So, you're sitting in a comfortable treatment room in Hay, finally getting that nagging shoulder pain looked at, when your myotherapist starts telling you about the time she managed 40 retail staff across seven shops, or her years working on cruise ships sailing through Alaska. This isn't your typical small-town career path, but then again, Liz Fattore has never been one to follow the typical path. The youngest of six children, Liz was born and raised right here in Hay, where she's recently returned after adventures that took her from the bustling streets of London to the red dust of Western Australia's mining towns. Now she's back where it all began, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a myotherapy practice that's helping locals manage everything from sports injuries to the complex challenges of conditions like fibromyalgia. "I loved my sport, that's what kept me at school," Liz laughed. "My daughter told me the other day that I still have a record at Hay High School, which is pretty special." There's a touch of pride in her voice, tempered by that characteristic Hay humility that never quite lets you boast too much about your achievements. It's ironic, she reflects, that despite her sporting prowess, her daughters have taken a different path. Life works in mysterious ways, she muses; where she was all about the physical, they're more academically inclined. At 19, Liz packed her bags and headed for England to work as an au pair. "I was very fortunate to get flown over there," she recalled. But what started as a young woman's adventure quickly turned into something more substantial. "After my au pair contract finished, I got into fashion retail," she said. Her sister had run a retail shop in Hay years earlier, and Liz drew on that experience as she found her feet in London's competitive retail world. "I did really well in selling, and the boss sent me to manage another store when the manager went on holiday." Success bred more success. "I did extremely well, and he offered me a permanent position. Then I opened up retail shops for him, showcasing mixed European brands," Liz said. Her natural ability to connect with people, honed perhaps by growing up in a community where everyone knows everyone, served her well in the anonymous bustle of London retail. The corporate world took notice. A company in Australia that held shares in her London employer sent a manager to observe operations. "I didn't know he was there, but I made him buy things to reach my target," Liz laughed. "He offered me a position to come back to Australia and open discount shops here." Back in Australia, Liz threw herself into a high-powered corporate lifestyle that would have been unimaginable to her teenage self, playing sport on Hay's dusty ovals. "I had a very city life, living in Sydney and f lying to Melbourne one week, Perth the following week." Managing 40 retail staff across seven shops demanded skills she'd never known she possessed. The girl who'd once been more interested in scoring goals than studying found herself navigating the complex world of retail management, staff rosters, and corporate targets. But after years of airport lounges and hotel rooms, something was missing. "Then I wanted to be free and single again, so I went to work on cruise ships," she said with a smile. For two years, Liz worked aboard P&O cruise ships, travelling throughout Europe and America, including the dramatic landscapes of Alaska. It was the kind of experience that feeds the soul but doesn't necessarily provide the grounding that eventually calls you home. "When I came back, I managed a restaurant here with my sister, at Shear Outback," she said. After years of corporate life and international travel, working alongside her sister provided something she hadn't realised she'd been missing. "We did an Italian restaurant together, which was grounding for me, and gave my sister a chance to show her passion for food," Liz recalled. The warmth in Liz's voice when she talks about her sister is unmistakable. "She's amazing - you go to her house and she has two ovens. She can look at anything and create a dish without even knowing the recipe." It's plainly obvious when hearing Liz speak about her sister how highly she regards her. "It was a great time, working with her. We had weddings there, and there's the history of the Shear Outback. We made money and were glad we had that opportunity. “Then I met my husband - it was all timing and destiny." Liz’s husband is a FIFO worker. He brought stability to Liz's adventurous life. Both their daughters, Elliana and Dania, were born in Wagga Wagga, and as the couple settled into family life, Liz began looking for a new direction. "Before I had children, I needed something to do. Do you remember Johnny and Nola Redenbach? Nola's daughter Katie was doing massage and suggested I try it. I loved sport, so it came naturally," she said. Katie's influence proved pivotal. "She influenced me, and it's true what they say about school friends; you have them for the rest of your life." What started as something to fill time while raising young children gradually evolved into a serious career path. "I started with massage and then got into myotherapy. As a therapist, you need to upgrade and keep your qualifications current. If you can't provide a receipt, it means you're not up to date with qualifications," Liz said. The commitment was substantial. Liz found herself travelling to Albury-Wodonga monthly, leaving her little ones behind to study myotherapy with Katie. It was an investment that would prove invaluable in the years to come. Myotherapy, Liz explains, occupies a unique space in the healthcare spectrum. "It's between a remedial massage therapist and a physiotherapist. We can help with rehabilitation, do dry needling and cupping - it's more of a physical treatment,” she said. "If you have a shoulder issue, we can treat it like a physio, but we can't diagnose. That's where we refer you to a physio for a proper diagnosis, then rehabilitation." we can work on The technical aspects of her work clearly energise her. "Myotherapy is amazing for conditions like f ibromyalgia. With dry needling, you're not pushing and hurting muscles that don't like to be touched,” she said. “Needling helps release tension without manual pressure. It can calm the nervous system too. People with MS have muscles that tighten, and dry needling helps those muscles relax without significant manipulation." Work opportunities took the family to Karratha in Western Australia, where Tim's logistics career flourished and the girls experienced a different side of Australia. "You'd wake up at 6 o'clock just to go to the horse yard, and within 15 minutes you'd be sweating," Liz laughs, remembering the intense heat of the Pilbara region. But Karratha offered unexpected gifts. "I loved it because it gave my kids the opportunity to understand Aboriginal culture. The people there were amazing. We learnt their customs, their protocols, how they survive." Her work in apprenticeship support opened her eyes to cultural practices she'd never encountered. "When I did apprenticeship support work, I learnt things like when they go to a funeral, you can't leave until the main person leaves - so you could be off work for weeks." For daughter Dania, these exchanges became deeply personal. cultural "Dania had beautiful First Nations friends who'd come for sleepovers, and we had to learn their ways. “They were used to sleeping as a family in one room and were initially scared to have sleepovers, so we really nurtured that. It was a wonderful learning experience." The landscape, too, left its mark. "The landscape was beautiful, but you can't buy blocks of land there - you lease equestrian and their options open. "We don't know what the future holds apprenticeship-wise, and there are so many opportunities there, so we're keeping that door open for the kids just in case." land, but can only buy a block to build a house." They had access to the ocean and could drive to waterholes and gorges, a stark contrast to the gentle riverine country of their Hay origins. Tim's work as a logistics truck driver meant navigating the massive road trains that dominate Pilbara highways. "He drives road trains with four trailers behind the truck. When I'd drive up there with horses for events and those trucks come past you, you concentrate on holding the lane and count one trailer, two trailers, three trailers, all right, we're clear." But as fulfilling as the Karratha years were professionally and culturally, family circumstances began to shift the balance. Both girls were struggling with the transition to high school in the mining town's intense environment. Liz's daughter developed a tics disorder, like Tourette's, from stress when transitioning from primary school to a big private college. "The poor little one had quite a challenge, and other issues came into play that we didn't initially realise," Liz said. "In Karratha we didn't get the extra private help with schooling that we needed. Here, even though we're regional and have to travel, we actually get more opportunities to look after our kids." The contrast was stark. "The best thing about moving back is that my kids actually enjoy waking up and going to school," she reflects. "In Karratha it was like a typical chaotic household with threats to call their father. I'm very grateful for the school's special needs classes, my daughter has really settled in well." Her daughter was at a pivotal age where these struggles could have turned her off school and learning altogether. "I'm very grateful we're back, and it's lovely to see familiar faces like Mrs Longworth at the school." The timing of their return proved poignant in another way. Liz was able to spend three precious months with her mother before she passed away, time she will forever treasure. "She was so gentle and placid, but if she had to speak up, she'd put people in their place. I'm glad she had her faculties right to the end," Liz said fondly. The adjustment from Karratha's intense heat to Hay's stark climate has been an ongoing process for the whole family. "When he comes back from Karratha, every old ache comes out," Liz says of Tim, who continues his FIFO work. "He says he never had pain up there, but when he flies back and it's 30 degrees, which is their winter, he really feels it." Even the animals need time to adjust. "My poor dogs look at me like 'please leave me inside,' and we have horses that are wondering where we've taken them. We're double-rugging them because they're used to the heat." The family maintains their connection to Western Australia, keeping their house there For now, though, Liz is focused on building her myotherapy practice in Hay. She briefly considered other options, including getting her motorbike licence for Australia Post deliveries, but decided to focus on the profession she's spent years perfecting. Understanding the unique needs of rural clients, Liz has structured her practice to be as accessible as possible. "I have a Facebook page, and there's an online link where they can book appointments through Clinico." But she also recognises that technology isn't everyone's preference. "I also give out my mobile number for people who might prefer to call rather than book online. “I don't mind if they text me either, and I tell them to text if the online booking shows I'm not available, because sometimes I block out time for other things but would prefer to look after my clients." Her schedule reflects the realities of rural life. "I try to do evenings up to 7 o'clock, which gives me daytime flexibility for personal tasks." This kind of flexibility, understanding that farm work doesn't stop at 5 pm, and people's lives don't always fit into neat appointment slots, is part of what makes rural healthcare work. From the sports fields of Hay High School to the cruise ships of Alaska, from London's retail floors to Karratha's red dust, Liz Fattore's journey has been anything but conventional. Yet there's something beautifully circular about her return to Hay, bringing with her decades of experience and a skill set that serves her community in ways her teenage self could never have imagined. "I think that covers everything," she says simply. "It's good to be back home in Hay." In those words lies the quiet satisfaction of someone who has seen the world, succeeded in various careers, and chosen to bring it all back to where it started. Her myotherapy practice represents more than just another business in town, it's the culmination of a life lived fully, with skills honed in boardrooms and cruise ships now applied to easing the aches and pains of neighbours and friends. For those dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or conditions like fibromyalgia, Liz's return represents something valuable; access to high-level healthcare delivered with the understanding that only comes from being part of the community. She's not just treating symptoms; she's caring for people she's known all her life, in the place that shaped her, using skills gathered from the wide world beyond. It's the kind of story that makes you appreciate the complex journeys that bring people home, and the gifts they carry with them when they return.

After three rate cuts in 2025, Australia's big banks are now split on what comes next. Some predict rate hikes as early as February. Here's what you need to know.Just when Australian families thought they could breathe easier after a year of rate cuts, the conversation has shifted dramatically. After the Reserve Bank of Australia cut rates three times throughout 2025, bringing the cash rate to 3.60 per cent, two of the big four banks are now predicting the unexpected; rate hikes in early 2026.It's a jarring turn that has left many homeowners wondering what happened to the promised relief.The major banks are currently split, with two predicting the cash rate will increase. Here's where they stand:Commonwealth Bank has revised its forecast and now expects a 0.25 percentage point hike in February, taking the rate to 3.85 per cent, where it would remain for the rest of 2026.National Australia Bank is even more hawkish, predicting two rate increases in 2026, one in February and another in May, adding a total of 50 basis points.ANZ and Westpac, however, expect the cash rate to remain steady at 3.60 per cent throughout their forecast horizons.Why the sudden change? The answer lies in one stubborn problem, inflation isn't cooperating.The key trimmed mean inflation measure rose to 3.0 per cent in the September quarter and is expected to stay above that level until well into 2026. Even more concerning, consumer price index data showed inflation climbing to 3.8 per cent in October, well above the RBA's target band of 2-3 per cent.Economic growth is forecast to reach 2.4 per cent in early 2026, a rate that's slightly above the pace the economy can comfortably sustain. The economy is running hot, and that's keeping prices elevated.Households are a major driver of this strength, helped by earlier interest rate cuts, recent tax changes and steady job and income gains. Investment in data centres and renewable energy projects is also adding momentum, along with improvements in housing investment.The problem? An economy growing faster than its sustainable pace inevitably creates inflationary pressure, exactly what the RBA has been trying to suppress.The RBA board discussed circumstances in which an increase in the cash rate might need to be considered at some point in the coming year, according to minutes from the December meeting. However, they noted it would take time to assess whether inflationary pressures are truly persistent or driven by temporary factors.RBA Governor Michele Bullock has been unusually frank about the situation. In December, she said she doesn't see rate cuts on the horizon for the "foreseeable future" and that the question is whether we face "an extended hold from here, or the possibility of a rate rise."The next crucial data point comes in late January, when the fourth quarter inflation figures are released. That information will heavily influence If a rate hike does materialise, banks emphasise it would be modest adjustment, not the start of an aggressive tightening cycle.The expected February rate rise would be a fine-tuning move, not the start of a large run-up in interest rates. The goal is to nudge inflation back toward target rather than cool the economy sharply.For someone with a $600,000 mortgage, even a single 0.25 per cent rate increase translates to approximately $80-100 extra per month in repayments. If NAB's prediction of two rate hikes proves correct, that figure doubles.For families already stretched thin by the cost of living, these aren't trivial amounts. The accumulated savings from 2025's rate cuts could be partially or entirely eroded if forecasts of rate increases come to pass.Not everyone is convinced rate hikes are inevitable. ANZ's head of Australian economics, Adam Boyton, notes that the economy is in an unusual position, GDP growth is around potential, the cash rate is around neutral, and the labour market is broadly in balance.This "goldilocks" scenario, not too hot, not too cold, could justify keeping rates steady. ANZ also reserves the option to put rate cuts back on the table if the labour market shows signs of weakening.Most economists don't expect inflation to comfortably settle within the RBA's target band until late 2027. That suggests we're in for an extended period of monetary policy uncertainty, with the central bank walking a tightrope between controlling inflation and avoiding recession.The question is whether it's just an extended hold from here, or the possibility of a rate rise, as Governor Bullock noted. The RBA itself can't put a precise probability on either outcome.In this environment of uncertainty, homeowners should consider: Reviewing your budget assuming rates could rise rather than fall. Can you absorb an extra $100-200 per month in mortgage payments?Consider fixing if you're on a variable rate, though weigh the pros and cons carefully. Fixed rates reflect market expectations of future rate moves and may already price in potential hikes.Build a buffer if possible. Having 2-3 months of expenses in savings provides crucial breathing room.Stay informed but don't panic. The RBA's next meeting on February 3 will provide crucial clarity, and the January inflation data will be the key factor in their decision.The Bottom LineAfter a year of relief, Australian mortgage holders face renewed uncertainty. The optimism of 2025's rate cuts has given way to a more complex picture where even modest rate increases are on the table.For now, the cash rate sits at 3.60 per cent. Whether it moves up, stays put, or eventually continues down depends on one crucial factor: whether inflation finally cooperates and moves sustainably back toward the RBA's 2-3 per cent target range.With the big banks divided and the RBA itself uncertain, Australians would be wise to prepare for multiple scenarios. The days of assuming rates will only move in one direction, either up or down, are over. We're entering an era where every data release matters and where the RBA's next move remains genuinely uncertain.The RBA's next cash rate announcement is scheduled for February 3, 2026, at 2:30 PM.

NSW’s New Gun Laws: What Just Happened?In Short• Hard Ownership Caps: A new limit of four firearms for recreational shooters and 10 firearms for primary producers is now law.• Increased Red Tape: Standard firearm license terms have been slashed from five years to two years, doubling renewal frequency and background checks.• Recategorisation and Buyback: Many common firearms (straight-pull/lever-release) are moving to Category C, supported by a state and federal-funded buyback scheme.In a marathon pre-Christmas session that stretched into the early hours of December 24, 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the most significant tightening of firearm legislation since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.The Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 was fast-tracked by the Minns Government following the horrific Bondi Beach terrorist attack earlier that month. While the government says the laws are about "community safety first," the news has sent shockwaves through regional NSW, with critics calling it a "knee-jerk reaction" that punishes law-abiding farmers and shooters.The Core Changes: At a GlanceThe new laws introduce a "cap and category" system designed to drastically reduce the number of firearms in circulation:The Ownership Cap: A hard limit of four firearms per individual. Primary producers (farmers) have a higher cap of 10 firearms.Recategorisation: Straight-pull, pump-action, and button/lever-release firearms are moved to Category C, making them much harder for recreational shooters to access.Licence Terms Slashed: Standard firearm licences have been cut from five years down to two years, doubling the red tape and background checks for owners.Mandatory Club Membership: All licence holders must now belong to a gun club and use the GunSafe online platform.Citizenship Requirement: Licences are now restricted to Australian citizens (with some exceptions for NZ residents in specific roles).The Buyback: A state and federal-funded buyback scheme will be launched to compensate owners for newly prohibited firearms.The View from the Paddock: Peak Orgs ReactThe reaction from representative bodies has been swift and largely scathing.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin slammed the legislation as "unworkable." The association argues that the 10-gun cap fails to account for large-scale operations where multiple properties require dedicated equipment for pest control."It’s incredible this government has allowed generous capping exemptions for recreational shooters but for farmers... the government hasn’t given us a second’s thought," Martin said.The Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (SSAA) has also condemned the "chaotic" reforms. SSAA CEO Tom Kenyon argued that the laws wouldn't have prevented the Bondi tragedy, noting that existing "fit and proper person" checks should have caught the offender if intelligence sharing had been better.Voice from the Electorates: Dalton and ButlerIndependent MPs representing the state's most expansive rural electorates led the charge against the Bill in Parliament.Member for Murray Helen Dalton did not mince words, labelling the move as the government’s "greyhound moment," referring to the backlash that toppled a previous government over a racing ban. "We have close to 10,000 law-abiding firearms owners in Murray... None of them have behaved like terrorists, but they are being treated like they are."Ms Dalton argues that regional people are being made "scapegoats" for a failure in urban intelligence.Member for Barwon Roy Butler, a former SSAA executive, attempted to amend the Bill to "grandfather" existing owners and split the protest laws from the firearm changes to allow for a committee inquiry.He described the laws as an "overreach" that ignores the real drivers of the attack, such as radicalisation and poor intelligence sharing.Mr Butler warns the two-year renewal cycle will put an "impossible burden" on already over-worked regional police who process these applications.What’s Next?The government is now moving toward a comprehensive audit of all existing licences. For those in the bush, the "buyback" details and the logistical nightmare of two-year renewals are the next big hurdles.

January brings the financial reckoning for December's festive spending, as credit card statements arrive and bank balances reveal the true cost of Christmas celebrations. For many households across regional NSW, the combination of holiday expenses, reduced working hours over the Christmas period, and January school costs creates genuine financial stress that can take months to resolve.The first step in managing post-holiday finances is an honest assessment of where you actually stand. Gather all your bank statements, credit card bills, and records of December spending to understand the full picture. This can be confronting, particularly if you avoided checking balances during December, but you can't make effective plans without knowing what you're dealing with. List all debts including amounts owed, interest rates, and minimum payments, and calculate your current available cash and expected income for January.Credit card debt attracts high interest rates that quickly compound if left unpaid, making it the priority for repayment. If you can't pay the full balance immediately, pay as much as possible above the minimum payment to reduce the principal and therefore the interest charged. If you're carrying balances on multiple cards, focus extra payments on the card with the highest interest rate while maintaining minimum payments on others. Consider whether transferring balances to a lower interest card or personal loan makes financial sense, though be wary of balance transfer offers that might have fees or conditions that outweigh the benefits.Creating a realistic budget for the coming months helps prevent further deterioration of your financial position while also showing a path forward. Track every dollar coming in and going out for at least a month to understand your actual spending patterns rather than what you think you spend. Many people are genuinely surprised by how much they spend on small, frequent purchases that seem insignificant individually but add up substantially over time. Free budgeting apps and spreadsheets can help track spending if you find manual record-keeping too tedious.Identify areas where you can realistically reduce spending, focusing on wants rather than needs. Subscription services, takeaway food, entertainment, and non-essential shopping are common areas where cuts can be made without genuine hardship. The goal isn't to eliminate all enjoyment from life but rather to bring spending back into line with income until you've recovered from holiday expenses. Be honest about what cuts you'll actually maintain rather than creating an unrealistic budget you'll abandon within weeks.If you're facing genuine financial hardship rather than just temporary cash flow problems, seek help early before the situation becomes critical. Financial counselling services are free and confidential, providing expert assistance with budgeting, negotiating with creditors, and accessing support programs. Many utility companies, phone providers, and lenders have hardship programs that can provide payment arrangements, reduced payments, or temporary relief if you're struggling. These programs work much better when you approach them proactively rather than waiting until bills are in collections.The temptation to ignore bills or avoid opening mail when finances are tight is understandable but counterproductive. Ignored bills don't disappear; they accumulate late fees, damage your credit rating, and can result in services being disconnected or legal action being taken. Open everything, respond to all communications, and contact providers immediately if you can't pay on time. Most organisations would rather work out a payment arrangement than pursue debt collection, but they can only help if you communicate with them.January sales and clearances offer genuine opportunities to save money on items you actually need, but they're also designed to encourage spending on things you don't need under the guise of getting a bargain. Before buying anything on sale, ask yourself whether you would have bought it at full price if you needed it, and whether the money wouldn't be better directed toward paying down debt or rebuilding savings. A bargain isn't a bargain if you can't afford it or wouldn't have bought it anyway.Building even a small emergency fund protects against unexpected expenses tipping you back into debt. Start with a modest goal like $500 or $1000, saving whatever you can afford each pay period even if it's just $20. This buffer means that when the car breaks down or a medical expense arises, you don't automatically reach for the credit card and create new debt. Once you've achieved your initial emergency fund goal, you can redirect that money toward debt repayment while maintaining the fund for genuine emergencies.For households dependent on agricultural income, January finances can be particularly challenging when income is uncertain or heavily seasonal. Plan conservatively using worst-case income scenarios rather than hoping for the best, and maintain strict separation between business and personal finances if you're managing a farm or rural enterprise. Professional accounting advice is worth the cost if your financial situation is complex, as the money saved through proper tax planning and financial management typically exceeds the fees charged.Children and finances intersect particularly sharply in January with back to school costs. Involve age-appropriate children in conversations about budgets and spending choices, teaching them that money is finite and choices have trade-offs. This doesn't mean burdening children with adult financial stress, but rather helping them understand why they can't have everything they want and involving them in decisions about where limited money is allocated. These lessons serve them well throughout life.If you've overspent significantly and are facing months of recovery, forgive yourself and focus forward rather than dwelling on regret. The Christmas period is specifically designed to encourage overspending through marketing, social pressure, and emotional appeals. You made the choices you made, and now you're dealing with the consequences and learning for next year. Self-recrimination doesn't help; practical action does.Looking ahead to next Christmas might seem premature in January, but starting early prevents repeating the same financial stress. Open a separate savings account specifically for Christmas expenses and contribute regularly throughout the year, even small amounts. Calculate what you actually spent this Christmas, decide what you can realistically afford next year, and divide that amount across the remaining months. When December arrives, you'll have money set aside rather than relying on credit or depleting regular savings.The post-holiday financial hangover is miserable and stressful, but it's temporary and fixable. Create a plan, make consistent progress on debt reduction, and remember that financial recovery happens gradually through sustained effort rather than dramatic gestures. By the time next Christmas approaches, you'll be in a much stronger position if you take action now rather than hoping the problem will somehow resolve itself.

Andrew Barton ‘Banjo’ Paterson (1864 1941) (pictured bottom right) was a highly celebrated Australian bush poet, journalist, and solicitor. He romanticised life in the Australian outback, writing iconic ballads like “Waltzing Matilda” and “The Man from Snowy River”. His career also included time as a war correspondent during the Boer War and service in World War I, cementing his place as an essential figure in Australian culture. Paterson was born near Orange but spent his childhood living in Yeoval and Yass. As an adult he practised law in Sydney. After marrying in 1903, he and his wife settled in Woollahra, (Sydney) but in 1908, he moved back to the country to manage a property at Coodra Vale, near Wee Jasper, He eventually resumed his career as a journalist in Sydney and after his death in 1941 was buried in the northern suburbs. For those of us living in and around Hay and Booligal, one of Banjo’s most famous poems has become a slogan for the region - cars and eskies across the country boast that infamous sticker “Hay, Hell and Booligal”. What is interesting is that the poet had no first-hand knowledge of the conditions of the track that ran between Hay and Booligal in 1896, when the poem first appeared in The Bulletin Magazine. Working as a lawyer in Sydney at the time, it is thought Banjo was likely influenced by the detailed accounts of country life, that were regularly published in Sydney and Melbourne newspapers, by far flung correspondents. In fact, a 1943 article in The Riverine Grazier, stated that “we think we are right in saying that Banjo only paid Booligal one visit, and that was years after he wrote his familiar lines”. Once again, The Grazier was able to record facts for future history buffs and researchers, amongst its pages. The poet was issued a formal invitation to attend the opening of the Booligal War Memorial Hall in May 1936. He declined, explaining that he was “getting too far on in years to make the journey”. Banjo Paterson cannot lay claim to the catchy title of his work, which has since spawned numerous t-shits, stickers and stubby holders. The expression “Hay, Hell and Booligal” was apparently already a very popular figurative phrase in the Australian vernacular, used by drovers and teamsters who worked in the harsh conditions. The phrase became a popular expression to designate a journey or a place of the greatest imaginable discomfort (especially during drought or summer). Bit harsh, I thought, from the comfort of my climate controlled desk, in the year 2025! Local legend says that “Hell” refers to the One Tree Plain, the particularly isolated stretch of the stock route that lies between Hay and Booligal. In 1905 Paterson published a collection of poetry, including one piece titled “Flash Jack from Gundagai”. The shearer Flash Jack boasts about all the places he has visited in his travels, his favourite being “Old Tom Patterson’s place” “I've shore at Burrabogie and I've shore at Toganmain I've shore at Big Willandra and out on the Coleraine But before the shearing was over I longed to get back again Shearing for old Tom Patterson on the One Tree Plain” Flash Jack is apparently a mixture of a few characters known to Banjo, but Tom Patterson actually existed. He married Jane Esplin, the widow of George Esplin, who was publican of the Tattersall’s Hotel in Lachlan Street, Hay. Patterson hailed from Tasmania, but in 1870 took up a 300,000 acre station on the Hay Plains, called Ulonga. By all accounts Tom Patterson was a decent man. When the publicans of the nearby One Tree Hotel died from typhoid, Patterson took in their children and raised them as his own. When the legendary lone tree at the hotel burned down on New Year’s Even 1897, Tom Patterson dug up saplings from Ulonga and replanted them at the One Tree Hotel. Another of Banjo Paterson’s famous poems “Clancy of the Overflow” is also reputed to have ties to the region. It is widely claimed that a man named Thomas Michael MacNamara is the real-life inspiration for Banjo’s character, Clancy. It is reported that Thomas Michael MacNamara was known by the nickname "Clancy" and worked at "The Overflow" station, which is mentioned in the poem. Thomas MacNamara is buried at Griffith, NSW, having passed away at the age of 94. MacNamara's family also claim another close link; his wife was the sister of Jim Troy, who is considered one of the inspirations for “The Man from Snowy River,” written by Banjo Paterson, and MacNamara himself is included in that poem as a skilled horseman (“No better horseman ever held the reins”). Thomas MacNamara and wife Theresa gave an interview to the Forbes Advocate newspaper in 1939, sharing their part in the famous chase that was the inspiration for The Man from Snowy River. “The inclusion of “Banjo” Paterson in the New Year honours list recalls his famous poem “The Man From Snowy River”. “Clancy of the Overflow” and his wife, a sister of “The Man From Snowy River,” are living quietly in Brisbane, and on Christmas Eve “Clancy” was 90 years old. Outside the realm of poetry, “Clancy” is Mr Thomas Michael MacNamara. His wife, Theresa Mary, formerly Miss Troy, is aged 83. She is tall, graceful, and quick-witted, and her hair is as white as the legendary beard of her big brother, Tom Troy, who commanded the horsemen in the hills at the back of Wagga 58 years ago. “I well remember the ride as if it took place yesterday,” said Mr MacNamara. “From Troy's place near Wagga, you can see the hills in the direction of Tumut. Our adventure was not down Kosciusko side, as Paterson sang. ‘Banjo’ shifted the mountain into our country to make the tale epic. “Three fine horses broke away from Troy's place, including the £1000 colt, from Old Regret, and they joined the wild horses in the hills. “The horsemen who rode that day were Tom Troy, my cousin, Andy MacNamara, Jim Troy and myself.” Despite Mr and Mrs MacNamara’s recorded memories, Banjo Paterson told a different tale. The origin of the poem, according to Paterson himself, was an experience he had while working as a lawyer. He was asked to send a letter to a man named Thomas Gerald Clancy to request a payment. Paterson said he sent the letter to "The Overflow" station. He received a famously laconic reply from Clancy's shearing mate: “Clancy's gone to Queensland droving, and we don't know where he are”. This single, evocative reply, seemingly written with a “thumb-nail dipped in tar,” was the catalyst for the poem, according to Paterson.

I was recently lucky enough to sit down with a trio of inspiring women; Alice Watts from Links for Women, Madeleine Rossiter, Links for Women/Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) Manager, and Ann Jones who covers Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services. These women often have multiple clients they are supporting, each with their own complex tandem issues, including mental health, culture, religion, and other complex issues. These various compounding issues can truly impact on the decision to leave, and they are often supporting women who have not yet made the choice. When asked how they continue and survive in a role which most would find emotionally draining and difficult to navigate, the trio agreed it was all about self-care. “You have to take care of yourself,” they said. “Be good to yourself; go to the gym, have a glass of wine at the end of the day, whatever it means for you,” they said. “We also are a big support for each other, with the office being a space where we can debrief and support each other, a non-judgmental space.” The three colleagues agree the system works hard for victims and survivors, but the court process and outcomes are not consistent. “The police do their jobs, but the court process is wanting,” Ms Jones said. “Magistrates really need external domestic violence training and trauma informed responses for the victims.” Linking Communities Network (which is the umbrella in which the different programs these women cover sit under) has a no wrong door approach to their services. Clients can come to LCN through any of justice system right away, there are so many ways we can help.” their services and programs for support. If they can’t directly assist someone, they will direct them to another service. LCN services the entire Western Murrumbidgee District including Griffith, Darlington Point, Leeton, Narrandera, Coleambally, Hay, Hillston, Lake Cargelligo, Ardlethan, Barellan and West Wyalong. Their services include Early Intervention and Prevention, Rapid Rehousing Response, Crisis and Transitional Response, Intensive Support and Complex Trauma Response, Emergency Accommodation Options and Outreach Services. There have been many changes in the delivery of service over time. The Court Advocacy Service is now located in the police station, so they can hear and have access to potential people in need. Even in the last decade, services have become so much more coordinated, meaning the clients can experience a more holistic help and support. There have been cases in the past where a person has been let down so profoundly, they will not engage services again. “I have had women refuse to report it, as they fear when it goes to court it will be reported on and people will know it was them,” Ann said. “That has indeed happened in the past, where the woman was not named, but the circumstances were described in such specific detail it was known who it was.” The trio say support before a person leaves is just as important as support for those who have already fled domestic violence situations. “Knowing what to do in the lead up, steps to take and ways to prepare yourself to leave, these are important things to consider,” they said. “Even if a person does not want police or to go through the formality of going through the The Griffith Women’s Refuge is still open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even on Christmas Day. The trio agree one of the hardest obstacles faced is lack of understanding of what constitutes domestic violence. “There are so many different ways a person can be a victim of abuse,” they said. “Coercive control has seen a big rise in understanding and consequence for a perpetrator. “If you are feeling unsafe, needing to walk on eggshells, are unhappy and being made to change who you are and the way you are, then there is something wrong in a relationship.” This is another aim of the programs, to try and educate on what are healthy and unhealthy relationships. While there is an increase in the number and variety of services and resources victims can access over the years, sometimes the one size fits all approach in the delivery of these resources can prove hard. “Say it’s a $5000 payment, which is fantastic, but then there is a mum with five or six kids,’ Alice said. “Once you’re doing something such as paying $1500 in rent you need to catch up on because your partner would not pay it, or catching up in other ways, or needing to buy all new furniture and beds, it doesn’t go a long way,” Alice said. Alice will engage with local services, to see if they are aware of anyone who may need help or assistance due to domestic violence, before she quietly and discreetly offers help. “Sometimes people just aren’t aware of what is out there, and until they do they cannot get that help.” Staying Home Leaving Violence Program is for women who have left their partner, and are in stable accommodation. Madeleine Rossiter (right), Links for Women/Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) Manager, and Ann Jones who covers Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services. The program can assist with establishing a safety plan, conducting a safety audit of the property, investigating safety upgrades to maximise safety, assist with court support and advocacy, information and referrals to other services such as counselling and financial referrals. They offer support for women to continue to live free from violence. Madeleine’s grandmother was part of the women’s refuge movement for over 45 years. Her mother was also heavily involved for over 20 years, so she was part of a family of strong helpful women and was inspired to keep it going. “I love my job, I love to see women and children become safe and to help them achieve good positive outcomes,” she said. The bottom line for articles such as this is to let people know they are not alone, there are many different ways to get help. Reach out and grab help, contact Linking Communities Network to get the ball rolling.

The Back Country's history has been fundamentally shaped by climate extremes, with devastating droughts and catastrophic floods creating cycles of prosperity and disaster that influenced everything from settlement patterns to political decisions. The first major drought recorded after European settlement occurred in the early 1840s. This prolonged dry period, lasting several years, devastated the newly established pastoral industry. Stock died in massive numbers, and many squatters faced financial ruin. Some properties were abandoned entirely, their owners unable to sustain operations without reliable water. The 1864-66 drought proved even more severe. Rivers stopped flowing, waterholes dried up, and pastures turned to dust. Contemporary accounts describe horrific scenes; dead and dying sheep carpeting the ground around dried water sources, desperate stock attempting to eat bark from trees, and pastoralists shooting animals they could not sustain. This drought triggered the first serious discussion of water conservation and irrigation. Pastoralists recognised that relying entirely on natural rainfall and river flows left them vulnerable to catastrophic losses. The seeds of ideas that would eventually lead to the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area were planted during this period. The Federation Drought, lasting from 1895 to 1903, coincided with economic depression to create a period of extreme hardship. This drought, affecting most of eastern Australia, caused sheep numbers nationally to fall by more than half. The Back Country suffered severely, with some properties losing 70 to 80 per cent of their stock. The social impact was profound. Rural workers lost employment as properties destocked or closed operations. Families abandoned selections they could not sustain without water. Towns contracted as businesses failed and people left seeking work elsewhere. The drought contributed to support for Federation and government intervention in rural affairs. Between droughts, floods could be equally devastating. The Murrumbidgee River system, while generally reliable, could produce catastrophic floods. The 1870 flood inundated vast areas, destroying fences, drowning stock, and isolating communities for weeks. The 1891 flood, occurring during an already difficult period, caused severe damage throughout the riverine country. Hay experienced significant flooding, with water entering the town and forcing evacuations. Pastoral properties lost fences, infrastructure, and stock. The combination of flood damage and ongoing economic depression nearly broke some long-established pastoral operations. The 1917 flood remains one of the largest recorded on the Murrumbidgee. The river at Hay peaked at levels not seen before, inundating the town and surrounding properties. Residents evacuated to higher ground, and the main street became navigable by boat. The flood lasted weeks, causing enormous economic damage. Ironically, floods could sometimes provide drought relief. The floods deposited nutrients on floodplains, creating excellent pasture growth when waters receded. Some pastoralists regarded occasional flooding as beneficial, recognizing the fertilization effect even while acknowledging the immediate damage and inconvenience. The World War II drought, from 1937 to 1945, tested the region severely. Combined with labour shortages due to military service and restricted access to equipment and supplies due to wartime constraints, this drought created immense challenges. Some properties reduced stock to minimal breeding herds, simply trying to survive until better seasons returned. Post-war, river regulation through dams and irrigation development changed the flood-drought cycle. The Snowy Mountains Scheme, completed in the 1970s, and other water infrastructure projects stabilised Murrumbidgee River flows. Major floods became less frequent and severe, though they still occurred. However, regulation created new problems. Reduced flooding affected floodplain ecology, native fish populations, and river red gum forests that depended on periodic inundation. The environmental costs of flood mitigation became increasingly apparent through the late 20th century. The Millennium Drought, from 1997 to 2009, represented the worst sustained dry period since European settlement in many areas. This drought differed from earlier ones in occurring within a highly regulated water system. Irrigation allocations were slashed, threatening the agricultural industries that had developed in the MIA. The political and social responses to the Millennium Drought reflected changed circumstances. The Murray-Darling Basin Plan, developed partly in response to the drought, attempted to balance agricultural water use with environmental needs. This proved contentious, with irrigators, environmentalists, and different government levels disagreeing about appropriate water management. The 2010-11 floods, breaking the Millennium Drought, demonstrated that extreme events persisted despite changed water management. The Murrumbidgee flooded extensively, with Hay experiencing its highest flood levels in decades. While river regulation prevented the flood from reaching the extremes of earlier eras, significant damage still occurred. Climate change adds new uncertainty to the region's future. Climate models suggest more extreme variability, with more intense droughts punctuated by more severe flooding events. Average rainfall may decline, while extreme rainfall events become more frequent. These projections create challenges for water management, agricultural planning, and community resilience. The history of droughts and floods in the Back Country demonstrates both the vulnerability of European settlement to climatic extremes and the resilience developed through repeated exposure to these events. Communities and industries have adapted repeatedly to survive extreme conditions, though each drought or flood tests this resilience. Understanding this climatic history provides context for current debates about water management, climate adaptation, and sustainable development. The region has always experienced extremes, and managing these extremes while maintaining viable communities and industries remains the central challenge, as it has been since European settlement.

The NSW Government has formally responded to the Select Committee inquiry into PFAS contamination in the state’s waterways and drinking supplies, offering support for the majority of the committee’s findings.In Short• The NSW Government has formally supported 25 out of 32 recommendations from the PFAS inquiry, focusing on long-term "forever chemical" management.• Testing across 83 regional utilities confirms that all supplies, including those in Hay and Balranald, currently meet updated Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.• The Government "noted" rather than supported certain recommendations involving Defence sites, citing Federal responsibility for RAAF bases and Commonwealth land.Of the 32 recommendations handed down by the inquiry, the Government has supported—or supported in principle—25. The response comes at a time of heightened awareness regarding "forever chemicals" (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and their long-term impact on regional environments and public health.For communities across the Hay, Balranald, and Ivanhoe districts, where water quality is central to both domestic life and the agricultural industry, the Government’s commitment to risk-based monitoring remains a key focus.Testing conducted earlier in 2024 across 83 regional water utilities initially showed that 80 supplies met the draft guidelines. While the Government confirmed it has been working with the three utilities that exceeded those levels, it noted that those supplies currently meet the updated Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.A spokesperson for the NSW Government stated that management of the contaminant would remain a priority for regional areas.“In regional NSW, risk-based monitoring is taking place to ensure the NSW Government and local water utilities can respond promptly to ensure continued compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines,” the Government stated.“We understand the community’s concerns about PFAS, particularly in our state’s waterways; our management of PFAS is informed by the best available science and evidence. That is why we supported the NSW Chief Health Officer convening the NSW Health Expert Advisory Panel on PFAS to review the latest evidence and provide independent advice.”PFAS, a group of manufactured chemicals used in firefighting foams and industrial products, has become a "legacy contaminant" that persists in the environment. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has already assessed more than 1,100 legacy sites across the state.While many of the recommendations were accepted, some were not supported or simply "noted." The Government cited jurisdictional boundaries as a primary reason, particularly regarding matters of Defence, which remain the responsibility of the Australian Government—a significant factor for regional areas near RAAF bases or federal land.“For those recommendations not supported or noted, it is for reasons of: jurisdictional responsibility (matters of Defence are a matter for the Australian Government), existing expert advice on PFAS as a contaminant (such as on blood testing and site testing), and existing systems that already address the inquiry’s concerns,” the response noted.The Government also emphasized that work on the issue is far from over.“Our work dealing with this legacy contaminant is ongoing in NSW: more than 1100 legacy sites have been assessed by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), and the NSW PFAS Expert Panel and the PFAS Technical Advisory Group continue to provide cross-government assessment and advice.”“Regular testing is now in place to ensure the NSW Government and local water utilities can respond promptly to ensure continued compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. We understand the community’s concerns about PFAS, particularly in our state’s waterways; our management of PFAS is informed by the best available science and evidence.”The Government said they have pledged to maintain a level of transparency.“We remain committed to ensuring transparency and community awareness and working alongside the Australian Government where jurisdictional responsibility requires it. We thank the committee for their work, and community members for taking the time to share their views and expertise throughout the inquiry.”Read the reports HERE

Katerina Pastellis (pictured above) and her family have been pleasantly surprised over the years, realising home away from home for cancer patients, Lilier Lodge, is not actually only there to support cancer patients and their families. Whenever vacancies allow, this haven will open its doors to people who are needing to be in Wagga for any medical reason. “I didn’t know of Lilier Lodge before I needed it, and it is a wonderful thing,” Katerina said. “It is only five minutes’ walk from the hospital and everything you could ever need. “My mother and father have stayed there while attending to various medical needs, and my husband Keith stayed there while I was undergoing a serious medical issue. “Even when I have had to go back to Wagga for check-ups, we have stayed there.” Katerina said the friendly and caring atmosphere at Lilier Lodge makes an incredible difference. “Being surrounded by people who are often going through much the same thing is comforting,” she said. “The staff also know what you are going through, and they are so kind and caring.” Katerina remembers the first time she needed to travel away; it was a scramble to find somewhere for Keith to stay while she was in hospital. It was especially hard as at the time the annual field days were on, leaving no accommodation options. “It just takes such a load off your mind, to know you and your family have somewhere to stay, and are not stranded or forced to battle the dangerous roads with kangaroos and wildlife,” she said. Lilier Lodge is an oasis, a friendly and welcoming place for people all over the district. It opened in 2004 and was purpose built by Can Assist and Cancer Council NSW, together with the support of local and regional communities. It is a not-for-profit 21 room accommodation facility which helps over 1400 people each year. The Lodge provides accommodation for people undergoing cancer treatment at nearby facilities including the Riverina Cancer Care Centre, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and Calvary Hospital. It is also a drop-in service for cancer patients who travel daily for their treatment and for community transport drivers while waiting for clients. The Lodge is also a meeting place for local volunteers and community groups. Guests can have family and friends come and visit while staying at Lilier Lodge. As well as guest rooms, there are garden and communal lounge and dining areas that can be used for spending time with visitors. Wagga’s Lilier Lodge has won a national award for its outstanding support for recovering cancer patients. The cancer accommodation won the Thank You Small Business competition and will receive a new solar system valued at $13,000. The lodge landed the prize from 300 nominations and will receive a fully installed solar system for its business to a maximum of 10kW. Before this, the Lodge currently spent $16,000 a year on electricity but with the solar system it would receive a big boost, and the money saved on energy would be invested in improving guest accommodation. Lilier Lodge has received more than $7000 in funding from Riverina Water to upgrade the facility’s water irrigation system. At the end of 2024, Lilier Lodge released a fabulous cookbook, at the reasonable price of $25. The recipes were written by volunteers, guests and supporters of the Lodge. There is also a small store of gifts available for purchase. All items, many handmade, have been donated to raise money to support Lilier Lodge and its guests. Fundraising efforts over the years have included high teas, quilters groups and other crafters donating blankets, Heavenly Charity Masquerade Ball, garage sales, working bees, wooden platters, donations of foods for people staying at the lodge, and donations of goods to sell in their shop. The Lodge provides that extra bit of support and care cancer patients need during the harrowing treatment progress. All in the same boat, to be surrounded by other patients provides that extra bit of comfort.

As we gear up for the holiday season, have you thought about the whole picture? Safety, and not just the fun? An incorrectly loaded caravan can lead to snaking, swaying or loss of control of your caravan and vehicle. Caravan popularity is high, with over 901,000 registered in Australia as of January 2024, a 27 per cent increase since 2019. Caravan and camping trips account for a significant portion of domestic travel, making up 56 per cent of trips, 62 per cent of nights, and 70 per cent of spending in this sector. While families and the "grey nomad" demographic remain strong, the 30-54 age group is now the dominant segment, representing 46 per cent of trips and 42 per cent of nights in 2024. When loading your caravan, make sure that the heaviest items are packed low and centred over the caravan’s wheel axles and the lightest items are packed up high and distributed across the vehicle. It's an easy and safe way to prevent sway!Do you know the rules about digital screens in vehicles? Sometimes in our excitement and pressure to pack and head off, we can forget things.If you have a full licence, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can only be used while driving to make or receive calls, play audio or as a driver’s aid (e.g. navigation). All other functions including texting, emailing, social media and web browsing aren't allowed as per the regular mobile phone road rules.What about L, P1 and P2 drivers? Well, restricted licence holders aren't permitted to use their mobile phones at all while driving, whether it's connected to a screen or not. The best place for your phone if you're a restricted licence holder is on silent and in your bag!For a quick Australian holiday, prioritize sun protection, be prepared for vast distances by flying or planning travel time, and pack accordingly, as southern states are cooler in winter and northern areas are hot year-round. Always swim between the flags and be aware of the emergency number for your location. Here are a few extra tips to make your holiday seamless and enjoyable, with a just a little extra thinking involved.Pack for the climate and conditions where you are heading.The UV index is high; use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade, even on cloudy days.Pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring cities, national parks, and beaches.Beach safety: Always swim between the red and yellow flags to be in a patrolled area.Health: Get a health check and any recommended vaccinations before you go, and ensure you have enough prescribed medication, along with a doctor's letter and copy of the prescription. Plan for distances: get that podcast playlist sorted, charge up the kids screens, pack travel board games, and double check you all have the little creature comforts you like to make travel as bearable as possible. Driving: If driving, be aware that distances between towns can be very large, with no services in between. Take breaks every couple of hours.Cook your own meals: Eating out can be expensive, so try self-catering or buy alcohol from bottle shops instead of bars.Free wildlife spotting: Visit national parks to see native animals like kangaroos and koalas in the wild, instead of paying for sanctuaries.Look for deals: Use websites like Klook, Viator, or GetYourGuide to compare prices on activities, or Bookme for last-minute deals.Work or volunteer: If child free, consider opportunities like WWOOFing or working in a hostel for accommodation to save money

January sits in an interesting position in the agricultural calendar, marking neither beginning nor end but rather a pause point in the middle of summer when the year's production outcomes are largely determined but not yet realised. For farmers and graziers across the Riverina and far west, the new year is a time for assessment, planning, and preparation that sets the foundation for the months ahead.Seasonal conditions in January largely dictate what's possible for the remainder of summer and shape expectations for autumn. Assess your current position honestly in terms of soil moisture, pasture condition, crop development, and stock feed availability. This assessment determines whether you're in a position to maintain current stock numbers, whether crops will achieve projected yields, and what management interventions might be necessary in coming months. Hope and optimism have their place in farming, but practical planning requires realistic assessment of actual conditions rather than what you wish they were.Stock management decisions in January have consequences that ripple through the entire year. If feed availability is marginal and no rain is forecast, making hard decisions about reducing stock numbers now rather than waiting until the situation becomes critical protects both animal welfare and land condition. Selling down allows you to match stock numbers to available feed, maintain condition on remaining animals, and prevent degradation of pastures that will cost years to repair. While selling into potentially weak markets is painful, it's typically better than the alternative of supplementary feeding through extended dry periods or watching stock condition deteriorate to the point where they're unsaleable.For croppers, January brings the nail-biting wait as summer crops approach critical growth stages and potential yield becomes clearer. Water management for irrigated crops requires constant attention, balancing water allocation constraints against crop water requirements and making strategic decisions about where to allocate limited water for maximum return. Monitor crops closely for signs of heat stress, disease, or pest pressure, and be prepared to intervene quickly when issues arise. Some problems in January can still be managed; others simply have to be endured while you plan for next season.Livestock health and welfare demand particular attention through the hottest month of the year. Heat stress kills animals quickly and reduces production in survivors, so ensuring adequate shade, clean water, and appropriate management during extreme heat events is essential. Monitor stock daily, particularly animals in feedlots or intensive systems where heat load is higher. Shearing timing affects heat tolerance, so consider whether adjusting your shearing program might improve animal welfare during summer extremes. Parasite control continues through summer, as do fly control measures that protect both welfare and production.Machinery and equipment maintenance can't be postponed indefinitely, and January downtime provides opportunity for servicing and repairs before autumn work begins. Harvest equipment needs thorough cleaning and servicing after the season's work, identifying any worn parts or damage that needs attention before the machinery is stored. Tractors, spray equipment, and other regularly used machinery benefit from scheduled maintenance rather than being run to failure. The time and money invested in proper maintenance saves exponentially more in reduced breakdowns, longer equipment life, and improved reliability when you need machinery to work.Planning for autumn activities begins now while there's time for thoughtful decision-making rather than rushed choices under pressure. Consider what crops you'll plant, what areas need renovation, what pasture management you'll implement, and what infrastructure improvements you want to complete before the busy season arrives. Seed procurement, fertiliser ordering, and chemical purchasing can often be done more economically with early ordering rather than last-minute purchases. If you're planning new activities or enterprises, January provides time for research, talking to other farmers, and seeking advice before committing resources.Financial planning and record keeping deserve attention in January when the pressure of day-to-day operations might be slightly reduced. Review the past year's financial performance, identifying what worked well and what didn't. Update production records, ensuring data is captured while memories are fresh and information is accessible. Tax planning for the coming financial year benefits from early attention, particularly if you're considering significant capital investments or changes to enterprise mix. Professional advice from accountants and financial planners familiar with agricultural businesses provides value that typically exceeds their cost.Risk management extends beyond financial planning to include insurance review and business continuity planning. Ensure all insurance policies are current and coverage is adequate for your actual situation rather than what it was when policies were initially written. Consider what risks your business faces, from weather events to market volatility to personal injury or illness, and whether you have adequate protection or strategies to manage those risks. While paying insurance premiums feels like money going out the door for nothing, the one time you need insurance and don't have it can destroy decades of work.Soil health and land management receive less attention than they deserve, yet they underpin all agricultural production. January conditions often reveal erosion, salinity, or degradation problems that need addressing. Plan soil testing to inform fertiliser decisions, consider whether lime, gypsum, or other amendments might benefit production, and identify areas where earthworks, tree planting, or pasture renovation could improve both production and sustainability. Land is your fundamental asset, and maintaining or improving its productive capacity protects both current income and long-term farm value.Water security becomes increasingly critical as climate patterns shift and allocation reliability declines. Consider your water position including storage capacity, delivery infrastructure, and potential efficiency improvements. Investment in water-saving technology, whether that's improved irrigation systems, recycling infrastructure, or stock water reticulation, often pays for itself relatively quickly while also building resilience against tighter water availability. Water markets provide both opportunities and risks, requiring careful attention to allocation announcements, market movements, and your own strategic position.Networking and information gathering help farmers stay current with industry developments, new technologies, and changing market conditions. Attend field days, join industry organisations, participate in producer groups, and maintain connections with agronomists, stock agents, and other industry professionals. The investment of time in staying informed and connected returns benefits through better decision-making, access to opportunities, and the social capital that helps navigate challenges when they arise.The mental health dimension of farming deserves recognition and attention, particularly given the high stress associated with financial uncertainty, weather dependence, and isolation. January might feel quiet compared to busy seasons, but for farmers facing drought, low prices, or struggling enterprises, the stress is constant and cumulative. Maintain connections with others, seek professional support if you're struggling with anxiety or depression, and remember that asking for help demonstrates strength rather than weakness. Rural financial counselling, farm business support programs, and mental health services all exist to help farmers navigate challenges.Looking ahead to the rest of the year requires balancing optimism with pragmatism, planning for multiple scenarios rather than assuming everything will work out perfectly. Have contingency plans for poor seasons, consider how you'd respond to low prices or high input costs, and think about what decisions you might need to make at various trigger points. Farming has always required managing uncertainty, but explicit planning for different scenarios helps you respond effectively rather than just reacting when problems arise.

Did you know that just 15 minutes of unprotected exposure when UV levels are 3 or above is enough to start causing damage to your skin. This is a crucial fact that many Australians don't realise. In very fair-skinned people, UV radiation starts becoming harmful after about 5 to 10 minutes. For some people, unprotected skin can start to burn (visible damage) in as little as 11 minutes on days with extreme levels of UV radiation.The general rule is to protect your skin when the UV index is 3 or above, which in Australia occurs most months of the year and peaks in the middle of the day, often reaching extreme levels in summer. In South Australia, sun protection is usually needed from the beginning of August until the end of April, though in some parts of the state UV can reach 3 and above all year round. At least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70 .In 2021, 2,220 people died from skin cancer in Australia - 1,455 from melanoma and 765 from non-melanoma skin cancers - Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with the age-standardised incidence rate of melanoma in 2008 being more than 12 times the average global rate. 95 per cent of melanoma and 99 per cent of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The original "Slip, Slop, Slap" campaign told Australians to slip on sun protective clothing, slop on water resistant, broad spectrum, SPF50+ sunscreen and slap on a broad-brimmed hat. In 2007, two crucial steps were added: seek shade and slide on a pair of sunglasses. The Complete 5 Steps:SLIP on sun-protective clothing covering as much skin as possible.SLOP on SPF 50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours).SLAP on a broad-brimmed hat (at least 7.5cm brim) SEEK shade, especially between 10am-4pm.SLIDE on wrap-around sunglasses that meet Australian standards.UV vs Temperature: UV radiation is often confused with infrared radiation (heat). Temperature does not affect UV radiation levels - UV can be just as high on a cool or even cold day as it is on a hot one, especially if skies are clear. Even when it's cloudy or cool, you need to protect your skin, as UV radiation and sun damage can happen any day of the year when the UV index is 3 or higher. Intense sun exposure in the first 10 years of life has been shown to nearly double the lifetime risk of melanoma. - Download the free SunSmart Global UV app - Check the Bureau of Meteorology website - Check your phone's weather app - Look in daily newspapers. Outdoor workers receive up to ten times more UV exposure than indoor workers, putting them at greater risk of skin cancer, and should use sun protection every day regardless of the UV rating. For most people, 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight every day is enough to maintain a healthy supply of vitamin D, and regular day-to-day outdoor activities provide adequate sun exposure to maintain optimal vitamin D levels. In Australia, there's no such thing as a "safe tan" - tanning is damaged skin cells producing melanin to protect themselves, and one damaged cell can start a deadly melanoma growing. Always check the UV index and protect yourself when it's 3 or above. With just 15 minutes being enough to cause damage, sun protection should be a daily habit, not just for hot, sunny days.

Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP) say they are entering 2026 with a new purpose, but the same commitment to supporting Mallee communities.The diverse community service agency has launched its 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, with the new organisational purpose “to empower our community to live with equity, opportunity and dignity”.MASP CEO Charmaine Calis said the purpose change came as a result of community consultation across the six LGA’s MASP serves – Mildura, Swan Hill, Gannawarra, Buloke, Wentworth and Balranald - during the creation of the new strategic plan.“Our previous purpose was to empower our community to be free from homelessness, abuse, poverty and disadvantage,” she explained. “Some of the feedback that we received was that purpose could be a little limiting or off-putting to some people who may not identify as one of those aspects. "So what we did was create more of a strengths-based purpose. "What we hope that demonstrates is MASP is here to support anybody that needs it, no matter what your upbringing, no matter what your life circumstances - if we have a program that is available to support you, we are here to provide that support to you.”Mrs Calis said the new Strategic Plan will build on the progress made during the previous four-year period.“We want to look at identifying the genuine needs within community and gaps in service delivery,” she said. “We also want to be looking at the innovative ways that our staff work, whether that's in Mildura or whether that's in Swan Hill or Dareton or Balranald or any of our other communities and how are we using feedback to inform how our programs are developed anddelivered within those communities.”

AER has commenced Federal Court proceedings against Transgrid, following the Far West Power Outage of 2024 The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has concluded its investigation into the October 2024 power system events that led to power outages in Broken Hill and surrounding areas. As a result, the AER has instituted proceedings in the Federal Court against NSW Electricity Networks Operations Pty Limited (Transgrid). The AER claims Transgrid failed to: Properly manage and maintain its network to minimise outages (June 2022 – October 2024).Restore power promptly after outages (October 2024).Ensure compliance with its NSW transmission licence (July 2024 – June 2025).Maintain a required compliance program for generators (November 2022 – October 2025). Member for Barwon Roy Butler welcomed the action by AER.“The far west will not soon forget the disruption caused by the outage," Mr Bulter said."This must be a turning point—our communities deserve a transmission and generation network that is resilient, reliable, and prepared for the future. "Accountability today is the first step toward ensuring this never happens again.”

January represents the traditional time for health-focused resolutions and fresh starts, driven by the combination of a new calendar year and the aftermath of festive season indulgence. For people living in regional and rural NSW, accessing healthcare services and maintaining health goals comes with particular challenges including distance from services, limited specialist availability, and the practical demands of rural life that can make health a lower priority than immediate pressing needs.The New Year medical check-up makes practical sense regardless of whether you're experiencing specific health concerns. Many health problems develop silently without obvious symptoms until they're well advanced, and regular screening catches issues early when they're most treatable. If you're over 45, haven't had a comprehensive health check recently, or have risk factors including family history, obesity, smoking, or high blood pressure, make an appointment with your GP for a thorough assessment. This typically includes blood pressure measurement, blood tests checking cholesterol and blood sugar, discussion of lifestyle factors, and screening appropriate to your age and gender.Booking appointments well in advance is essential in regional areas where doctors often have limited availability and long waiting lists for routine consultations. Don't wait until a health issue becomes urgent to discover the next available appointment is weeks away. Establish a relationship with a regular GP who knows your history rather than seeing whoever is available, as continuity of care improves health outcomes and makes consultations more efficient and productive.Women's health screening including cervical screening and breast checks becomes eligible at specific ages and intervals, yet participation rates in rural areas lag behind cities despite higher rates of some cancers. Make sure you're up to date with recommended screening, understanding that while these tests might be uncomfortable or inconvenient, they detect cancers at stages when they're highly treatable. If cost is a barrier, speak with your GP about options including bulk billing clinics or specific programs offering free screening.Men's health often gets neglected as men are statistically less likely to seek medical care and more likely to ignore symptoms until problems become serious. The strong rural culture of toughness and self-reliance works against preventive health care, with many men visiting doctors only when forced by obvious illness or injury. Encourage the men in your life to have regular check-ups, be alert to symptoms including changes in urination, unexplained weight loss, or persistent pain, and understand that seeking medical care is responsible rather than weak.Dental health affects overall health and wellbeing yet often gets deferred due to cost and limited rural access to dental services. If you haven't seen a dentist in the past year, make an appointment for a check-up and clean. Public dental services often have long waiting lists, so get your name down even if treatment isn't immediately urgent. Private dental care is expensive, but neglecting problems invariably costs more in the long term when minor issues progress to major treatments. Some private health insurance policies include dental coverage that might make treatment more affordable.Mental health deserves the same attention as physical health, yet stigma and limited service access in rural areas means many people struggle alone with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. If you're experiencing persistent sadness, worry, difficulty sleeping, loss of interest in activities, or thoughts of self-harm, speak with your GP about assessment and treatment options. Telehealth has expanded access to psychological services for rural people, making therapy accessible without hours of travel. Mental health care plans through Medicare provide rebates for psychological sessions, making treatment more affordable.Medication reviews benefit anyone taking multiple medications or who has been on the same medications for extended periods. Speak with your GP or pharmacist about whether your current medications are still appropriate, whether doses need adjusting, and whether any interactions between medications need consideration. Many people accumulate medications over time without regular review of whether they're still necessary or working effectively.Vision and hearing both deteriorate gradually with age, often so slowly that people don't notice the decline until it's significantly affecting their function and safety. If you're having difficulty reading, experiencing headaches, or noticing that you're squinting or holding things at odd angles, have your eyes tested. Similarly, if you're asking people to repeat themselves, having trouble following conversations in noise, or turning the television volume higher, have your hearing assessed. Both vision and hearing problems are usually correctable with appropriate treatment.Preventive health extends beyond medical appointments to lifestyle factors including nutrition, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Rather than radical resolutions you'll abandon by February, consider small, sustainable changes that improve health without requiring complete lifestyle overhaul. Adding one additional serving of vegetables daily, walking for 20 minutes most days, or reducing alcohol consumption from every night to several nights weekly all deliver health benefits without being unrealistic or unsustainable.Weight management generates enormous amounts of advice, much of it contradictory or ineffective. If you're carrying excess weight and it's affecting your health or quality of life, discuss sustainable approaches with your GP or a dietitian rather than trying the latest fad diet. Gradual weight loss through modest changes to eating and activity patterns is more likely to be maintained than crash diets that might produce quick results but can't be sustained long-term.Sleep quality affects everything from immune function to mental health to accident risk, yet many people accept poor sleep as normal rather than addressing underlying causes. If you're consistently struggling to fall asleep, waking frequently, or feeling unrefreshed despite adequate time in bed, discuss this with your doctor. Sleep apnoea is common and underdiagnosed, particularly in men and people who are overweight, and treatment dramatically improves both health and quality of life.Immunisation status deserves checking, particularly if you're in high-risk groups for conditions including influenza, pneumonia, or shingles. The annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone but particularly important for older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and those working with vulnerable populations. Other vaccinations including tetanus boosters may be due without you realising the timeline.Health records and advance care planning might seem morbid but provide important protection if you become seriously ill or injured. Ensure someone knows where your Medicare card is, who your regular doctor is, what medications you take, and what your wishes would be regarding treatment if you couldn't communicate. This is particularly important for people living alone or in remote areas where medical emergencies might involve treatment from practitioners who don't know your history.The New Year provides natural motivation for addressing health issues you've been putting off, but remember that health care is something you can access any time of year. If you don't manage to book appointments or make changes in January, that doesn't mean you've missed your opportunity. Any time you take action to improve or protect your health is the right time, regardless of what the calendar says.

The new year is bringing significant financial relief to millions of Australian families. Here's what's changing and how much you could save.If you've ever felt penalized for not working enough hours to qualify for childcare subsidies, relief is finally here. From 5 January 2026, Australia is scrapping the controversial activity test that left many families in limbo.Here's the game-changer; every eligible family will now receive at least three days of subsidised childcare per week, regardless of whether you're working, studying, or looking for work. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, that's even better, 100 hours of subsidised care each fortnight.The impact? Around 66,700 families are expected to pocket an average of $1,370 in savings each year. That's real money back in household budgets at a time when every dollar counts.The best part? If you're already receiving Child Care Subsidy, you don't need to lift a finger. Services Australia will automatically apply the changes. No phone calls, no paperwork, no stress.More than a million Australians will see their fortnightly payments increase from 1 January 2026, thanks to indexation adjustments that reflect the rising cost of living.Young families doing it tough will see real relief. If you're a single parent on Youth Allowance with dependent children, you'll receive an extra $17.60 per fortnight, bringing your maximum payment to $863.40.For Australia's 680,000 carers, the unsung heroes who provide essential support to loved ones, Carer Allowance will increase by $3.30 to $162.60 per fortnight. While it may seem modest, every increase acknowledges the vital work carers do.Students on Austudy and young people receiving Youth Disability Support Pension will also see increases of up to $17.60 and $17.20 per fortnight respectively.Here's some welcome news for anyone managing chronic conditions or regular prescriptions. From 1 January 2026, the maximum cost of a PBS prescription is dropping from $31.60 to $25, a $6.60 saving per script.If you're picking up multiple medications each month, those savings add up quickly. For someone on four regular prescriptions, that's over $300 back in your pocket each year. For families managing multiple health conditions, the relief could be even more substantial.This change benefits millions of Australians who don't hold a Commonwealth concession card but still feel the pinch of healthcare costs.Parents, here's one for you. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is increasing its coverage by $26 to over $1,158 every two years for eligible children aged 17 or under.Over the course of childhood, this program could provide more than $9,800 in dental coverage by the time your child turns 17. That's significant support for keeping young smiles healthy without breaking the family budget.If you're eligible, watch for a letter from Services Australia in your myGov inbox in early January. No myGov account? They'll send it by post.Here's a startling fact that deserves your immediate attention. There's currently over $271 million in unpaid Medicare benefits sitting unclaimed, owed to nearly one million Australians. Some individuals are owed more than $30,000 each.Why haven't they been paid? In most cases, it's simple, outdated bank account details on file with Medicare.Take five minutes today to log into your Medicare account through myGov or the myGov app and verify your bank details are current. You might discover you're owed money you didn't even know about.For most changes, absolutely nothing. These updates are being applied automatically by Services Australia.The one exception? Check your Medicare bank details to ensure you're not missing out on benefits you're entitled to.Where to get more information:Child Care Subsidy: servicesaustralia.gov.au/childcaresubsidyMedicare bank details: servicesaustralia.gov.au/getmedicarebenefitsPBS information: servicesaustralia.gov.au/pbsChild Dental Benefits: servicesaustralia.gov.au/cdbsSo, between cheaper childcare, increased payments, lower prescription costs, and better dental coverage, many Australian families could save thousands of dollars in 2026. Combined with the potential windfall from unclaimed Medicare benefits, it's worth taking a moment to ensure you're getting everything you're entitled to.In a year that's likely to continue bringing financial pressure to households, these changes represent meaningful relief where it's needed most, in family budgets, at the pharmacy counter, and in supporting the next generation's health and education.Start the new year right: check your details, claim what's yours, and make 2026 count.

January marks the height of summer across regional NSW, bringing with it specific challenges and opportunities for property owners. Whether you're managing a working farm, a rural block, or a town property, the New Year is an ideal time to assess what needs attention before autumn arrives and to tackle jobs that are best done in the warmer months.Fire preparedness remains critical throughout January, with the grass fire season often peaking during this month when vegetation is driest and temperatures are highest. If you didn't complete your fire preparation before Christmas, make it a priority now. Walk your property boundaries and check that firebreaks are clear, vegetation is slashed back from buildings, and potential fuel loads are managed. Clean gutters thoroughly, ensuring no leaf litter remains that could catch embers. Check that your pumps are working, hoses are in good condition and properly connected, and you have adequate water access for firefighting. Your bushfire survival plan should be reviewed and discussed with all family members, including children old enough to understand the procedures.Water management takes on particular importance during January when dams, tanks, and bores face maximum demand. Check water levels in tanks and dams, and if supplies are running low, implement water conservation measures now rather than waiting until you're in crisis. Inspect tanks for leaks, check that gutters and downpipes are clear and directing water efficiently, and ensure pumps and irrigation systems are working properly. If you rely on bore water, monitor levels carefully and consider having your bore serviced if you've noticed reduced flow or pressure. For livestock properties, ensure all water points are functioning and animals have access to adequate clean water, as dehydration kills quickly in summer heat.Fencing often deteriorates over the wet season and needs attention in January. Walk fence lines and note any repairs needed, paying particular attention to corners and gateways that bear the most stress. Damaged or sagging fences allow stock to stray, create boundary disputes with neighbours, and compromise property security. If you're planning major fencing work, January weather is generally suitable for getting it done, though you'll need to work early in the day before temperatures become dangerous.Weed control is most effective in January for many species that are actively growing in the heat. Noxious weeds require management under biosecurity legislation, but beyond legal obligations, getting on top of weeds now prevents them going to seed and creating exponentially bigger problems for next season. Target problem areas first, particularly along fence lines, around water points, and in areas you're planning to improve. Chemical control works best when weeds are actively growing, but always follow label directions carefully and consider weather conditions including temperature and wind before spraying.Machinery maintenance can't be put off indefinitely, and January downtime provides opportunity to service equipment before you need it urgently. Change oils and filters, grease fittings, check belts and hoses, and attend to any repairs you've been meaning to do. For farm machinery that's been sitting idle, run engines periodically to prevent deterioration and check that everything still functions properly. Ensure vehicles are roadworthy, particularly if you've been pushing off registration renewals or safety inspections. The last thing you need in an emergency is to discover your vehicle won't start or isn't legal to drive.Garden and yard maintenance becomes harder to keep on top of in January when growth is rapid and water is scarce. Mulch garden beds heavily to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, focusing your limited water on establishing young trees and maintaining productive gardens rather than trying to keep decorative plants alive through the worst heat. If you have a vegetable garden, January is the time for heat-loving crops including tomatoes, capsicums, eggplants, and cucurbits, though they'll need consistent water and shade during extreme heat. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production, and accept that some plants simply won't survive the worst of summer regardless of your efforts.Stock management requires particular attention in January when heat stress, flies, and parasites all peak. Ensure animals have access to good shade and plenty of clean water, and monitor them daily for signs of heat stress or illness. Fly control becomes essential for animal welfare, so maintain your treatment program whether that's tags, pour-ons, or other methods. If you're planning to sell stock, monitor markets carefully as January prices can be affected by widespread selling from drought-affected areas. Supplementary feeding may be necessary if pastures are completely dried off, and you'll need to balance the cost of feeding against the value of maintaining stock condition.Pest control extends beyond agricultural pests to household problems that intensify in summer. Flies, mosquitoes, ants, and cockroaches all thrive in the heat, making homes unpleasant and potentially spreading disease. Regular rubbish removal, keeping food properly stored, fixing water leaks, and sealing entry points all help reduce pest pressure without relying entirely on chemicals. For serious infestations, professional pest control may be necessary, but prevention is always cheaper than cure.Building maintenance often gets overlooked until problems become serious. January's hot, dry weather is ideal for exterior painting, roof repairs, and other outdoor work that requires dry conditions. Check roofs for loose or damaged sheets, inspect sheds and outbuildings for deterioration, and attend to any drainage issues before the next heavy rain. If you've been planning renovations or improvements, January weather generally cooperates for outdoor work, though you'll need to work around the heat and ensure tradies have access to shade and water.Record keeping might seem like an indoor job for cooler weather, but reviewing the past year's records in January helps inform planning for the year ahead. If you keep stock records, production records, or financial records for your property, use quiet time to ensure everything is up to date. This is also a good time to reconcile accounts, check insurance coverage is adequate, and ensure any regulatory requirements are met before you receive reminders or penalties.The mental shift into a new year provides natural motivation for tackling jobs you've been putting off. Rather than creating an overwhelming list of everything that needs doing, prioritise the critical tasks that affect safety, animal welfare, or legal compliance, then work through what's achievable given your time, budget, and energy. Some jobs will have to wait, and that's perfectly normal. Properties are never finished, and there will always be more work than time available.Working in January heat requires common sense and caution. Tackle physical jobs in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are more manageable, take regular breaks in the shade, and drink water constantly throughout the day. Heat stroke can develop quickly and is genuinely dangerous, so don't push through warning signs including dizziness, nausea, or excessive fatigue. Some jobs simply aren't safe in extreme heat and need to be postponed until conditions moderate.If you're planning to be away in January for holidays or work, ensure someone reliable is checking your property regularly. Even a few days of inattention can result in serious problems during summer, whether that's stock running out of water, a fire starting and spreading unchecked, or opportunistic theft. Good neighbours are invaluable, and reciprocating by watching their place when they're away maintains relationships that are essential in rural communities.

The January return to work after Christmas holidays comes with unrealistic expectations many of us set without realising it. Understanding what not to expect can make the transition back to work less disappointing and more manageable. Don't expect to immediately return to peak productivity. Your brain has been in holiday mode, your routines have shifted, and getting back up to speed takes time. That first week back typically involves remembering passwords you haven't used in weeks, figuring out what you were working on before holidays, and generally feeling like you're wading through mud trying to accomplish simple tasks. Fighting this reality causes frustration. Accepting it allows you to plan accordingly. Don't expect your inbox to be manageable on day one. If you've been away for two or three weeks, you're returning to hundreds of emails. Some will be urgent and missed deadlines. Most will be irrelevant by now. Expecting to read and respond to everything immediately is unrealistic. Efficient email management means ruthlessly deleting, filing, or marking as read things that don't require action. Search functions exist for finding important emails when needed. Attempting inbox zero on day one is a recipe for staying late and still failing. Don't expect everyone else to have had a relaxing holiday. Some colleagues worked through holidays. Others dealt with family dramas, financial stress, health issues, or spent the entire break doing renovation projects that stressed them more than work. Assuming everyone is refreshed and happy to be back leads to insensitive comments or unrealistic expectations of others' moods. People are dealing with their own stuff, and January is often harder than December for many. Don't expect new year motivation to last. The burst of enthusiasm and good intentions you feel on January 2nd probably won't survive January 31st. Setting 47 goals for the year guarantees you'll fail at most of them. Picking one or two meaningful goals and actually following through beats grand plans that fizzle by February. That gym membership will be wasted if you're realistic about whether you'll actually use it. That meal prep routine sounds great until you're tired on Sunday afternoon and can't be bothered. Don't expect your body to immediately adjust to early wake-ups. You've probably been sleeping in during holidays, staying up later, and generally following your body's natural rhythms. Suddenly shifting back to 6am alarms is jarring. Your body needs a week or two to adjust. You'll be tired. Coffee consumption will increase. Accepting this rather than fighting it means being kinder to yourself during the adjustment. Don't expect workplace dynamics to have improved over the break. That colleague who annoyed you in December will still annoy you in January. Office politics haven't disappeared. The problems that existed before Christmas are still there. The holiday break provides perspective, but it doesn't magically fix workplace issues. Sometimes returning to work means facing realities you'd forgotten while on leave. This can be disappointing, but accepting it prevents surprise and frustration. Don't expect your home routines to immediately fall into place. School lunches, after-school activities, dinner prep, homework supervision, and all the weeknight chaos you'd forgotten about during holidays comes flooding back. That first week especially is chaotic as everyone adjusts. Planning easy meals, having backup lunch options, and keeping expectations low for that first week reduces stress. You're not failing if you serve scrambled eggs for dinner or forget library day. Don't expect the weather to cooperate. January is typically Australia's hottest month. Commuting in extreme heat is miserable. Office air conditioning might be inadequate. If you work outdoors, the heat is genuinely dangerous some days. Planning for heat rather than hoping for mild weather means you're prepared with appropriate clothing, adequate water, and realistic expectations about what can be accomplished in extreme temperatures. Don't expect your social life to immediately resume. Friends you meant to catch up with during holidays but didn't get around to seeing are now back at work too. Everyone's busy. Social plans that felt possible during the unstructured holiday period become harder to organise when everyone's working. This is normal. If friendships matter, you'll find time, but it might not happen immediately. Being patient with yourself and others about reconnecting prevents guilt or hurt feelings. Don't expect yourself to be the perfect employee from day one. You've forgotten things, processes have changed, people have moved roles, new projects have started, and you're playing catch-up. Mistakes will happen. Asking questions is better than pretending you remember things you don't. Most workplaces understand January is a transitional period. Colleagues are dealing with the same adjustment. Being honest about what you need to get back up to speed is more professional than faking competence you don't feel yet. Don't expect performance reviews or goal-setting sessions to be enjoyable. Many workplaces schedule these conversations in January. Discussing goals, performance, and expectations when you're barely back in work mode feels premature. These conversations can feel overwhelming when you're still figuring out what day it is. Preparing for them before they happen rather than going in cold makes them less stressful, though still not necessarily pleasant. Don't expect your financial situation to have improved over the break. Christmas spending has probably blown out your budget. Credit card bills are landing. School costs are due. The car rego you forgot about is suddenly urgent. January is financially tough for many Australians. Expecting to start the year in a strong financial position when you've just spent big on Christmas creates stress when reality hits. Acknowledging financial tightness and planning accordingly prevents panic. Don't expect motivation to come from external sources. Your workplace probably hasn't changed. Your boss hasn't suddenly become inspiring. Your work hasn't become more interesting. Waiting for circumstances to motivate you means you'll wait forever. Finding internal motivation, connecting to why your work matters to you personally, or identifying small aspects of work you do enjoy creates more sustainable motivation than hoping external factors will change. Don't expect everyone to respect your boundaries. That colleague who messaged during your holidays will probably do it again. The boss who expects immediate responses might not have learned to wait. The client who thinks you should be available 24/7 hasn't changed their expectations. Setting and maintaining boundaries is your responsibility. Communicating them clearly and consistently, then following through, is how boundaries work. Some people will push back. That doesn't mean your boundaries are wrong. Don't expect yourself to remember every commitment made before holidays. You agreed to things in December that you've now forgotten. Calendar management becomes crucial. Checking your calendar thoroughly when you return to work prevents missed meetings or double-bookings. Writing things down immediately when you remember them prevents that sinking feeling when someone mentions something you'd completely forgotten you'd agreed to. Don't expect the year to unfold as planned. Plans change, unexpected events happen, priorities shift, and the year never goes exactly as you anticipated in December. Holding plans loosely while having direction prevents devastation when things don't go to plan. Flexibility and adaptability matter more than rigid adherence to plans made before you knew what this year would actually throw at you. The January return to work is a transition that takes time. Being patient with yourself and others during this period, keeping expectations realistic, maintaining routines where possible, and accepting that adjustment is normal makes the process smoother. You'll eventually find your rhythm again, remember what you're supposed to be doing, and feel competent at work. But that first week or two can be rough, and knowing that's normal rather than a personal failing makes it easier to handle.

After 28 years lost to addiction, this inspiring Hay mother of eight has found her way back to what matters most. Amelia Eade was kind enough to come in and speak to me and her son, Elijah, during Elijah’s second week of work experience here at The Riverine Grazier. She sat across from me with Elijah by her side, speaking with a clarity that can only come from someone who has walked through f ire and emerged on the other side. At 47, she’s eight years clean after nearly three decades of drug use, a journey that began with devastating loss and ended with fierce determination. “I don’t live in the past anymore,” she says f irmly. “I live right here, in the present. If you live in the past, it will haunt you and keep you where you are.” Born in Hay in the late 1970s to Neville and Lorna Eade (née Hey), Amelia spent her childhood as what she calls a ‘farm girl’. Her family’s 157-acre property was home to ‘every animal you could think of,’ and young Amelia was there every day, caring for livestock and riding horses for Pony Club. “The most enjoyable time of my life was being on the farm and spending all that time with my mum,” she recalled. “Dad was there in the background.” Neville was always busy working, as fathers typically did in those days, but it was Lorna who filled Amelia’s world. Amelia desribes her mother as ‘hard but good’. Her family’s roots run deep in the district. Her maternal grandmother was a dairywoman before the days of refrigerated milk trucks, and her paternal grandfather worked as a night soil collector, hauling goods with horse and cart. She even has Chinese heritage through a great-grandfather who was a travelling merchant. But, when Amelia was just 19, everything changed. Lorna passed away. “That’s where I sort of hit the drug scene,” Amelia said. “I just lost the plot from there.” What followed were 28 years that Amelia describes as being present but not truly there. She was what’s called high-functioning, her eight children went to school clean and fed, the house was maintained, routines were kept. “I was there to cook, clean, wash, and send them off to school,” she said. “But they didn't get the ‘I love you’ from me because I didn’t get them from my mother. “She loved me through my tummy, feeding me, and buying me stuff.” The grief went deeper still. In 1994, Amelia's sister Michelle was murdered. Family dynamics left Amelia carrying complicated guilt, feelings that she ‘should have been’ the one taken instead of her talented sister who “could do anything with her head and her hands”. Her father Neville, unable to say no to his only daughter from his marriage, became what Amelia now recognises as an enabler. “He fed my habit,” she said. “I didn’t have to go out on the street and sell myself or do bad stuff women do, because Dad never said no to me. He was a big support, but for the wrong stuff.” Then her brother was incarcerated for murder, adding another layer of family trauma. Through it all, Amelia had children, eight of them, including three she describes as being a ‘tummy mummy’ for families who couldn't have their own. One of those children, Marshall, has travelled to America and around the world with his adoptive family. The twins’ parents have since separated, with their father now raising them. In 2017, Amelia had what she calls ‘a little holiday’, a stint in prison that became the catalyst for change. “I saw all these different women that were in there for different things, and some of them were just absolutely stunning, beautiful people picking at their beautiful skin,” she remembered. “You see these people that have got so much potential but they’ve just let it go and chose to do bad shit rather than do something with what they had.” A month or so after her release, she met Shane, who would become her partner. She began rebuilding her relationship with her daughter Kyesha, or Kya, the child she describes as ‘the hardest to win back’. Then came visits with her other children, Richard, Christian, now living in Sydney and working in a factory; Kya, who inherited her great-grandmother’s incredible work ethic; and Jack, a woodcutter whose partner is equally hardworking. “I wanted it,” Amelia says of her decision to get clean. “I did it all without rehab. “There was no counselling. “I didn’t need any of that because I knew I could do it.” Her advice to others struggling with addiction is direct; “Don’t waste any more of the life that you've got left. If you want something bad enough, you can really have it.” Today, Amelia's relationship with her father has strengthened. “Mum couldn't have picked a better father if she’d made him herself,” she said warmly. Neville is a devoted grandfather to all the kids, regularly coming around for dinner. She's also found peace with the past, particularly around her children. “How did I not get a drug user or an alcoholic when they’ve seen what they’ve seen?” she wondered. “Maybe me being the way I was turned them off wanting to do this. I’m quite proud of that, I am very proud of all my children.” One of her sons was the first to tell her he was proud of her, words that meant everything. Now, Amelia helps care for her three grandchildren, Henley, who just started kindergarten at St Mary’s, and two others, which means her daughter can work. It’s a role she treasures, and one where she’s made a conscious choice to break generational patterns. “I tell the grandkids that I love them all the time,” she said. “It’d be nice to hear it every now and again from your kids too, but I understand. It’s a generational thing.” She acknowledges the 20 years that were lost; “I was there, but I haven’t been there,” but refuses to live in that space anymore. As our conversation wound down, Elijah sat quietly beside his mother, a young man who came home to her in June last year after living with his aunt Kya for 12 months. His presence speaks volumes about the family Amelia has rebuilt through sheer determination. “I’m very proud of myself,” Amelia says when asked. “Very.” And sitting across from this woman who has walked through unimaginable loss, battled addiction for 28 years, and emerged with her family intact and growing stronger, it’s impossible not to agree. She should be. You are an inspiration, Amelia, and your life a love letter to others in the midst of struggle. Life is all about lessons, and the strongest amongst us learn from their experiences, take what they have learnt and use it to fortify themselves and make their future all the more stronger for learning.