The workshops will be presented by horticulturist and sustainability educator Dhyan Blore at Rahamim Ecology Centre.

Dhyan will provide demonstrations and information tailored to the needs of local gardens.

Workshop topics will include the features of drought tolerant plants, the importance of mulch, choosing water-saving irrigation systems, when to water and much more.

They will run for one-and-a-half hours and will give residents plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

For available dates, times and to book, contact council@bathurst.nsw.gov.au or phone 6333 6100.

Bathurst Jobs Expo

AROUND 50 exhibitors, employers, and education and training providers are expected to feature at this year's Bathurst Jobs Expo at Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, July 30 from 9am to 3pm.

The initiative is presented in partnership with the Central Western Careers Advisers and sponsored by Charles Sturt University and B-ROCK.

Now in its fifth year, the event is for people who are seeking a career change, looking for a job or wishing to learn new skills.

It will also enable them to explore their options, ask guidance and gain inspiration.

Registration for stallholders is now open. For more information, email live@bathurst.nsw.gov.au or visit www.bathurstbusinesshub.com.au

Bangladesh New Year's

MY wife Frances and I, along with Cr Monica Morse and her husband Michael, attended a Bangladeshi New Year's function at Bathurst Visitor Information Centre last weekend.

Bangladeshi communities around the world celebrated their New Year on April 14.

Around 15 Bathurst families celebrated with dancing, music and traditional festive foods.

I would like to thank the families for the invitation and the opportunity to participate in this wonderful cultural exchange.

Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Easter.

THIS weekend is a time of joy for chocolate lovers like me, although we must not forget to go easy on the egg intake!

We also must not forget to obey the road rules if travelling to visit friends and family.

With a four-day weekend, closely followed by Anzac Day, we will no doubt see more cars on our roads.

The reality is that road safety is everyone's responsibility. Speeding, fatigue and driving under the influence continue to claim the most lives on our roads.

If you notice the kilometres creeping up, slow down. If you are tired or haven't had enough sleep, don't drive. And if you are under the influence, forget it.

Don't forget, double demerits will be in force from Thursday, April 18 to Monday, April 22 and again from Wednesday, April 24 to Sunday, April 28.

Something for everyone

THERE are some great Easter long weekend events occurring around the Bathurst electorate, and there really is something for everyone.

The Bathurst Wholefood Co-op Harvest Festival will be held on Saturday at the Macquarie Plaza Laneway, William Street. Stallholders will include local producers with a range of goods such as fruit and vegetables, breads, honey, garlic, homemade goodies, unique gifts and crafts. There will also be live music, kids' activities and much more!

The Bathurst Miniature Railway will operate on Sunday and there will be a range of activities available to attendees. Train rides are available, weather permitting, so remember to wear enclosed footwear.

Finally, a favourite of mine is the Hi-Tech Oils Bathurst 6 Hour. It is the third year of this now annual event, and it seems to be attracting more spectators each year.

More than 50 production based cars entered last year, and this weekend is set to attract a similar sized grid, albeit with more new model cars and big name co-drivers.

This year it will be great to see local talent Brad Schumacher and Brad Shiels and Blake and Kyle Aubin all competing in this event.

Whether you're travelling interstate this long weekend, or staying to enjoy one of Bathurst's many great events, I wish you a happy and safe Easter.