A 57-year-old man arrested in Hay yesterday (Wednesday December 3) has been refused bail on multiple charges.The man is facing a charge of possess child abuse material, disseminate child abuse material, six charges of possess unauthorised firearm and a charge of possess ammunition without holding a licence or permit.He will next appear in Griffith Local Court on December 10, 2025.

Carrathool Shire Council has received a clean bill of financial health, adopting its 2024/25 Annual Report and receiving an unqualified audit opinion.External auditor Brad Bohun presented the audit findings to the meeting, describing the Council as being at the "leading edge of the class" regarding its financial state. He noted that the Council holds sufficient liquidity to cover more than 12 months of expenditure without income, placing it in a strong position compared to other councils in New South Wales.Budget Surplus and Efficiencies The meeting also saw the approval of the First Quarter Budget Review for 2025/26. The review indicates a projected net operating surplus before capital of $4.836 million, an improvement on the original budget.In the infrastructure sector, Council reported significant efficiencies in recent road projects. The construction of a 4km section of The Springs Road (MR368) was completed with an additional 0.5km of work achieved within the original budget. Efficiencies were gained through reduced haulage times and optimised use of construction plant. The Director of Infrastructure Services noted that the project finished with approximately $130,000 remaining in the budget, proving that new efficiency standards and targets are working.Council resolved to support Griffith City Council in its advocacy regarding governance issues at the Murrumbidgee Local Health District and will write to the Health Minister requesting inclusion in future meetings.A resident's request for a footpath on Moore Street, Hillston, to improve safety for schoolchildren was noted. Council decided to defer the request to the 2026/27 budget process to allow for proper costing.

In October 2025, detectives attached to Murrumbidgee Police District commenced an investigation into online child abuse videos.As part of ongoing inquiries, investigators stopped a vehicle at Hay, seizing a mobile phone.The occupant, a 57-year-old man was arrested and taken to Hay Police Station.A search warrant was subsequently executed at a home on Cadell Street, where electronic devices, firearms and ammunition was seized.The man was later charged with possess child abuse material, disseminate child abuse material, six counts of possess unauthorised firearm, six counts of possess unregistered firearm-not pistol/prohibited firearm, and possess ammunition w/o holding licence/permit/authority,He is due to appear in bail division – court 5 today (Thursday 4 December 2025).NSW Police Force arrest video

A man has been charged with driving while disqualified after allegedly fleeing from police and hiding in bushland near Yanco on Friday afternoon.At 1:32pm on Friday, 28 November, police were conducting proactive patrols in the Yanco township when an officer observed a silver Ford Falcon utility travelling on Irrigation Way. Police conducted a U-turn behind the vehicle and caught up to it approximately one kilometre outside the Yanco township.As officers approached, they stopped the utility on the side of Irrigation Way. Police will allege the driver exited the driver's seat of the vehicle, jumped into a small dried-up canal and ran into nearby bushland. He was wearing a bright blue t-shirt at the time.Officers called out to the man several times, however, he continued attempting to hide. Police searched the area and eventually located the man concealed in the bushland.Officers will further allege that when they cautioned and questioned the man in relation to his driving, he admitted he had panicked and run from police. The man also allegedly admitted to being aware of his licence disqualification, having been charged for the same offence two weeks prior to this incident.The man was subsequently charged with driving while disqualified.

Two exceptional Crown land managers from western New South Wales have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to their local communities at the 2025 NSW/ACT Community Achievement Awards.Bogan Gate Recreation Reserve Land Manager and Balranald Shire Council were honoured for their excellence in Crown land management, receiving awards supported by Crown Lands in the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure on 1 December 2025.Bogan Gate Recreation Reserve Land Manager won the Crown Land Management Excellence Award for revitalising the reserve through community-led upgrades that have transformed it into the social and sporting heart of the small rural township. The impressive transformation includes resurfaced tennis courts, new lighting and fencing, and an upgraded clubhouse featuring Wi-Fi and accessible facilities. The reserve now hosts junior and senior tennis programmes, the town's first women's netball team, social events and community resilience initiatives delivered in partnership with the NSW Rural Fire Service. The award recognises land managers whose stewardship has improved and enhanced a Crown reserve for public benefit.Balranald Shire Council received the Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award for transforming Heritage Park Reserve, known as the Balranald Discovery Centre precinct, into a vibrant destination for tourism, learning and community connection. The council's extensive upgrades included a technology refurbishment of the Interpretive Pavilion, introducing interactive storytelling and touchscreen displays that celebrate local history and Aboriginal heritage. The council was also recognised for constructing the Discovery Pavilion, which offers flexible space for exhibitions, workshops and cultural events. The precinct encompasses a visitor centre, museum, Men's Shed, café, playground and skate park that engage both visitors and locals alike.Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper congratulated this year's award winners and finalists for their remarkable dedication, noting that Crown land managers are often the beating heart of communities. He praised the winners and finalists for demonstrating real passion and skill in caring for public land, with achievements ranging from restoring and reactivating sites to improving and enhancing facilities, and ensuring local reserves are welcoming and accessible to everyone.Crown land represents public land for the entire community to enjoy, encompassing parks and nature reserves, beaches and holiday parks, sports venues and showgrounds, community halls and museums. These spaces are essential to community life whilst also supporting local tourism and businesses.Across New South Wales, 540 volunteer land manager boards comprising over 2,600 individuals volunteer their time caring for more than 700 reserves. Additionally, 6,500 Crown reserves are managed by 128 local councils across the state.Those interested in managing a Crown reserve in their community can view current board vacancies on the Crown Lands website.

Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation is celebrating a significant milestone in 2025, marking 30 years of providing essential health services to Aboriginal communities across far west New South Wales.The organisation's origins trace back to the Murdi Paaki Regional Council, which later became the Murdi Paaki Regional Assembly, the peak Aboriginal governance body for the Murdi Paaki Region representing the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across western NSW. The region spans from Collarenebri in the northeast to Dareton and Wentworth in the south, covering an area the size of the United Kingdom.Maari Ma was established in 1995 as a strategic initiative of the Murdi Paaki Regional Council to address the critical shortage of Aboriginal health services in far west NSW, where Aboriginal health outcomes were extremely poor. The organisation was founded in close cooperation with the Far West Area Health Service, which at the time was the most remote Area Health Service in NSW with the smallest population and the highest percentage of Aboriginal people.William 'Smiley' Johnstone became Maari Ma's first regional director, leading a small team of just three people. Under a unique cooperative partnership agreement with the Far West Area Health Service called the Lower Western Sector Agreement, Maari Ma took over management of health facilities in the Lower Western Sector outside of Broken Hill, including Tibooburra, Wilcannia, Menindee, Ivanhoe, Wentworth, Dareton and Balranald. Over the 18 years of this agreement, Maari Ma steadily grew in both staff numbers and influence.The transformation has been remarkable. Today, Maari Ma employs more than 120 staff across four communities, delivering health services through the Maari Ma Primary Health Care Service in Broken Hill, the newly built Wilcannia Health and Wellbeing Centre, and the Bes Murray Community Centre in Balranald. Staff are also located at Far West Local Health District's Menindee Health Service, with outreach services provided to Ivanhoe Health Service. The organisation also operates the Wings Youth Drop In Centre in Wilcannia and delivers numerous programmes focused on early childhood development and supporting parents to be their child's first teacher.As a proudly Aboriginal community controlled organisation, Maari Ma's Board of Directors is drawn from communities across the Maari Ma region, ensuring local voices guide decision making.The 30th anniversary year has been marked by several significant developments. In September 2025, Maari Ma held a formal celebration event in Broken Hill featuring a three-course meal, comedian and live band. The organisation has received public recognition for its achievements from bodies including the Western NSW Primary Health Network, with its work also highlighted during NAIDOC Week celebrations.A major milestone in this anniversary year is Maari Ma's partnership with the NSW Government to build a new Aboriginal Child and Family Centre in Broken Hill, which will focus on early childhood education and family wellbeing. Additionally, the Maari Ma Indigenous Art Awards are also celebrating their 30th anniversary this year.Workforce development has been a cornerstone of Maari Ma's success, with a strong focus on creating a culturally safe environment and supporting the training and development of Aboriginal people into qualified health professionals. Many staff members have built long careers within the organisation, contributing to its deep community connections and understanding.Looking ahead, Maari Ma's strategic plan emphasises continuing to improve access to health services with particular focus on adult chronic disease, maternal and child health, and social and emotional wellbeing. The organisation remains committed to strengthening partnerships with other organisations and community leaders to continue improving the health of Aboriginal people in the region.Beyond health service delivery, Maari Ma aspires to build on Aboriginal knowledge of land, culture and family to provide opportunities for healing and building strength. The organisation is dedicated to supporting young people to understand and operate confidently in the mainstream community whilst remaining secure in their knowledge of who they are and where they come from.As the organisation enters its fourth decade, its founding principle remains steadfast: Aboriginal people are best placed to tackle their own challenges and create their own future, and Maari Ma is determined to play its part in making this vision a reality.Community members and supporters are encouraged to keep an eye on Maari Ma's website for celebration events throughout this special anniversary year.

A devastating fire that destroyed 30 classrooms at Deniliquin High School in the early hours of Saturday morning has shocked the Riverina community, but the response has been marked by remarkable solidarity and swift action to ensure students can continue their education.Emergency services were called to the school on Harfleur Street at approximately 12:45am on Saturday, November 29, after reports of a building alight. About 50 firefighters from Fire and Rescue NSW spent roughly 14 hours battling the blaze and extinguishing hot spots, with crews arriving from Deniliquin, Finley, Moama, Tocumwal and Jerilderie, along with a specialist truck from Albury. The Rural Fire Service, police and ambulance services also attended the scene.FRNSW Superintendent Stewart Alexander reported that the fire first engulfed classrooms used for metalwork and woodwork before spreading to the library, causing major damage. Despite the extensive destruction, 18 classrooms remained undamaged. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.A crime scene was established immediately, with specialist fire investigators travelling from Sydney on Saturday afternoon to work alongside NSW Police in examining the scene. The investigation was conducted under Strike Force Soderblom, and police confirmed on Monday that the fire was being treated as suspicious.Following extensive inquiries, detectives arrested two juvenile males, aged 15 and 16, on Monday, December 1. Both teenagers were taken to Deniliquin Police Station and charged with aggravated break and enter and destroy property by fire in company. They were granted strict conditional bail and are scheduled to appear before a children's court on Wednesday, December 10 2025.Murray MP Helen Dalton visited the site on Monday and met with Principal Glen Warren, along with Principal Director of Education Leadership Derek Noffke, Mayor Ashley Hall, Edward River General Manager Jack Bond and Chief Inspector Michael Fuller from Deniliquin Police Station. She praised the incredible support from across the community, noting that people had stepped up immediately to offer help, space and supplies.The school has moved quickly to establish arrangements that will allow students to complete the academic year. Support classes will now be held at Edward Public School, whilst Year 11 students will continue their studies at TAFE in the connected Learning Centre, with buses organised for transport. Years 7, 8 and 9 will work from home using online learning resources that have been maintained since COVID. Students who are unable to learn from home can work from Deniliquin South School.Communication channels have been prioritised, with school phones reinstated and operating between 8am and 5pm. The school has committed to holding meetings every afternoon, with information to be distributed via email. The NSW Department of Education is working with TAFE NSW and other agencies to arrange alternate accommodation, with arrangements expected to be finalised by Tuesday, December 2.A NSW Department of Education spokesperson confirmed that the site would be made safe before students and staff could return, and emphasised the department's commitment to standing up replacement facilities as soon as possible. The department is also offering support to the Deniliquin school community as it processes the shock of the incident.For more information regarding the school's operations during this period, the community is encouraged to monitor the school's website and Facebook page.

A Griffith man and a Leeton man have each been fined for allegedly failing to obey restrictions during a total fire ban, according to the Rural Fire Service.Following the total fire ban declared on Wednesday, November 26, two infringement notices were issued in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area district.The RFS says a Bilbul man ignited a pile burn at around 9am that day and has been fined $2200 for failing to comply with a total fire ban order. The man is also accused of not applying for a fire permit during the bush fire danger period and could have faced an additional fine of up to $1100.Meanwhile, a Leeton man was issued an infringement notice and fined $2200 for allegedly using an angle grinder without an exemption. The RFS says he was also without any firefighting equipment in place on the total fire ban day.The RFS says the fines are an example of how seriously it takes days of extreme fire danger rating and total fire bans. On those days, fires can start quickly, rapidly burn with intensity and become hard to handle.RFS District Manager Scott Connor said total fire bans are put in place to protect communities and firefighters from the devastating impacts of fire. He urged everyone to take warnings seriously and comply fully with all restrictions, noting that non-compliance puts lives, homes and livelihoods at risk and enforcement action will be taken where necessary.The incidents serve as a reminder that both pile burning and the use of equipment such as angle grinders are prohibited activities during total fire ban days unless specific exemptions apply. Property owners using such equipment are also required to have appropriate firefighting equipment readily available during the bush fire danger period.Total fire bans are declared when weather conditions create extreme fire danger, typically involving a combination of high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds. During these bans, no fires may be lit in the open and a range of activities that could spark fires are prohibited.The Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, with its mix of agricultural land and residential properties, faces particular fire risks during hot, dry conditions. Pile burns of agricultural waste and the use of power tools that create sparks are common activities that become dangerous when fire conditions are extreme.The bush fire danger period, during which additional restrictions and permit requirements apply, runs through the warmer months when vegetation is dry and fire risk is elevated. During this period, anyone planning to light a fire in the open must first obtain a permit from the RFS, and all fires must comply with permit conditions including having firefighting equipment available.Enforcement of fire ban restrictions has become increasingly strict as authorities work to prevent catastrophic fires. The penalties reflect the serious risks that non-compliance creates, not only for the individuals involved but for entire communities and the firefighters who must respond to any blazes that result.

Dog breeders across New South Wales are facing significant regulatory changes as new laws designed to combat puppy farming and improve animal welfare come into effect from December 1st, 2025.The amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 and the Companion Animals Act 1998 apply to everyone who breeds dogs in NSW, whether experienced breeders or those with a single accidental litter. The changes represent the most comprehensive overhaul of dog breeding regulations in decades.From December 1st, anyone breeding dogs must obtain a breeder identification number or rehoming organisation number through the NSW Pet Registry. This requirement applies regardless of breeding frequency or intent, closing a previous loophole that allowed casual breeders to operate without oversight.Female dogs will be limited to five litters in their lifetime, with no more than three of those litters delivered by caesarean section. If a dog has already had two caesareans, any additional pregnancy requires veterinary approval. The regulation aims to protect breeding dogs from the physical toll of excessive pregnancies and surgical deliveries.Premises housing breeding dogs face new restrictions. A maximum of 20 non-desexed female adult dogs over six months of age may be kept at any location unless an exemption has been granted. The regulation includes some exceptions for specific circumstances, which breeders can apply for through the appropriate channels.Staffing ratios represent another significant change. There must be at least one staff member for every 20 dogs on the premises. Staff can include owners, employees or volunteers, but must be at least 14 years of age. For ratio calculation purposes, a dog over 12 weeks counts as one dog, whilst an entire litter of dogs under 12 weeks of age counts as one dog. This applies to both males and females.Advertising requirements have also been strengthened. When a dog is advertised for sale or transfer, the advertisement must include the dog's microchip number and the seller's breeder identification number or rehoming organisation number. Some exceptions apply to this requirement, though the NSW Government has not detailed all circumstances where exemptions would be granted.The breeder identification number system undergoes changes on December 1st. Two new eligibility classes will be introduced for dog and cat breeders. Existing breeder identification numbers issued before this date will not be cancelled or reissued but will be updated with either active cat breeder eligibility or inactive dog breeder eligibility.Dog breeders with an existing breeder identification number must activate their dog breeder eligibility. Numbers issued after December 1st, 2025 will automatically have both classes activated. The distinction between active and inactive status allows the registry to track who is currently breeding versus who holds historical breeding credentials.Anyone responsible for a dog that becomes pregnant must obtain a breeder identification number, even if the pregnancy was unintentional. If pregnancy occurs unexpectedly, the person in charge must apply for a number within 14 days of becoming aware of the pregnancy, or within seven days after the dog gives birth.The NSW Pet Registry provides the easiest pathway for compliance. Breeders can log in or create an account to apply for a breeder identification number or activate dog breeder eligibility. The online system allows breeders to manage all pet related tasks, including creating litter records, uploading images and details for each litter pet, sending litters for microchipping directly to vets, and instantly transferring ownership.For those unable to access online services, offline application forms are available for download from the NSW Pet Registry website. The Office of Local Government reviews applications within 20 business days and notifies applicants of outcomes via email. Incomplete applications may result in processing delays.Cat breeders receive different treatment under the new system. Breeder identification numbers are not mandatory for cat breeders, though those who manage litters online through the NSW Pet Registry will be issued a number. Cat breeder eligibility under the new system requires no action from existing cat breeders.The regulations aim to address longstanding concerns about puppy farming practices in NSW. Animal welfare advocates have long argued that unregulated breeding contributes to animal suffering, with dogs kept in poor conditions and bred excessively for profit. The new laws attempt to balance legitimate breeding operations with animal welfare protections.Industry reaction has been mixed. Established breeders generally support measures that professionalise the sector and eliminate unscrupulous operators. However, some smaller breeders express concern about compliance costs and administrative burdens, particularly the staffing ratio requirements which may affect family operations.The prohibition on unlimited breeding addresses veterinary concerns about the health impacts of excessive pregnancies. Multiple caesarean sections carry cumulative risks for dogs, and the lifetime limit of five litters allows for sustainable breeding whilst protecting animal welfare.Enforcement mechanisms for the new laws include inspections, penalties for non-compliance, and potential prohibition orders preventing individuals from breeding dogs. The NSW Government has indicated it will take a graduated approach to enforcement, initially focusing on education before moving to penalties for persistent non-compliance.For more information about the new laws, breeders can contact the NSW Pet Registry helpline via email at [email protected], call 1300 134 460, or visit petregistry.olg.nsw.gov.au. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development also provides resources at dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/animals/animal-welfare/pets/dogs.The changes represent a significant shift in how dog breeding is regulated in NSW, with implications for everyone from large commercial operations to families with a single breeding dog. Compliance before the December 1st deadline is essential to avoid penalties and continue breeding activities legally.

Griffith has earned unexpected national recognition, ranking sixth in Time Out's list of Australian cities with the cleanest air, according to data from housfresh.com. The accolade arrives at a time when wellness tourism is booming and travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer respite from polluted urban environments.The recognition positions the Riverina city as more than just Australia's food bowl, elevating its status as a genuine wellness destination where clean air and open landscapes provide the foundation for rejuvenation and reconnection with nature.Visit Griffith has embraced the recognition, highlighting how the region's air quality aligns perfectly with growing demand for health focused travel experiences. Clean air, once taken for granted in regional areas, has become a marketable commodity as city dwellers seek environments where they can literally breathe easier.Local wellness experiences are capitalising on this natural advantage. Yarran Wines offers Sip and Stretch yoga sessions among the vineyards, combining the physical benefits of yoga with the mental clarity that comes from practicing outdoors in pristine air. The juxtaposition of stretching between grapevines whilst breathing some of Australia's cleanest air creates an experience that urban yoga studios simply cannot replicate.Nature based activities throughout the region take on added appeal with the clean air recognition. Jack's Creek in Cocoparra National Park, already popular for bushwalking, now attracts visitors specifically seeking the health benefits of forest bathing in unpolluted environments. The Japanese practice of shinrin yoku, or forest bathing, has gained scientific backing for its stress reduction benefits, and Griffith's clean air amplifies these effects.Modern wellness venues including Haus of Vitality and Luxe Vitae offer self care experiences that benefit from the region's environmental quality. Treatments and therapies take place in an area where the air itself contributes to wellbeing, rather than working against it as in polluted urban centres.The timing of this recognition proves particularly valuable for regional tourism. As Australian cities grapple with increasing pollution and environmental concerns, regional areas with documented clean air gain competitive advantages in attracting wellness conscious travellers. Griffith now has quantifiable data to support what locals have always known, that the air here is different.The city's agricultural heritage, traditionally focused on food production, now serves dual purposes. Vineyards and orchards not only produce wine and fruit but also contribute to the landscape aesthetics and air quality that wellness tourists seek. The same farming traditions that earned Griffith its food bowl reputation now underpin its emergence as a wellness destination.Griffith's cultural diversity, stemming from its Italian heritage and multicultural community, adds depth to the wellness offering. Visitors can experience clean air and calm landscapes alongside authentic food experiences and cultural connection, creating a holistic approach to wellbeing that extends beyond simple relaxation.The Riverina location positions Griffith as accessible yet remote enough to feel like an escape. At roughly five hours drive from Sydney and six from Melbourne, it occupies the sweet spot for weekend wellness retreats. City dwellers can reach genuinely clean air without committing to extensive travel, making regular visits feasible rather than once off experiences.Tourism operators across the region are recognising opportunities to leverage the clean air recognition. Accommodation providers are emphasising outdoor spaces and fresh air access. Restaurants are highlighting alfresco dining where patrons can enjoy excellent food whilst breathing excellent air. Wineries are promoting outdoor tastings and vineyard walks as wellness activities rather than purely gastronomic experiences.The recognition also provides Griffith with a tangible point of difference in competitive regional tourism markets. Whilst many areas can claim beautiful landscapes or quality food and wine, having documented evidence of superior air quality creates a unique selling proposition that is difficult for other destinations to challenge.As wellness tourism continues growing, with projections suggesting it will become one of the fastest expanding tourism sectors globally, Griffith's clean air recognition positions the region to capture significant market share. The intersection of environmental quality, agricultural abundance and emerging wellness infrastructure creates conditions for sustained tourism growth focused on health and rejuvenation.For a region traditionally known for what it grows, being recognised for the quality of what visitors breathe represents a significant evolution in Griffith's tourism narrative, one that promises to attract a new generation of travellers seeking wellness, connection and genuinely clean air.

A controversial federal proposal to reduce default speed limits on unmarked country roads from 100 kilometres per hour to as low as 70 kilometres per hour has been scrapped following overwhelming opposition from regional communities.Member for Barwon Roy Butler, who launched a petition against the proposal, met with Federal Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain to discuss the impact the speed limit reduction would have had on country road users.The proposal, which stemmed from a 2018 road safety agenda and was formally consulted on in late 2024, was abandoned on Friday, November 21 following a meeting of infrastructure and transport ministers. Federal Transport Minister Catherine King confirmed that no further work would proceed on the plan.Roy Butler's petition attracted nearly 3,000 signatures in just two weeks, demonstrating the strength of feeling in regional communities. The petition was part of a broader wave of opposition that saw more than 11,000 individual submissions made to the Department of Infrastructure rejecting the proposal.Butler had stood up in Parliament to oppose what he described as a nanny-state idea, arguing the change would have meant longer trips, less time for family and work, and increased isolation for country people.The proposal would have affected unsigned roads outside built-up areas, many of which are unsealed or poorly maintained rural roads. While road safety experts argued the lower speeds would save lives, critics including the National Farmers' Federation, the Country Mayors Association of NSW, and thousands of regional residents slammed the idea as a lazy substitute for proper investment in regional road maintenance.Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said the decision to drop the plan was an admission the government had failed to deal with the real issue of fixing the roads. He described cutting speed limits as a lazy substitute for real road investment, arguing that road safety would not improve until the government invested in the roads themselves by fixing them and filling potholes.Country Mayors Association Chairman and Temora Shire Mayor Rick Firman described the proposed 30 kilometres per hour reduction as beyond excessive and warned it could undermine confidence in the legitimacy of road safety policy.Butler thanked everyone who signed the petition and acknowledged NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison for listening to country voices and helping stop the damaging proposal, demonstrating that when country people stand together, they can make a difference.The road toll remains a serious concern, with 1,294 deaths recorded on Australian roads in 2024, representing a 10 per cent increase in fatalities between 2020 and 2024. More than 65 per cent of deaths over the last decade have occurred outside major cities, with 85 per cent of those on roads with speed limits at or above 80 kilometres per hour.

Landholders and community members can now easily report sightings of pest animals, weeds or disease online at any time through a simple digital form.The Pastoral Association of West Darling is encouraging residents to report pests on their own property or elsewhere, with the option to submit reports anonymously if preferred.Reporting pest sightings plays a crucial role in attracting funding for control work across the region. Without reports, assistance cannot be secured for pest management programs.The reporting system allows community members to contribute to regional biosecurity efforts by documenting pest activity, helping authorities understand the extent and location of pest issues across the West Darling area.Reports can be made at any time by visiting the online form at forms.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au/forms/9247.The association emphasises that no reports means no assistance, making community participation vital for securing resources to manage pest animals, weeds and disease in the region.

Balranald Shire Council is inviting residents and local businesses to have their say on a proposed footpath connecting Euston Public School to the Recreational Reserve.The Council is seeking funding to construct the footpath as part of a broader project to encourage active transport and provide safer pedestrian connections in the community.The proposed project includes upgrading the current narrow footpath from Euston Public School to Selwyn Street, constructing a new footpath from Selwyn Street to the Recreational Reserve, and installing crossings across Selwyn Street and Cowper Street.Council is calling on residents and local businesses to provide feedback to strengthen the grant application and demonstrate community support for the initiative.The consultation closes on Monday, 8 December 2025. Community members can show their support by scanning the QR code to complete the online consultation form, or by visiting the form directly at https://forms.office.com/r/6vwcX4ff8u.

Not-for-profit organisations across the Far West have until Monday to apply for grants of up to $5,000 to bring creativity and culture to their communities.The Country Arts Support Program Organisations Round is now open, offering funding for community arts projects that employ artists to deliver meaningful creative experiences.The program is available to a wide range of incorporated community organisations, including local collectives and arts groups, school and P&C associations, village committees and progress associations, health and wellbeing groups, and sporting clubs.CASP funding can be used to employ artists for various projects, such as community murals celebrating local stories, creative workshop series covering painting, theatre, photography or music, film or digital storytelling projects, and youth arts programs.Examples of eligible projects include a village committee hiring a local artist to work with residents on a new mural, or a school group collaborating with an artist on creative workshops.Applications close at 5.00pm on Monday, 1 December 2025.The individual artist round will open in February 2026.Community organisations interested in applying can find more information and submit applications at westdarlingarts.com.au/2025/10/2026-CASP-ORGANISATION-GRANTS-OPEN.

Broken Hill's Mundi Mundi Bash and local photographer Adam Edwards have been recognised at the NSW Tourism Awards, bringing home gold and bronze medals respectively.The Mundi Mundi Bash, which has been running annually at Belmont Station near Silverton since 2022, won gold in the Major Festival and Event category. Festival founder Greg Donovan thanked the hardworking staff and volunteers, as well as every Basher who has been with them since the beginning.Meanwhile, Adam Edwards, who has received several accolades for his photography and workshops across the state and internationally, picked up bronze in the Cultural Tourism category.The awards recognise excellence in tourism experiences across New South Wales, with both recipients showcasing the diverse cultural and event offerings available in the Broken Hill region.The recognition highlights the growing reputation of far western NSW as a destination for major events and unique tourism experiences.

Community members gathered recently in the main street of Griffith to remember the 59 known women and children in Australia who have tragically lost their lives to violence during 2025, and to stand for all those who have gone before them.The Memorial Vigil, held during the 16 Days of Activism, was organised by Linking Communities Network, which runs essential local services including the Women's Refuge, the local Domestic Violence Committee, and Soroptimist International Griffith.The event was attended by State MP Helen Dalton, Mayor Doug Curran, councillors and members of Griffith City Council, police representatives from the Local Area Command, Soroptimist International President Pat Cox and many SI members, friends, family and supporters, and a large number of community members, including ladies from the Inner Wheel Club of Yenda.Organising participants stood in silent vigil throughout the morning and again in the afternoon. Between these vigils, Auntie Dorothy welcomed all to country, and MP Helen Dalton and Mayor Doug Curran were invited to speak by SI's Libby Trembath.They joined Linking Communities Network CEO Kirrilly Salvestro and SI President Pat Cox in acknowledging the work being done in the community, and sharing words of encouragement to always say no to violence, to stand up for women and children, to be aware of the measures that can be taken, and to call out behaviour that can lead to tragic circumstances.The organisers appreciated the support and attendance of so many at the vigil, which highlighted the community's commitment to ending violence against women and children.

Police are appealing for public assistance following the theft of a diesel fuel trailer from a rural property at Tabbita in the Murrumbidgee Police District.The Rural Crime Prevention Team at Griffith is investigating the theft, which occurred on Bringagee Road, Tabbita between 10.00pm on Sunday, 16 November and 7.00am on Monday, 17 November 2025.The stolen fuel cart is a dual axle trailer with a dark blue frame and a white 1,500 litre diesel tank. It is fitted with a Honda pump and hose reel on the rear.Anyone with information that may assist in identifying who stole the trailer, its current location, or any other relevant details is urged to contact their local police station, the Rural Crime Investigators at Griffith Police Station on 6969 4352, or Crime Stoppers NSW on 1800 333 000.Information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Balranald Shire Council has been recognised with the NSW Government Crown Land Management Excellence Award for its transformation of the Heritage Park Reserve into a thriving destination for tourism, learning and community connection.The Heritage Park Reserve, known as the Balranald Discovery Centre precinct, has undergone significant upgrades that have created a vibrant hub celebrating local culture and history.Major improvements include a $50,000 technology refurbishment of the Interpretive Pavilion, which introduced interactive storytelling and touchscreen displays celebrating local history and Aboriginal heritage. The precinct also features the newly constructed $700,000 Discovery Pavilion, offering flexible space for exhibitions, workshops and cultural events.The precinct includes a visitor centre, museum and café that engage visitors and locals alike, creating opportunities for cultural education and community gathering.By blending modern infrastructure with rich heritage, Balranald Shire Council has created a space that celebrates culture, fosters connection and supports regional economic sustainability.The award, presented by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, recognises excellence in the management and development of Crown land across the state.

Large sections of Deniliquin High School have been destroyed by fire after a blaze that began in the early hours of Saturday morning required more than three hours to bring under control, with specialist fire investigators now examining the scene.The fire started about 12.40am in the two-storey building on Harfleur Street, first engulfing classrooms used for metalwork and woodwork before spreading to the library and causing major damage, according to Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Stewart Alexander.Fire and Rescue NSW trucks from Deniliquin, Finley, Moama, Tocumwal and Jerilderie attended the incident, along with a specialist truck from Albury, as well as Rural Fire Service crews, police and ambulance. An estimated 50 firefighters were at the scene at the peak of the blaze.The most visible damage is to the building at the corner of Wellington and Henry streets, with the Henry Street corridor and sections wrapping around to the school oval visibly gutted by flames. The affected areas traditionally house classrooms for mathematics, design and technology, science and English, as well as the high school library.Superintendent Alexander said access proved difficult and dangerous for firefighters. Strong winds hampered efforts throughout the morning, with crews hoping to deploy a drone for aerial assessment once conditions eased.Nearby residents reported hearing loud bangs as the fire was at its worst, with flames leaping high into the air as the blaze took hold.NSW Police from Murray River Police District have established a crime scene, with specialist fire investigators travelling from Sydney to assess the cause. Superintendent Alexander said the level of damage made determining the cause very difficult. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.In a social media post on Saturday morning, Deniliquin High School staff expressed their sadness. "We are deeply saddened by the catastrophic fire at school overnight," the post read. "As we know more, we will communicate with our school community. We thank the many firefighters, emergency services, police and ambulance personnel who assisted on site."The school, which has approximately 450 students from Year 7 to Year 12, faces a significant rebuilding task ahead.