Don't forget to head to Ivanhoe RSL on Saturday evening, November 23. It will be your chance to meet the National Party Candidate for Parkes at the next Federal election.Jamie Chaffey will be replacing current sitting member, Mark Coulton, who is retiring at the next election.For more information contact Max Bradley on 0269951499.

Lifeline’s Annual Toy Delivery is on again this Christmas for families and kids in the region. You can register your children to receive a free toy hamper this Christmas.Menindee Christmas Toy registrations open Monday November 25 and Wednesday December 4.To register your family in Menindee:Go to Burke and Wills Park from 11am to 1pm Monday November 25 and Wednesday December 4.Please bring your Centrelink card displaying your child/s names.For more information please contact Lifeline Broken Hill on 08 8087 7525.

The most recent report by Modelling commissioned by Homelessness Australia has revealed a startling more than 60 per cent increase in Australians at risk of homelessness since 2016. The report states 987,405 people in Victoria were at risk of losing their home on the back of a 23.1 per cent increase in rental stress.Acting CEO Charmaine Calis highlighting the need for change and starts MASP remain committed to helping the homeless in the Mallee community and working with Governments at all levels to combat homelessness and disadvantage.“All over Australia people are struggling with rental stress, low income and low social resources, and the Mallee community is certainly not immune to that,” she said. “People with two or more of these complicating factors are termed ‘at risk’ of homelessness according to Homelessness Australia – we need to see more investment from Governments to alleviate these pressures people are experiencing.”“Across our service area MASP has been supporting more than 500 people a year over the past three financial years through our Housing Access programs,” Mrs Calis said.“On top of that, since February we have engaged 60 people through our Assertive Outreach Rough Sleeper Program – these people in that program aren’t those ‘at risk’ of homelessness, they are very much experiencing it. As an organisation MASP welcomes the reporting of the figures to shed light on the crisis many are facing. We all need to work together now to create solutions.”For more information on MASP’s Housing Access Programs, or if you are facing homelessness, go to https://masp.org.au/how-we-help/homelessness-support/To donate to MASP’s programs, including Homelessness Support, go to https://masp.org.au/get-involved/donate-and-fundraise-for-masp/

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following article contains images and mention of de ceased persons. Descriptions or words used to describe the First Nations People are wording directly taken from the article, and is the wording or belief of those times. This Blast from the Past was originally an article from January 8, 1963 edition of The Riverine Grazier, titled , ‘Exploring Aboriginal habits in the area’. The intensification of investigating into the habits of early Indigenous people in Southern New South Wales has led to expeditions into the outback by experts in this field of re search. Last Thursday we had the opportunity of ac companying these expert research workers into the country north of Booligal, where an old Indigenous camp site and burial ground was explored. The party consisted of Professor N.W.G. Macintosh of the Sydney University, Mr Jack Golson M.A. of the Australian National University, an archaeologist, and who is studying Southern N.S.W., Mr Gordon Williams of Sydney University and several members of the Hay Historical Society. Arriving at Booligal, the party was met by Mr Bill Barnett who has intimate knowledge of the lands that lie to the north of Booligal and who had found several traces of Indigenous skeletons on Yarto Station. He led the expedition up the rough Cobb Highway leading to Ivanhoe, and then turned off at Yarto to lead the party over trackless paddocks to the point where he has found the skeletons. The spot was easily found as it had been wisely marked with an iron post and marker. The particular spot was a red soil ridge which ran for miles through the country and which was bordered by heavy black soil on each side. There was an abundance of pine trees and the general appearance was of a prior stream at some time or another. It was easy to understand why the site was chosen for a camp site as there was evidence of a recent heavy rain in the expanses of water that had fallen on the good catchment of the red ridge, and which was being held in good sized natural dams. After making our way onto an island, Mr Barnett pointed out his find, protruding above the ground, the remains of a human skull which had fortunately been broken either by stock walking on it or by natural elements. Whilst the experts quickly but carefully dug the earth from around the skull, with a small trowel, other members of the party scouted the region for foreign stones rock and other evidence of Indigenous inhabitancy, which could give a lead to the pattern of Indigenous life and mi gratory habits. Mr Barnett and Mrs Isobel Booth, a very in terested member of the party who has accompanied Mr Barnett on his exploration of Indigenous haunts, successfully searched for another skeleton which had been previously seen in the area. This was found with the skull, and toe bones both above the ground, but in a fragmentary state which prevented them being disturbed and investigated. From observations of the bones showing above the claypan, Professor Mcintosh was able to express an opinion that the bones were that of a child between the age of seven and nine, the body was buried in a crouched position with the knees drawn up in front of the body. The body was laying on its side. The head was facing north and the line of the body ran almost due east and west. It may only be a coincidence that upon un earthing much of the skeleton it was also found to be lying on its right side with the body running east and west of the grave. In the case of the un earthed skeleton the legs were bent backwards. The professor said this was the remains of a male Indigenous person aged approximately 35 years at the time of death. Both graves seem to have been no larger than four feet by four feet, and of an unknown depth. The graves appeared to have been deep enough for the bodies to be covered by about four inches of earth. Lying about four feet from one skeleton were the remains of the skeleton of a dingo. These bones were gathered by the professor for further investigation in Sydney. There could be some significance in these bones as the Indigenous were known to have tamed dingoes for domestic pets. Professor Macintosh was particularly interested in the dingo bones as he is carrying out ex tensive work into the dingo and he will compare the bones he found with the skeleton of a modern dingo to see if they have changed in any way over the years. The professor also took parts of the unearthed Indigenous person’s skull. While it will be impossible to ascertain the time the bones were buried, the shape and form of the bones enable researchers to tie their various findings into a complete picture. The skull, incidentally, showed abnormal markings which would suggest the person could have suffered a severe blow from which he possibly died. An explanation of the sandy ridge revealed much evidence of early Indigenous life. On the eastern side of the hill there were many mounds of hard brick-like substance. Together with all the small pieces of rock and other foreign stone it would suggest the hill was once a thriving Indigenous settlement. The importance of the rock findings are in the study of the movement of various tribes who carried large pieces of rock from which they fashioned their tools and weapons. The variety of rock would give a lead to the areas visited by that tribe. On the west of the hill was the burial ground where the skeletons were discovered, professor Macintosh and Mr Golson agreed there could be up to 50 skeletons buried in the vicinity. Professor Macintosh explained the Indigenous people immediately wrapped the body of a de ceased person in bark upon death. After man hours of chanting and painting the bodies, the men would eventually carry the dead body several hundred yards to the burial site. Whilst the women wailed and cried louder and louder as the burial party got further away. The idea was they were to be just audible when the party reached the grave. To show their grief the women would strike themselves on the brow to draw blood. The party would then return to camp and the burial ground was avoided for six weeks or so to avoid the spirits. After farewelling Mr Peter Rodgers, the owner of Yarto, we made our way back to Booligal.

The Mobile Network Hardening Program (MNHP) has returned for Round 3, offering a lifeline to strengthen mobile network infrastructure in disaster-prone areas.The timing is perfect for those suffering with the recent power outages in the Far West, caused by storm damage to Transgrid powerlines, highlighted the urgent need for resilient telecommunications.Telstra and Optus successfully secured funding in the previous round to upgrade sites in the Parkes electorate. While up to $20 million is available for co-funding projects with mobile carriers and tower companies, this round is divided into two streams. This means less funding for regional, remote, and very remote areas, as $10 million is allocated to peri-urban fringes. "This means less money on offer for regional areas – yet another example of Labor taking from the regions to give to peri-urban areas close to major cities." says Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton.For more information about the MNHP visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/phone/mobile-network-hardening-program

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton recently met with The Nationals candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey together, they are pledging to fix 10 terrible Labor policies that are harming agriculture in the Parkes electorate on National Agriculture Day.Mr Coulton is passionate of the important role the agriculture industry plays, providing fresh food and fibre to households across the country and the world, regardless of where you live, it is something we rely on every day. “We're lucky to have the best farmers in the world right here in the Parkes electorate. Our farmers produce top quality food and fibre, all while being the most water efficient and innovative.“I want to thank all the incredible workers involved in our agriculture industry, from the farmers to the truck drivers, the agronomists and suppliers to the contractors and researchers.“The Nationals 100 per cent support our agricultural industry, but unfortunately, farmers are struggling to get food from paddock to plate in the Parkes electorate because of what Labor is doing to them. Just last week, Senate Estimates revealed the number of Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) workers in agriculture has fallen by more than 20 per cent, from 21,915 in July 2023 to 16,705 workers in September 2024, because Labor made the scheme unworkable." Mr Coulton said.Unfortunately, when supply goes down, prices go up, which is where families are feeling the punch, at the checkout. Mr Chaffey said "today should be a day of celebrating the wonderful agriculture industry, but our farmers are under siege.The Nationals, as part of a future Coalition Government, will fix 10 bad Labor policies. They plan to:Reinstate the live sheep export tradeBring back the Agriculture Visa and fix Labor’s PALM scheme messStop Labor’s changes to the Murray-Darling BasinIntroduce an import container levy, so our own farmers don’t pay for the biosecurity risk created by international competitorsReverse Labor’s cuts to regional infrastructureStop Labor’s truckie tax and vehicle efficiency standardCreate a mix of energy, rather than Labor’s all-renewables approach, which is destroying agricultural landScrap harmful emissions profiles, or Scope 3Stop Labor’s proposed taxes on superannuation, which will impact family farmsEnsure the 88-day backpacker work visa remains in place for the agriculture sector.

From humble beginnings on a dusty town common to the modern racecourse we know and love, the Hay Jockey Club has weathered storms, embraced change, and kept the spirit of bush racing alive and kicking. It all began in 1862, when a group of enthusiastic racing fans huddled together in the Caledonian Hotel, dreaming of establishing a formal race club in Hay. It took eight long years of planning, fundraising, and wrangling with the Hay Shire Council to finally bring their vision to life. In 1870, the first race meeting thundered onto the scene, held on the town common known simply as "the Racecourse." The facilities might have been basic back then, but the excitement was palpable. Imagine the cheers as Henry Welsh’s horse "Sunbeam" galloped to victory, claiming the coveted Corinthian Cup! Over the years, the Hay Jockey Club has seen it all. From the scandalous expulsion of a member for the "malicious wounding" of a horse in 1884 (yes, you read that right—a horse named "Terminus" had its throat slit but went on to win more races!), to the Temperance Society's influence on the racecourse layout and rules in the 1870s, the club's history is a tapestry woven with colourful characters, dramatic events, and a dash of good old-fashioned controversy. Picture this: in the 1870s, under the watchful eye of the Temperance Society, alcohol and gambling were strictly forbidden in the Member's Enclosure. If a member felt the urge to indulge in a tipple or place a wager, they had to move to the Public Enclosure. Cash betting was seen as vulgar, so all bets were made "on the nod," meticulously recorded by a penciller, and settled at a designated hotel the next day. Now that's what you call a gentlemanly agreement! But it wasn't all about rules and regulations. The early days of the Hay Jockey Club were a time of immense prosperity. Prize money in the 1870s was a king's ransom, with the Corinthian Cup boasting a purse of 150 pounds—a staggering sum equivalent to around $24,000 in today's money! This attracted top jockeys from as far as Melbourne, f illing the town's accommodations to the brim. The town council, recognizing the economic boom that racing brought, declared a public holiday for the main meetings. And to ensure the equine athletes arrived in style, special trains were even arranged from Narrandera and Albury after 1882. However, the path of the Hay Jockey Club hasn't always been smooth. Economic downturns and periods of drought cast shadows over the racecourse, leading to the formation of rival racing clubs—each with its own quirks and priorities. There was the Hay Licensed Victualers Racing Club, championing the interests of the town's seven prominent hotels (whose owners were barred from membership in the main club, can you believe it?). And then there was the Hay New Years Day Racing Club, dedicated to holding races on—you guessed it—New Year's Day. One particularly memorable squabble involved the Hay New Years Day Racing Club and the hefty fee demanded by the Hay Jockey Club for the use of their grounds. So offended were the New Year's Day enthusiasts that they took their horses and their revelry to a paddock on Wooloondool Station! Thankfully, this dispute was eventually resolved, and harmony (mostly) prevailed. In 1935, after 65 years on the town common, the Hay Jockey Club packed up and moved to its current location, adjacent to the newly established Hay Showground. But as fate would have it, World War II erupted shortly after the move. The army promptly requisitioned the Showground and racecourse as headquarters for prisoner of war camps. Imagine the scene: thousands of prisoners of war, a bustling military headquarters, and right in the middle of it all…a racecourse! After a couple of years, someone had a brilliant idea: why not hold race meetings to raise funds for the war effort? And so it was that the horses thundered once again, this time for a noble cause. The wartime races were a resounding success, drawing huge crowds and raising substantial sums to support our troops. After the war, the returning soldiers, eager to keep the racing spirit alive, formed their own club—the Hay Diggers Race Club. But eventually, they too joined forces with the Hay Jockey Club, further solidifying its position as the heart and soul of racing in Hay. The latter half of the 20th century brought new challenges. With the introduction of the NSW Totalizer Agency Board in the 1970s, country racing faced an uphill battle for survival. The Hay Jockey Club, like many others in the region, was forced to make tough decisions, scaling back to a single race meeting per year. But under the leadership of dedicated presidents like BH (Barry) Smith, John Clark, Brian Gibbs, ES (Ted) Circuitt, Margaret Harvey, and JC (Cameron) Clark, the club refused to give up. They introduced innovative programs to attract a new generation of racegoers, particularly young people and women. Fashion parades, featuring the latest styles and led by Helen Smith and Andrea Wall, transformed the mounting yard into a runway. The legendary racehorse Kingston Town, the only horse in history to win three WS Cox Plates, made a guest appearance, drawing racing enthusiasts from far and wide. Ladies attending the Hay races in 1914. Image: Wendy Lugsdin. And who could forget the Beaut Ute competition, a forerunner to the Deniliquin Ute Muster, which injected a dose of youthful energy into race day? These efforts, coupled with the enduring popularity of Fashions on the Field, breathed new life into the Hay Jockey Club. These days, as we celebrate over 150 years of racing history, we can proudly say that bush racing is as strong as ever in Hay. So, let's raise a glass (in the Public Enclosure, of course!) to the Hay Jockey Club—a testament to the enduring spirit of Hay our community, the thrill of the race, and the power of a good old-fashioned bet. Here's to 150 years of memories, and to many more years of horses thundering down the track, cheers echoing through the stands, and the heart of bush racing beating strong in Hay!

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) deploys aircraft to battle grass fires at CarrathoolImage: Murrumbidgee District RFSRFS MIA District has deployed multiple crews, aircraft and heavy plant to an incident on Cameron Rd, Carrathool.More than 500 hectares has been burned but RFS says the blaze if under control.A small grass fire is also under control after breaking out along Merungle Rd, Hillston.BCB News will issue updates if any fires escalate.

The Dunera Boys were brought to Australia on the HMT Dunera, and had an appalling 57-day journey to Australia. There was massive overcrowding, and poor treatment. Upon arrival in Australia, an Australian doctor examined the internees. He discovered that the Dunera Boys were not parachutists and enemy soldiers, as reported. The doctor’s report led to the court marshal of several British Guards. It is fascinating to look back and truly understand what is now history, meant so many different and important things to the town of Hay. In this reflection piece, it is clear that the Dunera Camp and internees impacted the town of Hay in many ways. This amazing, thought provoking and thoughtful commentary on the closure of the Dunera camps was titled Some Reflections, written by ‘A.J.T.’ From The Riverine Grazier, on November 1, 1946. “The days of the Hay POW camp are numbered, and the old camp is already in the process of demolition. “The camp has for so long been an integral part of our lives that its passing leaves a feeling of regret and a void. Hay’s military appearance has now almost disappeared. “The numbers of soldiers in the streets, the incessant hurrying in the street of military trucks, ambulance wagons and Jeeps; the band and parades, the glare of the camp lights visible at night from a distance of twenty miles. These things are now history. “Hay has been a “war lucky” town in securing the Internment Camp and the munitions factory. The camp, particularly, has been a great financial asset to Hay and many an organisation holding functions on “pay day” to ensnare the unwary soldier. “Looking back to when the camp was being constructed, we remember the urgency and hurry. For the British Empire 1940 was grim, with only bad news of defeats. “At night the railway yards responded to the clank of shunting trucks and the dull thud of heavy girders being unloaded. "A forest of pine posts sprang up overnight to be interlaced with barbed wire. Huts were laid down in dozens. “The air rang with the sound of a hundred hammers and the huts soon took shape to fill. Roads were made and water and electric light connected in record time. The Commonwealth Bank was open until late for the convenience of workmen, and Hay was in the midst of a boom. “The camp was open for public inspection on the Sunday before the first occupants arrived, and a large crowd took the opportunity of looking over the buildings. "Many people witnessed the arrival of the in ternees – a bedraggled lot, who had suffered a bad voyage out, losing most of their luggage and belongings. “One pathetic figure, looking at the people, asked “Is this ‘home’ at last?” He soon found out what a good home the camp was. "The internees soon picked up in spirit and condition, and many were seen to be enjoying themselves at the river beaches under the eye of an armed guard. “Among the internees were some very fine singers and many people used to wander to wards the camp to listen to their combined singing. The Italian POW’s replaced the intern ees and later the Japanese prisoners occupied the camps. “We had a few moments when the Japs were here. Everyone remembers the threat of a mass escape and many people were ordered from West Hay as a precaution. “After the Japs left, the Italians returned to Camps 7 and 8. Finally No 8 was the only compound in use until the camp virtually closed on Monday 28 October 1946. “There are some features associated with the Hay Camp of which we can be proud. "Under the command of Colonel C E Thane, the camp was one of the finest camps in Australia. "During its long career of over six years, only one prisoner escaped, and he a confirmed escapee adapt of the art. "He scaled the wall at the detention barracks at the old Gaol. “What is praiseworthy is that comparatively few felt the desire to try. It is said that all the occupants, internees, Italian and Japanese prisoners, spoke highly of their treatment by the Australian soldiers. Surely in this and in other lands when the story of the war is written, such things will make a bright and lasting picture in an evil and terrible war. “It is interesting that the spot where the camp stands has been in turn a cattle camp; Later it was an aerodrome, and it has been a prisoner-of-war and internment camp, and so it has witnessed the changing years. “What the future holds for it is not known, but it is our earnest hope that never again will it be a place where men are caged up for years on end, but that the ‘Brotherhood of Man’ will become a reality and wars will no longer de face God’s fair world."After the Dunera Boys were released, less than half remained in Australia, others emigrating to England and America, ‘the land of opportunity.’ Highly intelligent, the Dunera Boys went on to hold varied and successful careers, and accomplish amazing things.

The Hay Shire Council has sent the invitation for citizens to nominate a local Australian to be appreciated at the Australia Day Awards.Do you know someone who has done countless volunteer hours for a service organisation, a local sporting or community group or an educational facility? Do you know someone who has an outstanding achievement in their work or studies?Nominations are invited for awards that recognise the contribution that many individuals and organisations make to their local community each year. Categories for 2025 Awards are:Hay Citizen of the Year Award - To recognise an individual who has had an outstanding achievement in their work or studies, done countless volunteer hours for community groups and organisations, local sporting groups or the quiet achiever.Young Citizen of the Year Award - The Hay Young Citizen of the Year Award recognises the achievements of an inspirational and outstanding person who makes Hay a better place to live. The recipient must be aged between 14 and 25 years of age.Gavin Johnston Vocational Award - The Gavin Johnston Vocational Award recognises the achievements of an individual in our community who exemplifies outstanding commitment to his or her business or profession over a number of years.Special Achievement Award - The Hay Special Achievement Award recognises the achievements of an inspirational and outstanding person who makes Hay a better place to live.Nominations close 5pm Friday 13 December 2024Nominations can be lodged via online here

ICPA and Future Drought Fund have collaborated to bring workshops to the Far West. Great news for Balranald and Ivanhoe as there will be Workshops to kick start decisions, reboot connections, get your mojo back, and have challenging conversations. These FREE workshops include morning tea and lunchThe workshops have been made possible by volunteers of ICPA and facilitated by Little Red Tractor and Ladies on the Land. Balranald RFS ShedWed 27th November 9:30am-2:30pmRSVP Clair Butler 0409 206 871Ivanhoe RSL ClubThurs 28 November 9:30am - 2:30pmRSVP Jacqui McKenzie 0437 283 260

Col Jacka and Vic Pope are two of the unsung heroes of Balranald. They man the wonderful attraction, Southern Cross Museum. They take tours of people, whether one or two, or large groups around the fascinating building, and regale them with fascinating stories of the history behind the exhibits. They have a few new recent additions, including a large plaque of the history of transport of the area, the stump which signified camp 19 of Bourke and Wills, and a sign detailing who built the replica of the Southern Cross aeroplane. The fee of $5 is a minute price to pay for the experience. You not only get to experience such knowledge of history, but the passion which is also evident. There are so many exhibits, from a range of different eras, something for everyone. The museum has been running for 11 years now. Pictured are Col Jacka and Vic Pope, the two knowledgeable men behind the Southern Cross Museum in Balranald. Image: The Riverine Grazier/Kimberly Grabham.It has had many uses in its time, the building, including a Ford garage and finished up as a trucking depot. Col was born in Balranald hospital, about seven or eight years ago, as he said cheekily. He says the only time he went to school was when everyone else wasn’t there. “I was a bit of a problem child apparently; I didn’t see myself as one but apparently I was,” he said. Col’s family spilt up when he was 14, and he ended up living in Melbourne in a hotel with is father. Col met his girlfriend, and then wife at the age of 16 at a mutual friend’s 16th birthday party. The couple were only together for four months before they were wed. They spent 59 magical years together, before she passed close to three years ago. “We had some hard times, at times we thought everything was against us, but we did ok,” he said. At the age of 24 Col had a major vehicle accident. He was on a driving job, going into Gisbon, and suffered 48 head fractures, fractured hands, neck and back. “They said the only reason why I survived was I was a country boy; strong and fit,” Col recalled. “Sometimes the old injuries knock me around a little as I get older.” Kingsford Smith was one of Col’s idols from an early age. “When I would go to school I would hear about his antics, and what he was allowed to do and what he wasn’t,” Col said. “He was allowed to do internals (any flight not landing in the territory of another country) but not externals.” Kingsford Smith was one of Col’s early loves, along with an impressive family member. Col’s uncle, Albert was the first Australian to be awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery in Gallipoli. Albert Jacka ended up the Mayor of St Kilda, and Jacka Parade was named in his honour. Some people have said Albert began the Work for the Dole project in a form. Many war heroes returned home, and could not find work. Pictured is one of the newer additions to the museum, a sign detailing the makers of the Southern Cross Replica plane. Image: The Riverine Grazier/Kimberly Grabham.They were retained to build the foreshore at St Kilda and the Great Ocean Road by Mayor Jacka, organised through the Federal government. Col’s son, Paul was behind the donation of the Southern Cross replica to the museum. Paul, who has been a helicopter mechanic in the military for 42 years, discovered the plane was being stored by the Army in Oakey, where he was based at that time. John Chase built the replica for a TV series. He was also the man who made the Mad Max cars. The army paid for the transport to Balranald. In 2017, Col attained the Lady Southern Cross, a replica of the plane Kingsford Smith was flying when he disappeared during an air race in 1935. Kevin Parer and Ray Parer were also well known in the aviation industry, and had a Balranald connection. “Ray owned the ABC Café in Balranald, and when he sold it, he went to New Guinea searching for gold,” Col said. “Their planes, they would have regular chairs in them, and they would drill four holes in the ground and sit the chair legs in them to stabilise. “The planes had a licence to hold eight passengers, and they would also sit in regular chairs with the same set-up.” Tragically, Kevin was killed in New Guinea when the Japanese made an attack. Vic Pope is also an invaluable asset to the museum but he prefers to defer to Col, and is happier dealing with smaller groups. Vic was a linotype operator for the Coonabarabran Times. “I got the job when I was 13 years old,” Vic chuckled. “I told the boss I was 16. I kept on making excuses because I couldn’t sign paperwork. “I got the job during the school holidays and just never went back to school; in those days you could do that.” It took him three months to learn how to use the machine, and to learn where the type went, and to work the Heidelberg and plate. He also learnt quickly how to print paper, noting they are to be put through one at a time. “I wrecked many sheets getting it right, you needed to get a slight wind under it for it to go through right,” he recalled. “I wasn’t allowed to use the machine at first, as it could be dangerous, and they locked the keyboards at night. But I taught myself how to use the linotype keyboard, and I could operate that faster than a normal keyboard.” After a time, he went to Sydney and attained a position with Rupert Murdoch.“It was during the time when he had free newspapers, and threw them over people’s fences. “You would be sitting down typing the news, and he would come over and sit down right on the copy. “He would always know what you drank, and would have a drink in hand for you. “He married a typist from the typing pool, his first wife.” Out the back of the building is a big area where they store the stubbies and cans people bring in for them to recycle. “That’s how we pay the bills,” Col smiled.“A lot of people, like the workers around the area, the mine and line workers, hotels and the hospital bring in all their cans. We are lucky we have that to fall back on. Col Jacka and Vic Pope: the men of Southern Cross Museum and Balranald’s best assets “It costs $15,000 a year for us to be here.” If you have time, call into the Southern Cross Museum and see Col and Vic, enjoy their expertise and show your support. The time to volunteer for the Southern Cross is now, so Col and Vic can impart their knowledge onto some more people. Call in to see Col and Vic, they are in sore need of volunteers

NSW Rural Fire Service issues multiple alerts in the Back CountryNSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has several grass fires to attend in the Back Country.A fire has broken out at One Tree, north of Hay.A fire covering five hectares is being controlled at Breer Hut at Yanga National Parks near Balranald.A second blaze close by at Uara Creek is also being attended by RFS.RFS officers have a third alert in the Balranald area - on Waugorah Road - listed as under control.At Rankins Springs a grass fire on Naismiths Lane has covered three hectares.RFS says while there is no immediate danger to residents, it is vital to stay up to date in case the situation changes.BCB News will issues updates if any conditions escalate.

Brandon Burns has got that special some thing. Charismatic, friendly and cheeky, he is also genuine as all get out. The outgoing and highly capable fruit and vegetable manager at Harrison’s IGA, is largely the life of the place. Barndon is the agile person climbing the walls and the ladders to decorate the shop for Christmas and Rainbow on the Plains, the one handling many tasks at once, and still with a smile and mischievous remark. He grew up with a loving and stable family unit. Son of Craig and Toni Burns, and little brother to Matthew, Brandon had both sides of each parent’s family in his life and within the region. “I always had this love for planes,” he said. “My nan would take me out to the airport each day so I could watch the mail plane take off.” Brandon has always been motivated and entrepreneurial. Beginning his journey selling garlic and vegetables, he would use this extra money to fund various adventures. He was involved in the Sunday morning cy cling group for a long time. They would cycle 30 kilometres, and sometimes to Maude and back for fun. “Dan Tripney and I would have a friendly competition, to see who could cycle the fastest,” he laughed. “It was something I really enjoyed, being out on the bike, it was relaxing. Sometimes I would listen to music, but sometimes I would just enjoy the silence.” He also took part in the Great Vic Bike Ride, from Lakes Entrance to Phillip Island, spanning more than 500 kilometres, over some nine days. During his high school years Brandon would volunteer at 2Hay FM radio station, assisting Wes with the weekly Hot 30 Count down and music news. Once he finished school, Brandon applied to a scholarship foundation to walk the Ko koda Track. Of the 4,000 who applied, about 70 ended up being selected. From there, two people had their entire trip paid for, and Brandon was one of those lucky two. The 100-kilometre walk took the group nine days, and Brandon said it was the best experi ence and something he would definitely do again given the chance. “You knew it was 5pm every day, as around that time the rain would come,” he said. “We would be in the villages along the way, kicking the soccer ball with the children.” Brandon was also honoured to meet the last Fuzzy Wuzzy angel, Havala Laula. The name, Fuzzy Wuzzy Angel, was a term of endearment Australian troops gave to the local Papua New Guinea villagers who were recruited during the Second World War to bring supplies to Australian troops and to evacuate injured soldiers. Their role was invaluable. Around 2,000 Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and 650 Australian soldiers died in the effort. Knowing no one when he set out on the trek, Brandon, being Brandon, made plenty of friends while on the trip. “It was the first time overseas without my parents, and it was scary, but I had a great time,” he said. “It all happened quickly, having my Year 12 formal the night before, then leaving Australia the next day.” Brandon has so many photos of his time on the Kokoda Track, the experience clearly mak ing a huge and positive impact. Brandon won Young Citizen of the Year in 2015. His journey with IGA was just a hop, skip and a jump across the road. “I’d just come back from America, and I was working at Macker’s Meats with family,” Brandon recalled. “I felt it was just time for a change, so I walked across the road, and approached the Harrisons for a job. The very next week they started me in the fruit and vegetable depart ment, working alongside Lisa Seaman.” Nearly 10 years later, Brandon is the man ager of the department, and the freshness of the produce is second to none. Intense attention to detail and stock processes are very important to Brandon. “I have had a green thumb my whole life,” he chuckled. “Even before the days I used to sell my produce on the highway. "I still sell it on the highway, just the opposite end.” After completing his schooling, he met his partner and now fiancée Wyatt Morriss. They hit it off very well from the start, with Brando and a friend travelling to Whitton to pick Wyatt up regularly so they could hang out, and go to the movies in Griffth. Over time, they caught the travel bug, and started jet-setting around the world together. They first went to Thailand, and never stopped. Brandon’s travel portfolio includes San Francisco, L.A, Vegas and San Diego, Kokoda, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Thailand twice, Noumea, South Pacific Island three times, New Zealand twice. The couple will visit Japan in the next couple of months, and Port Vila next month. His love affair with all things labelled Coke began when he was young. “We began collecting Macdonald’s glasses when they were doing the promotion, when I was little, he recalled. “I really liked them, and when the second lot came out, I figured I would collect them too.” Before long, Brandon had a vast collection of different Coke branded items, including a bike, a jukebox, phones, a yoyo and eskies. A dedicated Collingwood supporter, and a member of the club for a very long time, Brandon tries to get to Melbourne at least twice a year to see his team play. Not only is Brandon an avid food lover, he is a fantastic cook. “Both mum and dad are really good cooks, and food has always been important, the passion of food would have come from a young age,” he said. “I particularly like cooking and eating Asian cuisine, and I believe the more prep work involved the better the dish.” Wyatt is far from a keen cook, but they work well together, and share all other chore responsibilities. Brandon and Wyatt ran a highly successful Bed and Breakfast (B and B) in town. Their pet friendly policy made it easier for people travelling between Adelaide and Sydney. Brandon would clean the premises each day during his lunch break. “It was hard work but we loved every bit of it,” he said. “You would get the odd ones that wouldn’t respect the place at all, but most were great and we have made many lifelong friends.” After a time, government red tape resulted in the couple making the decision to stop running the B and B. Brandon began keeping bees four years ago, and has rescued hives of bees from many people’s properties. “I was in the garden, doing work in my vegetable patch one time, and thought it would be a great idea to start keeping bees,” he laughed. “It’s really fun, and something to do.” These days, Brandon and Wyatt live in do mestic bliss in the gorgeous home they made together. They have three dogs; a Frug named Pablo and two Pugs named Lola and Dexter. Brandon tinkers with his latest hobby, Minis, and has a canary yellow Mini he has carefully and painstakingly restored. Friends and family are the most important thing in Brandon’s life. “I wouldn’t be who I am, and life would not be the same about the people dearest to me,” he said. Brandon is one inspiring character. He not only lives life to the full, it is jam packed with fun, different interests, and al ways leaving room for laughter. The best aspect of Brandon however, is his lack of artifice. He cares so much and would put himself out to help whoever needed a helping hand.

As the weather warms up the incidents of snake sightings being shared has increased. Hay Veterinary Clinic’s Wayne Gardam says snake “season” is shaping up to be a particularly bad one for domestic pets, with about twice as many patients as usual being presented to the Hay Veterinary Clinic for treatment for snake bite since September. The best advice is to act fast. The chances of recovery are as much as 80 per cent greater if your pet or stock is treated early. Animals who are left untreated have a much lower survival rate. We asked Mr Gardam for his top tips for owners of pets and stock What to do if my dog (or cat) is bitten by (or seen with) a snake? 1. Don’t Panic. Many pet interactions with snakes don’t result in envenomation. 2. Secure the animal and keep it still. This helps to reduce venom movement into the circulation - you could apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, but it's rare to know which leg was struck. 3. Don’t attempt to kill the snake. This carries a risk of getting bitten yourself (and is illegal). 4. Seek veterinary advice. Ring the vet clinic first. Don’t arrive unexpectedly when they aren’t ready for you, don’t waste time knocking on the door of an unattended clinic after hours. 5. Follow the veterinary advice - folk remedies such as Vitamin C or cutting the ear tip off and swinging the dog around by the tail won’t help, nor will wetting the dog if he is panting. How can I tell if my dog or stock have been bitten by a snake? You will hardly ever see puncture wounds, and traces of blood on the dog may be from a snake if the dog has been mauling it. What might I observe? The nerve toxin component of snake venom is the main issue with domestic pets - it produces a flaccid muscle weakness progressing to paralysis. In the early stages the dog may be a little wobbly, then not able to support his own weight despite being able to move his legs, then perhaps unable to hold his head up. Sometimes (particularly with cats) the animal will be breathing with their belly heaving as their rib muscles are weak. The pupils of the eyes may be dilated (“glassy eyed”) and not react to light. In time, the animal may become hypothermic, with feet obviously cold to touch. How long does it take for symptoms to develop? This is extremely variable, depending on snake species, amount of venom the snake puts out, amount of venom that actually gets into the animal, where it is injected into the animal, size and species of the victim and their subsequent activity. Onset of symptoms may be as rapid as a few minutes and severe, or take up to 24 hours for mild cases to develop, but will usually be within and hour or two. Sometimes a rapid-acting fraction of the venom will flatten the dog within minutes, after which there is an apparent recovery and he may appear normal again. If this is seen, it usually indicates a high venom load, and the slower acting venom component will soon take over causing serious symptoms. How long do we have to commence treatment before it’s too late? That is also extremely variable for the same reasons as mentioned above. Obviously, the sooner the better once the pet is showing symptoms, and the more rapid the onset of symptoms the more critical the timing becomes. What can be done to treat an envenomated pet? The most important aspect of treatment is the careful intravenous administration of antivenom appropriate for the species of snake involved, or appropriate for the snakes known to inhabit the area if this is unknown. An IV drip is essential to maintain circulation and help prevent kidney damage, as are general nursing care, treatment for hypothermia and symptomatic treatment for any complications that may arise until the patient recovers. What are the chances of recovery? This varies with a number of factors, mostly relating to how badly affected the pet is when treatment is started. Unfortunately, some are beyond help despite all efforts, but a recovery rate of 80 percent or more is expected from those that don’t succumb before the antivenom has time to begin to act. How can I keep my pets safe? done, Prevention of snake bite is much easier said than but will revolve around minimising the potential for interaction between pets and snakes. Bear in mind that snakes are free-living wild animals, and are protected native wildlife. Cats are probably best kept indoors as far as possible, and it would be best to be in the habit of walking dogs on a lead during summer months when around possible snake habitat, and perhaps consider keeping them confined when not supervised in the back yard. Snake proof fencing or yards will be an engineering challenge – it might be best to think of making an area less attractive for snakes by eliminating overgrown vegetation and potential habitat for the snake, along with access to water. Keeping poultry food in mouse proof containers and minimising waste of grain around bird cages may help reduce the mouse population and deter snakes coming in to hunt for food

In February 1957 a dirt track at Carrathool was the site for record breaking Australian land speed records. Behind the wheel of an AC race car was a glamourous young British socialite, Mary Seed (nee Morton). Seed has raced an Austin Healy in the UK in 1955 but after coming to Australia as a new bride in 1956 she drove an AC. On February 19, 1957 at the sleepy hamlet of Carrathool Mary Seed set a new Australian Land Speed Record for woman, reaching 113.3 miles per hour (182.3 kilometres). Beside her coach, motoring journalist and race driver David Mackay, the pair set new Australian records, sprinting along an earthen track, in conditions so very different to the high-tech industry of today’s motorsports. Mackay set his own record in the harsh conditions, reaching 143.19 miles per hour (230.14 kilometres per hour) in a spiffy Austin Martin DB3S. “The young English wife of an Australian Navy officer today drove at 113 miles an hour to beat a 20-year-old Australian record for the flying kilometre. She is Mrs. Mary Seed, 26, who set the new record in an A.C sports car given to her by her husband in England last March as a wedding present. The husband is Lieut. Commander Peter Seed, officer commanding a squadron of Venom jet fighter planes on H.M.A.S. Melbourne. Mrs. Seed's flying kilometre was timed by officials of the Confederation of Australian Motor Sports on a stretch of earth road at Carrathool, near Hay, today. Her coach, Mr. David Mackay, a leading Australian sports car and trials driver, will attempt a new Australian land speed record at Carrathool tomorrow. Mackay, driving an Aston Martin sports car, reached 160 miles an hour on one run to-day, but C.A.M.S. officials disallowed the time because of incorrect recording.” The Canberra Times, February 19, 1957. Mary Seed’s AC – chassis number BE167, remained in Australia when the couple returned to the UK and was then raced by Ray Hogwood and Rex Marshall until 1962. It was restored in the early 1980s by Sydney based collector Geoff Dowdle, who is known in the restorer’s community as the guru of classic race cars.

His descendants walked from Brisbane to Booligal with a baby in a pram. A long, and hard journey which took three years, and saw the birth of a second baby along the way. A farm boy from birth, he has had his fair share of trials and tribulations related to the hardships isolat ed living can bring. Neville Eade is a face that most would recognise, enjoying a happy quiet life, with his only daughter Amelia just across the road. Sharing nightly dinners with her, his grandson Christian working at IGA, and Kyesha with two lovely children of her own. There is so much behind a face. Neville has a wide and winding family tree, the Eade family being a fixture in the district for nearly two centuries. As was very common in his time, Neville did not receive much of an education, a year of high school marking the conclusion of his education. “I left school to go to work on the family farm, Green Tree Farm,” Neville said. “It was 1000 acres across river country, and always had about 500 breeding ewes. Some of it was leased country.” Neville always worked on the farm, although at times there was not enough work with the sheep. His father had various mail runs, including Gunbar, Barnes Place near Jerilderie and West Burrabogie. Neville would often accompany his father on these runs. He also ran the garbage cart, and the night soil collections. Most of the toilets used to be located at the back of the properties, easily accessible from the lanes. On the odd occasion, there would be some not so accessible. There would be boxes at the back of the toilet room, where some would lift out and some did not. On the odd occasion, someone would accidentally leave a dog loose, and Neville’s father would be chased, throwing the pan in his haste to outrun the dog. His brother Colin, had a bad accident at the age of 16. They were in the paddock cutting burrs, and their cousin was staying with them at the time, along with his friend. “They began walking out through the paddock to come and see us, and they stopped at the car, spying the rifle in there, and took it out to play with it. “Geoff, one of my brothers became angry and told them to put it back, it was not a toy. “Next thing we knew, we could hear shots. "They had accidentally shot Geoff, and narrowly missed his heart, and hit his spine. He very nearly died.” Out in the bush, they knew that time was of the essence, so they picked him up and laid him in the back of the ute, and drove to Hay Hospital. “We raced right past Dad, but did not have the time to stop and tell him what had happened, but he turned around and followed us,” Neville recalled. He was rushed from there to Melbourne, and spent considerable time in hospital, and then rehabilitation. It was there that he met Martha, his future wife. In 1970, Neville suffered a terrible accident. which proved close to nearly taking his leg completely. To this day, his left leg is a good inch shorter than the right, and he constructs his own lifts onto his left shoes. Neville was a kangaroo shooter for over 25 years. This is something he enjoyed doing for a living. He had his own chillers for the carcasses. “People would ask what happened to my leg,” Neville said. “I would tell them that the rest of it was left out in the paddock.” He was working for Bill Baird at the time, who had the property adjoining his family property. “I would always grease up the machine before starting work,” Neville said. “I had a box that I would put on the slasher that would carry the grease gun, and the pump. “I forgot to put the grease gun in the box, and when I hopped off to pick it up, my foot went under, and then pulled my leg under. “It was a seven-foot cut slasher. “My ute was parked a good 50 feet away, and I crawled over to it. “My mind was reeling, thinking how I was going to keep going, and get to help. “It was a manual ute. I pulled myself up on one leg, so much going through my mind. “I resolved to use my good foot to put the clutch in, and bend down, and use my right hand to push the accelerator. “First gear was good enough, I was moving. "When I got into Hay Hospital, the doctor there could not do much for me, he put the leg in a half cast and sent me straight to Wagga. “They pulled pieces of bone out and put it back together. “I spent 10 weeks in traction, basically. There was a foot lock at the end of the bed. “Then the doctor would come to see me, the specialist, and told me I could go home for six weeks.” Neville did indeed go home, in a plaster for six weeks’ convalescence. His return heralded bone grafts, and putting the pieces back together, joining the fibula and tibia together with screws, and other interventions. He was allowed to go home for a further eight weeks after this, and then returned for bone grafts. Bed rest for six weeks at the hospital followed, with another return home for six weeks. This cycle continued for some time, with Neville returning for skin grafts, and wearing big army boots on doctors’ orders that came up over his shins. When asked how he dealt with that long road to recovery, he said that he just went with the flow, accepted it, and took things as they came. The hospital ward where he stayed had two patients to a room, and he was in a room with another man who had metal all through his leg. “One night, three nurses were walking past, the other fellow grabbed one of the nurse’s hats, and threw it over to me. "He was blocking her way, so she could not get directly past and over to me to retrieve her hat. “She then decided that she would get down on her hand and knees, crawl under the bed, and out of his way. "At that unfortunate time, the sister in charge of the ward appeared, and sternly directed the nurse to her office. “Luckily, she must not have gotten into much trouble, as she appeared again the next day. “The specialist commented the next day that ‘us boys must have been playing up last night,’ and laughed. “The sister was not a bad old stick. She caught a patient smoking and threatened that if anyone gave him another cigarette that she would remove all the smokes from the ward.” Neville also recalled with a chuckle having a nightly drink in the ward. “Cyril Weeks, who used to be manager at Hay Services Club for a time back in the day, and then was manager of another in the area at the time I was in hospital, would bring me two longnecks every night. “I would sit with Cyril behind the curtain that divided the room, and enjoy the beer. "He would then take home the empties with him. "His daughter would come and see me daily, also. They were a very good family.” It was during this time, the blurry time of travel ling for medical interventions, and then coming home for six weeks, that his father tragically passed from a heart attack, at the age of 61. It was a solid 18 months before Neville could stand comfortably on his leg. One time when he travelled home for convalescence, he was laid up in bed, his father suffered a heart attack. The people staying with the family at the time, and Neville’s brother bundled him into the car, but alas he passed before he reached Hay Hospital. They only told Neville what had transpired once they returned home. “I was determined to get out there and make the crosses for the cemetery,” Neville recalled. “I had a lot of help.” Once Neville had finally reached the end of his long bouts in hospital, he knew he had put on a fair bit of weight, understandably. So, after brainstorming what to do next, he settled on rabbit shooting. Beginning this new career path in 1976, he concluded shooting in 1990. He prided himself on his affinity for the task, working professionally, safely, and averaging 100 rabbits per night. He could manage this task by 12 am to 1am. “Sometimes I would have a young man that I would hire to come and pick up the rabbits. “I was good to him, pulling up just on the left hand side of the rabbit, and he would just get out, and not have far to go. I enjoyed teaching him the aspects of the job; using guns responsibly, safety, how to pick rabbits up correctly. “It is never advisable to pick the rabbit up by the leg, it could still be kicking and a person would get blood all over them. “Picking it up by the skin on the back is the better method.” Neville started duck shooting on rice properties, from 2002 to 2011, which he also enjoyed. His emotion when talking about his beloved mother, Annie Parsons, is palpable. “She was a lovely person,” he said. “I still have pictures of her all over the house, my favourite being one that she had taken with Santa Claus. “I was happily devoted to her, doing all the jobs she needed done, and taking her away whenever she asked. She was not too far off 100 when she passed away.” He said that he has lived a good life, one for which he is thankful. “My daughter Amelia, lives just over the road, and looks after me. “I go there for dinner nightly. It is really good to have family close by. “Life is funny, I only had one child, my mother’s sister had 21 children, and my father was one of 17 children, and I was one of 10.” Ruth and John Eade settled in Tooragany Creek, Booligal, after arriving in Australia in 1815. Their son George put together the funds to sponsor his parents to come to Australia. One of the babies who made the trek with George and Mary-Ann from Brisbane to Booligal, George Jnr had sadly passed away by this time. Ruth, Mary-Ann, and other family members were all laid to rest at Tooragany once they passed. The mind boggles at travelling from Brisbane to Booligal on foot, with a baby in a pram. John, who was blind, had bought a mare somewhere along the way, and it gave birth to a foal. The foal died, so the couple, acclimatised to the times and making do with what they had, used the mare’s milk to feed the baby. Once they made their settlement in Booligal, at Tooragany, George would leave for extended periods, pursuing employment to keep food on the table for his family. While he was away, Mary-Ann had a legitimate fear of wild pigs, animals that were plentiful in the area, and voracious. She sourced a large box which she would stow away in the fork of a tree, where she would hide baby George and John Thomas, and climb in her self. They would often stay there until George or another person would come and scare the pigs away. George proceeded to construct a fence out of twigs for safety. He placed the twigs close together, and in between he fixed post and rails top and bottom to hold everything together. Even after her child died, Mary-Ann steadfastly did everything she could to keep the family going, carrying on with life. Cooking for her family on an open fire, battling the elements such as extreme heat with no luxury appliances or indeed, anything at all to pro vide respite from the dangerous weather conditions. George had built a makeshift house with bark walls and lignum thatched roof. Earth floors and kangaroo skins serving as mats. This harsh land and start the pair forged together paved the way for generations of family to live on that land. The life and family chronicles of the Eade family is one of the most fascinating rabbit holes to fall into. A taste of the harsh and unrelenting life of settlers in Early Australia, and how they forged on and thrived into one of the oldest and most well known families in the district. The strength and perseverance clearly lives on, clearly seen once given a glimpse into the highs and lows of the life of Hay man, Neville Eade.

It's getting to be that time of year again. Time to put your thinking caps on and nominate those who have done great things in the Balranald shire this past year.As part of the Australia Day festivities, Balranald Shire Council recognises the achievements of members of community members for their contributions during the previous year and calls for nominations. This is your chance to recognise the most deserving members of our community.Council recognises its citizens through nominations from community members in the following categories:Citizen of the Year – Presented to the most outstanding CitizenYoung Citizen of the Year – Presented to the most outstanding Citizen aged under 30 yearsSportsperson of the Year – Presented for outstanding achievement in sportYoung Sportsperson of the Year– Presented for outstanding achievement in sportSporting Team of the Year – Presented for outstanding team achievement in sportEnvironmental Citizen of the Year – Presented for preserving the environment, innovative use of the Return and Earn Scheme to fund raise for a meaningful cause, or fostering partnerships that achieve litter reduction and recycling outcomes. Individuals and organisations including schools, local businesses and community groups are eligible.Special Achievement Award – (in any field of endeavour)Community Event – Presented to the person or group who has staged an outstanding community event during the previous yearNomination Form – Australia Day Template 2025 – or hard copies are available at Councils office.  If you know someone who makes your community a better place, nominate them for an Australia Day Award today.

Margaret Butler lives in Market Street, Balranald. She is a fitting example of the strength and inspiration that can lie under the surface of a face you see every day. Margaret grew up in the time when so many young men were being shipped off to war, and even then, she knew what a tragic thing that was. “The tremendous loss of brain power and skill that has been lost over time, sending our young men to war. “For the longest time, I was terrified there would be a World War Three.” Margaret said that as devastating as loss was, it happened a great deal, and everyone has their own cross to carry. “There is no use crying, just pick up the pieces and do the best you can. Just keep on going,” she said. “I feel so fortunate to live as long as I have, I have had a really good life. My parents were wonderful, and I have been so lucky.” Margaret and her family lived on a property near Sydney, and did not want for anything. “Even though our parents were well off, we were never spoiled. I got a rope doll for Christ mas, and my brother got a train set. "This started off a lifetime love of trains for him, even when he was a grown man.” Margaret’s father bred fat lambs, for market in Sydney. “Our property was amazing, the country was so different to here,” she recalled. “There were as many sheep on seven acres as the property I owned with my husband, which was on 30,000 acres. “On my childhood property, there was a creek in the middle of the property, she said. “We would spend much time diving, and paddling in the canoe.” Margaret said her and her siblings were always encouraged to get up and do something. If they were outside, when they came in, they would bring wood in with them. “We were brought up as real bush kids, and we were fortunate. "We were taught responsibility and how to take care of ourselves. "When the war was on, all the vehicles were up on bricks. There was no petrol. Margaret’s family was allowed to have the use of their ute, as they lived on the land and would need it for farm work. “We were able to drive to town once a month for Mass, and when that was over the men would go to the pub,” she said. “Mum and the women would go for tea and ice cream. Then, after a time the men would come across. There were no women allowed in the pub in those days, it was deemed improper. "When I think about it, life has evolved so much in a few short decades. “Mum would wear corsets and stockings in the summer. She would go to the city twice a year for clothing shopping. We would go to Anthony Hordens, and a lady dressed in black with a large bosom would greet us. She would say, “Oh, Mrs Pritchard, so good to see you. What may I help you with?” She would look at corsets, and the changing rooms had these big wide, round mirrors. “I was four or five at the time, and when my mother would try on suspenders, she would say Margaret avert your eyes.” Her mother would buy two sets of good clothes for summer, and two sets for other occasions. Margaret remembers the lady taking a book from her bosom, to record the purchases. “She would write everything down religiously, because she was on commission. "It was where a lot of younger workers would become unstuck, the older girls knew how to play the game better. "We would then go and have lunch in their dining room, which was lovely. Anthony Horden’s was a huge store in Sydney, and the ladies would then dine in the dining hall after shopping. “My grandfather had shirts made at Norton Brothers, longtail. He had his shoes made by someone else. “Everyone had their people they preferred to make their clothing and shoes. “The stores they frequented would keep their measurements on hand, and you could order by mail. “There was a shop next to Anthony Hordern’s, and my father would take his watch there. A little man would come out and say, “Yes Mr Pritchard, do you need your watch attended to?” “He would take my father’s watch, clean it, and fix whatever might be wrong. "He had a pocket watch on a chain. He liked to wear vests, and couldn’t stand the labor party.” One significant highlight of Margaret’s early years was seeing the Queen and Prince Philip when they toured Australia. “Philip was so handsome, and she was beautiful,” Margaret recalled. “We swooned over him; he had a beautiful complexion. "The queen wore a special hat, with wattle on it.” When it was time for Margaret to get a job, she came across what we would call these days, discrimination. “I went to get a job in a men’s store on the cor ner of King and George Street in Sydney. My aunt came with me, and we went to the office to enquire. I interviewed well, and they advised me to arrive tomorrow at 8.30am for a 9am start. “It felt so easy. We left, and he ran after us down the road, to ask what school I had gone to. "When he found out it was a Catholic school he told us the job was closed. “My aunt came from New Zealand, and she was no shy flower. She said, “Well, I can just say to you none of us will be going to your place of business any longer,”. “The very next place we approached; I was given a job. It was in the office at an engineering firm, and it was so nice, nobody cared what religion I was there. “In those days, many places looking for employees had signs – Catholics need not apply. It was not something people got upset about, that is just the way things were then.” Margaret’s sister decided to enter the convent at the age of 18. “My mother cried for a week, and dad offered her everything he could think of to try and change her mind. I was three when she entered the convent, there was quite a big age difference,” she recalled. Margaret says there is so much difference in life now, stark changes occurring in a few short decades. As soon as a couple were engaged, the woman was to stay at home, and the man was the sole provider, with the woman staying at home to raise the children and keep the household. Margaret married her husband Greg when they were both 22. The couple lived apart, and both with their respective parents until they were wed. “Greg and I married and honeymooned in Bathurst. "We did this as my sister was in the church there, and Greg wanted to get to know her, as much as I wanted him to know her. All the nuns fussed over Greg, and I felt a little left out,” she said. Another change Margaret cites is how innocent women were then, in a sense. It was commonplace for women not to know much about relationships before they were married. She recalled with a smile how her husband had to go out and buy women’s products for her, a newly married man on their honeymoon. Greg, who was from the Balranald area, and Margaret, happily made their life together. They lived on the land, and Margaret was a confident and capable help in every way. Tragically, three of Margaret and Greg’s children passed in childhood, from what was discovered to be lead poisoning. By the time medical professionals had realised what the cause of the illness was, Anthony, Eliza and Basil had tragically already passed. Anthony was 5 and a half, Eliza was 3 and a half. Gerard and Genevieve had a little poisoning, but were able to be cured. Margaret felt terrible, but she had done everything in her power as a mother to save her children.They had gone to every medical professional possible, and nobody had been able to figure out what was wrong. “After a time, and much investigation and despair, on our part and from many medical professionals, we finally came across someone who helped. “The doctor who discovered Myxomatosis believed they knew what was happening,” Margaret recalled. “They sent us to a scientific place in Melbourne, and gave the children three tablets a day for three days, and it removed the lead from their systems.” Genevieve left school after completing her HSC. Gerard was 16 when he left school. They got flooded around this time, and they did not end up seeing Greg for weeks. All the fences nearby and the sheep had since gone, due to the flood. Greg and a friend were crutching the stragglers.Over time, their property burnt out, and was flooded out in separate incidents. One time there was a storm on the property, and the water ended up reaching waist height. “We could hear the water gurgling in,” Mar garet recalled. “It was strange, and I wasn’t sure what was happening at first. When it was clear, I held my sewing machine up over the water, and got outside. “Gerard swam out, and a neighbour came to help. "He was six feet, and it turned out the water reached 6.7 feet. "This situation lasted for about 18 months.” Margaret still has this sewing machine. Margaret loves Chanel No 5, and has an admiration for Jackie Kennedy, and her timeless appearance. “I have had a beautiful life, wonderful husband, and fantastic family,” she said. “I am grateful for every day, and try to live life to the fullest.” Margaret has always believed in treating everyone the same, and laments the existence of bigotry and hatred in the world. “If you sweep the street, as long as you do it to the best of your ability, then that’s all you need. Dignity is important, and everyone should be allowed dignity.” Margaret often sits in her garden and eats breakfast, and enjoys pottering around in her garden. She is very proud of her children. Her daughter Genevieve recently earned a Governor’s medal. It was an immense pleasure to talk to Margaret, and record her experiences. A delightful lady, with many varied experiences a lot would balk at going through, she handles what comes her way with grace and strength. You are an absolute inspiration, Margaret.