Keeping the show spirit alive. Show societies in NSW are encouraged to create a No Show Scarecrow in solidarity with all the cancelled shows.
No Show Scarecrow: Many agricultural shows have been cancelled this year. The Agricultural Societies Council (ASC) is encouraging every show society to create a No Show Scarecrow as a sign of solidarity across NSW for cancelled shows. “Agricultural shows in Australia attract six million visitors annually and the volunteer hours required to run the 580 shows makes the show movement the largest volunteer network in the country,” said ASC CEO, Tim Capp.The ASC of NSW has asked all shows to display their No Show Scarecrow throughout the month of October. “Shows are unique reflections of their local community, and we recommend each show society puts a local spin on their No Show Scarecrow to be displayed proudly in a prominent location as a reminder that the show will go on and put a smile on local faces in the process.”
Youth Have Their Say: Young leaders and youth organisations are invited to provide their views by completing a survey ahead of the implementation of the National Youth Policy framework, which will provide a pathway of continued support for young people around Australia. “Many young Australians are dealing with disruptions to their education, sudden unemployment, mental health issues and economic insecurity within the family,” said Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack MP. The Youth Taskforce is in the process of developing a whole-of-government approach to supporting young people. The survey can be found at https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/the-national-youth-policy-framework#have-your-say
Aussie Backyard Bird Count: BirdLife Australia are calling all Australians to take part in their Aussie Backyard Bird Count from 19-25th October – the nation’s largest conservation event. Following a devastating year so far – with the Black Summer fires and COVID-19 pandemic – this count is a chance for all Aussies to take a break, connect with nature and do something peaceful in your own backyard. Studies estimate that at least 180 million birds were wiped out by the destructive bushfires, but a significant number of wild birds sought refuge in gardens and parks. Data from the Bird Count will help BirdLife Australia track how bird populations are faring across the country. The Aussie Bird Count app allows you to take part anywhere – not just backyards, but in local parks, gardens, schoolyards, bushland or beaches. To register and find out more, visit www.aussiebirdcount.org.au
The Visitors Centre at the Parkes Radio Telescope has been madly busy the past two weeks with so many people travelling regionally in the holidays.