Eugowra Flood Recovery Committee: Communities from across the Central West region are being urged to get behind their local volunteer finalists for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. The NSW Volunteer of the Year finalists were chosen from 25 regions across the state and an­nounced at local and regional celebrations over the past few months. Eugowra Flood Recovery Committee has been nominated for Central West Volunteer Team of the Year. The 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards Gala ceremony will be held in Syd­ney on Tuesday, 10 December.

Parkes Shire Council: Don’t forget nomi­nations for the 2025 Australia Day Awards are still open! The three award catego­ries include: Community Awards, Cultural Awards and Sporting Awards. We encour­age everyone to nominate deserving in­dividuals and groups who have made a positive impact on our community. Nomi­nations close Friday 6 December 2024 at 5pm. For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/3T7IzPE

NSW Government: Abuse is never ok.

If you or someone you know needs help, 24/7 support is available. Call triple zero (000) – for emergencies; 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for confidential advice and

support; the NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463) for counselling and refer­rals; and 13 YARN (13 92 76) is a dedicat­ed support for First Nations peoples.

Meals on Wheels: Cabonne Home Sup­port are looking for volunteer drivers for Eugowra’s Meals on Wheels. If you can help out give Canowindra office a call on 6344 1199.

Forbes Shire Council: Calling all local musicians. We have an exciting opportuni­ty to busk and be part of the entertainment at our Australia Day event, which will also include food stalls and fireworks Sunday 26 January 2025, 6pm – 9pm at Lions Park, Forbes. Expressions of interest forms need to be completed and submitted by 5pm Monday 13 January 2025. Download the form at https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/community/our-community/australia-day

Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera­tions: A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined to remember the lives of Colin Lloyd Jones, Stuart Osman, Ross Bodkin, and Michael House. As we marked 25 years since the airblast event at Northparkes, your support for the families and survivors of that day, and shared memories made the memorial service a meaningful tribute.

Thank you to everyone who travelled from near and far to attend the service.

Red Bend Catholic College: The creativity of young filmmakers was celebrated at the 2024 Parliament of NSW Parli-Flicks Short Film Award, and our Year 7 student Oscar Hendry won a medal for Best Regional En­try. This exciting competition challenged students from Year 5 to 12 across NSW to craft a one-minute short film exploring a thought-provoking question: If you were a Member of Parliament, what law would you pass and how would you implement it? Os­car’s video highlighted the doctor shortage in regional NSW and proposed incentives for doctors practicing in towns with a popu­lation of less than 20,000.

Parkes Musical & Dramatic Society: Less than two weeks until auditions for Mamma Mia. A lot of people have told us they are auditioning, but not yet registered.

Registrations are essential for those wish­ing to audition. So far we have about 40 people registered, but we can still fit more in. We will particularly need men. Mature men and young men (18-30ish). Please check out the audition pack at the link pro­vided on their Facebook page, then get in touch with your favoured audition sessions.

NSW Government: Are you an essential worker who has moved to regional NSW (or thinking about it)? We’ve got a free ser­vice to help with all the life stuff—like find­ing housing, choosing childcare, job op­tions for your partner, and more. You can check out The Welcome Experience here nsw.gov.au/welcomeexperience

PCYC Parkes: Calling all passionate com­munity members! PCYC Parkes is in need of dedicated individuals to join our commit­tee and help shape the future of our club.

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers who share our vision of providing positive programs and activities for the young peo­ple of Parkes. If you’re interested in making a difference and contributing your skills and time, please contact Kim via email ksher­rett@pcycnsw.org.au

Regional Business Supplies: Big con­gratulations to Marty, our amazing winner of the September Step Challenge. Not only did she crush her steps, but she also stepped up in the most heartwarming way.

Marty used her prize money to buy gro­ceries and generously donated them to Georgie’s Pantry, spreading kindness and making a real difference in our community.

Thank you to Marty for helping inspire us all to keep moving and to give back.

Parkes Shire Council: Congratulations to Marshall Munn on being awarded Young Volunteer of the Year at the RFS Youth Awards. This recognition highlights his ded­ication and outstanding contributions to our community through his work with the NSW RFS – Parkes Headquarters Brigade and SES. Earlier this year, he was honoured as Parkes Young Citizen of the Year, and it’s clear that Marshall’s commitment to service and leadership is making a real difference.

We’re proud to have such an inspiring young leader among us

Forbes Library: The Forbes Library Survey is now open. Please share your thoughts to help shape the future of your local library.

Your feedback will directly influence the programs, resources, and collections of­fered at Forbes and ensure they reflect the needs and interests of the community. The survey takes less than 10 minutes to com­plete. Please go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/2T9KVPQ to participate and provide your thoughts and suggestions. Every re­sponse plays a vital role in enhancing the library experience and creating as welcom­ing space for all. Paper copies of the sur­veys are also available at Forbes Library.

Heart of the Nation: Heart of the Nation and The Heart Foundation are bringing lifesaving AEDs to our town. But knowing how to use them is just as important. Join a free training session to learn CPR, AED use, and how to respond in a cardiac emer­gency.

• 13th November: 2pm, Eugowra Show­ground Pavilion
• 13th November: 5pm, Forbes Sports and Recreation Centre
• 14th November: 10am and 12pm, Parkes Services Club.

Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera­tions: We’re hiring for multiple roles across the site. Ready to join the Northparkes team? Follow the link to see the opportuni­ties available now: https://bit.ly/48xHN4Q

R U OK? When you encourage people to come as they are, you create a safe space for them to talk about their good and bad days.

Roylances Tractor Replacements: After yet another successful RTR Golf Day, we are proud to be able to donate $5,075 from our day to Boys To The Bush in Forbes.

They are a terrific organisation doing amaz­ing things in the community. Check out all of the great things Boys To The Bush do https://boystothebush.org.au

Parkes Shire Council: Council were hon­oured to host a citizenship ceremony at the Parkes Shire Council Chambers where we welcomed Adan Salad Gonjobe, born in the upper eastern region of Kenya, Ann Tran, born in Vietnam, Leo Paul Pius, born in In­dia and Olamide Rhoda Kolawole, Olufemi Abefe Kolawole, Folakemi Adele Kolawole, and Damilola Louisa Kolawole, originally from Nigeria, the Kolawole family arrived in Parkes from Adelaide in 2023. Welcome to Australia and the Parkes community.

NSW Government: Encourage the wom­en in your life to get a breast screen with BreastScreen NSW. For women aged 5074, having a breast cancer screen every 2 years saves lives! Did you know – it’s free for women aged over 40, takes just 20 min­utes and no doctor’s referral needed. Learn more (the website is in 27 languages): bit.ly/BreastScreen_NSW

Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera­tions: We are pleased to share the 2024 Annual and Sustainability Report from Evo­lution Mining. This report highlights our op­erations, sustainability achievements, and overall business performance for FY24. To learn more about Northparkes and other Evolution Mining operations visit: https://evolutionmining.com.au/case-studies/

Kerin Health: Kerin Health have just opened up new clinic hours for Physiother­apy treatment before work every Thurs­day morning. The clinic will be open and available for appointments each Thursday from 7:30am in the old ANZ bank building at 74 Lachlan Street, Forbes. Don’t forget, Kerin Health are also located at Forbes Medicine and Mind, around the corner on Cross Street, every Tuesday between 9am and 1pm. To book an appointment at either location in Forbes, go to www.kerinhealth.com.au/book-an-appointment

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

Forbes Shire Council: FSC are prepar­ing the dam for the busy summer season ahead by dredging to restore the water’s depth, so boat users can enjoy the dam.

The dam will be closed to boats from Thursday 24 October to Thursday 31 Oc­tober while the dredging takes place. It will remain open for fishing and exercise. For more information please contact Forbes Shire Council on (02) 6850 2300.

Parkes Elvis Festival: Applications for the Evolution Mining Northparkes Opera­tions Street Parade are open. This crowd favorite event will take place on Saturday, 11th January 2025, at 10am along Festival Boulevard. Whether you want to walk, ride, drive, or float, it’s time to join in on the fun! Be part of one of the biggest highlights of the Parkes Elvis Festival. Sign up at: bit.ly/ElvisParade

NSW Department of Communities and Justice: How would you use $1,000 to support your studies? Think laptop, uni­forms, tutoring, stationery, study furniture or more. Scholarships valued at $1,000 are available for students in years 10, 11 and 12 in 2025, who live in social housing or in out-of-home care. To find out more go to: dcjnsw.info/scholarships

Women NSW: This week is NSW National Aboriginal Languages Week (20th – 27th October). Language is sacred and con­nected to Country and culture. It brings to­gether generations and ties spirituality and identity. NSW is home to approximately 35 Aboriginal Languages, many of which cross borders into other States. Of the top ten Aboriginal Languages being renewed (in terms of speaker numbers), six are lan­guages used in NSW. Interested to learn more? Head to the Aboriginal Languages Trust website: https://www.alt.nsw.gov.au

National BBQ Championships Forbes: It’s time to start prepping for the National BBQ Championships Forbes on 9th – 10th November. Fire up the barbie or the smok­er put on a BBQ Spotify playlist and get in the groove. Get your mates together and register your team now on the Forbes Shire Council website: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au

Aruma: Imagine living with a disability and being labelled a ‘faker’ or ‘lazy’ simply be­cause it isn’t visible to others. From Oc­tober 20 to 26, Invisible Disabilities Week aims to raise awareness about invisible disabilities and challenge the stereotypes that often accompany them.

Forbes Shire Council: Thinking about a career change? Council has positions available in the following roles:

• Grants and Projects Control Officer

• Multi Skilled Civil Labourers

Applications for all positions close Sunday 10 November. Apply now on the Forbes Shire Council website: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au. FSC strive to make sure everyone is treated fairly and supported at every stage of getting a job. If you need any sort of adjustments or support to do this please reach out.

Trundle Central School: A huge thank you to Warwick Rippon and his daughter Emma for constructing an iron bark bench to be used as a fundraiser for the Student Repre­sentative Council. The chair was milled and air dried for 12 months before construc­tion took place. It is truly humbling when a member of the school community allocates their valuable time to assist the school. The workmanship in this bench is exceptional.

Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW: Our friends at QCWA are launching an online branch for those who find it dif­ficult to get to meetings, including younger members. Our online branch, called the CWA of NSW Virtual Branch, is open to all women in NSW. They meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm via Zoom. Email the Secretary, Melissa for informa­tion secretarycwanswvirtualbranch@gmail.com. If you prefer to meet in person, women of all ages are welcome at our branches: https://www.cwaofnsw.org.au/branches

Trundle ABBA Festival: Just two weeks to go until the Trundle ABBA Festival. It’s time to get your “Dancing Queen” on and enjoy a night of ABBA hits and unforgettable fun. Grab your tickets now and let’s make some memories bit.ly/ABBAtickets2024

BirdLife Australia: It’s finally time—the Aussie Bird Count has started. Get your apps ready, head outside, and start count­ing! Each count takes just 20 minutes, and you can do as many as you like until 20th October. https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/

Neighbourhood Central: CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes and Small Steps 4 Han­nah invite you to attend a free community education event (Hannah’s Story) present­ed by DV prevention educator Michael Jeh.

Hannah’s Story is a session that aims to create more awareness and empower members of the community about the early warning signs of coercive control and the tragic but inspirational story of Hannah Clarke, her three children and family. Reg­istration is essential via www.facebook.com/share/FNaj6M8D7fW6zQkM/

Parkes Services Squash Courts: Make sure you grab a bacon and egg roll at Parkes Services Doubles next Sunday morning. Club members Craig and Natalie Kelly have generously donated their time and ingredients to run the breakfast BBQ to help Henry Kross with his fundraising to attend the British Junior Open.

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.