Are you an artist from the Far West who would like to participate in something meaningful and life changing? Far West Local Health District (FWLHD) are seeking Expressions of Interest from local Aboriginal artists in Broken Hill, Buronga, Wilcannia and Menindee to lead a Cultural Art Workshop as a Cultural Advisor. This project is part of the 16 Days of Activism events led by FWLHD and supported by other local services.16 Days of Activism is a global campaign from November 25 to December 10 which aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls by raising awareness, promoting education, and advocating for change in culture and attitudes.The aim of the Cultural Art Workshop is to bring community together through Aboriginal art and culture as a pathway for healing, learning, and empowerment, while raising awareness of respect, equality, and the importance of ending gender-based violence.The artwork created in the workshop will be showcased in the local health service in the location it was created.One workshop each from 12pm-3pm will be held in: Menindee (24/11), Broken Hill (28/11) Wilcannia (4/12) and Buronga (8/12).A cultural advisor / artist fee will be provided, along with materials and support for workshop delivery.Applicants must meet the following criteria: Identify as a local Aboriginal person Reside in the local community that you apply for Be an artist or have experience of participation in the arts Have experience facilitating art or cultural workshops Can engage respectfully with diverse groups, including young people, families and community members Are committed to the values of respect, equality, and community wellbeing Have a Working with Children CheckFor more information or to receive an application form, please email [email protected] of interest close Monday October 20 2025.

McDonald's annual charity campaign is gearing up for its biggest fundraising push of the year, with special merchandise now available across Riverina restaurants ahead of McHappy Day on Saturday, November 15.The fast-food chain has launched a range of limited-edition items to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), which supports families with seriously ill or injured children requiring hospital treatment.From Wednesday, October 15 through to midnight on McHappy Day, customers can purchase crew-style "Silly Socks" for $6.50 featuring McDonald's characters Grimace and Hamburglar, or bucket hats for $3.95 showcasing the full McDonald and crew in two colour options.All profits from merchandise sales go directly to RMHC, helping families remain close to their children during medical treatment.Matt Gidley, licensee for McDonald's Griffith South, Leeton and Griffith, said the annual event brings the community together for a meaningful cause."McHappy Day is a favourite time of year for our crew and customers, when we come together to do something that means so much to our community," Mr Gidley said."Every year, we're blown away by the generosity of our customers. So come on in – we have Silly Socks, Bucket Hats and Helping Hands in stock right now – we're ready for you to join the fun and support families in need."Beyond merchandise, supporters can contribute through several channels. "Helping Hands" paper cut-outs are available for purchase at $2, $10 or $50, which customers can colour and display in-restaurant or at home. Direct donations can also be made online at mchappyday.org.au/donate.On McHappy Day itself, $2 from every Big Mac sold – whether individually or as part of a meal – will be donated to RMHC.Since McHappy Day launched in 1991, the initiative has raised more than $79 million for RMHC, helping support over 69,000 families annually. Last year's campaign alone raised over $6.03 million, providing more than 37,000 nights of accommodation for families with children undergoing medical treatment.The charity operates 19 Ronald McDonald Houses providing accommodation near hospitals for over 12,000 families yearly, along with 18 Family Rooms within hospitals, learning programs supporting more than 1,200 students weekly, six family retreats, and 10 hospitality carts delivering essentials to families at their child's bedside.RMHC programs are designed to keep families together during what are often the most challenging periods of their lives, providing practical support and emotional comfort when it matters most.The limited-edition merchandise is available at participating McDonald's restaurants nationwide through drive-through, kiosk, front counter, the MyMacca's app and McDelivery while stocks last.For more information about McHappy Day or to make a donation, visit www.mchappyday.org.au.

Landholders in Far West NSW can take advantage of a new incentive scheme for coordinated fox control this spring and next autumn. Western Local Land Services' fox baiting initiative offers participants who purchase 1080 fox baits this spring the opportunity to receive an equal quantity free of charge in autumn 2026, provided they meet eligibility requirements. The program has also reduced pricing for 1080 wing baits from $0.70 to $0.60 per bait. Western Local Land Services biosecurity officers will assist eligible landholders in calculating appropriate bait quantities based on property characteristics. Pest Animal Coordinator Danielle Barrett said the program presents a valuable opportunity for producers. "This incentive offers landholders an effective way to manage fox populations and minimise their impact on livestock, agricultural production and the environment," Ms Barrett said. "By essentially cutting seasonal fox baiting costs in half and encouraging neighbouring properties to work together, we're aiming to achieve substantial reductions in fox-related losses for livestock producers." Who can participate:Eligible landholders must: - Operate within the Western Local Land Services region and pay Local Land Services rates - Have no overdue payments to Local Land Services - Participate in a coordinated baiting program with at least two other neighbouring properties - Have purchased fox baits since March 1 2024 (for properties in wild dog areas) - Hold current AQF3 or Vertebrate Pesticides Induction Training certification (available online at www.nsw.gov.au/vpit) For more information or to confirm eligibility, contact Western Local Land Services biosecurity officers on 1300 795 299 or [email protected]

The extraordinary life of Professor Maxwell Hopp, a beloved paediatrician who treated thousands of Riverina children over more than two decades, will be honoured at a public memorial service in Griffith later this month.Professor Hopp, who dedicated 26 years to caring for children across the region, died in a tragic accident on Friday, 26 September 2025. His sudden passing has left the Griffith community in mourning for a doctor who became an integral part of the town's fabric.His family has invited the public to join them in paying tribute to the Professor at 2pm on Wednesday, October 22 at the Piccolo Family Farm on Mallison Road near Lake Wyangan.Professor Hopp's daughter, Dagney Hopp, said further details on logistics would be provided closer to the date, but urged attendees to prepare for outdoor conditions."If you're able to attend, we suggest you bring/wear sun protection as there is likely to be quite a number of attendees and some will need to be outside," Ms Hopp said.The family has requested that no flowers be brought to the service or sent to their home. Instead, they have asked those wishing to honour Professor Hopp's life and work to consider making a donation to a children's charity of their choice.Ms Hopp suggested several organisations that align with her father's life's work, including Save The Children, a development and aid agency that helps children around the world; Make-a-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to terminally ill children; and Royal Far West, a mental health not-for-profit providing services to children in rural western NSW towns such as Griffith."Thank you to everyone, for all your support and kindness you have shown to our family at this terrible time," Ms Hopp said.Professor Hopp's impact on the Griffith community extended far beyond his medical practice. Originally coming to Griffith for what was meant to be a short stint, he stayed for more than a quarter of a century, becoming a trusted figure for countless families across the Riverina.His dedication to paediatric care in a regional setting, where specialist medical services are often limited, made him an invaluable member of the community. For many local families, Professor Hopp was the doctor who cared for their children from infancy through to adolescence.The decision to hold the service at Piccolo Family Farm reflects both the anticipated large attendance and the community nature of the farewell, allowing space for the many people whose lives were touched by Professor Hopp's work and compassion.The memorial service provides an opportunity for the Griffith community to collectively express their gratitude for a doctor who chose to make regional NSW his home and dedicated his career to the health and wellbeing of the region's children.

Griffith City Council will soon implement a new paid parking system at Griffith Regional Airport, using advanced licence plate recognition technology to address growing congestion and safety concerns.The system will utilise Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, eliminating the need for paper tickets. Instead, number plates will be automatically scanned on entry and exit, with drivers making payment by card.Griffith Mayor Councillor Doug Curran said the new system was necessary to respond to increased demand at the airport car park, which has been operating well above capacity."On a typical weekday morning, more than 230 vehicles are parked at the aerodrome, well above the 158 spaces formally available to the public," Mayor Curran said."Cars overstaying, unmarked parking and lack of distinction between short and long-term parking have led to congestion and safety concerns."The new paid parking system is designed to address multiple issues. It will differentiate between short and long-term parking, improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians, provide a smoother entry and exit experience, and generate funds for future improvements at the airport.Council has appointed SKIDATA to supply and install the new system. The design has been configured to allow for expansion in future if needed, providing flexibility as airport usage continues to grow.The project also includes roadway modifications at the airport entrance to accommodate the new system and improve traffic flow.Parking fees have not yet been determined. The fee structure will be considered at a future Airport Committee Meeting before a recommendation is presented to Council for adoption.The new paid parking system is expected to be operational within the current financial year.The introduction of paid parking represents a significant change for Griffith Regional Airport users, who have previously enjoyed free parking at the facility. However, Council has indicated the revenue generated will be reinvested in airport improvements.The LPR technology offers a contactless, streamlined parking experience that has become increasingly common at airports across Australia. The system automatically captures number plates, calculates parking duration and processes payments without requiring physical tickets or barriers that can cause delays.For travellers, the new system should reduce the frustration of arriving at the airport to find all available spaces occupied by vehicles that have exceeded their intended parking duration.The distinction between short and long-term parking will also benefit those simply dropping off or collecting passengers, who currently compete for spaces with travellers leaving vehicles for extended periods.

A provisional licence holder has been issued with more than $2000 in fines after police discovered four children travelling unrestrained in her vehicle during a routine traffic stop.Officers pulled over the 23-year-old woman on Coolah Street at approximately 4:30pm on Monday, October 6, for a random breath test. During their inspection of the vehicle, police observed four child passengers who were not properly restrained.According to police, two of the children were not seated in child restraint seats at all, while the other two were seated in appropriate child seats but were not correctly fastened.Police also allege the woman failed to display P-plates on her vehicle, despite holding a provisional licence.The driver received three separate infringement notices. The most substantial penalty was for driving with four or more passengers whose seatbelts or restraints were not properly adjusted or fastened, carrying a fine of $1784 and the loss of six demerit points.She was also fined $330 and lost two demerit points for failing to comply with P2 licence conditions and not displaying P-plates. An additional $140 fine was issued for using a light vehicle that did not comply with standards.The combined penalties total $2254 in fines and eight demerit points.The incident highlights the serious consequences of failing to properly secure child passengers, with NSW road rules requiring children to be restrained in age-appropriate child seats or booster seats based on their age and size.

White Cliff dugouts are some of the most unique homes in the country, but the underground residents say the stress of ongoing ownership issues is affecting their health and stifling new businesses.In short: The White Cliffs dugout residents are facing a land tenure dispute that is stressing the community and preventing investment in over 120 unique underground homes.The community was promised freehold title by the NSW Government, but a 2015 Federal Court determination confirming Native Title rights for the Barkandji Corporation made this promise legally impossible.The NSW Government instead offered mandatory leasehold tenure—viewed by residents as a devastating setback—that does not reflect market value and includes a restrictive First Right of Refusal for the Barkandji Corporation.The uncertainty and "red tape tie up" mean residents cannot secure finance, put down roots, or make safety improvements like fire escape tunnels, causing potential businesses (like a mechanic) to go begging.Despite the NSW Crown Lands website claiming residents were granted "permanent security in 2021," residents strongly dispute this, stating the perpetual leases were not finalised until late 2024, and many remain unsigned under fear of losing their homes.It the far west of NSW, where summer temperatures scorch the land above ground, living in dugouts has been common since the 1900s and now more than 120 such homes exist.The ongoing land tenure dispute at White Cliffs, NSW, is a deeply complex problem, but behind the Native Title legalities are real people, and decades of frustrated community expectations. As expected, when homes and businesses are threatened, emotions run high.Ken Harris has lived in White Cliffs for many years and is one resident who cannot make sense of the multi-layered red tape, which is binding up the outback town“All this government money being spent on new roads, putting reticulating water, electricity, and the lot, and then you're giving somebody the opportunity to bulldoze it in,” he said, referring to the flurry of grants announced recently, and the need to give a regional Aboriginal organisation the first offer on any dugout sale.“They also get public money to buy that dugout in the first place. It just doesn't make sense. And then there's the aerodrome expansion - $5.7 million on that - but they're arguing that the point about whether or not we can put in a fire escape for a dugout.”Despite growing up in Broken Hill Daniel Stephens fell in love with White Cliffs as a child and has been spending time learning the craft of mining around his role as carer of his aging parents.A qualified diesel mechanic, Daniel wants to buy some land, build a workshop above ground and live underground in a dugout underneath, but the ongoing uncertainty means he can’t take the financial risk of setting up a business and a home.For the community, it means having access to a mechanic goes begging.“I could have my small mechanical business, come metal fabrication or whatnot,” Daniel explained. “I've got five children that I'm thinking of in the future as well. But I can't really lay out a big wad of cash or I can't go to the bank and borrow any money because it’s all up in the air.”““I came to White Cliffs because I love the place and want to put down roots. I found a dugout home site that would suit me and my small business, and I’m ready to buy - but the process isn’t like buying a normal freehold block. Before I can move ahead, I have to give formal notice and then wait to find out whether another party wants to take the block instead. In practice, that means weeks of uncertainty where I can’t make plans, book trades, or secure finance with any confidence. If that other party decides to buy, I miss out - even though I’ve found the block, negotiated terms, and want to invest in the town.”“I’m not asking for special treatment. I just want a fair way to buy a place, improve it, and contribute to White Cliffs. The current system makes that really hard.”Ken’s youngest daughter Claudia Harris says the complicated system of land tenure is robbing families or the dream of home ownership.“In this day and age, when it's so hard to be able to get an affordable home, you would think there would be flexibility for people that want to do their own thing to create a home, but it's like we've overcomplicated it to the point that it's unaffordable. “It's not only the interest rates and the prices and the property developers and whatever, it's also the red tape tie up.” Daniel sums up the frustration dugout residents are feeling.“And it's always hard when it's, you know, 200 people saying, ‘can someone listen to us?’ We're not Parramatta. We're not Botany Bay. There's not 30,000 people saying, can we get an answer? There's just a few.”The history of the White Cliffs disputeThe years-long conflict centres on the town’s unique residential dugout properties where long-term residents say they have been let down by Governments on all levels. Despite being assured of future freehold title by the NSW Government, locals are now being offered leasehold tenure, which is bound up by Native Title requirements and red tape.Residents say that the NSW Government made continuous, and documented, assurances of conversion to freehold title, with some evidence dating back to 2004.At the same time freehold assurances were being made by the NSW Government, the 2015 Federal Court determination of a native title claim lodged by the Barkandji Corporation, representing the region’s First Nations people, brought to a halt the dream of dugout home ownership.The determination confirmed non-exclusive rights and interests to Barkandji Corporation, rights which include the unlimited ability to take and use natural resources, and the right to take and use water for personal, domestic, and communal purposes within the determined area. This means that the Barkandji Corporation retains a perpetual and legally recognised interest in the resources and environment of the area, even on land leased to residents. Land used to create dugout homes and businesses.The 2015 Federal Court endorsement of the Barkandji claim fundamentally shifted the legal context. The grant of freehold title acts to extinguish native title, and so post-2015, the NSW Government could not legally proceed with its pre-existing promises of freehold conversion without undertaking complex and unlikely extinguishment negotiations with the Barkandji Corporation. NSW was consequently compelled to offer an alternative tenure that was compatible with the determined native title rights, namely lease-hold options, viewed by residents as a devastating setback - the “final nail in the coffin” for their ownership dreams.Dugout dwellers say the forced shift from promised freehold to a mandated leasehold tenure, eliminates the prospect of realising full property ownership and fails to properly reflect the market value of their homes. The proposed leases also incorporate specific conditions which residents say are restrictive - most notably, the inclusion of a First Right of Refusal favouring the Barkandji Corporation. That means, before any dugout can be bought or sold, it must first be offered to Barkandji Corporation, who may choose to purchase at the vendor’s asking price. It also means that for many years the town’s dugout owners have not been able to renovate their dugouts, and make safety improvements, such as fire escape tunnels, as negotiations over land use agreements and perpetual leases continue.To add to the complex and often confusing nature of these ongoing negotiations, Central Darling Shire Council, the elected presentation of the White Cliffs community, went into administration in 2014, leaving dugout residents with no representation at the state government level.A statement on the NSW Crown Lands website claims residents granted permanent leases in 2021.“(This) was a significant outcome for the small opal mining community. The agreement was a ‘win–win’ that provided permanent security for White Cliffs dugout residents and due recognition of the Barkandji Aboriginal community and its traditional and enduring links to the land.”I contacted another of Ken’s daughters Amber, who has been researching Native Title and legislation on many levels, in order to take on some of the stress placed on her father. She vehemently disagrees with the NSW Government’s assurance.“The wording you’ve quoted from the Crown Lands webpage is one of the most misleading parts of this whole story, and has caused significant distress to the community. It gives the impression that every dugout resident received a fair, secure “permanent lease” in 2021.”Amber claims that Leases can be terminated and dugouts forfeited with no compensation. “The only additional ‘security’ provided is to allow us to appeal this decision after the fact,” she said. “These are people’s homes, built at their own expense, which many people have invested in for decades due to the long-standing agreement of freehold conversion.” Amber says the dugout residents have written and gazetted evidence of this.“(The offer of freehold tenure) is not in dispute, even by Crown Lands.”Amber and Ken further stress that no leases were issued in 2021. “The agreement referred to was the registration of the Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) between the State and the Barkandji people,” Amber explained. “The leases themselves weren’t drafted until late 2023, nor finalised until late 2024, and included 40+ pages of terms and conditions (well beyond the six in the ILUA) Many are still unsigned as of now - more than a decade after the Native Title determination.” Amber said many residents delayed signing the lease, or flat out refused to do so.“Those who did sign, did so under pressure and fear of losing their homes. Several have since raised formal complaints about unclear terms, contradictory advice, lack of alternative options, and absence of any process to resolve safety issues.”The dugout residents also claim there was no community consultation and that the ILUA between the NSW Government and the Barkandji people was negotiated and the lease drafted without any input from dugout residents.“We only became aware of the details years later, when perpetual lease documents arrived in the post,” Amber said. “The NSW Government has repeatedly failed to address problems. The August 2025 “project closed” newsletter triggered a formal Minister’s Briefing Pack from our family on behalf of my dad, Ken Harris. When that went unanswered, we lodged a renewed Ombudsman complaint in September outlining these inconsistencies.”“The statement that it was a ‘win–win’ and that residents ‘were granted permanent security in 2021’ simply doesn’t match the facts on the ground. The community remains divided and many of the core safety and tenure issues are unresolved.”At the time of publication, there has been no word on the status of the Ken Harris complaint to the Ombudsman.The Barkandji corporation has been contacted for comment, as have Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey MP and Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP.Background to Native Title in NSWThe White Cliffs dispute cannot be understood outside the framework of the Native Title Act which was enacted in 1992, following the landmark Mabo High Court decision. The primary objective of the Act is to balance the interests of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people regarding land and waters by establishing formal processes for recognition and protection of native title.Understanding the key terms in the White Cliffs land disputeThe dispute at White Cliffs involves complex legal and governmental terms. For context, here is a glossary of key definitions related to the land tenure, Native Title, and the ownership of the dugout homes:Native Title legalities: The laws and legal processes in Australia governing the recognition and protection of Indigenous peoples' rights and interests to land and water, established after the Mabo High Court decision and the Native Title Act of 1992.Freehold title: The most complete form of private land ownership, where the owner has perpetual ownership rights and is generally free to use, sell, or transfer the land. The NSW Government had previously assured dugout residents they would receive this type of title.Leasehold tenure: A form of land tenure where a person is granted the right to occupy or use a property for a specified period, subject to certain conditions, while the land itself is still owned by the Crown or another party. This was the alternative offered to White Cliffs residents instead of freehold.Extinguish native title: A legal action that permanently removes or cancels existing native title rights and interests over a specific area of land. Granting freehold title acts to extinguish native title.Barkandji Corporation: The organisation that represents the Barkandji First Nations people of the region. They lodged a native title claim which was determined by the Federal Court in 2015, confirming their non-exclusive rights and interests in the area.First Right of Refusal: A condition in the proposed leases stating that before any dugout can be bought or sold, it must first be offered to the Barkandji Corporation, who may choose to purchase it at the vendor's asking price.Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA): A voluntary, legally binding agreement made between a native title group and other parties about the use and management of land and waters. The registration of the ILUA between the State and the Barkandji people occurred in 2021.Back Country Bulletin accepts Letters to the Editor or story information at any time, via email – [email protected]

Are you or do you know an inspiring and ambitious young woman from Western and Far West?Share with them this wonderful opportunity from Matilda Ferguson Scholarship.Applications are now open for the Matilda Ferguson Scholarship, supporting two women aged 21–35 from Western and Far West NSW to take part in the TRAIL Emerging Leaders Program.Delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF), TRAIL is a seven-day immersive experience that helps people build confidence, connections and practical leadership skills to make a difference in their communities, industries and workplaces.This scholarship honours the life and legacy of Matilda Ferguson and ensures that young rural women from our region have the chance to step into leadership. Applications close Wednesday 22nd October 2025 Apply here: https://programs.rural-leaders.org.au/matilda-scholarshipPlease share with young women in your networks who might be interested.Matilda Ferguson is known for being a passionate advocate for remote communities who tragically died in a workplace accident in early 2024 at the age of 33.

So the verdict is in, and the new representatives for the wards of Central Darling Shire have been announced.Results are now available for the Central Darling Shire Council election: https://ow.ly/LzZy50XaQHHIn A Ward, Peter Sullivan was declared elected by the Returning Officer on Tuesday, October 14.Meanwhile in B Ward, Max Bradley was declared elected by the Returning Officer also on October 14.Ward C is uncontested, as the number of candidates nominated for election is not greater than the number of councillors required to be elected.The Returning Officer for the election, Brian Steffen, has declared Daniel FUSI to be the elected councillor for Ward C.Central Darling Shire will become a ‘Rural and Remote Council’ made up of three locally elected councillors from the community and three councillors appointed by the NSW Government with relevant expertise to support the stable and effective operation of the Council.The remote communities of Central Darling Shire headed to the polls on September 20, to elect council representatives for the first time in more than a decade.

A collision between two trucks has closed the Sturt Highway, south of Hay.Around 9.49pm yesterday (Wednesday) two trucks collided, and the scene is currently being investigated by police.The incident occurred near the Pevensey Road.The highway is expected to remain closed for some time as investigations continue.Traffic is being diverted along Maude Road, through Maude, to Hay.

Recruitment remains a significant challenge for the local health facilities, with vacant positions such as Facility Manager and Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) for Hay Hospital continuing to be advertised but not attracting any applicants. Mayor Carol Oataway and Hay Shire Council General Manager, David Webb attended a recent monthly meeting of the Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC), where a number of important matters concerning health services in Hay were discussed. A Hospital Open Day was held on Monday to provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about the services available locally. “LHAC prepared a newspaper infomercial to raise awareness about how to access aged care services,” Cr Oataway said in a report to Council. “One of the issues raised was the loss of podiatry services in Hay, which will impact many community members who rely on this care. “LHAC will continue to pursue options for access to this vital service.” Cr Oataway said residential aged care remains at full capacity, with a waiting list of 12 residents, highlighting the growing demand in the community.

Communications Minister Anika Wells and eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant are meeting with major technology companies this week to prepare them for the imminent implementation of Australia's world-first social media ban for children under 16.With just two months until the new laws take effect on 10 December, the Minister and Commissioner are holding discussions with Meta, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok to emphasise that the platforms must work proactively with government to comply with the Social Media Minimum Age Law. A meeting with X is scheduled for November.However, confusion remains about how the ban will work in practice and how companies will be required to comply with their obligations.In a Senate Estimates hearing on Monday morning, YouTube and Google's government affairs manager Rachel Lord argued that YouTube should not be classified as a social media platform, claiming the ban would be extremely difficult to enforce."The legislation will not only be extremely difficult to enforce, but it also does not fulfil its promise of making kids safer online," Ms Lord told the hearing.She argued that YouTube functions as a video streaming platform and content library rather than social media, and warned that forcing children to use the service without accounts would actually remove parental controls and safety filters designed to protect them."YouTube has invested heavily in designing age-appropriate products and industry-leading content controls and tools that allow parents to make choices for their families," Ms Lord said.YouTube Kids is not affected by the ban as it does not allow account creation or commenting.Ms Lord declined to directly answer questions from Liberal Senator Sarah Henderson about whether Google was planning a legal challenge to the new laws, saying only that the company was "continuing to speak and engage constructively" with the Senator Henderson described the inclusion of YouTube in the ban as a "betrayal" of young people by the government.Minister Wells said all tech companies received a final copy of the compliance rules several weeks ago, and regulatory guidance has been released. Platforms are expected to implement processes preventing under-16s from holding accounts from 10 December."In two months, our world-leading social media minimum age laws will give children a reprieve from the persuasive pull of platforms, and those platforms must work closely with eSafety to ensure their systems comply with the law," Ms Wells said."There's a place for social media, but there's not a place for predatory algorithms damaging children."The Minister is using the meetings to stress government expectations for implementation and what behaviour will not be tolerated, emphasising that the law's intention is to give Australian children three more years to build real-world connections and online resilience.Ms Wells said the government would work with platforms to assist implementation, but stressed there was no excuse for not being ready by December.Under the regulations, social media platforms will not be required to verify the ages of all users when the ban comes into effect, but they must demonstrate they are taking all necessary steps to remove accounts held by under-16s.The government has adopted what it describes as a "lighter approach" to age verification, aiming to prevent platforms from collecting more data than necessary. However, platforms must satisfy the eSafety watchdog that they have taken "reasonable steps" to keep children off their sites.Commissioner Inman Grant acknowledged when releasing the regulations that the ban would likely not be immediately applied by most companies, as they would need time to reconfigure technologies and introduce new processes.However, she urged the public to lodge complaints if they become aware of platforms allowing children under 16 to continue using their services."If we detect that there is a really egregious oversight, or too much is being missed, then we will talk to the companies about the need to retune their technologies," the Commissioner said.The legislation represents a significant shift in how Australia regulates children's access to social media and places substantial obligations on technology companies operating in the Australian market.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler is urging people living in the Far West to provide input on the Far West Draft Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan, which Transport for NSW will deliver in 2026."Yes, it is a mouthful, but it aims to improve the transport network in the Far West by gathering feedback from those who face the daily transport challenges of rural and remote living," Butler said recently on his social media page."The feedback provided in this early phase will inform the development of the draft and help shape better transport planning across the Far West."To find out hoe you can be involved, visit https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/far-westThere is an interactive map, where you can pin a transport issue, idea or solution. Or, you can upload a written submission that will help shape the future of Far West Transport.You can provide feedback through the NSW Government's "Have Your Say" portal, by using the interactive map, or by emailing [email protected]. The Far West Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan is a NSW Government plan to develop a transport system for the Far West region that fits its unique needs and supports residents' lifestyles. It's designed to gather local input to create a future transport network for the region, with a draft plan expected in early 2026. This includes improving public transport, road networks, and connections to services and jobs, especially for rural and remote communities.  The goal is to improve transport services, support the local economy, and ensure residents have better access to jobs, healthcare, and education. The plan is being developed through consultation with local communities and stakeholders to get feedback on transport issues and priorities. 

A great event is coming up for local farmers in the Balranald, Homebush, Oxley and surrounds.Join LLS and a line up of great presenters for a spring-summer seasonal update at the Oxley Recreation Club Hall on Monday October 27, 12:30pm - 4:00pm.They will be covering feed quality insights for rangelands grazing this summer, managing spring-summer joined ewe, how to take stock for your summer water needs and how biocontrol agents are helping in the fight against the African Boxthorn.Registrations help the club with catering and ensures this event goes ahead!Some key presentations include:Pasture quality insights for summer rangelands grazing managementChristine Plummer - Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, Western Local Land ServicesExploring biological control for boxthornsSally Ware - Senior Land Services Officer, Riverina Local Land ServicesFarm water checklist: what you can expect and why it mattersJess Armstrong - AgrishiftVeterinary update: what to look out for this summerRiverina District Veterinarian - Local Land ServicesPre-joining preparation and tips for managing summer pregnant ewesRob Inglis - Elders Wagga WaggaRegister here: https://events.humanitix.com/spring-summer-field-day-seasonal-update-oxley-oct-2025

CPA Australia welcomes common-sense changes to proposed $3m super taxIn short:Tax on unrealised capital gains would have been unjustIndexation of super balance thresholds vital to protect future generations of workersIncrease to LISTO to benefit lower-income AustraliansAustralia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, today welcomed Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ changes to the government’s proposed $3 million superannuation tax. Superannuation Lead Richard Webb said the revisions followed months of campaigning from industry groups and stakeholders. He said Parliament should legislate the changes.“The government has listened to our concerns. The outcomes will help make Australia’s superannuation system fairer and more equitable,” Mr Webb said. “The indexing of the Division 296 proposal and taxing of realised earnings will ensure that Australia’s superannuation system remains fit for purpose for future generations.“If legislated, this change is expected to benefit millions of low-income earners by improving their capacity to contribute to superannuation and build long-term retirement savings.”Mr Webb said that if the $3 million balance threshold had not been indexed, it would have eventually impacted a greater number of Australians than was acknowledged.“We are pleased that the government has listened to our feedback and made these common-sense changes,” he said. “Policymakers have a duty to ensure that the spending power of future retirement savings is preserved.“Bracket creep already has a silent eroding effect on personal finances. Allowing further erosion of superannuation savings would have been contrary to the fundamental principles of our tax system.”CPA Australia is also relieved to see the government change course on its plan to tax unrealised capital gains as part of its reforms of superannuation.“This was a particularly egregious element of the government’s initial proposal,” said Mr Webb. “Providing certainty and financial stability for this and future generations of retirees is critical. Taxing unrealised gains would have distorted our tax system, which needs broader reform.”Mr Webb said updating the low-income superannuation tax offset (LISTO) to $810 from $500 and increasing the eligibility threshold from $37,000 to $45,000 are positive and long-overdue steps that will help ensure more Australians – especially women and part-time workers – are not left behind when it comes to retirement savings.

Would you know what to do if someone you knew was struggling with their mental health? Are you prepared?Are you interested in helping support your community?The first step is easy.Sign up for a free Mental Health First Aid course on November 17 and 18, with RSVP by November 10, to be held at the Euston Recreational Reserve, Euston.Held from 9am–4pm both days, the course is open to all Balranald Shire residents. The course will be delivered by a qualified MHFA trainer.To register, email your interest to: [email protected] form: https://forms.office.com/r/kJsja7TS22 scan the QR code to register.What is Mental Health First Aid?Mental health first aid is an essential skill that equips individuals to provide initial support to someone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis.An initiative of the Strengthening Community Access, Inclusion and Wellbeing Advisory Committee

Balranald’s Mayor Louie Zaffina advocates for the bush amid local progressBalranald Shire Mayor Louie Zaffina is actively balancing regional advocacy with local infrastructure progress. The Mayor recently toured the regional meeting circuit to tackle challenging policy issues while simultaneously overseeing significant developments across the Shire.Advocacy: Water Policy and Regional ChallengesMayor Zaffina used recent high-level meetings, including one with Minister Tara Moriarty (Western Division and Agriculture portfolio) in Cobar and the Murray Darling Association conference in Griffith, to raise concerns critical to the Far West.The Mayor was forceful in challenging the narrative around water scarcity, arguing that separating water from land was the actual source of the problem, not climate change alone. Drawing on his experience as former Chairman of the Euston Co-op, he stated: “It’s no good trying to solve an issue if you can’t admit what caused it.” “They can blame climate change, it’s a pretty broad word to use, and it is not as though climate change is not a relevant and important issue, but they throw that word around a little bit too much, as a broad umbrella term to blame a lot of things on.” “Water belonged to that parcel of land and then they separated it and created this. That policy created this, not climate. They too easily point the finger at something else when we all know what actually caused it.”Mayor Zaffina expressed concern that water buybacks primarily benefit large corporations, raising fundamental questions about the future of farming families:“What opportunity is there for a young person or a young couple to start farming? How are they going to buy water or land if big companies and corporations are gobbling everything up?”He also questioned the environmental allocation’s management, suggesting that frequent, deliberate flooding of floodplains—which he notes are "not swamps"—may be causing long-term damage to gum and box trees by depriving them of oxygen.Local Infrastructure and Community FocusBack in the Shire, progress is accelerating on several key projects:New Leadership: The Council has appointed Terry Dodds as the new Chief Executive Officer (a retitled position from General Manager) on a five-year contract, commencing October 27.Euston Oval: Rehabilitation is nearly complete, and the ground is already being used by the local school and Tongan community playing rugby. The oval's return will allow football netball games to resume after a three-year suspension, which the Mayor notes “creates a bit of traffic around Euston”.Balranald Land Use: Council is exploring the rezoning of land to create smaller, five- or six-acre blocks for domestic use—not irrigation—to allow residents to live on small acreages.Aged Care: The Bidgee Haven Retirement Hostel received a new wheelchair-enabled van, which the Mayor enjoyed. The hostel's extension project is soon going out to tender.Lake Benanee: $70,000 has been secured to upgrade free camping facilities, including toilets and benches, at the popular spot.Upcoming Community EventsThe Mayor is keen to connect residents with services and stakeholders through two key events:Civic Dinner: A dinner will be hosted on October 22 at Balranald Services Club, with invitations extended to neighbouring councils and Federal and State Members.Health and Wellbeing Support Services Expo: This expo will be held the following day, October 23, at the Theatre Royal from 11 am to 3 pm. The goal is to connect residents with services and discuss shared regional challenges. The Mayor expects the challenges discussed to be common across the region: “I’m sure it’s the same challenges in every other regional shire.”The Mayor remains committed to a direct approach, stating that whether discussing local projects or challenging government policy, his aim is consistent: “tell it as it is and advocate strongly for the future of rural Australia."The views and opinions shared by Mayor Zaffina in this article are entirely his own, and has no bearing on Balranald Shire Council.

The NSW Government has announced an additional $23.9 million to fast-track thousands of new homes in regional areas, as part of a package to support local councils to deliver infrastructure and strategic planning to support housing growth.From this week, councils outside of Greater Sydney can apply for funding through round four of two key programs:Low Cost Loans Initiative – up to $20.9 million available to help councils deliver critical infrastructure like roads, parks, and enabling infrastructure to support new housing by covering 50 per cent of interest costs on loans;Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund – up to $3 million in grants to support local planning projects that unlock new housing and improve affordability.Grants under the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund range from $20,000 to $250,000 to support work such as housing strategies, masterplans, development control plans, and infrastructure contributions.“We know infrastructure unlocks housing, and this investment is about making sure regional NSW has the roads, water, sewerage and community facilities it needs to support housing growth,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully.“The Minns Government’s planning reforms such as the Housing Delivery Authority and NSW Housing Pattern Book are gaining popularity in regional NSW, this initiative will support that housing growth.“By backing councils to deliver these projects sooner and at a lower cost, we’re helping to deliver more homes for people who want to live, work and stay in the regions.”Applications for both programs close on 12 December. To apply, visit NSW Planning.For more information, visit Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund and the Low Cost Loans Initiative.Story via Inside Local Government

Central Darling Shire Council's General Manager, Greg Hill, will be departing the Shire to take up the role of General Manager at Coonamble Shire Council. Mr. Hill will officially commence his new position on December 1, 2025.Mr. Hill has served Central Darling Shire for the past seven years, providing leadership to the Council and the communities of Wilcannia, Menindee, Ivanhoe, and White Cliffs.During his tenure, Mr. Hill oversaw a period of significant progress and reform across the vast Shire. His leadership was pivotal in driving major infrastructure and economic development initiatives, including:The completion of the $57 million Pooncarie Road sealing project.The construction of three water treatment plants, valued at over $20 million.The development of the $9.5 million Wilcannia Baaka Cultural Centre.The process for appointing a new General Manager will commence immediately, with further announcements to be made in due course.The Central Darling Shire Council was placed under administration in 2013 due to long-standing financial and governance issues, leading to the dismissal of the elected councillors. This resulted in an extended period of administration lasting approximately 12 years, during which an Administrator performed the functions of the elected council. The return to democratic representation was a priority for the NSW Government, leading to the creation of a new Rural and Remote Council model. This new model paved the way for the recent historic election held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, which allowed residents to vote for new councillors for the first time in over a decade. The new Council will comprise three locally elected community members and three councillors appointed by the NSW Minister for Local Government, with election results expected in coming weeks.