Head to Victoria Park this evening Friday 25 September, from 5pm to 9pm for free family fun at Street Dreams 2026.
Discover A Sea Of Activities At Street Dreams On Friday Night
A wave of free family fun is headed to Victoria Park when Street Dreams 2026 transforms the heart of Forbes on Friday 25 September, from 5pm to 9pm. The underwater-inspired event will feature a range of interactive activities and entertainment for all ages, including a creative activity with the Forbes Arts Society, Kaleidoscope Face Painting, a hands-on activity with Forbes North Schools as Community Centres (SaCC), interactive drumming with Robb Shannon, and balloon creations by Giggly Wiggly Balloon Artist. Festival-goers can also enjoy dazzling LED roving entertainment from LUXE Entertainment. Local makers will showcase their creations through market stalls including Creative Chaos, Kellie’s Creations, Mystic Crafts by Carly, Sloaney’s Rustic Metal Sculptures and The Craft Collective. Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said Street
Dreams offers a unique opportunity for people of all ages to engage with a range of creative and cultural experiences right here in Forbes. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have such a deep pool of creative talent across our region, and this event shines a spotlight on local artists, performers, makers and community groups who help make Forbes a vibrant destination for creativity, music and connection.” The 2026 festival marks the second year of a three-year Street Dreams series, proudly funded through the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program, led by Transport for NSW. The program supports projects that create vibrant public spaces, encourage community connection and increase visitation to local centres. For more information, visit www.forbes. nsw.gov.au or follow @ForbesShireCouncil for updates.
Page 2 Friday 25 September 2026
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
Last Thursday’s Council Meeting was a special occasion, and I was honoured to be re-elected as Mayor of Forbes Shire for a further two-year term. I would like to thank my fellow councillors for their confidence, our dedicated staff for their ongoing commitment, and the Forbes community for its support and valuable feedback. Congratulations to Councillor Chris Roylance on his re-election as Deputy Mayor. I look forward to continuing to work alongside him, our councillors and staff to help Forbes Shire thrive. What I love most about Forbes is the way our community comes together to support local events. As the weather warms up, our calendar is packed with activities for all ages, providing plenty of opportunities to connect, celebrate and enjoy time with family and friends. Street Dreams kicks off a huge weekend in Forbes, transforming the CBD with light projections, large-scale installations, roving performances, live music, art and food. The free, all-ages event runs from 5pm to 9pm and promises a memorable night for the whole family. The excitement continues with the firstever Forbes Rodeo at the Multipurpose
Equestrian Centre (MEC) this Saturday 26 September. Featuring the notorious Big Al, a full day of rodeo action and live music afterwards. Also on Saturday, music lovers can enjoy the Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea Piano Recital, featuring internationally respected pianist Aki Ogane. This special performance promises an afternoon of exceptional music. The October School Holidays Program is packed with activities designed to keep young people engaged, active and entertained. From a sports strapping workshop and clay-making sessions to a movie night and teen trivia, there will be something to suit a wide range of interests. The October long weekend will also see the return of the Forbes Sorting and Penning event. A highlight of the weekend will be the Sponsor Sort on Saturday 3 October, which raises funds for our local Can Assist branch. Spectators can enjoy free entry, with food vendors and market stalls. I encourage everyone to support our local events and make the most of what promises to be an exciting few weeks ahead. God Bless, Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM
phone l 0432 337 278 web l www.forbesphoenix.com.au www.parkesphoenix.com.au Postal Address PO Box 203 Canowindra NSW 2804 Editorial Roxane Manley | Editor | 0432 337 278 editor@parkesphoenix.com.au Advertising Roxane Manley | Sales | 0432 337 278 sales@parkesphoenix.com.au sales@forbesphoenix.com.au Advertising Deadline Tuesday 10am if you require design Tuesday 3pm for pre-designed ads Editorial Deadline | Tuesday 3pm
FREE community newspaper published every Friday
Please sign up on our website to receive the Phoenix via email each week.
JOKE of the Week How many tickles does it take to make an octopus laugh? Ten tickles.
FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL “Serving the Community” Public Notices
NEXT COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD THURSDAY 15 OCTOBER 2026 COMMENCING 1PM ROAD CLOSURE – STREET DREAMS, 25 SEPTEMBER Council advises that Harold Street in front of the Council Administration Building and Court Street (from the Newell Highway to the lane beside the Vandenberg Hotel) will be closed to traffic from 6:30am to 11:30pm on Friday 25 September for the Street Dreams community event. Motorists are requested to seek alternative routes and comply with all traffic control measures. Council thanks the community for their understanding.
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO COUNCILLOR EXPENSES AND FACILITIES POLICY In accordance with requirements of the Local Government Act, 1993 Council places on public exhibition proposed amendments to its Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy. Details of the amendments are available on the Public Notices page of Council’s website. Submissions will be received until 5:00pm Friday 25 September 2026. Submissions made to Council are considered public information under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.
VACANCIES: COUNCIL’S SECTION 355 ADVISORY COMMITTEES Nominations are sought from community members interested in serving on Council’s Section 355 Advisory Committees. These committees provide advice and recommendations to Council and help ensure community views are considered in Council’s decision-making processes. Details of current vacancies, committee Terms of Reference and nomination forms are available on the Public Notices section of Council’s website. Interested community members are encouraged to submit a nomination. For more information contact the Governance team.
AMENDMENTS TO SCHEDULE OF FEES AND CHARGES 2026/27: APEX RIVERSIDE TOURIST PARK In accordance with s. 610F of the Local Government Act 1993, Council places on public exhibition a proposed amendment to its 2026/27 Schedule of Fees and Charges. Details in relation to this matter can be found on the Public Notice page of Council’s website, or from Council’s Administration Office. Submissions must be received by 5:00pm on Monday 19 October 2026. Please be advised that submissions made to Council are considered public information under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.
POSITIONS VACANT Permanent - Full Time Roles: • Trainee Water Sewer Operator – closes 4 October • Concreting Lead - closes 11 October • Civil Surveyor (Junior) – closes 11 October • Revenue Officer – Rates – closes 11 October • Plant Operator – closes 11 October For details visit the Positions Vacant page on Council’s website.
GOLDRIDGE ESTATE - YOUR NEW BEGINNING STARTS HERE! Set on the edge of Forbes, just 3.5km from the CBD – a thoughtfully planned community. Wide streets, generous block sizes and open green spaces create a sense of freedom. Goldridge Estate offers easy access to Lake Forbes, the Water Ski Park, Lachlan River, sporting and dining options, and year-round community events – it’s more than a home, it’s a lifestyle. Secure your block today, starting at $167,000.
Disclosure Statement of Political Donations and Gifts: The Local Government and Planning Legislation Amendment (Political Donations) Act 2008 states that a person who makes a planning application (i.e DA) or submission to Council is required to disclose reportable political donations and gifts made by any person with a financial interest in the application to a Councillor(s) or Council employee(s) within the past two years. Privacy Notification: Submissions made to Council are considered public access documents under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.Personal information such as your opinion, name and address may be made publicly available including via Council’s website.
Forbes Shire Council 2 Court Street, Forbes P: (02) 6850 2300 Email: forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au
All submissions to Council should be sent to: General Manager, Forbes Shire Council, PO Box 333 Forbes NSW 2871 Website: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
SNIPPETS... headspace: Need help supporting a young person’s mental health? headspace has a range of expert resources and services that can help. Partners in Parenting elearning, Adults Supporting Young People text-based group chat, eheadspace, Selfhelp resources. Sign up today to support your young person’s mental health at: https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phonesupport/parents The 2026 (Round 12) Community Road Safety Grants program is now open.
Community Road Safety Grants: Got an idea to help make roads safer in your community? Community organisations across NSW can now apply for funding, with grants of up to $5,000, or up to $30,000 for larger projects. Applications close at 4pm, Monday 28 September. Apply now: bit.ly/road-safety-grants Dolly’s Dream: Not every bullying situation looks the same. That’s why we’ve created a free Bullying Support Hub with practical advice for every stage of the journey. Free. Trusted. Available whenever you need it at: dollysdream.org.au/help-and-support PCYC Parkes: Join the Peak Hill Community Outreach Day and help strengthen connections across our community. This event showcases services, builds relationships. Come along Monday 12 October at Peak Hill Central School from 12pm to 3pm and enjoy a free BBQ, interactive activities.
Philip Donato: Local small business owners can access up to four hours of free business advice through the Service NSW’s Small Business Advisory Program? Whether you need support with business planning, marketing, finances, staffing, AI, or growing your business. Register here: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/business/ small-business-advisory-program Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations: At Northparkes Open Day, you’ll have the chance to get up close with some of the impressive machines that help keep our operation moving. It’s a rare opportunity to see these incredible machines up close. Saturday 24 October. Don’t forget to grab your free tickets: bit.ly/NorthparkesOpenDay
National Rural Women’s Coalition and Network: We want to hear from women over 18 years living in rural, regional and remote Australia about their experiences of women’s healthcare. You can choose not to answer a question or stop the survey at any time. Please do not provide any identifying information. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VF6C7PM
Parkes Shire Community Gives Council Services A Strong Report Card Parkes Shire residents have given Council valuable feedback on the services that matter most to them, with the results of the 2026 Service Satisfaction Survey showing strong overall satisfaction across many areas. A total of 303 residents and ratepayers participated in the survey, conducted by independent social research company Place Score between 25 March and 3 May 2026. Overall, 81% of respondents rated their satisfaction with Council’s overall performance as Very Good, Good or Average. More than half of the 50 Council service areas assessed received a satisfaction rating of 80% or higher, while overall satisfaction in the Parkes Shire was 7% higher
than the NSW benchmark. Mayor Neil Westcott said the results provided Council with a valuable snapshot of what residents think is working well and where they would like to see continued focus. “It’s encouraging to see the strong levels of satisfaction across so many of Council’s services, particularly our libraries, airport, swimming pools, sport and recreation facilities and community events,” Mayor Westcott said. “I thank everyone who took the time to participate and share their views. Listening to our community helps Council make better-informed decisions about the future of the Parkes Shire.”
Friday 25 September 2026 Page 3
Warmer Weather Brings Mosquito Virus Warning As the warmer weather approaches, health authorities are urging those in high-risk regional areas of New South Wales to protect themselves against the threat of Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV). Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious illness spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which typically picks up the virus after feeding on infected pigs or waterbirds. It is more prominent in south-eastern Australia from mid-Spring until May when mosquitos are most active, with areas such as Armidale, Dubbo, Forbes, Orange and Parkes among the high-risk zones in NSW. “People who work outside, or are regularly active in the high-risk areas, as well as those working and or living close to piggeries, are at higher risk of contracting JEV,” Managing Partner at Orana Mall Pharmacy, Lisa Gibson, said. “JEV was detected across the Murrumbidgee region earlier this year, which is a reminder that while it is rare, regional NSW is in the high-risk zone and we really encourage people to do what they can to protect themselves.” In NSW, a JEV vaccine is available for free to those aged over two months who live or work in any of the high-risk Local Government Areas (LGAs) or are travelling to the LGAs for outdoor recreation until 31 January 2027. Most people infected with Japanese encephalitis have no symptoms, but some may develop fever, headache and vomiting 5 to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. In rare cases (about 1 in 250), the infection becomes severe, causing symptoms such as neck stiffness, disorientation, seizures or paralysis. The Japanese encephalitis high risk areas in NSW can be found here: www.health. nsw.gov.au/jevaccine. Flannery’s Pharmacy offer walk-in vaccinations for Japanese encephalitis - no apppointment necessary.
Page 4 Friday 25 September 2026
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
PARKES News
General Manager Kent Boyd Announces Retirement
Images from a previous Mini-Field community event.
Mini-Field Event Returns To Parkes Lions Park This October
Parkes will host a Mini-Field community event on Sunday 4 October from 9:30am to 11:30am at the Parkes Lions Park to recognise those women and men within our community who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Network of Australia (BCNA) highlights the following statistics: • On average, 56 people every day in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer, approximately 20,336 people in 2025. • The risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer over a lifetime is 1 in 7 for women and 1 in 612 for men. As Breast Cancer is still our biggest cancer in women it is important to recognise the effect it can have on not only the person with the disease but also their loved ones as they try and support them. The event is being co-ordinated by Parkes Health Service’s McGrath Cancer Care Nurse, Dianne Green, who said: “Over the years of holding this event my family have been my biggest support as
they rally to help me bring the event together and for this I am truly grateful. “Breast cancer has touched my family as it has sadly touched most people’s families or friends. “The mini-field silhouettes displayed on the day pay tribute to those diagnosed including women through the hundred pink silhouettes, men through the blue silhouettes and for those we have lost to breast cancer there is a white silhouette. “For those who like to write a message to a loved one there is the opportunity to place this around a silhouettes neck and I have kept messages back to 2009 which are also out on the day.” Morning tea will be available to the community for a coin donation which will go to the BCNA. A selection of BCNA and McGrath Foundation merchandise will also be available for purchase in support of these organisations. Everyone is welcome to come together over a cuppa and show support.
September: Prostate Cancer Awareness Month The month of September is dedicated to Prostate Cancer Awareness. It is a month when all men are encouraged to ensure that they are not one of the possible candidates for causing most deaths among men, prostate cancer. And, it could be avoided. Every man should have themselves tested depending on their circumstances. All men who have any family history of cancer should take the steps necessary to ensure they are clear of cancer at the age of forty. All men, at the age of fifty, regardless of family history, should discuss the matter with their doctor and insist in being tested. There are some signs that may indicate that the prostate is enlarged or cancerous. A man could develop pain in the groin area or while urinating. There could be blood in the
urine. But the best warning light is frequent visits to the bathroom. And sadly, there may be no signs at all, which also highlights the need to have a visit with the doctor. The statistics do not lie. Over 4,000 men died each year in Australia from prostate cancer, while 26,000 who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer are living normal lives today due the research efforts of the Cancer Foundation of Australia. The Parkes Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group, though small in number, are available to advise and support all, including the family, through the process. A member of the Group may be contacted through the Parkes Neighbourhood Central or one can reach out to the Oncology Nurse at Orange Health Service.
Parkes Shire Council General Manager Kent Boyd PSM has announced he will not seek an extension of his current employment contract, ending more than 34 years of service with Parkes Shire Council, including 15 years as General Manager. Correspondence from Mr Boyd was tabled by Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott at Tuesday’s Ordinary Council Meeting, advising that he intends to take accrued leave from the end of October through to the conclusion of his current contract on 2 July 2027. Mr Boyd said the decision represented an opportunity for a planned and orderly transition to the next generation of leadership. “After 34 years with Council, including the last 15 years as General Manager, I believe it is an appropriate time for a planned and orderly transition to the next generation of leadership. “It has been a rare privilege to serve the Parkes Shire community for such a substantial part of my career. I thank the Mayor and Councillors, past and present, for the trust and support shown to me during my tenure and remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition.” On behalf of Council, Mayor Neil Westcott acknowledged Mr Boyd’s dedicated service and leadership and his significant contribution to the organisation and the broader Parkes Shire community. “Council acknowledges the enormous contribution Kent has made to Parkes Shire over more than three decades,” the Mayor said. As part of the leadership transition, Council resolved to appoint Director Infrastructure and Sustainability Andrew Francis as Acting General Manager from Friday 30 October 2026. Mr Francis will remain in the role until a new General Manager is recruited and appointed, or until otherwise determined by Council.
Retiring Parkes Shire Council General Manager Kent Boyd PSM.
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
Friday 25 September 2026 Page 5
FORBES News
Forty-Two Organisations In Parkes Electorate To Benefit From Volunteer Grants
Deputy Mayor Cr Chris Roylance, Mayor Cr Phyllis Miller OAM and Forbes General Manager Stephen Dunshea.
Mayor And Deputy Mayor Re-Elected As Council Looks To A Bright Future Forbes Shire Council has reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership team, reelecting unopposed Councillor Phyllis Miller OAM as Mayor and Councillor Chris Roylance as Deputy Mayor at its September 2026 Council Meeting. Mayor Phyllis Miller said she was honoured to continue serving the community and expressed her appreciation for the support of fellow councillors, staff and residents. “In my 31 years on Forbes Shire Council, this is one of the best teams I have ever worked with,” the Mayor said. “Our staff have never been better, and the culture has never been healthier. That makes our job so much easier. “I would like to thank the Forbes community for its ongoing support and advice. Community input is invaluable in helping Council make decisions that benefit the en-
tire Shire. “Congratulations to Cr Roylance on his re-election as Deputy Mayor. I am very grateful for your support and look forward to continuing to work together for the benefit of our community.” Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance thanked his fellow councillors for their confidence and said he was excited about the opportunities ahead for Forbes. “Thank you, Councillors, for your vote of confidence,” Cr Roylance said. “I enjoy working with you every day, and I am looking forward to a bright future for Forbes.” The re-election ensures continuity in Council’s leadership, with Cr Miller serving until September 2028 and Cr Roylance serving a one-year term as Deputy Mayor. For more information, visit www.forbes. nsw.gov.au or follow @ForbesShireCouncil for updates.
DV-Murders: NSW Parliament Must Act Several women and a child are reported to have been killed in separate domestic violence-related incidents across NSW in just 24 hours over the weekend. And a young mother from Forbes murdered despite having an AVO. Her killer sentenced to 28 years with a non-parole period of just 20 years for a crime the judge found was at the high end of the seriousness scale – enough is enough! NSW Parliament will be asked to draw a line in the sand. The Independent NSW Member for Orange Phil Donato MP tabled a notice of motion for the Crimes Amendment (Mandatory Life Sentences) Bill 2026, which would introduce mandatory
life imprisonment for murder in defined and carefully prescribed domestic and family violence circumstances. The move comes after a horror weekend of multiple alleged dv-homicides across NSW over the weekend. It also follows the sentencing of Daniel Billings for the murder of 28-year-old Forbes mother Molly Ticehurst. “Molly deserved to grow old. She deserved to watch her son grow up. She deserved to come home safely. We cannot bring Molly back. But we can decide what happens next. “We must do better. And we must legislate for it,” Mr Donato said.
Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey MP has announced that 42 organisations in the electorate of Parkes have been successful in their applications for a 202526 Volunteer Grant. Mr Chaffey said the grants were spread across the 400,000 sq km electorate and would benefit groups as diverse as show societies, football clubs, event organisations and Scouts. “I’m pleased to announce that a total of $62,966 in 2025-26 Volunteer Grants has been awarded to 42 organisations across the electorate,” Mr Chaffey said. “The Volunteer Grants support the work of community organisations that rely on volunteers – and we know there are many of them in the communities that make up the electorate of Parkes. So many people give their time, their talents and their resources to make regional communities wonderful places to live. “There was strong interest in this program, and the results show just how motivated and determined our not-for-profit groups are to provide activities and services. It is inspiring to see these groups so engaged in their own communities and beyond. “I congratulate all the successful applicants and look forward to seeing the funding put to use in the Parkes electorate.” Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available each year through the Volunteer Grants program. Grants can be used to purchase communication or insurance items and/or purchase items for the main purpose of supporting volunteer cohorts and volunteer-run activities. Organisations were nominated by Mr Chaffey and applied through the Australian Government following an expression of interest process. The successful 2025-26 Volunteer Grants Round applicants in the Forbes and Parkes Shire areas included: • Bedgerabong Tennis Club - $1,200 • Forbes District Cricket Association Inc $1,000 • Galari River Arts Forbes Inc - $1,600 • Parkes QUE Club - $1,800 • Parkes School of Dance Inc - $1,200 • Parkes Little Athletics Centre Inc $1,200
Page 6 Friday 25 September 2026
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
BE SEEN @ Parkes High 50 Year Reunion - Yr10 1976
WHAT’S On PARKES 29 Sep 4 Oct
6 Oct The Parkes High School 50 year - Yr 10 1976 School Reunion main function was held at the Parkes Sports & Bowling Club on Saturday 12 September. Pictured are the group of returned students.
11 Oct Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
Organising Committee: Kym Hodges, Debbie Miles, Jennie Barnes, Rodney Barnes, Tony Jackson, Doug Miller.
Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
Open Day at the Australian Unity Parkes office 10am - 12pm at 30 Welcome Street, Parkes NSW. Cost is free and morning tea will be provided. Parkes Mini-Field Breast Cancer Event: 9:30am to 11:30am. Morning tea for a coin donation at Lions Park Parkes in support of those community members affected by breast cancer. BCNA & McGrath merchandise for purchase on the day (cash only). Everyone welcome. Parkes Camera Club upcoming Tuesday meetings will be held on 6 & 20 October, 3 and 17 November. Parkes Neighbourhood Centre at 7pm. QUE Open Gardens ‘n’ Markets from 9.30am at the Parkes Racecourse. Entry tickets can be purchased at the gate. Everyone is welcome to attend. Parkes College For Seniors: Masonic Hall, Short St, Parkes. Activities include, low impact exercise classes Monday and Thursday 9-10am, dance class Wednesday 9-10am, walking Thursday 9-10am, yarn knit n natter Friday 10am. Parkes Can Assist Bingo meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at Parkes Bowling and Sports Club. Parkes Shire Concert Band rehearses every Tuesday 7pm - 9pm during school term in the music room above the pool complex in Dalton Street. Contact music director Duncan Clement on 0405 035 164. Parkes True Blue Linedancing every Monday morning 10am-12noon, upstairs of Parkes Services Club. Parkes Ladies Lounge (Knit & Natter) every Tuesday 1-3pm, Community Hall, Rose St. Red Cross Rooms serving teas and lunch the first Friday of each month. Parkes Ukelele Players every Tuesday 7-9pm, Community Hall, Rose St. Parkes Croquet 9:00 start every Saturday at Parkes Tennis Club.
Parkes Garden Club Meetings are held the second Saturday of each month. Various venues, 2pm. For further information phone Joy on 0429 801 168. Parkes Probus Club meet the second Friday of the month at Parkes Leagues Club at 10.30am. New members welcome. Contact Robyn 6862 1548. Parkes Rotary Club meets each Monday night at Parkes Services Club at 6pm. New members welcome, contact Colin on 0458 439 075 Parkes Que Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at Parkes Services Club at 6:30pm. New members welcome. Contact Raelene on 0408 634 181. Parkes Day VIEW Club meets the first Tuesday of each month, 11:30am at Parkes Services Club. Contact Wendy for more information 0497 017 459.
FORBES Ongoing Ongoing What would a 50 year reunion be without a fabulous celebration cake!
The business information specialists Printing systems Workflow software Collaboration tools Call us on 1300 999 378 or visit inlanddigital.com.au
Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing
Forbes Handicraft Centre Inc monthly meetings are held the 4th Wednesday of the month at 2pm in the shop. Forbes Garden Club meet 4th Tuesday of each month 2pm at different venues. Further enquiries Contact 0428 540 272. Painting Group every Thursday 11am - 3pm at Northside Chapel, 59 Johnson St. Artists of all ages and abilities are welcome to come along. Bring your own art supplies. $5 per week and includes morning tea. www.forbesartssociety.com Forbes Men’s Probus Club Meeting 4th Friday every month 10.30am, Club Forbes. All Welcome. Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea meets for breakfast on the first Tuesday of the month at the Vandenberg Hotel from 7am-8am. Find us on Facebook. Forbes CWA meets on the first Friday of each month at the CWA Hall at 132 Lachlan Street at 1:30pm. Anyone is welcome to pop in and join us. Winter Season Croquet starts 9.30am with arrival 9.15am to get names into the draw. Membership only $20, morning tea included. Contact Elvy Quirk on 0428 540 272. Forbes CWA Evening Branch meets the second Thursday of each month at Club Forbes. Time is 6pm for dinner and meeting begins at 7pm. All welcome. Contact: forbeseveningbranchcwa@gmail.com Forbes Town Band rehearsals every Monday night during school term. Learners from 6 - 7pm. Main band 7pm to 9pm. Band Hall, Rankin Street. Rhyme Time every Friday at Forbes Town Library 10:30am.
Friends of Forbes Hospital Auxiliary meet on the second Thursday of Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct, Dec at Forbes Hospital Meeting room 3 at 6pm. Contact President Robyn 0407 235 326.
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
Friday 25 September 2026 Page 7
SPORT Reports
Max Haley trying to avoid a tree close in front of him.
Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor addresses attedees at the recent Parkes ‘Be Road Ready For Harvest’ Field Day.
Successful Parkes ‘Be Road Ready For Harvest’ Field Day
There were more than 20 attendees at the recent Be Road Ready for Harvest Field Day held at the Parkes Racecourse. The event was organised by Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety Program and supported by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, Transport for NSW, McPhersons Parts & Service, O’Connors Forbes, Parkes SES Unit and Parkes Rotary Club. Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, said anecdotal feedback from attendees was very positive. “Regulations are constantly changing, so events like these are important to ensure we provide information about how to safely and legally move agricultural machinery, combinations and trucks on the road network in the lead up to the busy harvest period. “We had presentations about conditional registration, auxiliary plates, fatigue, load restraint, access, compliance, the National Class 1 Agricultural Vehicle and Combination Mass and Dimension Exemption Notice and more. ‘We also discussed the operational requirements of the NSW Light Vehicle Agricultural and Indivisible Item Exemption Notice 2024. This notice allows consent for drivers of light vehicles to tow certain agricultural implements like augers. “The highlight of the event was the interactive activities, where we showed participants how to use the quick refer-
ence guide for the Class 1 Agricultural Notice to work out what the travel requirements would be for a range of equipment. Thanks to McPhersons Parts & Service and O’Connors Forbes who were very generous in loaning us the equipment for the display. “Participants could take home windscreen stickers that can be attached to their machinery that acts as a quick reference for travel requirements such as pilots, lights and signage - these were extremely popular. “We also conducted a weighing display which explained gross vehicle mass and gross combination mass. Thanks to Parkes SES for bringing along their ute and a boat for this exercise,” Ms Suitor said. If you missed the event, it was recorded and the link to the recording will be published on the Councils’ Facebook pages.
CLADDING from $8,990* FITTED Based on 80m2 Conditions Apply (area 1)
WEATHERLITE ROOMS from $10,990*
5m x 2.5m
Conditions Apply Glass Extra (area 1)
PATIOS
6m x 2.7m from * $ , Conditions Apply Insulation Extra (area 1)
4 990
Call Now • FREE On-Site DESIGN & QUOTE
www.panelspan.com.au
PARKES 6862 5886
Winners Score Well
On Saturday 19 September, the Forbes men’s golfers played an Individual Stableford event contested by 65 participants About a quarter of the field scored to their handicap or better. The Div-1 winner was Isaac Page with 43 points with most of those scored on the front-9 with an ‘eagle’ and three birdies. Runner-up was Paul Kay who was pleased with his 40 points having an even game on both halves. The Div-2 winner was John Kuntze who managed 42 points. He had a good front-9 with 23 points and played steady on the back-9. Runner-up was Frank Hanns with 37 points and on count back from two others. Frank had a rare day without any ‘wipes’ and sunk some good putts. The ball sweep went to 36 points on count back. NTPs went to: 9th – J Roylance; 18th – A Alley with both converting for a 2’s. The Super Pin went to Peter Dawson (221 cm) who managed to convert for a ‘2’. The competition on Saturday 26 Septemebr is the October Monthly Medal sponsored by Forbes Concrete. On Sunday there will be the Golf-NSW 9-Hole 2-Person Ambrose. By Short Putt
Page 8 Friday 25 September 2026
Your free weekly guide to what’s happening in and around Forbes & Parkes...shop locally first!
For all your Steel Water tank needs From 500Lt to 120,000Lt Ph: 02 6341 4343
ONLY distributor in NSW for Water Bladders Australia
Do you provide an AGRICULTURAL Service?
To join our Rural Roundup Guide contact Roxane on 0432 337 278 or sales@parkesphoenix.com.au