Articles Archives - Page 7 of 392

Aspiring Ag Leaders Wanted

October 17, 2024 By Roxane Manley

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has opened applications for its National Agriculture Leadership Program.

The flagship program provides exclusive opportunities for emerging leaders in the agriculture sector, including mentoring, policy development guidance, and meetings with Parliamentarians.

NFF President David Jochinke said the program is targeted at Australians aged under 35. “The program immerses our participants in the policy and advocacy worlds; they’ll have the opportunity to tour Australian Parliament House and meet with federal politicians and government departments, and be mentored by leading policy experts,” Mr Jochinke said.

Now entering its fifth year, Mr Jochinke said the limited spots in the NALP are always hotly contested.

“I encourage everyone with a passion for ag and an interest in leadership to apply.”

“Applications are only open for a month, so please don’t delay if you’re interested in this fantastic program,” Mr Jochinke said.

Program participants will meet up for a three-day advocacy retreat in Canberra where they’ll be matched with an industry leader and work on a policy project.

The program kicks off February 2025, applications are open until 14 November 2024.

Find out more at https://nff.org.au/nalp/

Parkes Bypass Project Enters Heavy Lifting Phase

October 17, 2024 By Roxane Manley

NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said “These upgrades are vital to better connect our regional communities and improve efficiency on one of our busiest regional routes.

Two bridges being built as part of the Parkes Bypass project will move one step closer to carrying traffic, as massive girders to support the bridge decks are lifted into place.

The $287.2 million Parkes Bypass project will feature five key intersections and two new bridges, including one over Hartigan Avenue and the rail corridor and a second over the bypass on Victoria Street.

Preliminary work including construction of the abutments, or bridge ends, at either end of the bridges is now nearing completion and two giant cranes will be mobilised to the bypass site to lift six girders into place at each of the bridges.

Each of the 60-tonne girders will be hoisted high in the air and lowered into place on the bridge supports weather permitting – on 15 October. These girders, add to the 30 girders lifted into place in October 2023.

Once the cranes are set up, a 600-tonne crane will pass the girders one-by-one to the 750-tonne crane so they can be installed between the northern abutment and the next pier. The process will be repeated on 5 November, when one of the cranes is again used to lift six more girders into place for the new Victoria Street Bridge.

Once it’s completed, the 10.5-kilometre bypass on the western outskirts of Parkes will reduce travel time, improve freight productivity and efficiency on the Newell Highway,improve pedestrian access through Parkes and benefit traffic flow.

BreastScreen Australia Encourages Women To Look, Lift, Feel

October 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

BreastScreen Australia is the national breast screening program and actively invites women aged 50—74 to have a free two yearly mammogram. Women aged 40—49 and those aged over 74 are also eligible to receive a free mammogram.

Associated Professor Sanjay Warrier said “I’ve formulated an easy system to help women undertake self-examinations at home and I call it ‘LOOK, LIFT, FEEL”.

“LOOK, LIFT, FEEL only takes a few minutes and should be done regularly. Look at your breasts in the mirror to identify any changes in shape, colour or texture. Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips. Look for any changes in the size, shape or symmetry of your breasts. Check for dimpling, puckering or changes in the skin texture.

“Then lay flat and lift your arm up over your head and with two fingers together, using the pads of each finger, place gentle pressure on the breast moving your fingers around in a circular motion. Cover the entire breast from top to bottom and side to side. Also feel up under the armpit. Change sides and repeat.

“Take your time and feel for lumps or changes in the breast. Remember that your breasts may be dense and will naturally feel uneven. If you encounter any changes or unusual lumps, thickening or hardened knots, or nipple discharge, book an appointment with your doctor. The majority of issues are benign, but it’s always important to check things with your doctor.”

“Regular self-exams can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to notice any changes.”

National Photo Comp Reopens For Agday

October 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has today opened its popular photography competition, ahead of National AgDay next month.

NFF President David Jochinke said the competition attracts hundreds of entries each year. “It’s a real highlight of AgDay celebrations to see the amazing snaps of life on the land from every corner of this beautiful country,” Mr Jochinke said.

“I encourage everyone to send in their photos and videos over the next few weeks; there are some great prizes on offer.”

First place will receive $2,000, second place is awarded $1,000, and runners up receive $500 each.

Participants are also encouraged to share their photos on social media using the hashtag #AgDayAU.

The theme “Grow you good thing!” is again the catch cry for this year’s AgDay.

“National AgDay is a fantastic celebration of everything that makes the agricultural industry so special,” Mr Jochinke said.

“You can show your support on the big day by attending or hosting an event, taking part in the photo comp, or by proudly donning some “I love farmers” merchandise.”

National AgDay falls on Friday 15th November 2024. For more information, visit https://agday.org.au/

Apply Now For A 2025 Traineeship

October 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Forbes Shire Council is calling on anyone aged 16 years and over to apply for 12 exciting traineeships that are now open and commencing 2025.

These traineeships offer the perfect opportunity to kickstart a career in local government, to work in a professional team gaining valuable experience, getting paid while studying and securing a qualification.

Forbes Shire Council Multiskilled Operator – Events Support, Luke Evans, said “It doesn’t matter how old or young you are, everyone should look at applying for a traineeship. It’s a positive workplace that is really inclusive and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.

There are 12 roles covering all areas of Council including:

• Civil Construction (Certificate III, two years)

• Irrigation and Sporting Ovals (Certificate III, two years)

• Horticulture/Gardening (Certificate III, two years)

• Agriculture/Saleyards (Certificate III, two years)

• Business Support (Certificate III, two years)

• Community Projects (Certificate IV, two years)

• Surveying and Drone Operations (Certificate IV, two years)

• Sewer Plant Operations (Certificate III, two years)

• Cadet/Graduate Town Planner (Bachelor Degree, six years)

• Graduate Building Surveyor (Diploma, two to five years)Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller, said Council prided itself on the diversity of employment opportunities it is able to provide.

“These traineeships are a perfect opportunity to make a valuable contribution to our community by working for Council and being a part of our day-to-day operations,” she said.

“It’s an exciting time for Council to have so many traineeship opportunities and they will all contribute to its growth and the services it is able to provide to the shire,” said Cr MillerTo RSVP to the information session go to https://forms.office.com/r/6bwiAZgtsy.

To find out more about traineeships and apply go to https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/council/about-council/working-with-council/2025-traineeships. Applications close 21st of October 2024.

The Count Down Is On For Homegrown Parkes This Saturday

October 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

If you have never attended Homegrown Parkes before, please make sure to come along tomorrow, Saturday 12th October.

The popular Homegrown Parkes is back this weekend, kicking off off at 9am with a sausage making demonstration in the Cooke Park Pavilion. Parkes Shire Concert Band will be performing in the Park grounds from 9am and crop swap in front of the green wall will run until 11am.

The event will be officially opened at 10am, followed by a performance from Parkes M&D featuring the musical Cinderella and the Crystal Slipper.

The Parkes M&D will then provide performances for park entertainment from the low stage between 10.30am and 11.30am.

Bill Tink will provide a Netwaste workshop in the Pavilion also commencing at 10.30am and WildTalk snake bite first aid demonstration will follow in the Pavilion at 11am.

The Parkes School of Dance will be sure to delight, with performances on the main stage of the Pavilion between 11.30am and 12.30pm.

The noodle making workshop commences at 12.30pm in the Pavilion and the Parkes M&D performers will be back on the low stage between 12.30pm and 2pm.

There will be a wonderful selection of local and regional food vendors and stallholders. Keep the kids busy with the animal farm and jumping castle – and you know there will be face painting.

You can keep up to date by visiting the Homegrown Parkes Facebook and Instagram pages. For further information contact Marg Applebee on 0418 611 053.

Snippets…

October 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Congratulations to the newly elected Parkes Shire Councillors.

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.

Congratulations to the newly elected Forbes Shire Councillors.

Makes Cents Not To Bin It

October 10, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Parkes Shire joins nation’s biggest garage sale trail this November.

Everyone can clear out and cash in on the Garage Sale Trail this November as Parkes Shire Council joins the nation’s biggest second-hand treasure hunt.

Over two big weekends on 9th-10th and 16th-17th November, the Garage Sale Trail will be coming to Parkes Shire, with the event offering savings for savvy shoppers on everything from the essentials you need, to the pre-loved gems you want.

Parkes Shire residents are invited to host their own garage sale or join a group sale in their neighbourhood, and can take part over one day or do more across both weekends.

Do you have pre-loved treasures too good for the bin? Hold on to them and cash in! Acting General Manager of Parkes Shire Council, Mr Andrew Francis, said selling or shopping at garage sales is a fun and simple action we can all take to reduce our carbon footprint.

“Garage Sale Trail helps neighbours connect, make some money and keep their good stuff out of landfill,” Mr Francis said.

“With free registration, how-to guides and promotional resources, its garage sales made easy over two big weekends.”

“We hope to encourage garage sales locally in the Parkes Shire, contributing to the 15,000 sales expected nationwide.”

Amidst a growing focus on reuse and recycling, Australians are decluttering and seeing the rewards. Data shows that those hosting a sale on the trail make an average of $4,571, proving that pre-loved is both planet- and pocket-friendly. With profits like these, it’s no wonder that 3 million items will be up for grabs over the trail weekends, offering bargains for every shopper.

“There really will be something for everyone; designer fashion, mid-century furniture, cookware, vinyl, kids stuff, tools and more,” said Mr Francis.

Parkes Community Grieves The Loss Of Local Couple

October 3, 2024 By Roxane Manley

The Pakes community is in shock, after learning local husband and wife Graeme and Sue Tait, both 57, were fatally injured in a tragic two car collision on the Newell Highway in Tomingley, just south of Dubbo around 9:20pm on Friday 30th September.

Graeme and Sue have left behind five children aged between 16 and 26. The couple were well known and much loved local residents. Graham was an experienced, well respected coach driver and fundraiser, while Sue was a beloved teacher and assistant director of Parkes Early Childhood Centre, having worked there for 17 years.

A GoFundMe campaign has been organised by Amii Marchant on behalf of Bernadette Tait to support the children of Graham and Sue Tait. Please get behind this fundraiser for the five Tait children who now require a large amount of support. You can show your support by making a donation at https://www.gofundme.com/f/graham-and-sue-tait

The two other fatalities from the horror crash were Lochie Jacobs 19 and Joey Urban 18. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this loss. Support the boys families at https://www.gofundme.com/f/lochie-jacobs-and-joey-urban

The sole survivor was a 23 year old driver of one of the two vehicles involved in the crash. On Monday he was charged and granted bail, and will appear before Dubbo Local Court on 21st October.

Snippets

October 3, 2024 By Roxane Manley

Let’s kick back, relax, and get ready to rock ‘n’ roll Elvis style.

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

Earlier this month, members of the Forbes Arts Society Painting Group participated in a two-day workshop hosted by Colin Darley of Currumbene Art Studio.

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