Raw Water - BalranaldEmergency works are needed to be carried out to the raw water valves in Balranald."We will do these works in two stages on Thursday 13 February 2025 (Stage 1 from 10am - 12 noon and Stage 2 from 1pm - 3pm.)" a Council spokesperson said "Ttherefore there will be minimal disruption to your households."The following streets will be affected only from 10am - 12noon;Stage 1Church Street - from Water towers to Piper StreetDowling Street - from Moa Street to Piper StreetOÇonnor Street - from Moa Street to Piper StreetLily StreetMoa, Yuranigh Sydney and Piper Street from Church Street to OConnor Street.Stage 2Church Street from Moa Street to Piper Street raw water will be turned off again from 1pm - 3pm.Council apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Member for Parkes Mark Coulton's weekly catch upFree student broadband extendedWith many across the electorate already back in school or about to start school this week, now is a great time to remind families of the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI).Through this initiative the Australian Government aims to bridge the digital divide and expand educational opportunities for students who do not have home internet access.I am pleased to see SSBI has been extended, now offering free home internet to eligible families until 30 June 2028.To qualify, participants must:Have a child living at home that is enrolled in an Australian school;Not have an active NBN network internet service at home or in the past 14 days (having a mobile internet service does not affect eligibility); and,Live in a premises that can access the NBN network.This extension is available to all eligible families, whether they are existing participants of SSBI or new to the program.Only 30,000 places are available. To check your eligibility, call 1800 954 610 or visit: https://www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet/ .For more information, visit: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/internet/national-broadband-network/school-student-broadband-initiative-ssbi 2025 NAIDOC GrantsApplications for the 2025 NAIDOC Local Grants are now open to provide a co-contribution to the cost of activities and events being held around National NAIDOC Week (6 to 13 July 2025).Activities and events should align with the annual National NAIDOC Week theme The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.More InformationReturn to ParliamentParliament returned for the first sitting fortnight of 2025 last week. It was a bittersweet week for me, marked by the reality that it was my last ‘first week’ back in Canberra.Speculation on when the election will be called was rife within the walls of Parliament House, but it was still business as usual for me with plenty of meetings, debates and events to partake in.It is clear that the Labor Government has realised, on the slim chance that they do win the election, they’ll have nothing to do because they have spent their entire term in government happily announcing and opening projects which were funded by the previous Coalition Government. I suggested to the House that they could maybe have a sod-filling ceremony for the section of Inland Rail that they stalled; they could also have a game of cricket on the parched cotton fields where water has been diverted to win South Australian Senate votes; or perhaps they could even try beating a road train across the Newell Highway where funding was cut for the $44 million overpass at Moree. These suggestions were unfortunately laughed off by those in Government, because they are only interested in opportunities which make themselves look good. The truth is Labor only cares about making promises and then fails to deliver.On Wednesday I also took the opportunity to speak in the Federation Chamber on the closure of Wee Waa Hospital. The community of Wee Waa have been very angry and upset by the decision, and despite reassurances from the Independent State Member and the New South Wales Health Minister, there appears to be no action by Hunter New England Health. It's time for the leadership of Hunter New England Health to get their skates on, get in the car and come to Wee Waa to find a solution. Basic health care is something that all Australians should have access to, and I'm backing the people of Wee Waa on this.

Lilier Lodge accommodation in Wagga NSW isn't always solely for cancer patientsKaterina Pastellis and her family have been pleasantly surprised over the years, realising home away from home for cancer patients, Lilier Lodge, is not actually only there to support cancer patients and their families.Whenever vacancies allow, this haven will open its doors to people who are needing to be in Wagga for any medical reason.“I didn’t know of Lilier Lodge before I needed it, and it is a wonderful thing,” Katerina said.“It is only five minutes’ walk from the hospital and everything you could ever need. “My mother and father have stayed there while attending to various medical needs, and my husband Keith stayed there while I was undergoing a serious medical issue.“Even when I have had to go back to Wagga for check-ups, we have stayed there.”Katerina said the friendly and caring atmosphere at Lilier Lodge makes an incredible difference. “Being surrounded by people who are often going through much the same thing is comforting,” she said. “The staff also know what you are going through, and they are so kind and caring.”Katerina remembers the first time she needed to travel away; it was a scramble to find somewhere for Keith to stay while she was in hospital. It was especially hard as at the time the annual field days were on, leaving no accommodation options.“It just takes such a load off your mind, to know you and your family have somewhere to stay, and are not stranded or forced to battle the dangerous roads with kangaroos and wildlife,” she said.Lilier Lodge is an oasis, a friendly and welcoming place for people all over the district.It opened in 2004 and was purpose built by Can Assist and Cancer Council NSW, together with the support of local and regional communities. It is a not-for-profit 21 room accommodation facility which helps over 1400 people each year. The Lodge provides accommodation for people undergoing cancer treatment at nearby facilities including the Riverina Cancer Care Centre, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and Calvary Hospital. It is also a drop-in service for cancer patients who travel daily for their treatment and for community transport drivers while waiting for clients.The Lodge is also a meeting place for local volunteers and community groups. Guests can have family and friends come and visit while staying at Lilier Lodge.  As well as guest rooms, there are garden and communal lounge and dining areas that can be used for spending time with visitors.Wagga’s Lilier Lodge has won a national award for its outstanding support for recovering cancer patients.The cancer accommodation won the Thank You Small Business competition and will receive a new solar system valued at $13,000.The lodge landed the prize from 300 nominations and will receive a fully installed solar system for its business to a maximum of 10kW.Before this, the Lodge currently spent $16,000 a year on electricity but with the solar system it would receive a big boost, and the money saved on energy would be invested in improving guest accommodation.Lilier Lodge has received more than $7000 in funding from Riverina Water to upgrade the facility’s water irrigation system.At the end of 2024, Lilier Lodge released a fabulous cookbook, at the reasonable price of $25. The recipes were written by volunteers, guests and supporters of the Lodge. There is also a small store of gifts available for purchase.All items, many handmade, have been donated to raise money to support Lilier Lodge and its guests.Fundraising efforts over the years have included high teas, quilters groups and other crafters donating blankets, Heavenly Charity Masquerade Ball, garage sales, working bees, wooden platters, donations of foods for people staying at the lodge, and donations of goods to sell in their shop.The Lodge provides that extra bit of support and care cancer patients need during the harrowing treatment progress.All in the same boat, to be surrounded by other patients provides that extra bit of comfort.

A blank canvas for your new garden, boasting two lone mature trees (a Cedar in the vegetable garden and further away, a Peppercorn) and a few gums along the perimeter, red soil and the prospect of less than 300mm rainfall for the whole year.This is what Trish Palmer of ‘Overnewton’ near Darnick, north-west of Ivanhoe, faced after she and husband Philip rebuilt their house six years ago.Not to be beaten, Trish set out to create a lush garden for the whole family to enjoy.First to go in were more trees. Five Chinese Pistachios, 11 stately Manchurian Pears and Platypus Gums are scattered throughout the garden to provide welcoming shade.“I just started, and hoped for the best. A friend north of Broken Hill has Chinese Pistachios and I thought if it grew there, it would grow here,” Trish said.“I just wish I knew about Platypus Gums before. I would have started growing them long ago.”Always working within the conditions of their environment, a tough dwarf oleander hedge provides an informal boundary along the perimeter.There’s a rose arch bought by Phillip’s parents from the former Crisp and Halley store in Ivanhoe which remained in storage until Trish found a purpose for it in her new garden.A formal line of small-leaved saltbush topiary closer to the house lends a certain structure and grandeur to the surrounds.With grandchildren first and centre in Trish’s planning, there is much for them to enjoy, create or ‘just play’.Their favourite is the exploratory garden created by the family. “The first thing they want to do when they get here, is to check out the pond, the bird bath and the bird’s nest,” Trish said.The sandpit used by Phillip as a child remained intact while builders and tradespeople were milling around, his old Tonka toys neatly lined up.A mud kitchen sits under a tree, right next to the very important tap which ensures water is always on hand for ‘baking’. Old kitchen utensils complete this part of the children’s paradise.And then there are the bowerbird bowers; a must-see every time the grandchildren visit.“Those birds love the colour green,” Trish explained.“They pinch my parsley, take my silverbeet and we’ve even found green Christmas decorations in their bowers.“But that’s not all they collect. There are tech screws, a cartridge, tags and plenty of coloured glass pieces in one bower alone.“They are also excellent mimics, from barking like a dog to crying like a baby.”From scratch, Trish and Phillip have created a family home in an almost unforgiving part of Australia; a place where grandchildren are making lasting memories of a childhood filled with old-fashioned play, creating mud cakes and learning about animal behaviour; all within the safe sanction of their grandmother’s garden.

The latest catch-up news, from Member for Parkes Mark CoultonAustralia Day celebrationsIt was a pleasure to participate in Australia Day celebrations in Gunnedah, Boggabri and Narrabri this year. It’s always wonderful to see our communities come together on Australia Day to celebrate those people who contribute so much to our towns and villages and to welcome our newest Australian citizens.Congratulations to all of our new Australian citizens, as well as all of those deserving individuals and groups who received an Australia Day award this year. Thank you for all you do in helping make our communities the great places they are.Australia Day is a time of pride and nationalism in our country – for Australia and Australians to be united, not divided. It’s a day we can come together to celebrate how lucky we are to live on the best country on earth. Shadow Minister for Resources visitTerrific to have Shadow Minister for Resources Senator Susan McDonald join myself and Nationals candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey in Gunnedah last week.Gunnedah is one of the most productive areas of Australia, so the visit was a great opportunity to showcase to Senator McDonald the important role the region plays in Australia’s coal and agricultural production.We toured Whitehaven Coal’s Maules Creek Mine and Manildra Group’s Gunnedah Flour Mill and met with various local mining, agricultural and business stakeholders.Unfortunately, the resources and agricultural industries are being held back by the Labor Government through complex environmental laws, an unrealistic renewables push, high taxes and green tape. During her visit, Senator McDonald provided reassurance to the people who rely on jobs in mining and agriculture that a future Coalition Government will support those industries and wind back the policies that are threatening their job security as part of its plan to get Australia back on track.More support for RexLast week the Labor Government announced it would acquire $50 million of debt from Rex Airline’s largest creditor in an attempt to prevent the airline from going into liquidation. The Coalition is requesting a briefing on this decision to understand the details to ensure it’s in the best interest of the thousands of regional Australians who rely on Rex, including those in the Parkes electorate. We would like to see a bipartisan approach to the retention of regional aviation services. The Government needs to ensure that the regions are not cut off from the aviation services they need and deserve.Small business tax reliefOur regional communities are built on small and family businesses having a go. But our small businesses are struggling after three years under the Labor Government, with a record number of insolvencies, increased red tape and demands from union bosses and increasing electricity prices.The Nationals and Liberals understand that when small businesses thrive, our communities thrive, which is why the Coalition last week announced it will cut red tape for small businesses by introducing a capped tax deduction of $20,000 for business-related meal and entertainment expenses. Small businesses with a turnover of up to $10 million will be eligible for the measure which will run for an initial two years and be exempt from Fringe Benefits Tax. This is a win for the small businesses spending the money on their staff or clients, and a win for the hospitality venues who will see an increased spend in their businesses.The new deduction will apply to meal and entertainment expenses that have a connection with business activity and income, including dining and entertainment provided to clients, vendors, and employees. It’s a fiscally responsible downpayment on the Coalition’s commitment to lower, simpler, fairer taxes and rebuilding Australian businesses.

Central Darling Shire has congratulated the Australia Day award recipients from the township of White Cliffs."Congratulations to the Central Darling Shire Outstanding Community Service Award recipients recognised on Australia Day at White Cliffs," a Council spokesperson said. "The awards are an opportunity to acknowledge outstanding contributions by publicly thanking award winners in a spirit of community pride."Andrew White - Citizen of YearJai Atkins and Laim Taylor - Young Citizen/s of the Year (joint award)Ron Dowton - Service to the CommunityHayley Atkins – Service to the CommunityEnid Black - Volunteer of YearWhite Cliffs Camel Cup and Bikekhana - Outstanding Event"Thank you to the White Cliffs Community Association and everyone who contributed to the Australia Day celebration."

A community leader with more than four decades of service to Deniliquin, who passed away last year, was celebrated as Edward River Council’s 2025 Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards on Sunday. The late Bruce Simpson’s extraordinary life and profound legacy was honoured with the prestigious award, which was accepted by his wife Shandra.Edward River Council Deputy Mayor Kellie Crossley said Bruce’s community spirit and advocacy for the region made him a standout recipient.“Bruce’s life and dedication to the Deniliquin community was tragically cut short last year, but his legacy lives on as a testament to his decency, courage, and tireless leadership. Bruce embodied the qualities of a true Citizen of the Year, showing us all the power of cheerfulness, respect and courage in building strong and vibrant communities.”The 2025 Australia Day Ambassador was local media personality and former editor of The Pastoral Times Garry Baker.Award winners:The Junior Citizen of the Year was awarded to Bonnie Everett for her achievements in basketball and netball on a local and national level, as well as leadership and mentoring of other young people.Environmental Citizen of the Year – Bill & Elwyn Hermiston Memorial Award: Andrew JefferiesCommunity Group of the Year: Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group (Deni MHAG)Community Event or Initiative of the Year: Deniliquin Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC) - Lifting Health Outcomes ProgramSports Award: Matthew ThomasJunior Sports Award: Bonnie EverettArts & Culture Award: Jo NathanJunior Arts & Culture Award: Piper Brown

Good drivers behave for 12 months and have one demerit removed from recordIf you can behave on the road for the next 12 months, eligible drivers will have one demerit point scrubbed from their record.One million drivers who remained offence-free on the road over the past 12 months have just been rewarded for their contribution to safety with a demerit point scrubbed from their licence.In New South Wales, you can check if a demerit point has been removed from your driving record by logging into your MyServiceNSW account or using the Service NSW app. You can also call 13 77 88 or visit a Service NSW Centre. Motorists will begin to see their licence demerit tally updated from the second quarter of 2025.The results of the second year of the Minns Labor Government’s demerit point return scheme show drivers in car-reliant areas of regional NSW are some of the biggest beneficiaries this year. The scheme provides a rare ‘carrot’ for people to drive safely as a counterbalance to the longstanding ‘stick’ of fines, double demerits and the loss of licence.Almost 1.5 million drivers were eligible to have a demerit point removed when the second year of the trial started on January 17, with just over one million drivers remaining offence-free.There are now more than 420,000 drivers who have had a demerit point wiped two years running.As the scheme enters its third year, the NSW Government is making an important adjustment to the end date of the 12-month period which will in future run to 31 January starting in 2026.This means that drivers who are close to benefiting with a point will need to drive safely and offence-free throughout the critical month of January which has in the past been marred by holiday crashes and deaths.Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison warned that regional accidents make up more than two-thirds of all deaths on NSW roads, despite only a third of the population living in the regions.“Deaths and road trauma hit tight-knit regional and rural communities extra hard as everyone knows everyone and the grief, hurt and trauma impact even more widely,” she said.“For those drivers who may have demerit points from previous years, but who have managed to keep their driving record clean this year, there will be a demerit reward if they can maintain their improved driving behaviours.”

Robert Ronald’s work “The Riverina - People and Places” is an important record of the settlement of the region around Hay. It was first printed in Melbourne in 1960 by EW Cheshire Pty Ltd. Robert’s younger brother agreed to underwrite the printing costs, after publishers showed little interest in the tome, however the first print run of 1000 copies quickly sold out, and a second print run was organisedAlmost fifty years later Robert’s sons Wilson and Hugh worked with The Riverine Grazier’s Rod McCully to reproduce the book in 2004, with the inclusion of a forward, penned by the brothers.In the book, Robert writes about explorers Oxley, Throsby, Currie and Ovens, Hume and Hovell, Mitchell and Charles Sturt, and records the early settlements along the Lachlan, Murrumbidgee, Edward and Murray Rivers and the Yanko Creek.He wrote about pioneer families such as the Tysons and the Langs, and iconically Australian companies such as Cobb and Co. He also penned chapters on many important stations that emerged at the time: Nap Nap, Steam Plains, Caroonboon, Yanko and Culpataro to name but a few. More than 200 regional properties are listed in the index of the book, and and even greater number of individuals, who helped shape the district.The collection of history and photographs is so highly regarded that first edition copies of the 1960 edition sell in excess of $500.The Australian Dictionary of Biography offers the following summary of Robert Ronald’s life.“Robert Bruce (Bob) Ronald (1888-1956), grazier and soldier, was born on May 5, 1888 at Elsternwick, Melbourne, son of Robert Wilson Ronald, a Victorian-born grazier, and his wife Veronica Jane, née McGeorge, who came from England. Bob began his education in England before returning to Victoria, where he was sent to Geelong Church of England Grammar School and Dookie Agricultural College (Dip.Ag., 1907). He gained pastoral experience with the Australian Mercantile, Land & Finance Co. Ltd on Angledool (overseer 1910-12) and Charlton stations in northern New South Wales, then returned to Nap Nap, the family property and merino stud (Flock No.66) west of Hay.On 26 September 1914 Bob and his younger brother Kenneth enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force. Both left Australia as troopers in the 6th Light Horse Regiment and reached Gallipoli in May 1915; Bob was wounded and evacuated in June; Kenneth was killed there one month later. Bob Ronald served with his regiment in the Sinai and Palestine. He was commissioned in September 1916 and promoted lieutenant in December. In November 1917 he was wounded in the left eye, arm, thigh and ankle; he was awarded (1918) the Military Cross for his 'conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty'. Unfit for service, he returned to Australia in February 1918 and was discharged from the army on 3 August. He joined his father, brother Ian and sister Mrs S. C. McKehnie in running Nap Nap (42,000 acres, 16,997 ha) as a family company, R. W. Ronald & Co.At St Stephen's Presbyterian Church, Caulfield, Melbourne, on 23 April 1930 he married 24-year-old Gaie Chrisp.Ronald was a member of the Royal Australian Historical Society and a contributor to its Journal and Proceedings. Like his father, he was interested in the history of land settlement in the Riverina. Assisted by his father's investigations in the Mitchell Library, Sydney, he carried out extensive research in Sydney, Melbourne and the Riverina. He drew on official records, contemporary books, maps and newspapers, and published a number of articles in the Riverina Recorder (Balranald) and the Riverine Grazier (Hay).A series in the latter in 1929 was reprinted—with changes—in the Pastoral Review (February 1930-September 1931); five pieces on the 'Saltbush Plains of Western Riverina' appeared in 1934. These articles formed the basis of his authoritative reference work, The Riverina: People and Properties, which he had begun in 1939 during 'enforced idleness following an accident' and which he dedicated to the pioneers who had 'explored and occupied the land'.According to a friend, Ronald 'suffered from all that war means', but never complained. He was a member (1925-53) of Waradgery Shire Council and of the Graziers' Association of Southern Riverina, and was active in the development of flood control on the lower Murrumbidgee. (Selfless service meant that he finished up with the worst road in the shire). Well liked by all, he gave generously of his time and money to sporting, cultural and charitable organizations, especially in the Maude district. He belonged to the Australian and the Imperial Service clubs (Sydney) and the Waradgery Club (Hay). Survived by his wife and their two sons, he died of a coronary occlusion on 1 December 1956 at Hay and was buried in the local cemetery.”

Award winning luxury outback retreat Corynnia Station has opened up a unique opportunity for those on a working holiday.Bruce and Julie Armstrong, with TV chef Ed Halmagyi, in Corynnia Station's beautiful grounds.Julie and Bruce Armstrong own and manage the working cropping farm, and host guest from across the globe at their farmstay on Corynnia, near Carrathool, in the Riverina region of NSW.Since arriving as newlyweds in 1982, the pair have painstakingly developed a luxurious escape, boasting a garden oasis and bespoke accommodation.They raised their family and now share the farming business with son Hamish, the third generation to care for the lands.Julie’s father John Jones was the original visionary, having purchased the property in 1977 from British Tobacco (Naroo Pastoral Company).Now they are seeking a single traveller or grey nomad couple to join them at Corynnia. Applicants self-sufficient in a caravan or motor home, and will be invited to stay for at least a few months.“Pottering for a couple of hours, five days a week, checking the pool, caring for and picking veggies, some light repairs and garden work,” is how Julie describes the role.In exchange the hosts at Corynnia will provide a beautiful place to pull up and park, power, water and seasonal fruit and veg.Corynnia Station has been the location for filming of “Doing Time for Patsy Cline” starring Miranda Otto, Matt Day and Richard Roxburg, and hosted Better Homes and Gardens, Postcards and Sydney Weekender.The farmstay has also gathered several awards for excellence in hospitality from Trip Advisor and Booking.com.Please see the positions vacant section to apply.

Vinnies has started to shut its doors some days because there are not enough volunteersBalranald’s St Vinnies op shop is well known and loved in the district. People will make a point to drop their items off at the shop as well as shop there themselves.The shop is immaculate, as are the wares on offer. Everything is meticulously washed, ironed, and displayed well. The volunteers there are friendly, happy and very helpful.The problem is, volunteers for the shop in Balranald are so few and far between they have had to shut the shop on certain days, as there are not enough volunteers to open the shop.This means so much more than people can’t get what they really need for an affordable price. Simply fill out the application form on the Vinnies website, submit the form and wait for a contact from your preferred Vinnies store to arrange a start date.They are looking for anyone who is friendly, reliable, and respectful, willing to work within the St Vincent de Paul Society's ethos, able to use initiative and manage time well, and is positive and welcoming.You will sort and price donations, help with product displays, process sales at the cash register, keep the store and sorting area clean, design window displays, transport donations, and connect with customers.Sometimes the only conversation a person, particularly older people in the community, have in a day or even week is people they come across who serve them at the supermarket or the shops. You can make that count by having a laugh with people and being that friendly helpful person, they see.

Roy’s Roundup 20 January 2025  G’day folks,  Here we are nearly at the end of January, another year under way, and already things are starting to pick up pace after the festive season. I hope that everybody had a chance to get some down time, although I know that for some people working on the land, running their own businesses, working in health, policing or the emergency services finding that time can be hard. This year is shaping up to be a big one, with a Federal Election looming, it will be interesting to see what promises are made by both sides that will affect regional NSW and affect what happens in parliament this year.Even without that distraction there will be a lot happening in parliament this year. There are still plenty of issues we are working on and who knows what others we will see emerge through this year.Bus services survey Given the vast distances separating towns in Barwon, public transport plays a vital role in the lives of my constituents. Many people in Western NSW rely on buses to get them where they want to go. NSW Trainlink is proposing changes to the timetables and routes, based on passenger feedback, but they want more public input. They are asking people to take part in a survey  I urge anybody who relies on public transport to take part in the survey. The plan is to introduce the changes in 2026. Perilya Mine Fire Last week we heard news of a fire in the Perilya Mine at Broken Hill. Fortunately, workers who had been underground at the time were evacuated from the mine safely, but there were concerns about the cloud of gas and smoke over the city. An Emergency Operations Centre was set up in response, the Mine has a sub plan, as part of the New South Wales State Emergency Management Plan, to detail the arrangements and response to an emergency at the Mine.  It is yet to be confirmed, but the cause of the fire is thought to have been a polyurethane foam, often referred to as a “grout”, used in the mine. The fire occurred in a disused section of the mine that was in the process of being remediated and there was a chemical reaction with the foam believed to have caused the fire. The Emergency Operations Centre has been stood down with the Mine and the Resource Regulator back in control. The latest news I have, is that the fire is extinguished, but there are still smouldering timbers. However, Perilya have not yet returned to full operations. It is concerning that Miners are either using their leave entitlements or if they have exhausted their leave, or are a casual or contracted employee, they are not being paid.Power Outage Inquiry The power outages in the far west of NSW last year dominated the headlines for a time and left a lot of households and business in the region out of pocket. The inquiry that I requested be held into the outages is kicking off, so I would urge people to make a submission, so that we can hear from all affected members of the community. The Inquiry will cover a range of relevant issues relating to the outages, including how they happened and how effective were the measures taken by electricity providers in response to the loss of power. The inquiry will make recommendations on preparation and mitigation strategies that may help safeguard the Far West NSW in the future. Make a submissionManaging the bushI have spent a few days recently investigating forestry on both private and public land and learning about some of the factors that are hindering the industry. Timber is a renewable resource; the industry should be thriving in NSW. However, successive governments have politicised the industry and made it increasingly difficult for Australian forests to be managed and for timber to be used for local purposes. We once had a thriving industry in Barwon. In places like Baradine and Mendooran, these industries are now gone. The Australian bush has been actively managed for thousands of years through cultural burning. Active management encourages new growth, which is the preferred food for our native species and mitigates the risk of fires. The industry is highly regulated by the EPA and LLS, which control the monitoring and compliance. It creates jobs for regional and rural communities all the way down the supply line. I know forestry is not for everyone, but as someone who wants to see local manufacturing and industry in Australia, with tight regulations and rules. I'd rather we manage our land and harvest timber here than destroy landscapes overseas without regulation. I'd like to see better collaboration between government and industry and a return of active management to appropriate forests in Barwon. Seniors Local Achievement Awards Nominations are still open for the Seniors Local Achievement Awards. If you know someone in your community who has gone above and beyond, making a significant contribution, helping with inclusiveness and diversity, providing inspiration for others, I encourage you to nominate them for some well-deserved recognition. The awards will be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival running from March 11 to March 24. Download the nomination form HEREYou can return it to [email protected] Or by post to one of my electorate offices- Narrabri Office - 60 Maitland Street, Narrabri NSW 2390 Cobar Office - 11 Barton Street, Cobar NSW 2835 Broken Hill Office - 1/142 Argent Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 Alternatively, pop into the closest electorate office to grab a form and return it in person. Wee Waa Hospital Last week the people of Wee Waa rallied to continue to demand that the local hospital be returned to normal operating hours. I spoke to the Health Minister earlier this month and he continues to reaffirm his commitment to keep the hospital open and to return it to normal operation, with a Visiting Medical Officer and increased services.  The problem lies in recruitment of a VMO and full nursing staff for the hospital, which Hunter New England LHD has so far failed to do. It has been suggested that an inquiry is needed to work out why HNE has been unable to recruit staff, or to come to an agreement with a VMO. When Western LHD was confronted with a similar problem at Nyngan Hospital, going to reduced hours in October 2022, they engaged with the community working group formed to discuss the issues, they increased their recruiting efforts and by the beginning of 2024 they were back to normal operating hours. HNE were unwilling to engage with the Wee Waa Hospital Community Working Group and are showing a lack of interest in recruiting staff for the hospital. We have to ask the question why the HNE LHD efforts are failing, and we also must revisit the idea of splitting up HNE LHD, so that hospitals in New England have their own designated health district and are not having their resources drained to fill the needs of hospitals on the coast.  I have requested a meeting between the Minister and the Wee Waa Hospital Working Group. Gilgandra road upgrades A major problem in country towns that sit on major highways is the volume of heavy vehicle traffic they often have to deal with on their main street. Cars, bicycles, and pedestrians often must share the road with some big vehicles like road trains and B-doubles. It can be dangerous, it causes wear and tear on the roads, but it is also inefficient for our vital road transport vehicles, slowing them down along major routes. That is why it was great to hear that the state and federal governments have committed a total of $40 million to upgrade four major intersections in Gilgandra, which will help to take some of that heavy vehicle traffic away from the main street. The intersections on Hargraves Lane and Federation Street, where they intersect with the Newell, Oxley and Castlereagh highways, will be upgraded to increase freight productivity, reduce travel delays, and improve safety. If the experience of similar improvements in other towns is anything to go by, this investment will help reinvigorate the main street of Gilgandra. It is a recognition of the strategic importance of Gilgandra in the road network in this part of the world. 

People in need can get a helping hand from Feeding Friends and Secondbite in Broken HIllIf you need a helping hand or know someone who might need a hand, Secondbite is now available seven days per week across three different locations and organisations. People can collect free surplus bread, fruit and vegetables from Coles and Foodbank, from these locations:Visit the Seventh Day Adventist church hall at rear 333 Wolfram Street Broken Hill on Sundays from 2 to 3pm, Mondays 1 to 2pm, and Tuesdays 1 to 2pm (free clothing also available at this site). Visit Salvation Army, 196 Wolfram Street Wednesdays from 10am to 12pm, and Friday 11am to 12pm.Visit Feeding Friends at the Hope Centre, 385 Argent Street Thursdays 11am to 2pm and Saturdays 11am to 2pm.The Hope Centre also assists those in Wilcannia and Menindee through partnerships with locals in those areas.Feeding Friends is a project to help those who are homeless and living on the streets in and around Broken Hill NSW.What is Secondbite? SecondBite is a Leading Food Charity and Rescue organisation. Dedicated to Rescuing Surplus Food for Australian Charities, Community Groups & Food Banks Nationwide.In 2023 SecondBite rescued 25.2 million kilograms of food to provide more than 50 million meals.The effects of droughts, floods, fires, and the rising cost of living have caused the demand for food relief to soar. There’s still so much more to be done.For every dollar you donate, Secondbite distribute enough food for up to five meals.Visit https://secondbite.org/ for more information or to donate.

Clint Mawer’s amazing physical and mental journeyClint Mawer, 38, a welder, was living in Penrith in November 2024 when he decided to jump out of his fifth-floor window.He still has broken ribs, an injured shoulder, and can’t lie on his right side. A welder by trade, life was plodding along really well for Clint until a car accident began to unravel it all.“I was travelling along a country road and hit a kangaroo,” he said. “I was then laid up at home with a broken leg, with too much time to think about things, so my mental health began to suffer.”After a time, he had a relationship breakdown, was eventually evicted from his home, and in his own worlds, “Everything I ever wanted just slipped through my fingers.”Clint felt as though he needed to do a reset on life, to stop and truly listen to his intuition. Before this life changing part of his life, he had been fearful to share his struggles with others, as ‘men don’t cry,’ and to open up to people feels so much harder as men are taught to dismiss and discard their own feelings.“I felt as though I needed to get up and walk it off, so I did,” he said. “Something had to give and I needed to take advantage of my life, to really do something.“A line needed to be drawn, so I deal with these issues head on, to develop strategies for dealing with them so they do not have such a negative impact on my relationships and my life into the future. My go to strategy of isolating myself and pushing loved ones away needed to change.“I am learning so much about myself along this physical journey, and if it inspires others, that’s really wonderful.”If you want to support Clint in his journey, you can use your banking to send a donation to his PayId 0413975470. This trip was not planned, with many people intending to do these amazing charity and awareness walks planning months and sometimes years in advance. Clint, with the help of good friends, is still setting up his website and alternate donation option through the Black Dog Institute, which can sometimes be a little hard while he is on the road.Clint hauls his backpack along with him every day, which can weigh between 20 and 30 kilograms, depending how many supplies he has with him.He has a tarp and an inflatable mattress, the Life 360 app so his loved ones can track him, and the essentials, including toiletries.He picks up supplies from town to town, and will gratefully accept a can of coke or bottle of water, as many people who come across him on the road have offered.Clint, like many of us, suffers from social anxiety but makes it a point to interact with as many people as he can on his journey, to share his tale and listen to the tales of others. The empathy radiating from Clint is palpable.“People have harrowing tales of struggles and hardships, it is really touching,” Clint said. “The further you get rurally, the more stories you hear, the more you understand suicide and mental health struggles are so prevalent; many farmers and men in particular are so at risk.“It’s what keeps me going. To inspire others, to help where I can and to show people, we are all in this together.Yesterday, Clint travelled 45 kilometres in 10 hours. Concentrating on each individual victory at a time, Clint’s focus is Balranald, the next town on his trip. It will take Clint about four days to get to Balranald. Longer term, Clint is really keen to get home to Perth and hug his beloved mother, who has been a wealth of support. He also wants to visit his dear friend’s grave. His friend sadly committed suicide a couple of years ago, and living in Penrith, Clint had not had the chance to see his grave.“My driving forces are my mum, who I call religiously, and my 13-year-old son, Kyden,” Clint said.People like Clint who do things people would not normally do, give us a peek behind the curtain. They wake us up to what really matters. So often we get caught up in the day to day, we don’t often stop to think about what we want from life, or to check in with ourselves or others and ask, “Are we really ok?” So often it gets to the point where someone will end up trying to self-harm. Thanks for getting the message out there, Clint.

Looking back - Booroorban Centenary 1985Helen Milliken was a well known and loved lady in the district. She kept a meticulous pictorial record of aspects of life in Booroorban. Recently, her family generously gifted these to be displayed at the Booroorban Hall.The Booroorban Centenary was in 1985. A time capsule was sealed on April 6 1985, by Jim Small, M.P. for Murray.

Lottie Ryan shares her personal story, of taking part in the Outback Long Ride with Sarah Wheeler.By guest writer Lottie RyanWhen I first heard of “the girl who was riding through Hay for charity”, my immediate thought was how awesome that would be riding your horse through town. However, after more pondering, I realised how many people’s stories you hear about are similar to Sarah Wheeler’s. Less involving riding a whopping 5,500 kilometres around New South Wales and Queensland, but a hideous amount of people just like her, with family members or close friends being heartbreakingly taken from them by various cancers, including the upper GI cancers such as oesophageal cancer, stomach cancer, small bowel cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, and cholangiocarcinoma (also known as bile duct cancer). Cholangiocarcinoma took the life of Sarah’s mother, Therese Wheeler. As much as all advocacy is necessary, it is absurd that these rare, deadly cancers get so overlooked when it comes to fundraising and awareness, which demonstrates how pioneering, initiative, and courageous Sarah is, being able to utilise her own tragic grief, to motivate herself to keep going on her journey with her beautiful horses, Sally and Shifty. So, when the opportunity opened for me to ride alongside Sarah with my horse, it was a no-brainer that I took it up. Despite the fact that I am no morning person, there was something so special about being awake and with the horses at five o’clock in the morning, the peaceful calmness of the Earth slowly waking up, and watching the sun rise to the sound of the horses walking along. As we followed Sarah away from the floats at the start of the track, watching her ride off with her horses was so moving and inspiring, knowing she had been through so many extreme hardships at only 27 years of age, but still strives to make the best of each and every day. Having never done anything like riding across the bridge and through town before, the excitement and the calming sound of hooves clopping along the bitumen road, together, was so fulfilling, and a well-deserved cool off and drink for the horses at Sandy Point was secured. Apart from being exhausted and sore the next day, just a fraction of what Sarah has had to deal with since May 2024 when she set off on her big trek, I am incredibly grateful that I got the opportunity to meet such a determined, positive, strong, kind and inspiring person, let alone ride with her, in my teenage years. It is rare people get these lucky opportunities and experiences, as well as influence and inspiration from such people as Sarah Wheeler. Her life story has reminded me to be grateful for the small things in life and to take every opportunity that comes up, and appreciate it.Riding alongside her also refreshed my mindset into a positive frame, seeing her accomplish amazing achievements at such a young age, proving to myself and other young women that they can, too, accomplish anything they set their mind to. Thank you to Sarah Wheeler for allowing me to ride with you for that short stint of your journey, your effect on people in your tracks is immensely special and appreciated.Lottie is completing her secondary studies and is an avid writer. In 2024 she completed a stint of work experience with the teams from Back Country Bulletin and The Riverine Grazier.

Book in for your breast screening in Broken HillLook, we all know how uncomfortable and awkward breast screenings can be. I’m hearing you; I know what it’s like. But it is a necessary activity, one which you can walk away from satisfied because it is over and done with for two years.Broken Hill Health Service are holding free breast screens at their clinic, 176 Thomas Street in Broken Hill.They’ll be running these screens from Monday February 10 until Friday February 21.The radiographers are female and there is no referral needed.It is recommended women aged 40 and over have a breast screen every two years. It’s quick and easy and could save your life. At the end of the day, the cost of peace of mind is 20 minutes every two years.Early detection is so important. It allows for early treatment, which can increase treatment options and reduce illness and death. Screening can help to find breast cancers early when they are too small to see or feel. These cancers are usually easier to treat than larger ones.When breast cancer is detected early, the five-year relative survival rate is high.A mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer early for women over the age of 50.One in seven women in NSW will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and the risk of developing breast cancer increases with age.Visit http://book.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au or call 13 20 50 to book your free breast screen.

According to their website, the Pastoralists’ Association of West Darling (PAWD) is an agri-political lobby organisation, looking after the special interest of its wool, sheep cattle and goat producing members living in the pastoral regions of the Western Division of New South Wales.Established in 1907, the P.A.W.D. became a Union of Pastoral Employers, and was registered as such under the NSW Industrial Arbitration Act on 5 September 1923 and under the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Act on October 29, 1926.The Association will be holding its centenary in 2007.The Association had its beginnings on the 29th of November, 1906. A meeting was held at the Australasia Chambers, King William Street, Adelaide. This meeting was presided over by Mr Peter Waite, of what was then “the great Momba Station”, and also in attendance were: Messrs John Lewis (Mundi Mundi Station,) JH Luxmore (Mara Station) TE Barr-Smith (Momba Station) D Waite (Momba Station) R Strachan Dalgety & Co LTD representing Morden and other stations HW Hughes (Kinchega and Balaclava Stations) FW Downer (Solicitor)At this meeting it was resolved: “That the Western District of New South Wales form an association to be called the Pastoralists’ Association of West Darling."Previous to this, pastoralists in the area were members of the Pastoralists’ Union of South Australia, which was formed on September 9, 1890 and at an extraordinary meeting on 13 April 1892 the name was changed to the Pastoralists’ Association of South Australia and West Darling.Delegates at the 32nd Convention of the Graziers' Federal Council of Australia, held in Brisbane, April 1921. Back row (from left): Leslie Smith (Secretary, Pastoralists' Association of Victoria and Pastoralists' Union of Southern Riverina), Major N.W. Kater, M.D., (N.S.W.), A.J. McLachlan (Solicitor), C.S. Wood (Assist. Sec. Pastoralists' Association of West Darling), C.D.E. Francis (Qld), F.M. Ranson (Secretary, United Graziers' Association of Queensland), E.D.H. Virgo (Assistant Secretary, Stockowners' Association of South Australia), I.J. Warnes (South Australia), John Dunne (West Darling), O.E. Friend (N.S.W), L.J. Weatherly (Victoria). Second row: F. Wittenoom (West Australia), A.S. Austin (Southern Riverina), C.R. Murphy, Hon. A.H. Whittingham, M.L.C (Queensland, President of the Convention), A.E. Hamilton (South Australia), John Mackay (N.S.W.), H.M. Turner (Victoria). Front row: J.W. Allen (Secretary, Graziers' Association of N.S.W), P.A. Brown (Minute Secretary, Queensland), W. Muir (Assistant Secretary, Queensland). Mr R.H. Edkins, Queensland, was also a delegate but had to leave before the photo was taken. Image: State Library of South Australia.The P.A.W.D. initiated the first meeting of the Western Division Conference in 1927. This body concerns itself with matters regarding the operation and governing of the Western Division of NSW and is made up of representatives from PAWD, NSW Farmers and Western Division Rural Lands Protection Boards.The Barrier Miner newspaper reported on the 22nd annual meeting of PAWD in the May 17, 1929 edition:"The 22nd annual general meeting of members of the Pastoralists' Association of West Darling was held at the Anchor Chambers on Tuesday, May 14.There were present: Messrs. K. G Brougham, president (Yalcowinna), E. U Langford (K. Tank and Water Hag) A. A. Smith and T. B. Smith (Wilangee), W. L Foulis (Corona), E Andrews (Tandora), N. JJ. Colley (Redan), R B. Ranken (Tolarno), R. M Longmir0 (Boorungie and Glen Lvon), John Parker (Menartee), Alfred crossing (Culpaulin) A. Hindle (Quarry Hills), J. S. Williams (Heydon Downs), Geo. Jefferys (Munka), A. S Crossing (Tongo), J. Lidington (Peak Hill), Joseph Vigar (Charlemont). J. Vigar (Bygerkerno), H. Hughes (Eureka), J. Forth (Nine Mile), Jack Andrews (The Springs). J. JJ. Warren (Whurlie), R. Caskey (Byrnedale). G. A. Crossing. (Topar), W. A. Thomson (Grassmere), Arthur Crossing (Burta and Mount Murchison), R. C. Allison (Kars), S. Reid (Sir Sidney Kidman)."President KG Brougham noted in his report that memberships continued to increase, and he was later returned as the head of the organisation in the annual elections.Mr Brougham also referred to the newly instigated research fund."A most important undertaking instituted during the year was the inauguration of the Australian Pastoral Research Fund, and while it is regretted that the adverse season has mitigated against the complete success of this appeal, I sincerely trust that a return to normal conditions will ensure the successful realisation of the object aimed at, namely, the raising of a funding of £200,000 for "scientific research into the problems affecting the pastoral industry."The meeting also discussed a central Australian government and the sucession of the Western Division as its own state."Mr. Stewart mentioned that he had been in the Western Division over 40 years ago, and taking conditions as they were at the present time there was no denying the fact that successive Governments had failed in their duty towards this portion of the State, which has suffered through Government neglect," the Barrier Miner reported.In 1957 the P.A.W.D. instigated the re-organizing of the Wild Dog Destruction Board in the format that it operates today. The Board that manages the maintenance of the dog proof fence is made up of pastoralists elected from various Western Division areas.From 1960 the PAWD has been a member of the federal body of the Australian Woolgrowers’ and Graziers Association and entitled to one representative on the council. A Past President of the PAWD, Mr K.C. Connors, MBE was elected as Vice-President to that body in 1973.With the Formation of the National Farmers Federation (NFF) in 1979 as a federal umbrella organization for all state rural organizations the PAWD did not have sufficient numbers to have direct representation with the NFF. An association was formed with the newly formed United Farmers and Stockowners of South Australia, now the South Australian Farmers Federation (SAFF) thus giving the PAWD an avenue to the NFF on federal matters. The discussion was made in 2008 that the reason for the association with SAFF no longer existed due to SAFF withdrawing its membership of the NFF hence this association with SAFF was suspended. The Pastoralists’ Association of West Darling has an alliance with the Western Division Council of NSW Farmers Association in relation to the Western Lands Act and Kangaroo Management the two associations have a continuing dialogue on common issues pertaining to the Western Division of NSW.

Applications are now being invited for the Rob Seekamp Memorial ScholarshipThe scholarship is in tribute to the late Rob Seekamp of Woolcunda Station and Past President of Isolated Children and Parents Association (ICPA) and Pastoralists' Association of West Darling (PAWD). Rob had a strong interest in promoting educational opportunities for people living in outback NSW. Students from the Western Division of NSW and surrounding areas are encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will receive $2,500.The objective of the Scholarship is to encourage a student to pursue a course of study in a field which will benefit the area. The applicant’s tertiary course of study must be relevant to employment within the Western Division and is open to full-time and part-time students. Guidelines and application forms are available by messaging PAWD on Facebook, or emailing [email protected]. Applications close January 31, 2025. An independent panel will select the successful applicant.