
Having fun playing at Paint Parkes REaD to school children who clapped, shouted out Bluey names and sang along to Bananas in Pyjamas. Bringing music to town!
Play Music for Life: Parkes Shire Concert Band’s legendary musician Doug Richards has many titles to his name – songwriter, music arrangement maker, teacher of drums and guitar, band member keeping the beat going. He is testimony to the adage music has no age or mobility barriers, or the idea that if you used to play, you never lose it.
Doug is still sharing his passion for others to learn music and volunteers at Parkes Public School every Tuesday with the school band. If you carefully read the plaque inscription regarding his brother Digby, located at the Elvis Wall of Fame at Bushmans Dam, you will learn Doug wrote his ‘hit song’ and was a lead player in the foundations of the Australian Music Industry.
Doug was awarded the Parkes Shire Cultural Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024 and will be involved in the Parkes Shire Concert Bands next performances at Homegrown on 12th October, and the ABBA Festival on 19th October.
Playing music has no barriers, and provides many opportunities, so if you used to play, or would like to learn, head along to Tuesday rehearsals from 7 – 9pm during school terms above the Pool Complex. Enquires to Music Director Duncan Clement on 0405 035 164 or follow on Facebook.
NSW Government: Grants are available to support programs for seniors to learn, stay active and connect with their communities.
Organisations are encouraged to apply for grants up to $5,000, and local councils are able to apply for up to $10,000. Applications for the Seniors Festival Grants Program close on 6th September. To Learn more or to apply, go to: nsw.gov.au/go/Seniors-Fest-Grants
Galari River Arts Forbes Inc: The Galari River Arts Forbes committee would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who supported our 2024 “Ripple” festival.
We are sometimes described as ‘the people involved in everything’, and it’s true: with limited volunteers, those who commit, commit wholeheartedly. Our dedication stems from a deep love for our community, and as a humble group, we thrive on connection.
Knowing us, you’ll understand that stepping into the spotlight isn’t easy, rather, it is our way of truly acknowledging your incredible support Forbes. This festival is a testament to our collective efforts and the support of our Forbes community.
For our fellow volunteers, thank you, once again for your unwavering support or contribution. For everyone else, thank you for your kind words, messages or for attending the festival.

We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work together as a team, We rebel against individualism and value the collective.