Community Input and Engagement

Your input is very important to us and we want to know what you think. By being part of the conversation and having your say you can help us create a vibrant, connected, diverse community and shape the future of Forbes.

Your Say 

Your Say Forbes

We want to hear your ideas and feedback on issues that are important to you. By participating, you can help Council make well-informed decisions that achieve the best outcomes for our community. We will consider your feedback and report back to you on how your input contributed to Council decisions.

You can provide feedback to the Shire on topics such as:

• The future vision for Forbes
• How you feel about specific plans and projects that the town has in mind
• Local Planning Policies, Local Planning Scheme or other Planning Strategies.
• Development approvals 

There are a number of other ways you can get involved in Council decision-making:

• Like our Facebook page for the latest information here
• View the latest media releases and news items here
• Get involved in community events and activities here
• Contact our friendly Community Relations Officer on 02 6850 2300.

To see our Policies relating to Community Consultation click on the link below:

Community Consultation Policy  

To view Strategic Documents click link below:

Council Strategies 

Forbes Community Strategic Plan Review 

Forbes' Community Strategic Plan Consultation is now open! The Forbes Community Strategic Plan is the 10 year plan that sets the goals and aspirations of the Community. The review of this strategy will be completed in three phases: 

• Phase 1 - Community Survey: NOW CLOSED. 
• Phase 2 - What we heard: help us prioritise what's important. NOW CLOSED. 
• Phase 3 - Collate all Data and create the new Community Strategic Plan!

To stay up to date with the development of the Forbes Community Strategic Plan, please register at the Forbes Your Say below.

Register here   

Forbes Draft Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035

The Draft Forbes Community Strategic Plan 2025–2035 has been developed in close consultation with the community. The input received from residents, community organisations, businesses and other stakeholders has been central to shaping the direction, priorities and long-term vision contained within this Plan. Engagement activities were designed to be inclusive and accessible, providing multiple ways for people to contribute. These included surveys, pop-up consultation at local events and looped back to “what we heard” and “what are your priorities” consultation sessions.

The feedback gathered through this process informed all aspects of the Plan — from the refinement of strategic themes to the identification of community priorities and aspirations. The insights provided reflect a deep connection to place and a strong commitment to the future of the Forbes Shire. Council extends its sincere thanks to all participants for their considered contributions. Their involvement has ensured this Plan reflects the values and aspirations of the community it serves.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their time and ideas to help set our community's strategic direction for the next decade. Your collaboration ensures a future that reflects our shared values and aspirations.

Public Exhibition Period
In accordance with ss.405-405 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council places on public exhibition its draft Forbes Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035, Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025/26, Statement of Revenue Policy 2025/26 and Schedule of Fees and Charges 2025/26.

Public Exhibitions
All submissions must be received in writing by Council, addressed to the General Manager, by 5:00pm on 13 June 2025, either by email to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au, via post: PO Box 333, Forbes NSW 2871 or at Council’s Administration Office at 2 Court Street, Forbes.

Forbes Active Transport Plan 2025

The Forbes Active Transport Plan (ATP) 2025 online survey and interactive map closed at 5pm, 4 April 2025. Additional information about the Forbes Active Transport Plan will be released shortly. 

Active transport refers to people walking, running and bike riding as well as other transport options such as e-bikes, e-scooters and mobility scooters, adults pushing prams and wheelchair use. The new Forbes ATP 2025 will assist in programming active transport infrastructure improvements such as new footpaths, shared paths, street crossings, end-of-trip facilities and wayfinding signage.

Spooner Oval Grandstand Naming

The Spooner Oval Grandstand Project is funded through the Australian Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program and the NSW Government Stronger Country Communities Fund and Regional Sport Facility Fund. The new grandstand will be two levels with lift access to the upper level, 210 seats, dressing rooms, a club room, bar and canteen and facilities throughout. The project is expected to be completed by September 2025. Consultation was opened on the 10 March 2025 for the naming of the Spooner Oval Grandstand, with community members invited to make their suggestions via Council’s Your Say platform or by email to Council. Council also received unofficial feedback via social media which is included in this report to Council. This consultation closed on 18 April 2025, with a business paper reported to the 15 May 2025 Council Meeting including the majority of suggestions received from YourSay, email and social media (excluding those considered inflammatory).

The business paper can be located here: Council Meetings and Agendas 

Naming any significant structure, such as the new grandstand at Spooner Oval, requires thoughtful consideration. The name of such a structure plays a vital role in establishing its identity, fostering a sense of community, and adding to the legacy of the venue.  Below are several considerations when naming the grandstand:  

• Historical Significance: The name chosen should ideally reflect or celebrate the history and traditions of the venue or honour local figures who have contributed to the venue’s legacy.   
• Memorialisation or Dedication: The name chosen could be a memorial or dedication to an individual, group, or event, to commemorate a respected figure in the community or an important historical event, such a dedication can serve as a lasting tribute. The memorialisation of individuals who made a significant impact on the community through their achievements or contributions ensures that their legacy lives on in the public consciousness.  
• Commercial Sponsorship: Where appropriate, naming rights may be offered for sponsorship. While corporate sponsorship can generate revenue for maintenance and improvements, it is important to ensure that the name still retains an element of dignity and public appeal.  
• Cultural and Community Relevance: The name should resonate with the local community, representing its values, heritage, and cultural significance. Consulting with community members, sports teams, and local organisations ensures that the name chosen is one that will be embraced and supported by those who frequent the venue. 

Naming the grandstand is not a decision to be taken lightly. It involves a mix of honouring history, engaging with the community, attracting sponsors, and ensuring the name resonates positively over time. By considering these various factors, Council can select a name that serves the grandstand’s purpose, celebrates its legacy, and enhances the venue’s prestige for future generations.

At the 15 May 2025 Council resolved the following:

21.3 Spooner Oval Grandstand Naming - Consultation Outcome
224 - 2025 Resolved

That Council:

1. Note the submissions and comments;
2. Note the many worthy choices to honour prominent people associated with Forbes Rugby League, in particular Geoffrey Acheson who received the most votes in support;
3. Name the Spooner Oval Grandstand the ‘Magpies Stand’ a name that broadly represents Forbes Rugby League.

Cr Marg Duggan / Cr Sarah Sweeney Carried