Parkes Picnic Races: The Parkes Picnic Races Committee have commenced their meetings in preparation for the 2026 event. The Committee will hold their monthly meetings at a different venue each time supporting our local sponsors. The Parkes Picnic Races are held annually on the Sat­urday of the June Long Weekend.

Forbes Shire Council: Only food and garden scraps are allowed in your FOGO green-lid bin. Packaging from your food does not belong in this bin. If your food packaging is cardboard, hard plastic or glass, it belongs in your recycling yellow-lid bin. If your food packaging is soft plastic or broken glass, it belongs in your general waste red-lid bin. Do the right thing and make sure only your food and plants go in your FOGO green bin.

Arts Outwest: Forbes and District Histori­cal Society has received a $6,900 National Library of Australia Community Heritage Grants to do a reservation Needs Assess­ment on the Paul and Hettie Wenz Collec­tion. The Paul and Hettie Wenz Collection consists of books from the personal library of Franco-Australian writer Paul Wenz (1869-1939) and his wife Hettie Dunne, of Nanima Station, Forbes. The Collection in­cludes books that Paul wrote. Read more under ‘Stories’ at www.centralnsw.com

Parkes Wetlands Transformation: Parkes Shire Council is inviting creatives from across Australia to be part of the Parkes Wetlands transformation. They are commissioning two to four public artworks that capture the spirit of this new environ­mental and recreational space. The budget is $100,000 to be shared across selected artworks. Location: Parkes Wetlands, Aku­na Road, Parkes. Expressions of Interest close 10am, 1 December 2025. Help us tell the story of connection, sustainability, and creativity through art. Download the EOI documents on the wetlands page: bit.ly/3ReQ714 For further enquiries contact: council@parkes.nsw.gov.au

Forbes Rugby Union Club: The Forbes Rugby Union Club are fired up, freshfaced, and ready to lead the Platypi through another season of bush footy. The new committee members are President Wayne O’Niell, Secretary Lily Boyd, VP Management Sam Parish, VP Senior Rug­by Ted O’Rafferty, Junior Rugby President Daniel Beard, VP Facilities and Develop­ment Randal Grayson, Treasurer Oliver Patterson, Social Secretary Sam Mackay, Registrar Jack Cole, Bar Manager Caitlyn James, Media Officer Siobhan O/Malley, Canteen Manager Ashleigh Dent, Ground Manager Sam Cox and Merchandise Man­ager Elliott Parker.

CanAssist Forbes Branch: A huge shout out and thank you to Forbes Ranch Sort­ing and Penning inc for choosing CanAs­sist Forbes as their charity for their annual sponsors sort, raising almost $5,000 for CanAssist. And thank you as well to the brave riders (pictured) who took part in the sponsors’ sort, and to the sponsors, and the general public for their generosity.

Visit Parkes Region: The wait is almost over – this weekend, the goodnessgrav­el cycling event kicks off! Saddle up for this ride through Parkes Region’s stun­ning gravel roads. Are you ready to make memories? For more info visit: https://bit.ly/4oVY23m

Forbes Shire Council: Have your say, Forbes. The Regional Wellbeing Sur­vey is your chance to help shape the fu­ture of our community and regional Aus­tralia. Complete the survey https://tinyurl.com/3rhx42dd More information www.re­gionalwellbeing.org.au

Central West Lachlan Landcare Inc: Thank you to everyone that joined us at Homegrown Parkes on Saturday, 11 Octo­ber. Our feedback survey is open until Fri­day, 31 October 2025 and we would love to hear from you. Go to: https://centralwestlachlanlandcare.org/2025/10/23/looking-at-landcare-23-10-2025-fantastic-goodies-up-for-grabs-for-survey-responses/

NSW Reconstruction Authority: Do you live in the Central West, were impacted by the floods and need extra support? Free personalised support is available for indi­viduals, families, landholders through Re­covery Support Services (RSS). Get help with: Social and emotional support, Recov­ery info and resources. Can’t get into town? Access support remotely or an RSS can come to you. See what support is available in your area: https://www.nsw.gov.au/emergency/floods/recover/support-services

R U OK? Sometimes our thoughts can feel like a tangled mess. But sharing them with someone, bit by bit, can help loosen the knots. For conversation tips please visit ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Ron Dunford Chemist Parkes: Thank you to our wonderful community for support­ing us in raising an amazing $920 for the McGrath Foundation, with all the proceeds raised going to such an amazing cause. Thanks to all our beautiful staff members who spent their weekend cooking up a storm. A big thank you also to Johnson’s Bakery for your kind donation. Congratula­tions to Anne H for being the delighted win­ner of our raffle! We hope you enjoy your gift basket.

Forbes Rodeo: Forbes Rodeo Commit­tee honoured one of their original legends with a Life Membership. JW has been on the committee right from the beginning and has helped to make Forbes Rodeo what it is today. Forbes Rodeo are planning for the new year in the new MEC.

R U OK? Exam time can be tough. If a school or uni friend doesn’t seem them­selves – maybe they’re stressing, procras­tinating, or shutting down – check in with them. A simple ‘are you OK? can go a long way. For more tips and helpful study re­sources visit: ruok.org.au/academic-pres­sure Don’t forget, if it’s all feeling too much, support is available. ReachOut Australia provides peer support, or get in touch with Kids Helpline Official 1800 55 1800 (24/7) or headspace 1800 650 890.

NSW Government: From 10 December 2025, children under 16 won’t be able to create or keep accounts on platforms where age restrictions are likely to apply, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X and YouTube. This is to help protect kids from harmful content and give them more time to learn safe online habits. Read the full FAQ here: bit.ly/social-media-age-restrictions

Parkes Clean Future Alliance: Check out the Parkes Plume Plotter. https://plumeplot­ter.com/parkes/ The Parkes plume plotter shows a prediction of the current amount of air pollution (at ground level) caused by emissions from the proposed incinerator at Parkes, NSW. This is an indicative plume plotter. Submissions to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Energy from Waste facilities in Regional NSW close on Friday, 31 Octo­ber. More information at: www.parkescle­anfuture.org

The Great Aussie Bird Count: Join Aus­tralia’s biggest citizen-science event – the Aussie Bird Count. This week, take part in the Aussie Bird Count and help track our feathered friends across the country! All it takes is 20 minutes in your backyard, local park, or favourite outdoor spot to count the birds you see. Submit your sightings via the Aussie Bird Count app or online. https://bit.ly/3Liyi1G

Local Spotlight – Great Inland Glossy Count: Want to do more? Join the Great Inland Glossy Count at Goobang Nation­al Park on Saturday 25 October. Help us monitor the stunning Glossy Black-Cocka­too and make a real impact. Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/47xLF6T

AgriWest Rural: This October, AgriWest’s very own Bill Ryan is lacing up for a 100km run from Condobolin to Forbes – joined by his two top mates, Sam Johnston and Sam Parish. Together, they’re hoping to raise funds to help fight homelessness in Aus­tralia. It’s a huge challenge for an incred­ible cause, and every donation helps make a real impact. Support their run here: www.neddsuncomfortablechallenge.com/fundraisers/FRC

CanAssist Forbes Branch: The CanAs­sist Forbes Branch were fortunate to be the recipient of $5,000 in the latest round of grants. This money will be a tremendous help in allowing the group to continue to assist Forbes and district residents and families undergoing treatment for cancer. Forbes CanAssist thanked Club Forbes for their generous donation.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council is inviting community feedback on the Draft Code of Meeting Practice, on public exhibition until 5:00pm, Sunday 3 November 2025. This important document outlines how Council meetings are con­ducted, including proposed changes, and more. Your input helps shape how Council operates and ensures transparency and accountability in decision-making. View the draft document and key changes and pro­vide feedback: https://bit.ly/48A8U16

Act For Kids: Talking to children about personal safety is one of the most impor­tant conversations you will have as a par­ent. But where do you start? How do you make it clear but not scary? We have free, age-appropriate resources to help kids (0–10 years) and their adults learn about personal safety in safe, simple ways. Ex­plore the Emmy & Friends book https://em­myandfriends.com.au/

Teddy Bears Picnic – New Location Alert: Don’t forget – this year’s Teddy Bears Picnic will be held at a new location. Join us on 1 November from 10am – 1pm at Frogs Hollow, right on the corner of Riley and Lawler Street. It’s a beautiful spot and perfect for a day of teddy bear fun!

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society: We love it when the youngest of our commu­nity get involved in our shows. The kids had a great time watching the show with their favourite parts being: “All the danc­ing” – Bryce, “The body parts” – Stephanie, “Watching the plant move as it was so real” – Lila and Danielle, “All of it” – Lucy. Open­ing night this Friday – www.parkesmandd.com.au

Forbes Shire Council: On 5 October, Council’s Projects and Town Presentation Grants teams joined forces to lay 3,000 square metres of fresh turf at Lions Park. A fantastic example of collaboration across departments, making a real difference for our community spaces. The Lions Park improvement works are part of the Forbes Lake Activation Parks and Amenities Re­silience and Betterment Project, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Govern­ments under the Community Assets Pro­gram. Learn more about the project here www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/major-projects

Gooloogong Recreation Park Markets: Sunday 12 October starting 9am – 1pm. Gooloogong Park Markets. Come along for a great day out. Coffee, BBQ, Donuts, Japanese, gluten free crepes, pies, fresh sweets, art, soaps, bric a brac, resin, can­dles, crystals, macrame, fabric, clothing, something for everyone. Make the trip, as always EFT can out so please bring cash.

Mental Health Australia: October 10 is World Mental Health Day. This year, Mental Health Australia is encouraging everyone to connect with the communities that mat­ter most. Connection helps us feel cared for and supported, and that’s vital for good mental health. This October, reach out to your federal parliamentarian and let them know that mental health matters to you. Learn how here: https://bit.ly/4pPKbMr

Flannery’s Pharmacy: This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is the second most commonly diagnosed can­cer in Australia. Regular check-ups and screenings are one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early. If you’re unsure when your next check should be, pop in to ask our friendly pharmacy team for guid­ance. We’re back with our Pink October Ladies Night where we discuss the many health issues plaguing women in Australia. Head to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/flannerys-ladies-night-2025-tickets-1689921734399 and book your seat for 30 October.

Parkes Shire Council: Parkes Shire Council is proud to announce its success­ful participation in the NSW Government’s Fresh Start Program, unlocking exciting employment opportunities for jobseek­ers and young people across the region. Through this program, Parkes Shire Coun­cil has secured funding for 11 new roles across rounds one and two, with 100% wage support and 15% on-costs covered by the NSW Government. These roles span a variety of fields, offering people a valuable entry point into local government. For more information, visit Current vacan­cies Parkes Shire Council.

Galari – River – Arts Forbes Inc: Day one of Just Ad Kids, did not disappoint. Brain­storming, ideas forming and creative con­nections. Kids from different schools and different towns came together. Bonds were made and new skills were learnt. Huge shoutout to Club Forbes for sponsoring Just Ad Kids and thanks to Forbes Shire Council for their support. Biggest thanks to Dane Millerd for trusting us with his idea, and Tree Faerie for her creative genius and energy. Stay tuned for Day two, when these little legends start filming their ad!

Parkes Shire Council: Council is seeking community feedback on two important draft studies: Draft Parkes Town Centre Flood and Drainage Study: bit.ly/3JVPKIW Draft East Parkes Flood Study: bit.ly/4n3Bw7p Both studies are on public exhibition un­til 5pm Monday 13 October. Submissions can be made in writing via: email coun­cil@parkes.nsw.gov.au, post The General Manager (Draft Parkes East Flood Study), Parkes Shire Council, PO Box 337, Parkes NSW 2870 or in-person at Council’s Ad­ministration Centre. Help shape the future of flood management in our community.

R U OK? The signs that someone is do­ing it tough might not be obvious. Connec­tion and kindness can help them feel less alone. It might take someone a while to open up about how they’re feeling. If you’re worried about them, let them know you care and will be there for them. And con­tinue to check in so when they are ready to talk, they know who to turn to. For more conversation tips, visit: www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Forbes Shire Council: Were you part of the magic of Street Dreams 2025? We’d love to hear what you thought. Street Dreams was the first in a three-year series and your feedback will help us shape future festivals and make them even better. Share your thoughts and ideas by completing our short online survey: https://yoursay.forbes.nsw.gov.au/street-dreams-2025-feedback

Parkes Early Childhood Centre Inc: Chil­dren and staff enjoyed listening to Sen­ior Constable Mullins about keeping safe on our bikes. We also had our helmets checked by Haylee and Kylie from Trans­port NSW. Did you know that children aged under 12 years must ride on the footpath when out with their families in the commu­nity? We had so much fun!

Ronald McDonald House Charities Cen­tral West NSW: Thank you to the won­derful Parkes College for Seniors group for creating these incredible auction items for our Gala Ball. You can bid on an item even if you’re not able to go to the Ball be­ing held on 8 November, it’s a great way to support Ronald McDonald House Central West from the comfort of your own home https://galabid.com/orange2025

Women NSW: Big news for rural women in NSW & ACT! Applications for the 2026 Ag­riFutures Australia Rural Women’s Award are now open. If you’re a woman leading a project, business or program that’s making a real impact in rural or regional Australia, this is your chance to be recognised and supported. With up to $35,000 in grants from Platinum Partner Westpac, it’s an in­credible opportunity to grow your vision. agrifutures.com.au/opportunities/rural-wo­mens-award

Central West Lachlan Landcare Inc: Are thrilled to once again have the support of local State member Philip Donato and his wife Nadia at the Homegrown Parkes event. This time they will be sharing their Tiramisu making skills. If you would like to be part of this workshop at Homegrown Parkes on Saturday, 11 October 2025, then follow the link to register: https://cen­tralwestlachlanlandcare.org/2025/09/11/looking-at-landcare-11-9-2025-phil-nadia-donato-sharing-tiramisu-workshop-at-homegrown-parkes. Registrations forthe our coffee roasting workshop with The Folk Roaster can also be be found on the page.

NSW Agriculture: NSW Agriculture and Local Land Services NSW is inviting stake­holders to provide information on the elec­tronic identification (eID) implementation for sheep and goats in NSW. Your feed­back will help inform how the program is moved forward. To fill out the survey please visit: https://forms.office.com/r/i2WQrk3utC

Regional Development Australia Central West: Central West is Best is the theme for the 2025 RDA Central West Photo Com­petition and entries are now open via the website. Submissions are steadily rolling in – add your view of the Central West today. Entries are open to all https://rdacentralwest.org.au/projects/central-west-is-best-photo-competition/

anAssist Forbes Branch: Forbes branch of CanAssist would like to once again thank Red Bend JRL for the wonder­ful support they give. CanAssist members man the gate for donations at RBJRL’s gala day and Lou Grimmit day, and also supply helpers to assist in their canteen.

Parkes Shire Libraries: Calling all school aged children! Parkes Shire Libraries have an absolutely jam-packed two weeks com­ing up for the school holidays. Think ro­botics, movies, Questacon, after hours sessions, sketching and musical theatre. Bookings are open now at https://human­itix.com/au.

Forbes Safe Driver Course: is scheduled for Monday 29 September at the Youth & Community Centre. The Safer Drivers Course is designed to help young drivers feel confident and safe on the road. You will get 20 hours off your logbook, learn practical safe driving strategies, build con­fidence driving solo and be one step closer to your P’s. You are eligible if you are under 25 years old, current Learner’s Permit and already have 50+ logbook hours. Food pro­vided on the day and the course includes theory and practical. Free if you have your own concession card. Book here: https://pcycdrivereducation.org.au/book-a-course

Vinnies NSW: The NSW Government is offering assistance through its Social Im­pact Programs for eligible households. En­ergy rebates are available for low income households, families, seniors and people with certain medical conditions to pay their electricity and gas bills. These rebates support around 1 in 3 households in NSW each year, helping households to reduce their electricity bills by 15%. Find out what rebates you might be eligible for and how to apply at energy.nsw.gov.au/rebates, call 13 77 88 or visit a Service NSW Centre.

Visit Parkes Region: Elvis fans, this one’s for you. Step into the spotlight at ‘The King’s Castle’, Australia’s only permanent exhibition of authentic Elvis Presley memo­rabilia, right here in Parkes, NSW. Curated by Greg Page (yes, the original Yellow Wiggle!), this dazzling collection features stage-worn costumes, rare ar­tefacts, and personal items that once be­longed to the King himself. Located at the Henry Parkes Centre, also home to the replica ‘Gates of Graceland’, it’s a must-see for fans of rock ’n’ roll, pop culture, and timeless charisma. Make your visit unforgettable. Fore more information visit bit.ly/3JFrFpB

Forbes Shire Council: The spring school holiday program has been designed to keep young people engaged and active during the holidays, while also providing parents with affordable options for school holiday fun. For information and ticketing details, head to www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

Parkes Elvis Festival: The Parkes Elvis Festival is excited to invite volunteers to join them in delivering the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival. This is a fantastic opportuni­ty for anyone looking to gain hands-on ex­perience in the events industry, meet new people and give back to the community. To become part of the festival family, visit: bit.ly/PEFVolunteers2026

PCYC Parkes Upcoming Safer Driver Courses: The next PCYC Safer Drivers Course will be held on 20 September. The course will teach you strategies so you can drive solo with more confidence. Thanks to Parkes Leagues Club, our Parkes courses have received funding via Club Grants. You must email the club to receive a code. https://pcycdrivweeducation.org.au

Forbes Youth Action Team Forbes Show Colouring Competition: Grab your col­ouring sheet here: https://shorturl.at/fumeV Bring your finished masterpieces along to the Show Office by 4pm Friday 12 Septem­ber. Get ready for a huge day of family fun, events, competitions, rides and entertain­ment right here at the Forbes Showground. Tickets are on sale now https://www.123tix.com.au/events/49535/2025-forbes-show

Garage Sale Trail: Gather your crew for the Garage Sale Trail. Parkes Shire Coun­cil is calling for expressions of interest from schools, charities, sporting clubs, commu­nity halls and other groups keen to host a group garage sale on 8-9 or 15-16 Novem­ber 2025. Whether it’s a boot sale, hall sale or school oval sale, give pre-loved items a new home. Learn more at www.garag­esaletrail.com.au or contact Sharyn Ware on (02) 6861 2333.

Street Dreams: Be part of the magic of Street Dreams, a free youth art workshop on Saturday 20 September, 12:30pm – 2pm at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre for ages 8-13 years. Your master­pieces will feature at Street Dreams 2025 on Saturday 27 September. Register now to secure your place: www.123tix.com.au/events/49916/free-youth-art-workshop

National Child Protection Week: With children and teenagers spending more time online, including instant messaging, social media and gaming apps, it’s impor­tant to regularly talk to your child about on­line safety, what they are doing and who they are talking to. This week, and every week, we urge the community to be aware of the risks, and to do your part to help pre­vent online child sexual exploitation. For information visit: www.napcan.org.au

CanAssist Forbes Branch: Another great supporter of CanAssist is Forbes River­side Gardens. The group recently donated $1,500 from the proceeds of their mothers day morning tea. CanAssist Forbes branch thank them for their generous support.

Parkes Elvis Festival: Declare your love at the Parkes Elvis Festival with the popu­lar Renewal of Vows ceremony. Held under the ‘Love Me Tender’ arch, this is a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to renew your vows before an Elvis wedding celebrant.For more information and to register, visit: bit.ly/PEFvows

NSW Government: As of 15 August 2025, it is a crime in NSW to incite hatred against someone because of their race. This includes colour, nationality, ethnicity, descent, or ethno-religious background. Public acts done intentionally to encourage racial hatred, whether in person, online, or in public spaces, can result in fines or im­prisonment. You can still share your views, have discussions, and ask questions, as long as it doesn’t encourage others to hate people based on race. Learn more about the law here: bit.ly/law-against-racial-ha­tred

Galari River Arts Forbes inc: Just Ad Kids is a 3-day filmmaking program for kids aged 10+. Come along as we make a TV ad and play your part in our production! Club Forbes, 29 and 30 September and 1 October 2025. This free event is the perfect start to the school holidays https://events.humanitix.com/just-ad-kids

R U OK? You don’t have to fix their prob­lem. Just sit, listen and be there. Remem­ber, sometimes actions speak louder than words.

Uniting Church Monday Monthly Meal: enjoy the free Monday monthly meal at the Uniting Church Hall in Parkes, 1 Septem­ber. Doors open at 5.45pm for 6pm serving of a delicious two course meal. All are wel­come to attend.

Central West Lachlan Landcare Inc: CWLL was at Peak Hill for the official an­nouncement from Western NSW Local Health District’s Health Promotion team that Peak Hill and Gilgandra are the two finalists for the 2025-26 Building Healthy Communities Challenge. The Challenge, which will run between 1 September 2025 and 3 April 2026 aims to empower towns with fewer than 5,000 people to take con­trol of their health by providing funding and assistance to implement a community-led health initiative.