I would like the opportunity to have extra help in the classroom, more one-on-one time with the teacher would help me to read, write and spell better. 

I do not get to finish my work on time. Sometimes other kids tease me because I can’t write very good. I get embarrassed because I can’t read as well as the other kids. 

I feel upset when I have to talk to other people about my feelings. I am glad I have a multi-lit teacher. 

I hope you like my letter.

From Callie. xoxo

Nine-year-old Forbes student, Callie Godden, has penned a heartfelt letter to NSW Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli, and her school principal, Paula Leadbitter, to promote awareness for people with dyslexia. 

Callie was diagnosed as a dyslexic almost two years ago, after a reading teacher picked up her difficulties at school. And now, according to mum Emma Godden, her younger brother is showing similar signs.

The family is eager to raise awareness of the condition that affects how a person processes the sounds of letters and the formation of words, and to see recommendations raised through a national inquiry into literacy education in 2005 implemented in schools. 

The family is grateful for the support of the school, for the advances of technology, and for online sites and groups which has enabled them easier and greater access to support and information. 

“I just want her to be able to read and write, to be able to function in society without that anxiety, and to not be restricted in what they choose to do,” Mrs Godden said. 

Callie’s letter is part of a Red Letter Day competition being run in conjunction with Dyslexia Empowerment Week which runs from October 16 to 22.

Children aged five to 18 were encouraged to write a Red Letter to someone they believe can influence change in dyslexia awareness, which affects between 10 and 20 per cent of the community. 

Entries will be posted on www.myredletter.com.au and displayed on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Children will not only help to raise awareness of of dyslexia, but also have the opportunity to share in the $10,000 prize pool. 

Anyone looking for further information on dyslexia can be found via Auspeld, the Australian Dyslexia Association and via Facebook support groups such as Dyslexia Support Australia. 

Our last Mayor Phyllis Miller was very approachable and really committed to the people of Forbes.

Her enthusiasm in her job was wonderful and she had the courage and foresight – with other councillors – to get the town of Forbes on the map.

A job well done Phyllis.

Forbes is a wonderful town and we should be proud of what you and former mayors have achieved, and hopefully will achieve from now on.

Pam Toole, Forbes

I am writing to express gratitude to Amy Millerd from Forbes Shire Council for her hard work and outstanding communication through the Forbes floods.

Amy kept the town up to date through all social media outlets as well as text messages to those registered to the service. 

She went above and beyond to ensure all operations were on time and in order.

Amy relentlessly gathered people to sandbag and put Forbes as a community first above anything for the past several weeks. 

On behalf of myself and many people who probably do not realise who kept things so under control for the duration, thank you Amy Millerd!

It was a job well done and I'm sure you still have many hours of hard work ahead of you.