Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP is continuing to talk to stakeholders, in his push to set up residential alternatives to sending kids to gaol.IN SHORTCompulsory Residential Option: Barwon MP Roy Butler is lobbying for a new option—a mandated residential program—for young offenders of minor crimes, as an alternative to juvenile detention.National Parks Agreement: Mr. Butler has an "in-principle agreement" with National Parks to use existing, suitable sites like properties with shearing quarters and residences for the trial.Pathway to Employment: The program could include cadetships offered by National Parks, providing young people who complete the program with a direct pathway into a job."National Parks could be ideal," Mr Butler told Back Country Bulletin"For example one has shearing quarters, a camp kitchen and manages residences and would lend itself to a youth program.""We've got in principal agreement from National Parks for that to happen. And even an offer from national parks of the possibility of cadet ships for some of the young people who come through the program."They could actually walk into a job at the end."Mr Butler has been pushing for change, and lobbying for youth crime to be tackled in the Far West in news ways.He has long argued for a mandated, residential option for young offenders - something between being released back into the community and being sent to custody.He is calling for a trial to give magistrates the power to refer young offenders to compulsory residential programs as an alternative to incarceration in Juvenile Justice for minor or lower-level crimes.

When Kyla O’Halloran sat at friends’ table at a wedding several years ago, she had no idea that chance encounter would lead to one of the most meaningful promises she’d ever make. The Balranald resident instantly clicked with a couple at that table, forging a friendship that would profoundly impact her life. One of those friends would go on to participate in Frocktober for five consecutive years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer herself. “She was just a lovely person and always very positive,” Kyla recalled. “She was very open about her battle with ovarian cancer, always very positive about it, a very strong woman.” Last year, after her friend wore a hospital gown for one of the 31 days, they shared a laugh and Kyla made a promise; she would do Frocktober the following year, with her friend as inspiration. Tragically, her friend didn’t make it to this year’s October, becoming another statistic in the fight against ovarian cancer. “So I had to honour the promise that I’d made her and do Frocktober anyway,” Kyla says simply. True to her word, Kyla wore a different dress every day throughout October, making it to day 19 or 20 before having to repeat an outfit. Her daughters got involved too, taking photos and later styling their mum with beads, scarves and accessories. “It became a family affair,” she said. But beyond the fashion challenge lay a deeply serious mission; raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research. As a midwife, Kyla understands better than most why this cause matters so desperately. “Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynaecological cancer,” she explained. “And the treatment for it hasn’t really changed in the last couple of decades.” Perhaps most alarmingly, there is no early detection screening test for ovarian cancer; unlike prostate cancer in men, which can be detected through a simple blood test. The statistics are sobering. Fifty-one per cent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer won’t live five years past that diagnosis. “If you think about any woman in your life and them not being around in five years’ time,” Kyla pauses. “These statistics are scary.” Part of what makes ovarian cancer so deadly is how vague and easily dismissed its symptoms are. Warning signs include persistent abdominal pain or bloating, feeling full after eating very little or loss of appetite, pelvic or abdominal pain, needing to urinate more frequently, irregular bowel movements, irregular menstrual periods, and sudden changes in weight. “They’re really vague and so ambiguous,” Kyla noted. “A lot of women are put down to either irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or menopause or perimenopause. “Or you’ve just had a kid and your body changes.” She has another friend in town, currently fighting ovarian cancer, who shared crucial advice. “You really just got to trust your gut. If you feel like there’s something wrong, there’s something wrong.” As both a midwife and a woman who has personally experienced being brushed off by doctors, an experience she says nearly cost her life, Kyla has strong advice for women concerned about their health. “Don’t take no for an answer. If you feel like there is something wrong, find another doctor, find another health professional that will help you.” She recommends asking doctors, “help me to understand”. This approach puts the responsibility back on the healthcare provider to explain their reasoning, whether it’s about test results or why they don’t think there’s a problem. Kyla is particularly passionate about rural health inequality. “Don’t let anyone put you off because of where we live,” she insisted. “Ask them, what would you do if I lived down the street from the medical centre in Melbourne or Sydney? What tests would you do for me?” “Because we live where we live, we will die younger,” she said bluntly. “Part of that is our health providers’ fault for not going. “Oh, well, maybe we should do this test, but it’s too far away.” “That’s my choice as a health consumer. I should be making that choice, not you for me.” Through her Frocktober campaign, Kyla has raised $2,288 from 38 friends and family members, funds that will go directly to independent research seeking better treatments and, crucially, early detection methods. “If me or one of my girls or one of my loved ones was to get ovarian cancer, at least I can say, you know what, I’ve done something,” she reflected. “I haven’t just sat back. I can say I’ve helped the f ight.” While October has ended, donations can still be made to Kyla’s fundraising page at www.frocktober. org.au/fundraise/kyla. Even small amounts make a difference; $36 is enough to collect a sample, $58 can grow ovarian cancer cells to study the disease, and even $5, the cost of a coffee, helps fund vital research. “Towards the end of October, I said something like, 37 days till Christmas, three days left of October, and one day closer to early detection and a cure for ovarian cancer,” Kyla recalled. “That’s what we have to do. “We just have to keep plugging away. How do you eat an elephant? One mouthful at a time.” For Kyla O’Halloran, that meant 31 dresses, one beautiful promise kept, and countless lives potentially saved through awareness and research funding, all in memory of a friend who faced her battle with unwavering positivity and strength. If you’re experiencing any persistent symptoms that concern you, trust your instincts and seek medical attention. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns aren't being taken seriously.

A Griffith man is set to appear in court following an alleged unprovoked attack on a dog owner outside a local supermarket on Sunday evening. Police allege the 50-year-old confronted his victim around 7 pm on November 9, after the man had tied up his dog and entered the shop. According to police, the accused was seated nearby when he approached the shopper, yelling before launching a series of punches that failed to connect. When the alleged victim returned to collect his dog, the 50-year-old allegedly confronted him a second time, attempting another punch before trying to swipe at the dog's head with an open hand. Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after the incident. Officers initially issued the man with a move-on direction while they took a statement from the alleged victim. The 50-year-old was subsequently issued with a field court attendance notice for common assault and will face court to answer the charge.

IN SHORT:Barwon MP Roy Butler is calling for an urgent, independent review into 1$\text{\$300}$ million of government youth service funding in the Far West, which he labels "ghost services" with few measurable outcomes.2He proposes a trial to give magistrates the power to refer young, lower-level offenders to compulsory residential programs (like the flagged Yetta Dhinnakkal Centre) as a low-cost alternative to expensive Juvenile Justice incarceration.The proposal follows a meeting with NSW Premier Chris Minns, who last week announced a $\text{\$23M}$ state-wide youth crime funding package focusing on bail support and expanding 'place-based' responses in areas like Moree, Tamworth, and Kempsey.Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP has recently escalated his campaign regarding youth crime with a proposed program that focuses on two key initiatives: a major review of youth services and a trial of compulsory residential programs for young offenders.Mr. Butler is calling for an urgent, in-depth review of existing government-funded youth services in Barwon. He has previously labeled many of these as "ghost services" programs that receive substantial funding, with few measurable outcomes, according to the independent member.  According to Mr Butler, $300million has been spent on youth services in his electorate.Mr. Butler recently met with NSW Premier Chris Minns, along with mayors and general managers from the Coonamble, Bourke, Walgett and Brewarrina shires, to discuss his proposal, which also included a discussion on increasing criminal responsibility for 10-13-year-olds (reforming doli incapax).Mr Butler argued for a third option for young offenders -something between being released back into the community and being sent to custody.Mr Butler has long pushed for a systemic overhaul of youth support in the far west, focusing on local, community-driven diversion programs as a circuit breaker for the cycle of minor youth offending. He is calling for a trial to give magistrates the power to refer young offenders to compulsory residential programs as an alternative to incarceration in Juvenile Justice for minor or lower-level crimes.“What we need are diversionary diversionary programs and residential programs where a magistrate can send young people rather than send them into a custodial sentence,” Mr Butler told Back Country Bulletin.“Putting someone in JJ's (the juvenile justice system) costs about $2 million a year. We can put them into a residential program which would cost a fraction of that.”Brewarrina's former outdoor prison, the Yetta Dhinnakkal Centre, has been flagged as a potential trial site.Mr Butler said there needs to be a change to legislation for the magistrates to be able to compel those young people into a residential program, but existing infrastructure in the four trial local government areas will be used.In the past, Mr Butler Butler has criticised the NSW Government's youth crime package for focusing on areas like Moree while neglecting the greater Far West region, and he has urged the Premier to ensure that all affected communities receive equitable attention and resources.Community groups, such as Galuma-li managed by the Walgett Dharriwaa Elders Group, support Butler’s call for community-led solutions, advocating for culturally grounded support and safe spaces over punitive measures.Last week, after meeting with Mr Butler and mayors, NSW Premier Chris Minns announced a $23 million funding package, aimed at tackling youth crime.““These are complex issues that won’t be solved overnight, but we are in this for the long haul,” Premier Minns said“What we don’t want to see is young people wrapped up in the justice system again and again, which is why this package is a balance of intervention, prevention and wrap-around support measures.”The state-wide package includes The funding package includes $12 million to continue place-based responses in Moree, and expand responses in Tamworth and KempseyThe funding will invest $6.3 million to go towards intensive bail supervision and support, including five caseworkers in Moree, two in Tamworth and two in Kempsey, more regular check-ins with young people on bail, and the completion of the Moree Bail Accommodation Service.The announcement also included $5 million for a new Community Safety Investment Fund, to back local initiatives that prevent or respond to youth offending, strengthen families, and build safer, more cohesive communities.

About 12.40pm Thursday 6 November 2025, police were called to Headons Lane, Hay following reports of animal cruelty.Officers attached to Murrumbidgee Police District arrived to find five dogs locked inside a trailer and two dogs chained to a tree, with little food or water.The owner was not located the property and could not be reached.About 11.30am Sunday 9 November 2025, officers returned to the property with a Hay Shire Council ranger and seized the seven dogs.The owner – a 70-year-old man – was charged with commit an act of aggravated cruelty upon an animal, fail to provide proper and sufficient food to animal and being in charge of an animal fail to exercise.He was handed a court attendance notice to appear at Hay Local Court on Monday 2 February 2026.

About 9am today (Friday 14 November 2025), emergency services were called to Ivanhoe Menindee Road, Ivanhoe, following reports of a plane crash. Officers attached to Barrier Police District were told an ultralight aircraft had crashed on a property. The pilot - a 65-year-old man – was taken to Ivanhoe Hospital in a stable condition. The incident has been referred to Recreational Aviation Australia.

Balranald Shire Council is calling on the community to support its Discovery Centre precinct, which has been named as a finalist in a prestigious state awards program. The precinct has been shortlisted for the 7News NSW and ACT Community Achievement Award in the Council Crown Land Management Excellence category, part of the Australia Awards. Voting for the People's Choice Award is now open, with the council encouraging residents to cast their vote online. The Discovery Centre precinct is the council's commitment to managing and developing crown land for community benefit and is a true showpiece of the town, drawing many tourists.Community members can vote for the Balranald Shire Council entry by visiting the Australia Awards website at awardsaustralia.app.do/2025-community-achievement-awards-for-nsw-the-act. The People's Choice Award gives the public the opportunity to have their say on which finalist should take home the honour, alongside the judges' decision. Voting remains open for the awards, with the council hopeful of strong community support for the local project.

Police are appealing for information to help locate men wanted under warrants, all known to frequent the Griffith areas. Steven Evans, 31, is wanted by police and is known to frequent the Griffith and Wyong areas. Authorities have warned members of the public not to approach Evans if they see him, but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Police are urging anyone with information about Evans' whereabouts to contact Griffith Police Station on (02) 6969 4299 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information provided to Crime Stoppers can be given anonymously. Police are seeking the public's help to find a man wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant for domestic violence offences. Rayan Donna, 36, is known to frequent the Griffith area and is being sought by police. Authorities have warned the public not to approach Donna if spotted, but to immediately call Triple Zero (000). Anyone with information about Donna's whereabouts is urged to contact Griffith Police Station on (02) 6969 4299 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information provided to Crime Stoppers can be given anonymously. Police are appealing for information to help locate a Griffith man wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant. Guiseppe Trecasse, 59, is wanted for domestic violence offences and is known to frequent the Griffith area. Authorities have warned members of the public not to approach Trecasse if they see him, but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Anyone with information about Trecasse's whereabouts is urged to contact Griffith Police Station on (02) 6969 4299 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Local Aboriginal artists are being invited to attend an important information session about Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property next month. The Create NSW First Nations team will visit Broken Hill on December 10 2025 to meet with First Nations artistic and cultural communities. The session will be held at West Darling Arts, 242 Blende Street, Broken Hill, from 10am to 1pm. Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) encompasses all aspects of cultural practices, traditional knowledge, resources and knowledge systems developed by Indigenous people as part of their cultural identity. The session will provide a briefing on current ICIP developments at both local and federal levels, followed by a discussion on ICIP issues that directly affect Aboriginal communities and cultural practices. The Create NSW team is travelling across New South Wales to engage with First Nations communities about the importance and protection of cultural and intellectual property. Aboriginal artists and cultural practitioners interested in attending can find more information through West Darling Arts or the Create NSW First Nations team.

Police are reminding the community that possessing counterfeit banknotes is an offence and urging anyone who comes across suspect currency to report it immediately. Authorities have warned that counterfeit notes have no value and victims will not be reimbursed if the notes prove to be fake. However, if banknotes are found to be genuine, full value will be returned. What to do if you suspect a counterfeit note: Anyone who comes across a banknote they believe may be counterfeit should handle it as little as possible and store it in an envelope. Police advise people to note any relevant information about how the banknote came into their possession before reporting the matter immediately to state or federal police. Members of the public have the right to refuse to accept a banknote if they have concerns about its authenticity. Police have emphasised that under no circumstances should people take actions that may jeopardise their own safety or that of others. Suspect banknotes should be handed to state or federal police for examination. More information about counterfeit detection is available on the Reserve Bank of Australia website at banknotes.rba.gov.au/counterfeit-detection/counterfeit-detection-guide/

The winners of this year's Maari Ma Indigenous Art Awards have been revealed, with Dave Doyle taking home the overall prize for his powerful work Eternal Registry. The awards, presented in partnership with Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Health Corporation and West Darling Arts, attracted entries of exceptional quality and diversity. Rebecca Ray, Curator of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Collections and Exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, judged the exhibition and praised the incredible strength of this year's submissions. Award winners:Overall: Dave Doyle – Eternal Registry .Cameron Wood – Hunter Dream.Barbara Quayle – Weight of Kiira.Emerging: Louise Murray – Wedgetail Eagle.Nhuungku: Darlene Newman – Emu Costume.School Combined: Wilcannia Central School – Stage 5 NAIDOC Banner.Young Artist (Under 21): Skye Fry – Deadly Sunset.Young Artist (Under 15): Jetta Hall – World & Family. Doyle's winning work blends pigment made from local timbers and charcoal to create a visual record of time, memory and connection to Country, inspired by hand stencils found in Aboriginal cave art. The artist layers ochre-toned hands to symbolise the passing of generations, with transparent forms echoing a sacred ledger where each mark represents a trace of those who came before. "We are still here, still making our marks, still adding to this story, showing that our connection to the land, our culture, and our ancestors remains unbroken," Doyle said. The 2025 Maari Ma Indigenous Art Awards exhibition is now on display at Broken Hill City Art Gallery, 404–408 Argent Street, until February 8 2026. More information is available at bhartgallery.com.au.

A long-serving far west NSW educator has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to education and rural communities. Trish Webb has been awarded a Distinguished Service Award from the NSW Primary Principals Association for her work in educational leadership, advocacy, professional learning and mentoring. The award particularly recognises her passion for supporting rural and remote communities throughout her career. In 2008/09, Webb co-chaired the Far West Aboriginal Child Development and Wellbeing Management Group alongside Maari Ma Health CEO Richard Weston. The group drafted a strategic framework document that led to the establishment of Maari Ma's Early Years Project, which includes supported playgroups, the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY), early literacy programs and home visiting services supporting families. The Early Years Project continues to provide crucial early childhood support across the far west region. Colleagues have described Webb as an amazing force for educational good in far west NSW, with her work having a lasting impact on children and families across the region. The Distinguished Service Award recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to primary education and school leadership in New South Wales.

Congratulations to Menindee Central School Executive Principal, Fiona Kelly for winning an award from the NSW Primary Principals Association in the Aboriginal Education and Communities Award category. Fiona "is a proud leader, cultural advocate, and tireless educational leader whose work continues to transform the lives of her students and empower her community" as the award states. The children of Menindee are lucky to have such a strong educator and advocate in their corner, especially in such an isolated community, an educator passionate about what she does and one who cares, can make a pivotal difference in the life of a child.

Parliament returns this week for what Member for Barwon Roy Butler describes as "most likely the last [sitting weeks] for the year", with several regional initiatives announced across infrastructure, health, and community safety.Youth Crime Delegation Meets Premier Following an invitation extended during October's Question Time, mayors from Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble, and Walgett Shire Councils met with Premier Chris Minns and Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon on October 28 to discuss youth crime solutions. Butler said the discussion focussed on "the need for greater accountability and collaboration in the delivery of youth programs" and a shift toward community-led approaches. "There was general agreement that one-size-fits-all strategies are largely ineffective, and that a better approach is to acknowledge the unique challenges and contexts of each Barwon community to tailor an appropriate solution," Butler stated. The member thanked the Premier, Police Commissioner, and Attorney General Michael Daley for their support of "this more reasoned approach to finding long-term solutions to what is a complex problem". Central Darling Shire Council has been awarded $85,000 through the NSW Government's Infrastructure Grants Program, which reinvests gaming machine profits from registered clubs into community projects. Other recipients in the region include Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service ($250,000) and Broken Hill City Council ($193,440). Butler welcomed the funding and thanked Minister David Harris MP for the grants.The Cobar community continues to grieve following the recent explosion at the Endeavour Mine that claimed the lives of miners Holly Clarke and Ambrose McMullen. "In this time of grief, we need to just allow the community time to process what has happened and for investigators to do their careful work of looking into what caused it to happen, so that precautions can be taken to prevent future deaths," Butler said. He also expressed concern for Mackenzie Stirling, who was injured in the explosion and is recovering. Her family has established a GoFundMe page to assist with medical and living expenses. Butler, a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety (Staysafe Committee), has been participating in hearings examining interventions to reduce road trauma in regional NSW caused by speeding, fatigue, and drink and drug-affected driving. The inquiry has coincided with the Federal Government's Regulatory Impact Analysis proposing to reduce the open road default speed limit from 100km/h. "For many of us in Barwon who have to travel hundreds, sometimes thousands of kilometres along open roads, this proposal will only extend our time on the road," Butler said. "I do not agree with this approach. Rather than lowering the speed limit, we need better and safer roads. Lowering speed limits because the roads need work is a cop out." Butler argued that statistics including Wollongong and Newcastle as regional areas "don't accurately reflect the lower incident rates we see on our rural and remote roads, especially unsealed roads". The NSW Government has announced $9 million from the Rural and Regional Roads Fund to seal the remaining 9.64km stretch of Rangari Road, which connects Manila to Boggabri. Butler said the project "will improve safety, reduce dust, and enhance the road's resilience in wet weather for residents, the mining industry, freight operators, and tourists". He described it as "another small but significant connection in the vast transport network across Barwon" and thanked Minister for Regional Roads Jenny Aitchison for the funding. The NSW Government has allocated $4 million to address PFAS contamination in Narrabri's drinking water supply. The funding will deliver a portable water treatment plant and new production bores. Butler recently toured Sydney Water's Cascades Water Filtration Plant in the Blue Mountains to assess treatment options. "The great news is that it will [work for Narrabri], and it can be up and running in a matter of months," he said. The member welcomed the funding, stating, "The community needs a clean, reliable water supply as we enter the hottest time of the year." Applications are now open for the 2025–26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, with $13.5 million available for projects on Crown land. Two funding streams are available: General Projects (grants from $50,000 to $1 million) and Pest & Weed Management (grants from $500 to $200,000). Applications close on Friday, December 5 2025 at 5:00pm. Butler has invited art communities, groups, and organisations across Barwon to exhibit their work in the NSW Parliament's Fountain Court. "Art plays such an important role in promoting the best of Barwon and showing that there is more artistic talent out west than some people might realise," he said. Artworks must have significance to Barwon or NSW and be hosted by a Member of Parliament. There is no fee to exhibit in the space.

Griffith City Council has confirmed the introduction of a FOGO (Food Organics Garden Organics) collection service from July 1 2027, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for the city. The FOGO service will provide residents with a dedicated bin for food and garden waste, helping to divert valuable organic materials from landfill and converting them into compost. The initiative represents a major change to the way households manage their waste and is designed to reduce the amount of organic material ending up in landfill. Mayor Doug Curran emphasised that education will be crucial to ensuring the successful rollout of the new service. He acknowledged that while FOGO is an important sustainable environmental initiative, it represents a significant change for the community. An education campaign will be implemented to help households understand what materials can be placed in each bin and the environmental importance of proper waste separation. The introduction of FOGO aligns with broader waste reduction goals and reflects growing efforts by local councils across Australia to improve recycling rates and reduce landfill waste. Organic waste makes up a substantial portion of household waste, and when sent to landfill, it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By separating and composting organic materials, councils can reduce emissions and create valuable compost for agricultural and horticultural use. Planning for the FOGO rollout is continuing, with further information to be provided to residents as the implementation date approaches. More details about the initiative can be found on the Griffith City Council website.

Rural communities across the Riverina, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland are mourning the loss of respected farmer, pilot and family man George Grimwade, who died after his plane crashed near Toronga Station, Hay, last Wednesday, November 5. He was 38. Mr Grimwade was the Managing Director of Grimwade and Gordon, a major pastoral enterprise spanning properties across New South Wales and Queensland. Known for his sharp business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit, the father of three was widely admired by peers and friends alike. He leaves behind his wife Phoebe, and their three young daughters, Isobel (9), Charlotte (7) and Francesca (2). In a statement to The Riverine Grazier, Mrs Grimwade said the family was completely heartbroken by the sudden loss of an adoring husband and totally dedicated, loving father. “George was the love and greatest light of my life for 19 years and a life without him is unimaginable,” she said. “His achievements were extensive and varied, but he was most proud of his three beautiful daughters. “Anyone who had the privilege of crossing paths with George had their life calling for questions on notice ahead of its 2025 Annual Public Meeting. enriched by the experience - that was his impact on people. “His beautiful smile, his deeply caring and kind nature, his generosity, wisdom and intrinsically positive energy will remain in our hearts forever.” The son of Martin and Jane Grimwade, and brother to William Grimwade and Phoebe Cohen, George grew up at Glenaroua, in central Victoria, where his lifelong passion for the agriculture business first took hold. Alongside business partner Michael Gordon, Mr Grimwade led Grimwade and Gordon through a period of rapid growth and innovation. The company’s portfolio includes Old Cobran at Deniliquin, Toronga Station at Hay, Congararra at Enngonia, Ellavale at Fords Bridge, and Yankalilla and Melrose Stations near Cunnamulla in Queensland. The business was, until recently, the largest goat enterprise of its kind in Australia, running 100,000 breeding nannies and turning off 2,500 goats per week into the domestic market via Old Cobran. Following the goat meat price crash in 2023, Mr Grimwade successfully pivoted the operation to sheep, now running 38,000 breeding ewes across multiple properties. He also established a Dorper stud with a foundation flock of 600 ewes and Dell Dorpers rams - a venture he took great pride in. Business partner and close friend, Michael Gordon said George’s legacy would live on through the enterprise and the many people he inspired. “George was so much to so many people,” Mr Gordon said. “His genuine care for those around him drew loyalty and friendship. “He inspired with his work ethic and knowledge, which he was always seeking to expand. “As a business partner and close friend, we worked through the many swings and roundabouts of building a pastoral enterprise of scale, always aligned and always with a smile and enthusiasm. “There will only ever be one George Grimwade.” Beyond business, Mr Grimwade was known for his generosity and community spirit; coaching junior tennis in Deniliquin and co-owning the Wakool Pub to keep it open for the locals. He will be remembered as a respected farmer, pilot, mentor, husband and father — a man whose warmth and optimism left a lasting mark across rural Australia. Funeral details will be announced at a later date.

Drivers travelling along the Barrier Highway between Yunta and Broken Hill are being recommended to anticipate delays after a truck rollover earlier this morning.Police and emergency services are at the scene near Manna Hill, about 40 kilometres east of Yunta.There are no reports of serious injuries, and the highway has been partially closed to one lane, with delays expected for several hours until a heavy tow vehicle arrives.

Balranald Shire Council has called for a more nuanced approach to rural speed limits, warning that blanket regulations could do more harm than good.In a media release issued on November 7, the council outlined its position against what it described as "one size fits all regulation from Canberra" regarding speed management on rural roads. Mayor Core Positioning emphasised that safety must be considered within its proper context rather than as an absolute principle. "Safety must remain paramount but safety without context is not progress," the mayor said. The mayor also challenged the notion that regional Australia should be treated uniformly, noting that distance is not merely a lifestyle choice but a geographical reality. "For regional Australia, distance isn't a lifestyle choice it's geography. A blanket that treats our roads as if they're all the same, when they're not." Chief Executive Officer Terry Dodds pointed to existing evidence suggesting that rural drivers already self regulate their speed. "The data shows that speed choice in rural areas is already self regulating. "Gravel, livestock, and weather naturally slow drivers down so no new default limit can change that," Mr Dodds said. The CEO argued that from an engineering perspective, unsealed roads lack a defined design speed and that safety depends on multiple factors including surface conditions, visibility and maintenance rather than legislative limits. The council expressed concern about the practical impact of proposed changes on rural communities. Council officers warned that lowering default speed limits would not improve safety but would instead increase travel times, make enforcement more difficult and create frustration among road users. Rural families and freight operators would face additional time, cost and distance in their daily activities, according to the council's assessment. The council also raised concerns about equity, arguing that the proposal risked deepening the divide between urban and regional Australia under the guise of safety. "Good policy targets risk where it actually exists, not where it's easiest to legislate," the council stated in its release.

Rural and regional community groups across Australia now have the opportunity to apply for a cutting edge hydrogen power generator valued at $390,000, offering clean, reliable, off grid power with zero emissions. The GEH2® hydrogen power generator is being made available through a partnership between Toyota Australia, EODev, Blue Diamond Machinery, and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal. The initiative aims to help communities reduce emissions while building local capability in renewable energy technology. The generators are designed to support a diverse range of applications including community events, construction and infrastructure projects, and disaster response scenarios. The technology provides an alternative to traditional diesel generators, delivering power without producing harmful emissions. Community organisations interested in accessing this technology can submit expressions of interest through the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal's website. The program represents a significant investment in regional Australia's transition toward cleaner energy sources, particularly for areas where grid connection may be limited or unavailable. The partnership combines Toyota Australia's expertise in mobility solutions, EODev's hydrogen generator technology, Blue Diamond Machinery's equipment support, and FRRR's experience in supporting rural and regional communities. Together, these organisations are working to make advanced clean energy technology accessible to communities that may otherwise lack the resources to invest in such equipment. Expressions of interest for the hydrogen generator program close on November 30 2025. Eligible community groups can find further information and application details at frrr.org.au/funding/hydrogen-generator.