That applies even if you're fully vaccinated, or only have the most minor of flu-like symptoms. You can also ask for a 'surveillance test', which applies when you have no systems.

After the recent floods, it was good to see that Scott Morrison, premier Perrottet and Michael McCormack dropped into Forbes last Sunday for a barbecue to thank NSW and Lachlan SES, RFS and other volunteers for their efforts.

They certainly do deserve the recognition for their hard work and dedication.

It's not surprising that media were in tow for this barbecue, and several of the attendees mentioned there were no announcements made about flood mitigation, water use and the raising of the Wyangala Dam wall.

While support is always appreciated, action matters, too!

A number of Forbes residents who have been badly affected by these floods have contacted my office to discuss the issues they've had with insurers.

I have raised these concerns with both the Insurance Council of Australia and with the Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation, Kevin Anderson MP.

I'm looking forward to their response as these people really do need assistance.

A big shout out to all the SES, emergency services, local councils and volunteers who've worked tirelessly in the flood-affected communities - thank you!

Flood and storm affected primary producers, small business, sport and recreation clubs, not-for-profits, individuals and families can enquire online at https://www.nsw.gov.au/resilience-nsw or call 13 77 88.

Last week the students and mentors from the Orange, Cabonne and Blayney local government areas involved in the TEN4TEN Leadership Dialogue gathered for the end of program breakfast and presentation.

TEN4TEN is a great initiative by RDA Regional Development Australia Central West, which is now in its second year.

It's an honour to be asked to be involved mentoring our future leaders.

The future of the central west is certainly in great hands!

I was very pleased to visit with the third Orange Scout Group to announce their successful Community Building Partnership funding of $15,000 for a new equipment shed.

Scouts teaches kids lifelong skills like teamwork, leadership and discipline, and are an important part of the community.

It's good to see the upgrade is soon to be under way; the slabs have been poured and shed will be erected shortly.

Meanwhile, under the Local Sports Grant program, Orange Tigers Australian Rules Football Club received funding which will be used to assist in the installation of new players' shelters and sheds.

Last week I caught up with Tigers Vice President Mark Gibson and the team mascot to check out the facility.

Orange Regional Museum has a new exhibit titled 'Childs Play: Growing up in Orange in the 1950s and 1960s.'

This coincided with the book launch last week by well-known local author and historian Elisabeth Edwards.

It was a privilege to attend the launch and purchase a signed copy of her book, as well as checking out the display of rare original photos and memorabilia from a bygone era.

For those who wish to have a look, the exhibition is open to 20 March 2022.

It will be sure to bring back many fond memories.

It's hard to believe Christmas is nearly here, I'm looking forward to some time with family.

Don't forget to shop local as much as possible for Christmas; we have so many excellent small businesses in our region, and now more than ever they need our support!