From everyone here at Forbes Shire Council, I'd like to wish you and your families a happy and safe Easter.

If you're looking for any ideas of what to do this weekend, why not take advantage of the cooler weather and go camping or fishing along the Lachlan River.

You could also drive along our amazing Sculptures Down the Lachlan trail; pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it with your family or friends.

It's also a great time to take a break at one of our amazing cafes or walk the lake with that coffee in hand!

The long weekend is a busy time on our roads with so many people travelling for their Easter break so please travel safely and don't forget it is double demerits from Thursday 28 March to Monday 1 April.

Please take care as you travel - we want you to arrive safely, and NSW Police will be out in force to make this a reality. They will be targeting speeding, wearing of motorcycle helmets, seatbelts and mobile phone offences.

I urge you to drive to the conditions especially as there are ongoing works on a number of our roads as we continue repairing after the 2022 floods.

Slow down. Take breaks. Limit distractions in the car. Don't mix alcohol or drugs with driving and above all please be patient.

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind everyone about the Central West Flood Recovery Housing Program survey. This survey is very important for our community as it will provide critical information for this program.

I encourage everyone who was impacted by the floods, no matter how big or small the impact was, to complete this survey before the April 30. It is so important that our community receive much needed and appropriate assistance in flood recovery.

Until next week, God bless. May this Easter bring you lots of joy, happiness and blessings.

Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM