Darrin Atkinson’s life has been one of constant movement and growth, but it’s in the small town of Wilcannia where he and his wife Trish have found their calling. Born in Maroopna, near Shepparton, Darrin’s childhood was spent traversing Australia’s vast landscape. At around six years old, his family headed north to Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Katherine before making their way back down through the middle of the country, stopping in Mount Gambier before settling in Melbourne, where he spent most of his formative years. “I’ve grown out of that big smoke,” Darrin said with a chuckle. “It’s nice to get out of the hustle and bumper-to-bumper stuff and get some nice peace and quiet now.” His journey eventually led him to Kalgoorlie, where a pivotal moment awaited. Travelling to Brisbane to meet his future wife at Bible College, Darrin discovered a partnership built on shared faith and values. “We started that way with both having the same belief sort of thing,” he explained. After a couple of years of study, Darrin felt the pull to put theory into practice. “I thought, I don’t want to spend three or four years just studying. Let’s get out there and do it.” Their ministry work began in Ivanhoe, where Darrin took on a role managing the local IGA supermarket. “That was a great way to meet everyone in town,” he recalled. The position allowed him to connect with the community whilst sharing his faith. Tragedy struck when one of the owners suffered a fatal heart attack, an experience that deeply affected the couple and reinforced their calling to support others. From Ivanhoe, their path wound through Brisbane, Yamba and various coastal towns before circumstances brought them to Wilcannia. Trish had been to Wilcannia previously, about 13 years before they arrived together, and had family connections in the area. But it was a church split some 15 or 16 years ago that created the opening for their return. “The minister left and none of them came back,” Darrin explained. “So, we decided to come in and take over that role, to let them know that there’s still someone here.” Their approach to ministry is refreshingly unconventional. Operating as Wilcannia Fellowship, they’ve eschewed traditional church structure in favour of something more intimate and authentic. “We stick to the Book of Acts, which says they went from house to house, just sharing the word together,” Darrin said. "It's not about the pastor or the preacher, but it's about everyone.” Their gatherings are characterised by simplicity and genuine connection. “We can do a few songs, have a bit of praise and worship. If you can find a guitar or some spoons to bang on a box, whatever it is, we don't need professionals. We just need normal people to come together.” Financial contributions aren’t solicited through formal collections. Instead, the philosophy is straightforward; “If you can put in a dollar, put in a dollar. “If you can do a hundred, put a hundred. But that’s all it is, giving whatever your purpose in your heart.” Darrin plays three-string guitar whilst Trish provides vocals, creating music that prioritises participation over perfection. Their ministry extends well beyond Sunday gatherings. Through their work in the community, they’ve become a point of contact for locals facing challenges, as well as strangers passing through who've encountered trouble on the road. “We’ve gone out and rescued people from accidents or they've hit a roo, whatever the case, and we bring them back to our little nest till they recover,” Darrin said. He recalled one couple who’d hit a kangaroo near the town’s roundabout, left with no money and trying to sleep in their car at a servo. “We said, where are you from? Bring your wife, bring the car around here. We'll shout you a hotel room for the night.” These acts of kindness serve a dual purpose. “It’s improving the reputation of Wilcannia, one person at a time,” he said with a smile. “If everyone did one good deed for someone, it’d make a big difference. Share the love but put it in action.” For Darrin, the essence of effective help lies in making problems manageable. “You’ve got to break it down into bite-size chunks where they can handle it and deal with it themselves,” he explained. “Deal with it in bite-size chunks instead of the whole slab on your plate.” Life in Wilcannia has suited the couple well. “It’s real challenging, but it sort of grows on you after a while,” Darrin reflected. The town’s size means they’re often the first point of contact when someone needs help, whether it’s practical advice or simply someone to talk things through with. Recently, Darrin has taken on an unexpected role running the local radio station after previous staff moved on. “It sort of caught me by surprise,” he admitted. “I’ll do my best to keep the music going in the meantime.” The radio provides another avenue for connection, giving locals, particularly younger people, a chance to come out of their shell and have new experiences. “I’m over trying to be perfect,” he laughed. “If you mess up, have a laugh. That’s what I love most of all about this town, just be real.” With their adult children soon to establish their own homes, Darrin and Trish are looking forward to having more freedom to occasionally escape for a week here or there. “Sometimes a small town’s like being in a little fishbowl,” he said. “You’ve got to do a Nemo sometimes, jump out of that bowl, go and check out some different areas. We're so blessed; we’ve got a big backyard, the whole of Australia. Go and take some time out, stretch your legs, sit down by a lake or river or ocean.” But Wilcannia remains home, and they plan to spend the rest of their days there. Darrin’s parting wisdom is characteristically pragmatic’ “Get in and do your best. Don’t worry if you mess up. Making mistakes is part of learning. It’s okay to make mistakes, it’s not the end of the world. Learn from it. Then we’ve got a bit of experience to share with others so they don't fall into the same trap.” It’s a philosophy that has served him well through a life of constant movement, and one that continues to guide his work in building community and connection in Wilcannia.

A free mental health awareness and suicide prevention training program will be offered to the Broken Hill community on Saturday November 15, as part of the sHedway initiative aimed at normalising conversations about mental health in community settings.The sHedway Forum will be held at Lifeline Broken Hill, located at 184 Argent Street, from 9am to 1.30pm. The program is designed to provide participants with practical skills to recognise when someone might be at risk of suicide, reach out to them and help them stay safe, and connect with expert help when needed.Participants who complete the training will receive a certificate recognising their newly acquired skills in mental health first aid. The program emphasises that talking about mental health should be as normal as discussing physical health, and aims to create a culture where everyone in the shed family feels comfortable seeking support.The initiative is being delivered through a partnership between several organisations committed to mental health support in regional New South Wales. The event is kindly funded by NSW Health and The Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section, ensuring there is no cost to participants. This funding model reflects a broader commitment to making mental health resources accessible to rural and remote communities where services can be limited.The program is open to anyone over 16 years of age in the local community, and organisers have emphasised that people do not need to be connected to sheds to attend. This inclusive approach recognises that mental health literacy and suicide prevention skills are valuable for all community members, regardless of their involvement in specific organisations or groups.The sHedway movement represents a growing recognition of the important role that community spaces, particularly those traditionally associated with men such as men's sheds, can play in addressing mental health challenges. By creating environments where conversations about wellbeing are encouraged and supported, these programs aim to reduce the stigma that can prevent people from seeking help.Mental health remains a significant concern in regional Australia, where isolation, economic pressures and limited access to services can compound existing challenges. Programs like sHedway Forum provide community members with the confidence and knowledge to support each other, creating networks of care that complement professional mental health services.The training will include a lunch break from 1pm to 1.30pm, with lunch provided. The afternoon session will continue until 4.30pm and will feature an introduction to local services and a sHedway update, ensuring participants are aware of the resources available in their community.Those interested in attending can register by contacting Eliza Fairhurst on 0407 884 187 or Carol Muldoon on 0438 461 098. Further information is available through the Facebook page at facebook.com/shedwayinmind or facebook.com/wevgotyourbackprogram.The SafeTALK component of the program, running from 1pm to 1.30pm, will focus on practical strategies for having conversations about suicide with people who may be struggling. This direct approach to suicide prevention reflects current best practice, which emphasises that asking someone directly about suicidal thoughts does not increase risk and can often provide relief to those experiencing distress.By equipping community members with these skills, the sHedway Forum aims to create a more resilient and supportive community where people look out for one another and feel empowered to act when they recognise someone needs help. The program acknowledges that everyone has a role to play in supporting mental health and preventing suicide in their community.

Snake video goes viral for Hay coupleIn ShortViral Scare: Hay, NSW local Peter Hutchison found a highly venomous Eastern Brown Snake coiled inside the cabin of his excavator.Overnight Sensation: His wife, Sheree Doidge, posted the 15-second video to TikTok, where it has already surpassed 916,000 views globally.A True Blue Reaction: Instead of panicking, Peter's Australian response was to film the encounter, turning a terrifying daily event into a viral internet hit.A video posted to social media platform TikTok by Sheree Doidge, has made her husband Peter Hutchison an overnight sensation.A typical morning at Peter's job on a property outside of Hay, NSW suddenly became an international sensation this week, proving once again that when you live out bush, the mundane can be terrifying—and hilarious—when viewed through a phone camera.He was preparing for a day's work in an excavator when he spotted an uninvited co-pilot: a highly venomous Eastern Brown Snake coiled inside the cabin.The reptile had snuck into the cabin and become lodged under the foot pedals of the heavy machinery.Instead of panicking, "Hutchy" did what countless Aussies do when confronted with an unbelievable situation: he pulled out her phone and started filming, sending the short video back to his wife.Sheree promptly shared it on TikTok, and at the time of writing the 15 second clip had been viewed by more than 916,000 users.The video clip is disarmingly simple, which is exactly why it rocketed up the global charts. There are no special effects, no dramatic music, and no fancy editing—just pure, uncut rural reality."He's a bit scared," Petr says in his narration. "Scared the sh*t out of me." The rest of the video is expletive heavy, given the shock of seeing the trapped reptile, and realising it was lashing out between where Peter sat and the door to freedom.In a digital landscape saturated with overly polished, staged content, the raw, relatable authenticity of Shezza’s video struck gold. The TikTok algorithm, which favours genuine surprise and high engagement, quickly pushed the clip past local borders, first across Australia, and then into the feeds of millions across the world.For the global, urban audience, the video is compelling for two main reasons.First, it feeds into the beloved, slightly exaggerated "Australia is trying to kill you" narrative. For international viewers who only know Australia through wildlife documentaries, realising a snake is capable of popping up anywhere, even inside a piece of heavy machinery confirms all their wildest fears about the Outback. It's a perfect example of Australian danger delivered in a tiny, digestible clip, narrated by a truly Aussie character.The couple have already been contacted by media companies, including LADBible Austraila, for the rights to re-share the clip.Mr Hutchison called a workmate to help remove the reptile but it had injured itself under one of the excavator pedals, and did not survive.Watch the vide HERE - (language warning)

Balranald Shire Council has announced a significant milestone in the completion of its Filtered Water Reservoir Project, with the Balranald Filtered Water Tower now fully operational as of midnight on Thursday November 6 2025.The completion marks a major achievement in the council's ongoing efforts to deliver improved reliability and quality to the town's water supply system. With both the filtered and raw water systems now operating as designed, users can resume normal consumption of both filtered and raw water as per pre-reservoir refurbishment conditions.Council Chief Executive Officer Terry Dodds said the completion of the reservoir upgrade represents a crucial step forward for local infrastructure and community resilience. Mayor Zaffina welcomed the news, noting the project's importance to the town's future development.The filtered water tower has been successfully commissioned and is now ready for use, meeting all required standards. Contractors who have been working on water carts during the construction period may also resume normal operations as the system returns to full capacity.Council has confirmed that both water systems are now ready for regular use by residents and businesses throughout the town. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to enhance the reliability and quality of water services, supporting the community's needs both now and into the future.Mayor Zaffina emphasised that the successful completion of this essential infrastructure project demonstrates council's commitment to providing reliable services to the community. The upgrade has been designed to ensure Balranald's water supply system can meet current demands and support future growth.Balranald Shire Council extended its sincere thanks to residents, businesses and contractors for their ongoing support and patience throughout the reservoir upgrade and commissioning process. The cooperation of the community during the construction phase has been instrumental in allowing the project to reach this important milestone.The announcement brings to a close a period of disruption as the council worked to improve one of the town's most critical pieces of infrastructure. Residents can now be assured of a more reliable and higher quality water supply as the town continues to grow and develop.

Balranald residents with a passion for community service and a thirst for adventure are being encouraged to consider a career fighting fires, with Fire and Rescue NSW launching a recruitment drive for on-call firefighters at the local station.The emergency service will host a recruitment day at Greenham Park Hall on Sunday November 16 from 11am to 2pm, offering community members the chance to learn about the role and meet experienced firefighters from the area. A free sausage sizzle will be provided for those attending.Fire and Rescue NSW is seeking motivated individuals to join the Balranald Fire Station team as on-call firefighters, with no prior experience necessary. The organisation emphasises that while technical skills can be taught, they are looking for people with a great attitude and a genuine willingness to learn.On-call firefighters play a vital role in protecting regional and rural communities across New South Wales. Unlike full-time firefighters who work set shifts at metropolitan stations, on-call firefighters are paid to train and respond to emergencies when needed, allowing them to maintain other employment or commitments while serving their community.The recruitment day will provide prospective firefighters with an opportunity to speak directly with local firefighters about what the role entails, the training involved and how the on-call system works in practice. Attendees will be able to ask questions and gain a realistic understanding of whether firefighting could be the right fit for them.Fire and Rescue NSW has encouraged interested community members to bring along friends who might also be suitable candidates. The service is looking to build a strong team capable of responding to a range of emergencies, from structure fires and bushfires to motor vehicle accidents and storm damage.For many on-call firefighters, the role offers a unique opportunity to give back to their community whilst developing valuable skills in emergency response, teamwork and crisis management. The position also provides financial compensation for both training time and emergency callouts.Those unable to attend the recruitment day but still interested in learning more about becoming an on-call firefighter are encouraged to contact Balranald Fire Station directly or visit the Fire and Rescue NSW website for further information about the application process and requirements.

Carrathool Shire Council held its ordinary meeting at Goolgowi Council Chambers on Tuesday October 212025, with Mayor DL Jardine presiding over discussions that covered significant infrastructure decisions and operational matters affecting the shire.One of the key decisions made during the meeting concerned the provision of clean water to residents of West Goolgowi. Council resolved to provide clean water to ratepayers in the area with a contribution split equally between council and residents. Under the arrangement, ratepayers will pay $2,800 per water service, representing 50 percent of the total cost of $5,600 per service. To fund the ratepayer contribution, council will implement a special levy of $280 per annum over 10 years commencing in the 2026-27 rating year. The water usage charge will match the current potable charge for Goolgowi at $1.27 per kilolitre. Council plans to inform affected ratepayers of the determination and will hold another meeting with them if necessary to reach consensus on the decision.Council also approved the purchase of new infrastructure equipment, agreeing to acquire a four tonne lime spreading unit from Guidolin Machinery for $38,000. The purchase will be funded from the plant reserve, adding to council's capacity to maintain and improve local road infrastructure.In planning matters, council approved Development Application DA2026-005 for the use of land to install a manufactured home. The application was approved subject to a range of conditions covering building work, drainage requirements and flood protection measures. Council also noted determinations for other development applications received during September 2025.The meeting addressed council's contributions plan under Section 7.12, adopting a works program and projects list that prioritises infrastructure needs across the shire. The program includes $100,000 each for sewer augmentation and water augmentation in Hillston, $100,000 for park upgrades in Goolgowi, and $1 million designated as high priority for roadworks to address traffic concerns across the shire.Council approved office closure arrangements for the Christmas and New Year period. Council offices, the library and depots will close from 3pm on Wednesday December 24 2025 and reopen on Monday December 29 2025. They will then close again for Friday January 22026 before reopening on Monday January 5 2026.Mayor Jardine's report to council included discussion about the future of the Western Division Association of Councils. Council resolved to participate in discussions regarding the organisation's future and to apply for full membership if it continues to operate.During the closed session of the meeting, council considered matters relating to Lake Woorabinda, resolving to defer any new user agreement until proposed actions to rectify a leak near the aquatic club are undertaken. Council also agreed to transfer available water to the lake providing satisfactory rectification of the leak occurs and soil testing supports the action taken.Council also reviewed and approved placing the draft Staff Gratuity Policy on public exhibition for 28 days, with provisions to adopt the policy after the exhibition period if no submissions are received.The meeting noted various operational reports including the Community Development Officer report, Infrastructure report and Plant report. Council also noted the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee and Internal Audit Annual Report for 2024-25 from the chairperson and endorsed it for inclusion in the annual report.The next ordinary meeting of Carrathool Shire Council will be held on Tuesday November 18 2025 commencing at 9.30am, with a citizenship ceremony scheduled for 9.45am at the Hillston District Office. The October meeting concluded at 12.30pm.

Balranald Shire Council has issued an important notice regarding unmetered water use across the Balranald and Euston townsites as part of its commitment to fair and sustainable management of community water resources.Council is conducting a follow-up program to address instances of unmetered water use throughout the region. The initiative aims to support accurate water usage recording, encourage responsible consumption and ensure fairness in billing and cost recovery for all residents.As the designated water service provider for the Shire, Council has responsibility for ensuring the lawful and equitable use of the local water supply. Unmetered water use occurs when water is accessed without an operational meter or without Council approval, and this is considered unauthorised use that may be treated as water theft under relevant legislation.Council has emphasised that unauthorised water use places an unfair burden on the broader community and compromises the integrity of the Shire's water management systems. Such practices can result in increased costs for other ratepayers who are paying their fair share for water services.The Council has stated it is taking this matter seriously and will be working to resolve any identified issues. Residents and property owners who have questions or require further information about the program are encouraged to contact Council on (03) 5020 1300 or email [email protected] thanked residents for their cooperation and support in helping to manage the Shire's shared water resources responsibly and equitably.

Iluka Resources and Balranald Shire Council have announced they are now accepting applications for funding through the Community Fund and Scholarship Fund. These funds form part of the Voluntary Planning Agreement between Iluka and the Council, providing valuable support to local initiatives and education.Community groups and individuals are encouraged to apply for either fund depending on their needs. The Community Fund offers annual grants ranging from $500 to $150,000 to support a wide range of community projects, events and initiatives. Applicants must provide evidence of consideration for project costs when submitting their proposals.The Scholarship Fund operates on a smaller scale and is designed to support educational and training initiatives. This includes contributions towards traineeships, apprenticeships and higher education opportunities for local residents.Both application forms are available on the Balranald Shire Council website or can be obtained by contacting the council directly. All applications must be received by Friday November 14 2025 to be considered at the first committee meeting. Those seeking more information or wishing to discuss their application can email [email protected] or call the Iluka Community hotline on 1800 305 993, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The planned closure of greyhound racing tracks in Broken Hill and Coonamble by June 2026 has prompted concerns from local representatives about the impact on regional communities. Member for Barwon Roy Butler has raised the issue with the NSW Parliament, highlighting worries within the greyhound racing community about the process behind the closures. "I am seriously concerned about the future of greyhound racing in our regional areas," Mr Butler said. "Broken Hill Greyhounds Club has been told to close by June 2026, and Coonamble is in the same boat. These are the only two greyhound tracks left in Barwon." *Mr Butler said there was growing unease about how Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) had handled the closure announcements. "There is a strong sense in the greyhound racing community that a deliberate strategy is underway to phase out country meets, with little transparency or consultation with those directly impacted," he said. The closures are expected to affect more than just the racing industry, with flow-on effects anticipated for local businesses and community cohesion. "There is a ripple effect that track closures cause in regional, rural and remote communities," Mr Butler said. "Local businesses, including food vendors, electricians, and veterinary services, to name a few, will lose vital income, and there are fewer opportunities for the community to come together." Mr Butler was critical of how the governing body had managed the process, describing it as disconnected from regional stakeholders. "The way in which GRNSW has undertaken this process is disappointing and detached from the communities it is supposed to represent," he said. The local MP indicated he would raise the matter with colleagues and the state government. "I will take this up with my crossbench colleagues and the Minister for Racing," Mr Butler said. GRNSW has not yet responded to requests for comment on the closures or the consultation process undertaken with affected communities. The closures come amid ongoing debate about the future of greyhound racing in NSW, with the industry facing scrutiny over animal welfare standards while also serving as an important social and economic fixture in many regional towns.

Clare Public School marked its 40th anniversary on October 18, with Mayor Zaffina joining past and present students, teachers, principals and parents for the milestone celebration. Teaching Principal Mel Scott organised the well-attended event, which honoured the school's journey from an initial idea to a vital educational facility serving isolated families in the region. “Isolated children deserve the opportunity for a great education just like their fellow students anywhere else in the country,” Mayor Zaffina said, praising the ICPA Balranald Branch and all those involved in making the school a success story.

The Balranald Football Netball Club is gearing up for an exciting 2026 season, unveiling a string of impressive signings and coaching appointments that signal the club’s ambition to build on recent success. The Roos have pulled off a major coup by securing Chris Moreland, whose résumé reads like a who’s who of Victorian football. The veteran began his senior career with Geelong VFL in 2009 before dominating at Bell Post Hill Football Club, collecting three premierships between 2010-13 and captaining the side in 2011. His five-year stint with Geelong West Giants in the GFL saw him become a regular interleague representative, before transitioning into coaching and guiding Powelltown to back-to-back premierships in 2022 and 2023. A four-time Vic Country representative and 2012 All-Australian, Moreland brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership to the blue and white. The club is also celebrating the return of local talent, with Khy Jess coming back to continue his family’s iconic legacy in Balranald. After seven successful years with Redan Football Club in Ballarat, where he claimed junior premierships, multiple best and fairest awards, and represented the Ballarat Rebels in the Coates Talent League, the 2024 Ballarat FNL Rookie of the Year brings a damaging left foot and fearless attack to the contest. Jess, who finished runner-up in Redan’s senior best and fairest, will add crucial dynamism to the Roos’ midfield. Another Balranald junior returning home is Liam ‘Flea’ Farnsworth, who made his mark at Redan after heading to Ballarat for school. Breaking into senior football in 2023, Farnsworth showcased his trademark run, composure, and ability to open up the game from half-back and the wing. The club has locked in continuity at the top, with Jake Lockhart and Woody Longford re-signing to coach the Colts in 2026. The duo has overseen a remarkable turnaround, taking the team from no wins in three seasons to a preliminary final this year; a testament to their passion, patience, and ability to build culture and confidence. On the netball side, the Roos are welcoming Lara Antrobus, who brings an impressive résumé from North Ballarat FNC. The natural goal defender capped off 2025 with an U19 premiership and is known for her strong defensive reads, intercepting ability, and calm ball movement under pressure. The club has also announced exciting coaching appointments across its netball program. Maddison Joliffe and Paris Joliffe will lead B Grade, with Maddison returning to Balranald after success with the Meningie Bears and Coorong Cats, while Paris brings local knowledge and exceptional defensive game sense. The A Reserves will be guided by Taylin Barry and Chloe Taylor, both of whom played A Grade last season and are ready to bring that experience to the returning A Res side. With a blend of experienced recruits, returning local heroes, and strong coaching continuity, the Balranald Roos are assembling all the pieces for what promises to be a memorable 2026 season.

The annual Rainbow on the Plains Festival is set to return to Hay from Thursday, November 13th to Sunday, November 16th, 2025, operating under the theme of "Transition." IN SHORT:Dates & Theme: The annual festival runs from Thursday, November 13th to Sunday, November 16th, 2025, in Hay, operating under the theme of "Transition."Key Entertainment: The lineup includes high-profile performers Thndo, PAULINE & ZOE BADWI, and top drag acts like Shelita Buffet and Angel Cupcakes across four days of events.Economic Impact: The four-day event is expected to provide a significant economic boost for Hay and businesses along major travel routes, with travellers advised to book accommodation well in advance due to high demand.The four-day Pride event is expected to attract visitors from across the region and beyond, promising an economic boost for businesses in Hay and bringing visitors together for the annual celebration.The festival, which celebrates the LGBTIQA+ community and rural inclusion, has become a key date on the Riverina's events calendar, bringing much-needed foot traffic and tourism revenue to the wider western Riverina. Local accommodation providers, service stations, and food vendors in towns along the key travel routes are tipped to benefit from the influx of attendees.Festival Lineup and Key EventsOrganisers have announced a diverse schedule of events catering to various age groups, highlighted by several high-profile performers.The weekend kicks off on Thursday, November 13th, with an event at the South Hay Hotel hosted by drag performer Shelita Buffet. The main concert, "Rainbow on the Greens," takes place on Friday, November 14th, featuring singer Thndo, along with a lineup of drag performers including Angel Cupcakes and DJs, concluding with a fireworks display.The iconic Street Parade will move through Lachlan Street on Saturday, November 15th, followed by the Angie Fair Day at Hay Park—a free family event with markets, food, and youth activities.The festival’s adult-only closing event, the Saturday After Party (strictly 18+), will be hosted by Ringmaster ZA! N and headlined by performers PAULINE & ZOE BADWI. The weekend wraps up on Sunday, November 16th, with a send-off brunch at the Hay Bakery.Focus on Community and InclusionThe "Transition" theme for 2025 is noted by organisers as a way to acknowledge and celebrate journeys of growth, self-discovery, and the resilience of the trans community.The festival’s strength lies in its commitment to providing an inclusive space for rural and remote LGBTIQA+ community members and their allies, ensuring a welcoming environment for all attending from the surrounding areas.For residents travelling from Central Darling, Carrathool, or Balranald, accommodation is expected to be tight in Hay. Visitors are advised to book well in advance or consider day trips or booking in nearby townships to support a broader range of regional businesses.The free and family-friendly events, particularly the Street Parade and the Angie Fair Day, provide easily accessible ways for locals to engage with the festival without requiring paid tickets.Festival organisers encourage visitors to check the official website and social media for ticketing and any schedule updates.A History of Pride: The Rise of Rainbow on the PlainsThe Rainbow on the Plains Festival has rapidly evolved from a small, local gathering into a significant annual event, shining a spotlight on rural LGBTQIA+ issues and bringing an economic boost to the western Riverina.Established in 2018 in Hay, the festival's history is rooted in a simple idea that quickly gained momentum.Grassroots Beginnings (2018-2019)The Concept: The festival began as a grassroots initiative by local residents. It was originally conceived by a group of three local mothers as a small fundraising event where friends could gather to watch the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras television coverage.Rapid Growth: The initial concept quickly expanded. With support from community partners like ACON, the idea snowballed into a three-day festival, dubbed 'Rainbow on the Plains.'The First Parade: The inaugural 2018 festival was marked by enthusiasm, featuring its own street parade, local entertainment, and strong community engagement, designed to show that rural Australia is changing and welcoming to all.Early Success: By the second festival in 2019, attendance had reportedly doubled. Organisers noted that the town's main accommodation was booked out for weeks, indicating a significant early boost not only for Hay but also for outlying regional towns whose accommodation capacity absorbed the overflow of visitors.Navigating Challenges and Cementing its RoleThe Drought and Funding: Even in its early years, the festival was recognised for its dual importance: promoting inclusion and providing a vital economic stimulus. In 2019, the festival secured federal funding through the Tackling Tough Times Together program, explicitly aimed at keeping money flowing through local shops and supporting businesses during severe drought.The Pandemic Interruption: Like many events, the 2020 and 2021 festivals were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, interrupting the annual flow of tourists and revenue to the region.Resilience and Return (2022 onwards): The festival made a strong return, continuing its tradition of high-profile entertainment and community-focused events. The 2022 festival, for instance, successfully broke a national record for the largest "human rainbow," symbolising the number of allies the rural community has.The Festival's Core MissionOperated by the Hay Mardi Gras Incorporated and run solely by community volunteers, the festival has consistently maintained three core goals, which directly impact the wider region:Inclusion and Visibility: Providing an important opportunity for rural and remote LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies to be seen, heard, and acknowledged, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere across the Hay Plains.Mental Health: Maintaining a focus on mental health and the unique challenges faced by all rural and remote residents.Economic Benefit: Serving as a significant tourism drawcard, the festival's aim is not to make a profit for the committee, but to ensure that money is brought into the local economy.The festival has clearly established itself as more than just a party; it is seen by its founders and supporters as an opportunity to change lives and create a welcoming, strong, and positive environment in the rural heartland.

Landowners along the Murrumbidgee River are being urged to seek expert advice as the NSW Government begins negotiating flood easements under its ambitious Reconnecting River Country Program. Since August 29, 2025, the Government has been approaching property owners between Darlington Point and Balranald to secure easements that would allow increased water flows to environmental wetlands and floodplains. The stakes are considerable; the maximum flow limit at the Wagga Wagga gauge could nearly double from 22,000 megalitres per day to 40,000 megalitres per day. Bobbie Pannowitz, a solicitor at Griffith based Cater & Blumer Solicitors, says the program represents a significant shift in water policy with potentially substantial impacts for affected landowners. “The NSW Government has embarked on a very ambitious piece of water policy with the Reconnecting River Country Program,” Ms Pannowitz said. “The program is designed to relax constraints along the Murrumbidgee River to deliver more environmental water, more often, to off-river wetlands and floodplains. “To secure these flows, the NSW Government needs to obtain easements from landowners, to enable flooding or inundation of parts of their land.” The timeframes are tight. Landowners who receive invitations to negotiate have just 28 days to respond, followed by a 12-month negotiation window. While the increased flows won’t commence until 2031, negotiations are happening now. “Landowners should expect to receive invitations to negotiate, or may have already, which they will then have 28 days to respond to, and a further 12 months to negotiate,” Ms Pannowitz explained. The Government is required to compensate landowners for the easements, considering factors including the extent of inundation, current land use, impact on third parties, and the market value of the land. However, there’s a catch; if landowners fail to reach an agreement, easements could be compulsorily acquired. Recognising the complexity of the negotiations and the need for landowners to understand their rights, Cater & Blumer Solicitors is hosting a free Easement Negotiation Information Session at midday Thursday November 13 in Balranald. "At Cater & Blumer Solicitors, we identified a need for landowners to obtain more information about this Program and how to negotiate the best possible outcome, they need to engage in negotiations and get the right advice to do so,” Ms Pannowitz said. “We strongly encourage affected landowners to attend and learn more about their rights.” Interested landowners can register for the session through the Cater & Blumer Facebook page, Instagram page, or website.

 Man in serious condition following ultra-light crashAbout 11am today (Wednesday 5 November) emergency services were called to a paddock on Nullagong Road, near the Cobb Highway, about 30km north of Hay to reports of an ultra-light plane crash.NSW Ambulance responded and commenced CPR on a 39-yearo-old male with serious injuries. He was the sole occupant of the plane.He was taken to Hay hospital in a serious condition.Officers attached to Murrumbidgee Police District responded and established a crime scene.The incident has been referred to Recreational Aviation Australia

Broken Hill Distillery has claimed the prestigious Overall Winner Outback Spirit Award at the 2025 Far West NSW Excellence in Business Awards. The distillery also won the Excellence in Innovation category, cementing its position as one of the region's standout businesses. Regional Development Australia Far West NSW announced the winners across 15 categories, recognising excellence and achievement in business throughout the far west region. Major award winners Natural Revolution Group was honoured with the Dave Gallagher Award for Commitment to Community, while Tibooburra Water took out Excellence in Social Enterprise/Outstanding Community Enterprise. The Gallery Broken Hill was named Best New Business, and Adkins True Value Hardware won Excellence in Small Business. Far West Rural Supplies claimed Excellence in Business, while Country Universities Centre Far West was recognised for Excellence in Customer Service. The Old Saltbush Restaurant & Catering won Excellence in Tourism & Hospitality, and Far West Helico took out Excellence in Presentation & Marketing. Broken Hill businesses featured prominently in the People's Choice awards, with Jagged Edge named the Region's Most Popular Business, and Caroline and Dirk from The Shed Broken Hill winning Service with a Smile. Milparinka Sporting Club was voted the People's Choice Community Organisation. Samantha Thompson from Golf Broken Hill Inc was named Outstanding Employee of the Year, while the business also claimed the Employer of Choice award. Veronica Sunman from MBElectrical won Apprentice/Trainee of the Year. Broken Hill City Art Gallery was recognised as the Outstanding Arts & Cultural Organisation. The Business Awards are an initiative of Regional Development Australia Far West NSW.

A person has died after their ute left the road and burst into flames in a single-vehicle crash near Barellan, about 50 kilometres east of Griffith. The burnt-out vehicle was discovered just off Kolkilbertoo Road on Saturday morning, with emergency services called to the scene around 9.30am on November 1. The driver's body was found inside the wreckage, but authorities have not yet been able to confirm their identity. Police believe the crash occurred overnight, though the exact timing remains unclear. The remote location of the incident meant the vehicle wasn't discovered until the following morning. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to formally identify the victim and determine the cause of death. Investigators are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash, including how the vehicle left the road and what caused it to catch fire. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact local police.

A 29-year-old Griffith man has been charged after allegedly slashing the tyres of 13 vehicles parked along a residential street in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Police allege the man damaged a total of 48 tyres on cars parked on Banna Avenue, Griffith, around 3.15am on October 28. Murrumbidgee Police executed a search warrant at an address on Binya Street, Griffith, at 1.10pm on Wednesday, October 29, where the man was arrested. During the search, officers seized several items of clothing that police allege were worn by the man during the offences. The man was taken to Griffith Police Station and charged with 13 counts of destroy or damage property. He was refused bail by police and appeared before Parramatta Bail Court on Wednesday, October 30. The matter will return to court at a later date.

Two men have been charged after allegedly stealing items from the Tharbogang landfill facility while attempting to conceal their vehicle's registration plates. Police were conducting patrols near the tip around 10.20pm on Monday, October 28, following recent reports of trespassing and theft at the site. About 10.30pm, officers spotted a silver Nissan Navara inside the landfill facility with surgical face masks covering the registration plates. Police stopped the vehicle and spoke with two men, who were also wearing face masks. Officers allegedly found a red pushbike and a sewing machine inside the vehicle, which police claim had been taken from the landfill facility by the pair. Both men were arrested and taken to Griffith Police Station, where they were charged with stealing and entering enclosed lands. The matter will be dealt with by the courts at a later date.

The ICPA Hay Branch is calling on community members to share their views about the future of Booligal and Carrathool public schools through an online survey. The information gathered will be used to advocate to government about local educational needs in the region. ICPA Hay Branch president Michelle Spence said the survey was open to all community members with an interest in the schools' future. "We encourage all Booligal and Carrathool community members, or others with an interest in the use of the schools, to complete the survey," Ms Spence said. "This includes business owners, potential employers and community groups." The survey will remain open until December 18 and can be accessed at https://form.jotform.com/252648892217063. Community members are encouraged to share the survey through their networks to ensure broad participation in the consultation process.