police will be target­ing speed, seatbelts, illegal mobile phone use and motorcyclists not wearing helmets. For more information, visit: bit.ly/3TIvBb5

Forbes Family History Group Inc: Un­derneath the Oxley Bridge, a series of vibrant Aboriginal artworks adorn the pil­lars. Each painting tells a unique story, from people and land, drought, night and the serenity of the river. While there is no specific information about the individual artists involved, their work is a beautiful and meaningful representation of the lo­cal area. If you have any information about the artists who contributed to this wonder­ful project, please feel free to share. The link will take you to the full set of paintings. https://streetartcities.com/cities/forbes

Taronga Western Plains Zoo: Calling all teachers – want free Zoo entry for your family? Join us on Friday, 11th October, for Taronga’s Teacher Open Day! Explore the Zoo, discover our unique wild education programs, and enjoy unforgettable animal encounters. For information contact edu­cation@zoo.nsw.gov.au

Forbes Art Society: Artists of all ages and abilities are welcome to join the Forbes Arts Society’s Painting Group. The group meets each Thursday at Northside Chapel, between 11am and 3pm. The cost is $5 per week which includes morning tea. Bring along your own art supplies. For more information, reach out via hello@forbesartssociety.com

Parkes Services Club: On Sunday morn­ing Parkes Services staff Jordan and Chloe attended a charity event in support of Little Wings and Leo Doyle. Leo was diagnosed with cone-rod dystrophy in April 2023 at six years of age. Leo’s medical needs are quite extensive and he is unable to receive the care he requires close to home. Parkes Services Club were more than proud to do­nate $1,000 to this heartwarming cause, with the hope that others who are able, can support the journey of Little Wings and Leo. Learn more about Leo’s story at https://rarevoices.org.au/personal-story/leos-story

Forbes Toy Library: Committee meeting will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 25th September, Forbes Golf Club. ⁣ If you’ve been interested to join the Toy Library Committee please join us. All welcome.

PCYC Safer Driver Courses: Shave 20 hours off your log book and learn essen­tial road safety while you’re at it. Courses will be held in Forbes on 30th September with fully funded places available. Contact Forbes Shire Council directly for voucher codes to use at the check out. Then in Parkes on 10th October 10th. Book at www.pcycdrivereducation.org.au

Boys To The Bush: Dust off those fishing rods and get ready to cast a line, all while supporting young and at-risk boys in need.

Boys to the Bush has hooked a great catch, hosting the inaugural catch and release fishing competition at the picturesque Lake Burrinjuck on 16th and 17th November. It will be a great chance to gather the family or a few friends and enjoy two wonderful days of fishing. And the best part? All mon­ey raised will go towards supporting boys in our programs. Register at: https://boys-to-the-bush-woolgarlo-fishing-competition.raiselysite.com/

Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera­tions: We have some amazing local busi­nesses and food vans ready to feed the crowds next Saturday. Stay tuned for our food van lineup dropping this Friday. Don’t forget to secure your free tickets at: https://www.123tix.com.au/events/44118/northparkes-cheers-to-30-years-festival

Forbes Town & District Tennis Club: What a fantastic day! A massive thank you to all the sponsors, auctioneers and those who attended the Charity Day for Leo Doyle and Little Wings on Sunday, 22nd September. It was a huge success, and on behalf of Forbes Town & District Tennis Club and the Doyle Family we say thank you to our community for their generosity and heartfelt support.

PCYC Parkes: A big congratulations to Summer Hurford for being nominated, and winning Sportsperson of the Year by the NAIDOC Advisory Group. Summer was an invaluable member of the recent Nations of Origin trip, where she contributed by fund­raising for the event and offering her sup­port in both the footy and senior leadership in our gymnastics events. She’s a true ray of sunshine in the gymnastics program and is proving to be a fantastic up-and-coming senior coach on the team.

Office Of Sport: The Local Sport Defibrilla­tor Grant Program is now open! The grant program is aimed at providing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and associat­ed equipment to NSW sport and recreation facilities and clubs. Grants of up to $3,000 are available to sporting and recreational organisations. Find out more here www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants

Forbes Youth Action Team: The Sep­tember/October School Holiday Program is almost here and there are so many fun events taking place over the spring holiday break! Be sure to secure your spot in these events by registering online at https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community/community-services-and-information/families-and-youth-services/youth-programs

1800RESPECT: Whether it’s you, a family member, a friend or a colleague experienc­ing domestic, family or sexual violence, 1800RESPECT provides confidential coun­selling, information and support. Counsel­lors can be contacted through call, text, on­line chat or video call. Available 24/7. Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or online chat – Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm (except public hol­idays) Video call (no appointment needed).

Kerin Health: We’re pleased to announce that we will be holding two free information sessions in the next few weeks for Parents and Educators. Join us at Kerin Health to learn how to support children with their emotional, behavioural and sensory needs during these free Education Sessions with our experienced Occupational Therapist, Emilie. To learn more, or register for a ses­sion contact 0437 749 746.

Forbes Town And District Tennis Club: Bring the family this Sunday and have a fun day, win some prizes, spread awareness for Leo Doyle and help us raise some funds. To nominate for the pair’s competition please contact Peter Clifton on 0403 335 205. If you would like to know more about Leo’s journey so far, visit: https://rarevoices.org.au/personal-story/leos-story/

Forbes Shire Council: Access to the Forbes Croquet Club at Lawler Street is now much easier and safer thanks to the work of Council’s Works team. Works com­pleted include:
• Kerb cutting to create a new pathway.
• Installation of a ramp wide enough for prams.
• Digging out and installing wings.
• Installing fibre mesh.
• Concrete pouring.
• New topsoil to make the sides of the path neat and tidy.

R U OK? #RUOKDay2024 was on Thurs­day September 12th. But any day is the day to check in with those we care about and ask, ‘are you OK?’. If you’re not sure how to start the conversation, try these four steps. 1) Ask R U OK?, 2) Listen, 3) En­courage action, 4) Check in. You can find conversation tips and download social tiles and posters of the four steps at www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Parkes Shire Council: Are you ready to kickstart your career in business? Look­ing for a role that offers hands-on experi­ence and growth? Applications for the 2025 Traineeship Program are open now. Appli­cations close 22nd September 2024 and successful applicants will begin their ca­reer with Parkes Shire Council in February 2025. Apply now bit.ly/PSCcareers

National BBQ Championships Forbes: Sponsorship opportunities are available. Join us in hosting the 2024 National BBQ Championships. Contact events@forbes.nsw.gov.au to be a part of this amazing event showcasing the fabulous produce of the central west. Team nominations are now also open at www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/events/events-2024/november-2024/2024-national-bbq-championships. Enter early for your chance to compete in the 2024 National BBQ Championships.

business.gov.au: You don’t need to be an adult to run a business in Australia. If you’re a young person with a great idea, you can go ahead and start your own busi­ness. You can follow the main steps to start a business, but there are some extra things to consider when you’re starting a business under 18 years old: http://spklr.io/6187tZcv

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society: A massive thank you to Ellice, Bianca and the whole team at Worklocker Parkes. The Cinderella and the Crystal Slippers cast look amazing in their beautiful production jackets. Tickets for Cinderella & The Crys­tal Slipper are on sale now at www.parkes­mandd.com.au

Play Music for Life: Parkes Shire Concert Band’s legendary musician Doug Rich­ards has many titles to his name – song­writer, music arrangement maker, teacher of drums and guitar, band member keep­ing the beat going. He is testimony to the adage music has no age or mobility barri­ers, or the idea that if you used to play, you never lose it.

Doug is still sharing his passion for oth­ers to learn music and volunteers at Parkes Public School every Tuesday with the school band. If you carefully read the plaque inscription regarding his brother Digby, lo­cated at the Elvis Wall of Fame at Bush­mans Dam, you will learn Doug wrote his ‘hit song’ and was a lead player in the foun­dations of the Australian Music Industry.

Doug was awarded the Parkes Shire Cultural Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024 and will be involved in the Parkes Shire Concert Bands next performances at Homegrown on 12th October, and the ABBA Festival on 19th October.

Playing music has no barriers, and pro­vides many opportunities, so if you used to play, or would like to learn, head along to Tuesday rehearsals from 7 – 9pm during school terms above the Pool Complex. En­quires to Music Director Duncan Clement on 0405 035 164 or follow on Facebook.

NSW Government: Grants are available to support programs for seniors to learn, stay active and connect with their communities.

Organisations are encouraged to apply for grants up to $5,000, and local councils are able to apply for up to $10,000. Applica­tions for the Seniors Festival Grants Pro­gram close on 6th September. To Learn more or to apply, go to: nsw.gov.au/go/Seniors-Fest-Grants

Galari River Arts Forbes Inc: The Galari River Arts Forbes committee would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported our 2024 “Ripple” festival.

We are sometimes described as ‘the people involved in everything’, and it’s true:

with limited volunteers, those who commit, commit wholeheartedly. Our dedication stems from a deep love for our community, and as a humble group, we thrive on con­nection.

Knowing us, you’ll understand that step­ping into the spotlight isn’t easy, rather, it is our way of truly acknowledging your in­credible support Forbes. This festival is a testament to our collective efforts and the support of our Forbes community.

For our fellow volunteers, thank you, once again for your unwavering support or contribution. For everyone else, thank you for your kind words, messages or for at­tending the festival.

NSW SES Forbes Unit: A great day out at Bedgerabong Show. The NSW SES Forbes Unit were in good company with neighbours from Central West Police and Mid Lachlan Rural Fire Service. It was a good opportunity to catch up under more relaxed circumstances.

Australian Hotels Association NSW: Last year, you crowned the Bogan Gate Pub the winner of the AHA NSW Awards for Excellence – People’s Choice Award.

It’s time to make your voice heard once again and vote for your favourite pub of 2024! Nominate your local favourite and help them earn the title of the most popu­lar pub in NSW. By nominating, you’ll also have the chance to win one of four $250 Pub & Bar Gift Cards to dine at your local pub. Nominate now at: https://www.survey­monkey.com/r/X73WNW6. Hurry, the com­petition closes at 11:59pm on Friday, 30th August 2024.

Forbes Country Music Club: The Forbes Country Music Club Annual General Meet­ing (AGM) will be held Wednesday 6th No­vember 2024, 7pm at the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club. Nomination forms will be available at upcoming musters on Sunday 8th September and Sunday 6th October, or can be emailed to you. Nomi­nation forms can also be collected from the Secretary Steven Dixon at 19 Prince Street Forbes or can be mailed. All nomination forms must be returned by 5pm Wednes­day 30th October 2024 either to Secretary Steven Dixon or by mail; Forbes Country Music Club Incorporated, PO Box 728 Forbes NSW 2871.

NSW Woman Of The Year: The search is on! Nominations are officially open for the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2025.

We’re looking for ground-breaking think­ers, everyday heroes, social reformers and innovative role models who inspire us all.

Let’s celebrate the incredible and inspiring women in your community by nominating them for one of these categories: Pre­mier’s NSW Woman of Excellence, NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year, NSW Com­munity Hero, NSW Regional Woman of the Year, NSW Young Woman of the Year, Ones to Watch. Nominations are open until 15th September. Recognise their achieve­ments and nominate them now: https://bit.ly/3BibUNc

Trundle Bush Tucker Day: Organisers are super excited to have the current Aus­tralian Ladies Whipcracking Champion, the amazing Emiliqua East, coming to this years Trundle Bush Tucker Day.

Forbes Arts Society: The 2024 Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists is open for applications. This award opens up avenues for regional artists seeking to further their professional development, ex­hibition opportunities or deepen research with a $10,000 scholarship. Applications will close Monday 2nd September, 11.59pm. Apply now: https://regionalartsnsw.com.au/windmill-trust-scholarship-2024/

Lifeline: This Loneliness Awareness Week, Ending Loneliness Together, is sharing real stories to spark conversations about why we feel lonely and encouraging all Australians to create a culture of con­nection at home, work, school and in the community. Play your part: www.lonelines­sawarenessweek.com.au

Kerin Health: Are proud to now offer regu­lar Physiotherapy clinics in four locations across the Central West. Would you like to see a regular Kerin Health Physiotherapy clinic in your town? Let the team at Kerin Health know! For all bookings, head to their website: www.kerinhealth.com.au/book-an-appointment

1800RESPECT: Safety planning is think­ing about things you can do to be safer when living with violence or abuse. To create your own safety plan, you can get help from a trusted friend or family mem­ber. You can also use a support service like 1800RESPECT. You can learn more on our website: https://www.1800respect.org.au/help-and-support/safety-planning/checklist

Galari River Arts Forbes Inc: Indulge your taste buds with a world of flavours at our Festival! Oh So Sugar, A Taste of Greece, Trang Hue Vietnamese food and our Rotary Van will sort you out. You can even pack your own picnic. Galari River Arts Festival Forbes, 10th August at Lion’s Park, 9am till late.

Create NSW: Applications are now open for Regional Arts Touring Round 1. Funding consists of two categories: up to $60,000 for Small Tours and up to $120,000 for Large Tours, which will deliver world-class arts and cultural experiences to tens of thousands of people in every corner of NSW. Find out more https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/regional-arts-tour­ing-for-individuals/groups.

Parkes Shire Council: Council is excited to share that Stage 2 of the Kelly Reserve precinct upgrade works is progressing well. Stage 2 includes: A ninja course, An inclu­sive carouse, Toddler equipment These works are on track for a September com­pletion. To stay up to date with this project, visit: bit.ly/ParkesNinjaPark

Parkes Elvis Festival: Applications for the Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations Street Parade are now open! Northparkes Street Parade is a festival-fan favourite, taking place on Saturday 11th January, 2025 at 10am along Festival Boulevard.

Sign up here to walk, ride, drive or float: https://bit.ly/ElvisParade

Kerin Health: The founder of Kerin Health, Rach, has created a new instagram page to share some tips, and her writing. If you’re a female in business or a leadership role – she’s got a passion for you, and has lots of great content to share to help women be the best version of themselves. We highly recommend you add her to your Instagram feed! You can follow her @rach.kerin

Parkes Shire Council: A friendly reminder there are guidelines in place when bringing your fury friends to Council’s cemeteries, parks and sporting grounds in the Shire.

Always remember to pick up after your dog, if your dog is being exercised in an approved off-leash area, your dog must be under effective control by a competent per­son, dogs are only permitted in cemeter­ies if they are on an appropriate lead. For information visit: bit.ly/CompanionAnimal­Guidelines.

Forbes Youth Action Team: The theme for Local Government Week 2024 is “Your Voice, Your Council”. This week aims to help move the conversation beyond roads, rates and rubbish, to the important and farreaching role Councils play as the hub of the community. Over the next week check out Forbes Shire Council’s socials to gain insight into their roles and responsibilities in the community.

Central West Credit Union: Our branches will be closed on Monday, 5th August for the Bank Holiday. We will reopen on Tues­day, 6th August. You can still manage your finances seamlessly via secure Internet Banking or via our mobile app, available 24/7, from anywhere.

Parkes Show Society: The Young Farm­ers Challenge will be on again at the 2024 Parkes Show. Criteria is simple, you must be older then 15 and can get a team of 4 together. $1,000 prize money up for grabs thanks to sponsor Dwyer Contracting. Don’t forget, tickets are now available for the 2024 Parkes Show. Three day show pass­es will be available online at www.123tix.

com.au. until 11:59pm Sunday 25th August or at the Show office before close of busi­ness Friday 23rd August. Get in early to beat the crowds!

Red Bend Catholic College: College Alumni and Raiders Jersey Flegg assistant coach, Darby Medlyn, presented the u14s boys rugby league team with their jerseys ahead of the Cochrane Cup state semifinal in Canberra earlier this week.