Mitch McKinney isn't a professional runner. In fact, by his own admission, he's not particularly a runner at all.Yet this 38-year-old ordinary Australian achieved something extraordinary; running 1,132 kilometres from the red dust of Broken Hill to the sea breeze of Newcastle, completing a marathon every single day for 29 days straight.What makes this feat even more remarkable? He ran 380 kilometres of it with a fractured hip.This story begins not with athletic ambition, but with empathy, the kind that's becoming increasingly rare in our fast-paced world.Mitch's son attends family day care run by Jess and Bree Maguire in regional New South Wales. It was there he met their youngest child, one-year-old Huxley, a beautiful little boy born with Angelman Syndrome, a rare neuro-genetic disorder affecting balance, movement and speech.When Huxley was diagnosed at just four months old, Jess and Bree's world changed forever."You're thrown into this new world that you never even knew existed," Jess recalled. "We had to grieve that life that we had planned for him, but we still have him, and he's still a beautiful little boy."The diagnosis was devastating: Huxley would likely never speak, would probably never live independently, and would require a lifetime of therapies, specialist care and equipment."It was very isolating at first," Jess said. "We had to come to terms with the fact that Huxley would never speak."Jess explains that parents of children with Angelman Syndrome metaphorically "run a marathon every day.""We have to create that neurological pathway in his brain," she told 7NEWS.com.au. "Instead of developing naturally, we have to create that for him. That's why early intervention is key."While Bree goes to work, Jess stays home as a family day-care educator, balancing the care of four children whilst delivering targeted occupational therapy, physio and speech programs for Huxley."I can stay at home with him and I can still earn an income," she explained. "We want Huxley to have every opportunity to thrive. But that means we need help—research, funding, and awareness."Watching this daily marathon, Mitch decided to turn their metaphor into reality.On August 22, Mitch began his journey in Broken Hill with a simple but powerful mission, run from the bush to the beach, one marathon a day, to raise funds and awareness for Angelman Syndrome.His daily routine was brutal in its simplicity."Wake up, eat, hydrate, get dressed, jump out of the car and start rolling. One foot in front of the other. Very basic."Each day, a different child's name was written on a board, Huxley one day, another child living with Angelman or a rare condition the next. Each step was dedicated to them.The 40-kilometre daily grind took its toll. Sore muscles. Injuries. Blisters. Sunburn. Exhaustion.But Mitch kept perspective."Mine will be over. Mine was only ever gonna last the month. Theirs lasts a lifetime," he said while running through Dunedoo, about 300 kilometres northwest of Newcastle."We've got mums and dads and grandmas and grandpas dealing with not only Angelman Syndrome but a whole lot of rare diseases. They don't get a break. They're up all through the night. They're tired for sure."As Mitch approached Cobar, the pain in his hip intensified. Medical staff implored him to stop. He refused.He kept running. Through the pain. Through the doubt. Through 380 more kilometres.It wasn't until he'd completed his mission, all 1,132 kilometres, all 29 marathons, that scans revealed the devastating truth; he'd fractured his hip."What we didn't know was that 380km of that run, he did with a fractured hip," supporters later revealed in a heartfelt update.Mitch was placed on bed rest before flying to Adelaide for surgery, facing six weeks on crutches and the likelihood he may never run again.What followed Mitch every step of the way surprised even him."There's been an enormous show of support," he said during his run. "People are honking horns, yelling out, handing money over on the side of the road, taking photos. I'm more than overwhelmed with the response."He ran through towns often overlooked in national conversations, places like Dunedoo, bringing not just awareness but community pride."This run picks up a lot of little communities that often get missed when you're talking about rare diseases," he said. "It's affecting every demographic and geographic area."Celebrities including Casey Barnes, Fatboy Slim, Lynne McGranger and Brisbane Lions players threw their support behind the campaign.By the time Mitch reached Newcastle, he'd raised an astonishing $164,000 for the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics.Despite his extraordinary achievement, Mitch remained humble to a fault.When asked what he expected when he reached Newcastle, he laughed. "There'll be some people, some not. Probably just…"He insisted he only played a "small part" in the campaign. But Jess sees it very differently."Mitch is a hero," she said. "He didn't have to do any of this. He's not related to us, he's not directly affected, but he saw our struggle and decided to step up in a huge way. That kind of empathy is rare."While Mitch's physical marathon has ended, the journey continues for families like Jess and Bree's.Little Huxley has started rolling. Each small win is a major victory."Our kids still need therapies, support, and hope," Jess said. "We're hopeful in the next five years, cures will be available, and treatments could come even sooner. Everything that's coming will only help him more and more and more—it's going to improve his quality of life astronomically."The one bright side of Angelman Syndrome, Jess notes, is that children like Huxley usually have a happy demeanour and smile often, earning them the nickname "angel kids." Though he can quickly become frustrated when he struggles to move or can't communicate what he wants, his joy is infectious."This run means the world to us," Jess said. "Not just the money raised, but the awareness. People are googling Angelman Syndrome. They're talking about it. They're seeing our kids. And that's how change starts."As Mitch recovers from surgery, one thing remains clear, we need more people like him in the world, ordinary people who see extraordinary need and decide to do something extraordinary about it.One foot in front of the other. One step at a time. Running for those who can't.

Jodie Hicks, star defender for the Richmond Tigers, has announced her retirement from elite football at the close of the current AFLW season. A homegrown sporting star, Hicks stunned team mates by making the announcement to them in the Richmond change room, which was recorded and released by the club to fans last week. The 28-year-old’s journey from Hay to the top tier of two national sports - AFLW and professional cricket - has been a source of pride across the district, especially amongst sport fans, who have watched her rise to the elite level. Hicks, who was selected with pick No. 5 in the 2017 AFL Women’s Draft, has played 58 games across eight seasons with Greater Western Sydney and Richmond. She also spent time as a professional cricketer with the Sydney Sixers. Announcing her decision to teammates, Hicks reflected on the significance of her achievement for a regional athlete, hinting that she may soon be returning to the local sporting scene. She confirmed her decade as a professional athlete was coming to a close, stating that her “time was up”. The pride in her regional roots was clear, with Hicks reflecting on her unique journey. “It’s not sad,” Hicks quipped after dropping the retirement bombshell on fellow Tigers team mates. “I have been very lucky. I have made friends all over the world and had a lot of cool opportunities. It is something I never thought a little girl from Hay would be able to do,” she said. “Coming to Richmond, I did not know if it was a really random move, but as soon as I walked in the door, it was the best thing that happened. “Obviously, I still love playing footy, so I might just go tear up a local club, ideally, and play a bit of cricket. “I have bloody loved it.” Her mention of potentially playing for a local club next season will no doubt spark excitement and speculation among local football and cricket clubs across the region. Hicks played all 12 games in her debut season with the Tigers in 2023, including their Elimination Final, and played the opening six matches this year before a foot injury sidelined her for the final month. Richmond Executive Head of Women’s Football, Kate Sheahan, acknowledged Hicks' unique contribution to the club and the league. “Jodie should be incredibly proud of her AFLW career and everything she has accomplished across eight seasons at the elite level,” Sheahan said. “We were thrilled to bring Jodie to Richmond in 2023. “She has been a highly respected member of our team, and there is no doubt she will continue to make her mark in sport beyond this year, with her game sense and deep understanding of both football and cricket, lending itself to exciting prospects. “On behalf of everyone at the Club, I would like to wish Jodie all the very best for the future.” The former Sydney Sixers cricketer's retirement will be effective from the end of the season.

The township of Hay and the wider sporting community have rallied with messages of condolences, following the news of the passing of Peter ‘Parra’ Montgomery. Parra’s death occurred late on Saturday, following complications from a heart attack suffered earlier in the week. It seems poetic that Parra travelled to Hay recently to be part of the 1975 premiership reunion of his beloved Magpies Rugby League Club, taking part in this year’s presentation night. From there he travelled back to Albury, which has been his home for the past seven years, where he and a group of lifelong mates enjoyed one of their legendary catch-ups. When he took ill, Parra was transferred to Melbourne for treatment, surrounded by his wife Pat, children Janine, Michael, and Sharni, family and friends. I had the good fortune to speak with Parra when he was in Hay two weeks ago, and hear first hand his recollections of the 1974 and 1975 seasons, and it is safe to say his recollections were shared with uncanny accuracy. He told me he could simply close his eyes, and games from the past would clearly play out in front of him, as if on film. There was no denying his passion for sport and for Hay and nothing excited him as much as a home grown hero. Whether it was in the pages of The Riverine Grazier or later on social media, the pride he took in celebrating sporting stars such as Nick Edwards, Jodie Hicks and Rachael Pearson was unmatched. And he celebrated small wins as enthusiastically as the big ones. He bestowed nicknames on countless people - whether they wanted them or not - and every one was heavy on the dad-joke humour. He cared little about whether the subject was embarrassed by his lavish praise and repeated the proffered nicknames until many stuck. After a childhood spent in Sydney, Parra moved to Hay in 1966 as part of a transfer with the Lands Department. He has unashamedly repeated to me on countless occasions that it was the best move of his life, not least because it was here that he met wife Pat, and where they raised their family. During his time in Hay, Parra was instrumental in the administration of Hay Magpies and Group 17, Hay Cutters Rugby Union Club and local cricket, but was a fierce supporter of all local sport, from footy to darts. In 1985 Parra and Pat joined Ann and Kevin Goldspink in a business partnership to purchase the Highway Inn Hotel, and construct the motel next door. The mine host lifestyle suited Parra’s love of an epic yarn and the pub took on a new life. Throughout his time, Parra would write sports articles - predominantly Group 17 results - for local and regional newspapers, Rugby League Week magazine and the Sunday Telegraph and Sun Herald. In 1999 Parra formed another important partnership, joining forces with Tertia Butcher and the late Rod McCully to purchase The Riverine Grazier. Parra sat at the front desk and was the paper’s receptionist and sports editor, summing up the week’s news in a regular back page column aptly entitled ‘Parra’s Piece’ After leaving the Grazier in 2007, he continued to contribute stories periodically for the pages of the paper, and Parra’s Pieces also popped up on his Facebook page as well. In 2011 Parra was instrumental in pulling off one of the biggest rugby league coups in country NSW - the Magpies ‘Pie in the Sky’ game pitted a team of current and ex-NRL players against local talent, drawing crowds from far and wide, and there was no doubt Parra was in his element. A life member of both the Magpies and the Cutters, the Magpies unveiled the new digital scoreboard at Hay Park’s number one oval as the Parra Montgomery Scoreboard in 2016. In the years of his retirement, Parra would continue to champion local sport and the people who make it possible, often showcasing those who least expected it; highlighting the unsung hero was a true love of Parra’s. Whether the topic was his memories, Group 9, Group 20, ProTen, local heroes, politics or dad-jokes, Parra always shared his views with an excitement and passion that will be missed by many. Funeral details for the late Peter Montgomery will shortly be announced by the family.

As I hope you would by now be aware, we currently have a survey out to understand the community’s support for or against a split of our local health district. We haven’t been sitting idly by, we have attended the rally held in Memorial Park, met with Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) and sent out letters as requested by the resolution of Council, including to the Minister for Health.Please let me say a couple of things to begin with. I have never said that I or Council are against the proposed split, only that we require more information about the process and the outcome of the split. Secondly, please remember there are staff involved in the outcome of this push. Please respect the doctors, nurses and allied staff who have as much skin in the game as we all do, if not more.We have now provided information on both sides of the debate on Council’s website. You will see information provided by our Local Member as to why we should split and also information from MLHD as to the what the potential split would mean.We are trying to present a balanced argument for the community to make their own mind up about the split, we are not trying to sway anyone one way or the other.However, we do need community feedback via the survey, we have had over 500 surveys completed to date but we need many more to get a good idea about community sentiment. With the additional information, I hope we will see a surge in surveys completed.We must also remember many fellow Local Government Areas will be affected by the potential split, and we also want to hear from them so please spread the word far and wide. This is an extremely important discussion that must take place in our community.Stay safe, stay well and above all else be kind to each other.

In a powerful display of community compassion, a once-lifeless orange tree has been transformed into a beacon of hope, standing proudly in brilliant blue at the corner of Kidman Way and Beverley Road in Hanwood.The stunning transformation, completed by passionate local advocates Grant and Denise Hearn, arrives at a poignant time, World Mental Health month, serving as a vibrant reminder that no one needs to face their darkest moments alone.Far from being just another splash of colour on the landscape, this eye-catching sentinel represents something far greater. It's the newest addition to the Blue Tree Project, a remarkable grassroots movement that has painted hope across more than 1500 locations worldwide, creating a network of conversation starters about mental health and suicide prevention.The genius of the project lies in its simplicity. By taking something dead or dying and giving it new purpose through a coat of striking blue paint, the initiative sends a powerful message: there's always room for renewal, always a reason to reach out, and always someone willing to listen.What was once an unremarkable dead tree now commands attention, inviting passersby to pause, reflect, and perhaps most importantly, talk. In a world where mental health struggles often remain hidden behind closed doors and forced smiles, this bold blue landmark opens the door to honest conversations about wellbeing.Grant and Denise Hearn's dedication to bringing this initiative to Hanwood exemplifies the profound impact everyday Australians can have in their communities. Their efforts have given their town more than just an Instagram-worthy landmark—they've planted a symbol of solidarity, understanding and hope that will stand as a reminder that it's not just okay to talk about mental health, it's essential.As the vibrant blue branches reach skyward, they carry with them a simple but vital message: you matter, your struggles are valid, and help is always available.

Griffith has welcomed its new deputy mayor, with Cr Scott Groat taking on the role following his election to the position.Cr Groat, who was elected to council in October 2024, has quickly established himself as an active voice in local government, now stepping into the deputy mayoral role with an ambitious vision for the city's future.The newly appointed deputy mayor has outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on collaboration, community development and inclusive facilities."My immediate plan is to work together with council and councillors to improve relations between developers and planning directors," Cr Groat said."I want to focus on fit-for-purpose compliance and open and honest communication between developers and council."Among his key priorities is improving Lake Wyangan water quality, a matter of ongoing concern for the community.However, it's his vision for new community infrastructure that showcases his commitment to creating inclusive spaces for all residents. Cr Groat has set his sights on developing new play areas, an animal petting nursery, and a water park for the community to enjoy.Particularly noteworthy is his plan for a coffee shop and café designed to provide employment and recreational opportunities for NDIS participants, demonstrating a commitment to creating meaningful work experiences for young people with disabilities.Like many new councillors, Cr Groat has been navigating the complexities of local government procedures and protocols since joining council last year.In September, he found himself at the centre of a procedural matter involving a fire-damaged building, which sparked discussions about proper procurement processes and the council's code of conduct.The incident involved a rescission motion where Cr Groat had sought to overturn a decision about engaging asbestos removal services, claiming he had obtained cheaper quotes. Mayor Doug Curran raised concerns about proper procedures, noting that councillors must follow formal channels when dealing with council contractors and operational matters.Cr Groat explained at the time that he had 'merely asked for the quotes' for himself to understand costs, as Griffith has multiple fire-damaged buildings requiring attention.The matter highlighted the learning curve new councillors face in understanding the formal processes and boundaries that govern local government operations.As deputy mayor, Cr Groat will work alongside Mayor Doug Curran to lead Griffith through the challenges and opportunities ahead, bringing his focus on community development, improved communication and inclusive facilities to the forefront of council's agenda.His appointment represents a fresh perspective on council, with his emphasis on creating spaces where all community members—particularly those with disabilities—can work, play and thrive.

Balranald Fire Station is calling for recruits over 18 years of age who live and work within reasonable distance of the station.On-Call Firefighters (OCFF) provide emergency response to fires, accidents, rescues and other incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. While not rostered full-time, OCFFs declare their availability a week in advance, allowing them to balance primary jobs and family commitments.In 2024/2025, Balranald Fire Station responded to 47 calls, with 22 per cent occurring during business hours Monday to Friday, averaging approximately 10 calls per year during these hours. Average call duration was one hour and 37 minutes.The role offers a fortnightly retainer plus hourly pay for incidents, training, drills and community events, with leave entitlements and extensive training in emergency life support, teamwork and leadership skills.Interested residents can visit the station, register interest at careers.fire.nsw.gov.au/on-call

Essential Water has unveiled an ambitious $250 million proposal to rebuild critical water and wastewater infrastructure across Broken Hill and surrounding communities, marking the largest investment in the region's utility services in decades. The proposed rebuild program, detailed in Essential Water's 2026–31 Pricing Proposal released to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) on October 27, addresses ageing infrastructure that has reached the end of its operational life across Broken Hill, Menindee, Sunset Strip and Silverton. At the heart of the proposal is the replacement of two wastewater treatment plants that have served Broken Hill for generations. The Wills Street Wastewater Treatment Plant, approaching its centenary, and the South Wastewater Treatment Plant, now close to end-of-life, can no longer be upgraded to meet modern environmental standards. Essential Water's Head of Water, Ross Berry, said the business proposes building a new 4.8 megalitre wastewater treatment plant to replace both facilities. "Designs are being finalised and the project will go out to tender shortly, with construction expected to begin in mid-2026," Mr Berry explained. The new plant promises greater reliability, reduced odours and improved opportunities for reusing high-quality treated water, benefits that address longstanding community concerns about the ageing facilities. Beyond the treatment plants, Essential Water plans to accelerate the replacement rate of ageing water and sewage pipes throughout the network, a move aimed at reducing emergency maintenance costs and improving service continuity for the region's approximately 18,000 residents. "This investment is not just about pipes and plants; it's about investing in the future of Broken Hill for long-term reliability and sustainability, not short-term fixes," Mr Berry said. However, the scale of investment required comes with a significant cost to consumers. To fund the upgrades, Essential Water is proposing annual price increases of around 15 per cent for water and wastewater services over five years, before inflation. The increases reflect the challenging economics of delivering safe and reliable services in a remote region with a small customer base. Mr Berry acknowledged the financial impact on households. "Our proposal to IPART outlines what the necessary investment would cost our customer base. It's part of the process we need to go through, but we are advocating on behalf of our customers to see if there will be additional government support to help ease the impact on households," he said. "We understand that the proposed annual increase is significant, especially in the current economic climate. We welcome IPART acknowledging our concerns that fully recovering the costs through customers could result in financial stress and that additional government support may be needed." Essential Water has maintained price stability since 2014, with increases only in line with inflation. However, Mr Berry warned that the cost of maintaining and upgrading the network has reached a tipping point. "The reality is, without these upgrades, we risk service outages and escalating emergency costs. There is a real risk of environmental damage to creeks, water pipe bursts causing flooding, and an increase in service outages that disrupt daily life," he said. The utility has committed to a 0.5 per cent annual productivity improvement alongside existing cost-saving measures, demonstrating efforts to minimise the financial burden on customers whilst delivering essential infrastructure improvements. The proposal has been developed through extensive community consultation, including surveys, stakeholder meetings and input from the Essential Water Customer Panel. Feedback revealed that customers prioritise clean drinking water, long-term security, affordability and sustainability—principles that have guided the infrastructure planning. As part of IPART's review process, a community consultation meeting will be held in Broken Hill on November 24, with tickets available online. Essential Water is encouraging all customers to participate and provide feedback on the proposal. The outcome of IPART's review will determine the final pricing structure and may influence the level of government support available to offset costs for households in the Far West region. Essential Water, an operating division of Essential Energy, provides water and sewerage services to around 10,500 customers in Broken Hill, Menindee, Silverton and Sunset Strip, as well as rural customers. The utility operates an extensive network of dams, water treatment plants, sewage treatment plants, reservoirs, pumping stations and related infrastructure across the region. Community members can stay informed about the IPART review process through the tribunal's website, with the consultation period providing an opportunity for residents to have their say on the future of water services in Far West NSW.

Hillston's Australia Post Office and newsagency has been extensively damaged by fireA fire has extensively damaged the High Street premises of Hillston Newsagent and LPO (local post office) today (Wednesday October 29)Investigations are continuing but proprietor Manu Bedi said the retail section of the premises have been extensively damaged by fire and smoke.The office section of the building has been smoke affected, but the rear section of the building - where mail and parcel post is stored and sorted - remains intact.Ms Bedi said Australia Post representatives were already on site, and it is expected that mail services will re-commence by the end of next week, probably from temporary premises."We are holding it together but it is a very tough day," she told Back Country Bulletin.Arrangements for the retail and lotto business are not yet confirmed.

G’day folks,  Where has the year gone? Halloween this week, less than two months to Christmas, students will soon be finishing the HSC exams, and only a short time before Parliament rises for the year at the end of November. Parliament has just had two consecutive sitting weeks but for the first of those weeks I was in Bougainville, as part of a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Delegation from the NSW Parliament. It was a two-day trip to get there, but it was a rewarding experience and one that will help to bring us closer together. This week I am mostly in Sydney for committee meetings, but I will also be at a meeting (on Tuesday October 28) between the Premier and the mayors of Brewarrina, Bourke, Coonamble and Walgett, to discuss solutions to the problem of youth crime in Barwon.CPA delegation to Bougainville The Autonomous Region of Bougainville is a group of Islands near Papua New Guinea, part of the Solomon Islands Archipelago. With a history of human occupation going back thousands of years, it is Bougainville’s history over the last few decades that resulted in the CPA’s delegation.  After World War II Australia took over the administration of Papua New Guinea, which gained independence in 1975, with Bougainville as part of that new nation. However, the people of Bougainvillean objected to being under Papuan administration and worked, unsuccessfully, to secede and to be recognised internationally as a separate nation. Tensions between Bougainville and Papua became an insurrection in 1988, the catalyst for which was that Bougainville did not receive a fair share of revenues from gold and copper mines on their islands. After a long period of conflict, in 2001 a peace agreement was reached allowing Bougainville some autonomy and later independence. The deadline for independence moved a few times, but earlier this year a new deadline of 1 September 2027, was set. Bougainville now needs to develop its parliament, political system and government to be ready for full independence. That is where the CPA comes in, the organisation offers assistance and expertise to other Commonwealth nations developing their democracy. About half of Bougainville’s 45-member parliament are newly elected. My visit involved taking part in several panel discussions at which I shared a bit about my experiences as an MP, my work on committees and how our government works. I also talked about Barwon, its challenges, successes and complexities. One thing I emphasised was the importance of engagement and communication with a constituency. Bougainville is 9318 square kilometres, compared to Barwon being over 356,000 square kilometres. But Bougainville’s lack of roads, transport, and the presence of villages in remote, mountainous areas means they have some similar challenges in communication and engagement. I also learnt a lot from the Bougainvilleans and I am grateful for their hospitality. Bougainville is a stunning place. I intend to go back there one day, and I urge others to think about visiting.  I wish their parliament every success and hope to see them develop into a thriving, independent neighbour.  After over a decade in administration it is good to finally see the Central Darling Shire has elected three councillors for the first council of its new era. I want to congratulate Peter Sullivan (A Ward), Max Bradley (B Ward) and Daniel Fusi (C Ward) on being elected as Councillors for Central Darling Shire. The new councillors will help steer the council on its journey of transition out of administration. The names of the three appointed councillors (not announced at the time of writing) should be announced soon. I would like to encourage all the communities of the shire to really get behind their new councillors, and get involved with the council, to help make it as successful as possible.   Youth Crime Question in Parliament Although BOCSAR (Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research) figures show that there has been a drop in youth crime in recent years, many people are concerned about a number of incidents in towns around Western NSW.  During the sitting week I posed a Question Without Notice to the Premier asking if he would accept a delegation from councils in Walgett, Bourke, Brewarrina and Coonamble, to discuss how to expedite diversionary programs for troubled youth and talk about community-based solutions to reducing youth crime. He said he would be ready to accept that delegation (which has not taken place at the time of writing) saying that it is “important to listen to what is happening on the ground” in order to implement that changes necessary to reduce recidivism. I will keep you posted about what happens with that meeting. To listen to the Premier’s response to my question go to https://www.roybutler.com.au/video_clips Get ready for Movember November is the time when men around the country and around the world allow their facial hair to run wild. I will be leaving part of my face untouched by a razor for a month as part of Movember, to raise awareness of men’s health issues and to raise money for research and programs that work to keep men healthier - physically and mentally. Once again, I will be growing a mo as a member of team Barwon, but I am looking for other stalwart Barwonians to join me, either by growing a mo, or by raising money and awareness by other means. I will be providing regular updates of my mo-gress and I hope you will come along for my hairy journey. To be part of the team or to donate go to https://au.movember.com/team/2457418   National Parks Private Members Statement In the October sitting weeks I delivered a Private Members Statement about the government’s determination to reserve 30% of the land in NSW as National Parks. In my statement I said that there seems to be no specific reason or rationale for why it has to be nearly a third of the state and there doesn’t seem to be a coherent plan for what will happen with the land acquired to reach that total.  There also seems to be a bit of a disconnect between the decisions made by the management of national parks and what impact their decisions will have or are having on the ground in the communities where the land has been acquired. Since June 2024 thirty properties have been purchased for National Parks, a total of over 113,000 hectares. These were properties that used to contribute in significant ways financially, and socially, to their local communities – once they are turned into National Parks all of those people who lived or worked on the property are gone and so is the money generated leaving a hole in the local economy and taking away all the people who were part of that community. Despite promises that there will be infrastructure created in the parks to generate tourism income to replace the lost income from agriculture, this almost never happens. The parks remain underfunded, invasive species proliferate, fences fall into disrepair, and it becomes a problem for neighbouring properties. This is what prompted an iPetition “No More National Parks in NSW” launched by some of my constituents, asking for a more balanced approach in acquisition of land for National Parks. In my Private Members Statement, I indicated that I will be attempting to change the systems and processes that currently exist for acquiring land for National Parks. Watch this space. 

Balranald Shire Council has provided an update on the progress of the Balranald Reservoir project, with completion now scheduled for Friday November 14 2025.As of Thursday October 23, significant milestones have been achieved on the RMP (Raised Modular Platform) project site. A total of four RMP panels have been installed, with crane operators currently on site for the installation of inlet and overflow pipes. The installation of the FRP ladder base has been completed, along with the midday installation of pipes. A crane lift test has also been conducted to ensure safety measures for pipe access installation, and RMP painting of all bolts fitted to pipe flanges has been finished.Council has outlined the remaining works to be completed by BSC (Building Services Contractor) in the coming weeks. The removal of internal scaffolding took place on Friday 24 October and Saturday 25 October, with the finalisation of roof sheeting and gutter installation, along with painting of safety yellow on the roof platform stepdown, completed on Friday October 24.A white blast floor application and blasting of the anchor bolts were carried out on Monday October 28. On Tuesday October 29, a topcoat will be applied to the floor, which will then be allowed to cure for approximately five to seven days before a soak test is conducted.Additional finishing works include painting bolt numbers internally around the circumference and performing patch repairs at Hobcon's request for a re-test.The council has thanked the community for their patience and cooperation throughout the project.

Peter Connellan was recognised last month for an incredible milestone: 25 years of service as Secretary of the Balranald Rural Fire Service.Mr Connellan's dedication to the service extends far beyond his administrative role. He has been a valued member of the brigade for over 64 years, serving his community with commitment, courage and heart.The recognition ceremony celebrated not only his quarter-century as Secretary, but also his lifetime of service to fire safety and community protection in the Balranald area.Mr Connellan's outstanding achievement serves as an inspiring example of lifelong service and dedication to rural fire services in New South Wales.

Two people have died following an underground explosion at a mine in Far Western NSW during the early hours of this morning, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit regional community.Emergency services were called to the mine on Endeavour Mine Road at Cobar, approximately 450 kilometres east of Broken Hill, at 3.45am on Tuesday after reports of a critical workplace incident.Officers from Central North Police District arrived at the scene to be told a man had been confirmed dead following the underground explosion.Two women were brought to the surface by emergency crews, however one woman has since succumbed to her injuries. A second woman was airlifted to hospital, where she is being treated for hearing damage and shock.Emergency services remained at the scene throughout the morning as investigations into the cause of the explosion commenced.Police will prepare a report for the Coroner, while SafeWork NSW has launched an investigation into the incident.The tragedy has rocked the mining community of Cobar, a town of approximately 4,000 residents where the mining industry forms the backbone of the local economy.Cobar has a long history of mining dating back to the 1870s, with copper, gold, zinc, lead and silver extracted from the region's rich mineral deposits.Endeavor is a major underground silver, zinc and lead mine.It is located 40 kilometres north of Cobar, owned by Polymetals.The mine has operated since the early 1980s but Polymetals bought the operation in 2023 with the aim of restarting mining activities this year.Emergency services are still at the scene.NSW Police will prepare a report for the coroner and assist SafeWork NSW with its investigation.Authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the website at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated confidentially.The public has been reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.The identities of the deceased have not been released pending notification of next of kin.

Police are hunting for a man responsible for an armed bank robbery in south-west New South Wales last week.Officers responded to reports of an armed robbery around 4.35pm on Friday at the Bendigo Bank on Darling Street in Wentworth, approximately 30 kilometres north-west of Mildura.Police said the man, armed with a pole, entered the business and threatened staff and customers. The man left the bank with an unknown amount of cash and was last seen running west along Adelaide Street.NSW Police Broken Hill Detective Inspector Matt Sipple said the incident was rare for the area."We don't see it very often," Inspector Sipple said. "Certainly, in my time out in this area, Wentworth has been unaffected in relation to such incidents, but these crimes do occur."It's one of those jobs that's extremely frightening when somebody enters the banks. Wentworth is a small town, as we know, over the river from Mildura, but it's particularly concerning and obviously it does have a lasting effect on staff and customers who were present."On Monday, the Wentworth and District Bendigo Bank posted on Facebook saying all staff were safe and that the branch had temporarily closed following the hold-up. No one was injured in the incident.The suspect is described as being of thin build, wearing a face covering, pink hooded puffer jacket, brown gloves and black trousers.Police located a pink jacket believed to have been worn by the man in a laneway off Short Street soon after the incident. It has been taken for forensic examination.The pole is described as black and hollow, though its length is unknown.Police urge anyone with information, or anyone who was in the area at the time with available dashcam or mobile phone footage, to contact Dareton Police Station or Crime Stoppers.

Health Infrastructure is building a new Acute Mental Health Inpatient Unit (MHIPU) and refurbishing the Emergency Department (ED) at Broken Hill Hospital to better meet the health needs of the Broken Hill community now and into the future.Please be advised that construction work will take place on Sunday November 2 and Sunday November 9 between 7.30am and 3.30pm at the Emergency Department site. This work is outside the REF condition working hours and has been approved.This essential work will have no direct impact on patients or visitors, however some additional noise and vibration can be expected. Infection control and dust control measures will be in place throughout."We recognise that building new infrastructure can be disruptive to staff and patients," representative said."All construction activities are carried out with the health and safety of the local community as our top priority. We thank you for your patience while we complete this important project."For more information about the Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment Project, please call the project team on 02 8838 8889, email [email protected], or visit www.health.nsw.gov.au

Twenty years ago, Adrian never imagined that a casual conversation with a mate would lead to one of the most fulfilling chapters of his life. As a police officer stationed in Broken Hill in the 1990s, he'd volunteered for the remote posting because of family connections to Menindee.His cousins ran the local pubs, and he'd been visiting the area since childhood. The country called to him in a way that city life never could. It was through his police work that Adrian met Chris, another officer he was training in Broken Hill. Chris, an ex-Army man, had caught the opal fever and taken up a mining claim. "Why don't you have a go?" he suggested to Adrian one day. It seemed like a reasonable idea, a way to supplement income and try something completely different. What started as a weekend hobby soon became something involving the whole family.Adrian's parents Kevin and Wendy, originally from Port Macquarie, first came out to White Cliffs to have holidays and help Adrian, and they went back to Port Macquarie less and less.Raised on a farm, his parents understood the appeal of quiet spaces and hard work. The remote, peaceful environment of the opal fields suited them perfectly. In those early days, everything was basic. They lived in caravans, cooked over open fires, and hauled dirt up from underground mines bucket by bucket using a simple winch. Adrian would descend into the earth with a jackhammer, listening for the telltale sound of hitting opal; like striking glass in the darkness. It was backbreaking work, but there was something deeply satisfying about it. Kevin brought his own remarkable story; he was one of the few people in Australia to have carried the Olympic torch twice, first in 1956 as a 15-year-old athlete in Melbourne, then again for the Sydney Olympics in 2000. A former New South Wales sprint champion and professional runner, Kevin had traded a potential Olympic career for love, unable to face moving to Sydney for football contracts. It turned out to be the right choice; he'd never have met his future wife otherwise. As the years passed, their operation grew more sophisticated. The hand-hauled winch gave way to tippers, then super tippers with bigger buckets. They acquired a digger, a bogger, and all the machinery that makes modern opal mining possible. That old winch? It became their barbecue, a practical repurposing that perfectly captured their approach to life out there. The 2009 dust storm marked a turning point. Living in their caravan with its annex, they were nearly blown to New Zealand as millimetres of dust covered everything. "If you want me to come out here and cook," Wendy told the men, "we're going to have to do something better than this." That led them to discover a tin shed on a nearby hill, eventually sharing it with the owner from Cobar. Suddenly they had hot showers, a gas stove, and a proper donkey, a 44-gallon drum setup that heated water for their camp. But it was Adrian's remarkable fossil discovery that truly captured the magic of their new life. Working alone in the mine, he heard that distinctive chink of hitting something different. What started as a piece the size of a grain of rice led to excavating a tunnel and uncovering a foot-long opal fossil of a fish, complete with about 40 pieces of opal, some in full crystal colour. Worth around $30,000, it represented not just financial reward but the kind of once-in-a-lifetime discovery that keeps every miner hoping. Their family expanded when Kevin's son Stephen met Jackie, a remarkable woman with her own compelling story. Despite the hardships of her early life, boarding school in Cape Town and life in Rhodesia, she brought intelligence, warmth, and skills to their tight-knit group. What they discovered over the years was that they weren't just mining opal, they were building a community. White Cliffs attracted retired professionals; teachers, engineers, police officers, mechanics, Vietnam veterans finding peace in the quiet vastness. Everyone helped everyone else. If someone's truck broke down, a retired mechanic would appear. If equipment needed moving, neighbours would pitch in. The women formed craft groups while the men gathered in what Wendy laughingly called "the big man shed," pulling apart engines and sharing decades of accumulated knowledge. The community spirit extended beyond the mining camp. They'd work cattle stations for no pay, just to help out and get access to yabbying spots, bringing back fresh yabbies to share with everyone. They'd travel together, month-long fishing trips to South Australia, drives to Western Australia, adventures to Queensland. It wasn't just about the mining anymore; it was about a lifestyle that valued relationships, mutual support, and the freedom to move at their own pace. "White Cliffs time," they called it; the luxury of not being rushed, not being angry about traffic or work pressures. When they returned to Port Macquarie, even to one of New South Wales' most beautiful coastal areas, they'd find themselves thinking, "Oh God, back to this place again." The contrast was stark; city life felt frantic and impersonal compared to their chosen home. This was a place where Wendy, who had never painted in her life, could discover artistic talents, creating beautiful landscapes of the country that now owned her heart. Where retired athletes like Kevin could share stories of professional running circuits from the 1800s, when bookmakers took bets on foot races across rural Australia. Where Adrian could apply his police training to understanding the complex regulations that increasingly governed their hobby. For most of them, mining had become exactly that; a hobby rather than a livelihood. They were pensioners now, people who had worked their careers and earned their retirement. The opal mining gave them purpose, excitement, and the possibility of discovery, but it wasn't about money. It was about staying active, staying curious, keeping their hands busy and their minds engaged. The lifestyle attracted people from all walks of life, but particularly those who had served their country or their communities. Vietnam veterans found peace in the vast, quiet landscape. Former police officers, teachers, and tradespeople discovered that their skills were still valued in this small community where everyone looked after everyone else. Living conditions evolved from basic caravans to comfortable homes, but always with an emphasis on practical simplicity. Tank water for drinking, town water for washing, septic systems, and the kind of self-reliance that comes naturally to country people. They learned to read the signs of the country, when dust storms were coming, where to find the best yabby spots, how to navigate the old mining areas where Chinese prospectors had left round holes and coins from the 1800s. Despite facing significant bureaucratic challenges in recent years, legislation changes that effectively shut down most mining operations, their love for the place and lifestyle remained unshaken. The community adapted, found other ways to stay busy, supported each other through legal battles and uncertainty. Some, like their neighbours who lived on mining claims for 30 years, decided to buy land nearby rather than face the uncertainty of changing regulations. What they'd discovered was that they'd come for a dream of finding opal but stayed for something much more valuable, a way of life that emphasised community, self-reliance, and the deep satisfaction of useful work. In their 70s and 80s, they were living proof that retirement doesn't have to mean slowing down. Whether it was Kevin climbing ladders, Bert fixing cars, or Smiley renovating his new house, they'd found purpose and joy that kept them vital and engaged. The harsh beauty of the landscape, the genuine warmth of the community, and the freedom to live by "White Cliffs time" had given them something precious; the chance to age with dignity, purpose, and the support of people who truly cared about each other. They'd found a place where being in your 80s didn't mean being sidelined, where accumulated knowledge was valued, and where every day held the possibility of discovery. As Wendy reflected, apart from the legislative challenges, they were living their dream. Not the dream they'd originally envisioned, that simple hope of finding opal, but something far richer. They'd found home, community, and a way of life that proved retirement could be not an ending, but a beginning. In the red dirt and vast skies of White Cliffs, surrounded by people who'd become family, they'd discovered that the real treasure wasn't underground at all. It was the life they'd built together, day by day, season by season, year by year, a life better than they could ever have imagined when they first heard that winch creaking in the desert wind, hauling up bucket after bucket of earth and hope.

The Gallery Balranald will present A Night Under the Stars, a long table dinner featuring special guest performer Leather Lungs, on Saturday 8 November at Paika Station.Leather Lungs, the stage name of Kiwi-Australian performer Jason Chasland, is known for their powerhouse vocals spanning four octaves and acclaimed cabaret performances across Australia and internationally.The artist has performed for high-profile clients including the Beckhams and toured internationally, with previous work as a vocalist for Adele. Chasland has won the Adelaide Fringe Best Cabaret Award for two consecutive years.The evening, priced at $160 per person, includes a welcome drink, pre-show live music and appetisers, followed by a two-course sit-down meal catered by The Pantry Shelf Catering Co, and a performance by Leather Lungs.Known for combining vocal performances with storytelling, Leather Lungs creates shows described as hilarious but heartbreaking, maintaining courage and fearlessness to address meaningful topics whilst entertaining audiences.The event will be held at Paika Station, with bus transport provided. Attendees are asked to bring their own alcohol.Bookings can be made by contacting Zoe on 0400 278 580.

White Cliffs will move from Level three water restrictions to Level four restrictions on Monday October 27 2025. This is because of drought conditions, limited above ground storage and minimal rainfall expected. People are asked to minimise their water usage.The town water supply is sourced from the Wakefield Tank.Level 4 Restrictions are as follows:• Watering systems, not permitted• Watering between 6am and 9am and 6pm and 9pm• Washing vehicles by:(a) means of a bucket or watering can filled directly from a tap (and not bymeans of a hose); or(b) by means of a trigger hose, used only for the purpose of wetting, andrinsing a vehicle after it has been washed; or(c) to clean inside a tank of a tanker vehicle by means of a trigger hose,where such cleaning is necessary, either to avoid contamination of thetanker's contents or to ensure public safety.• Construction Activities - water may only be used for the following:(a) for the purpose of compaction by means of a trigger hose(b) for the purpose of dust suppression• Windows and building facades - by a bucket or watering can filled directly froma tap (and not by means of a hose) unless it is necessary to do so because ofan accident, fire, or other emergency.In cases of extreme hardship, Central Darling Shire Council will consider requests for exemptions.These restrictions are enforceable, and penalties, including disconnection, will be imposed upon those who do not comply.

David Landini has made an application to the Australian Electoral Commission to form his own political party.Landini is lobbying for the formation of a new Riverina state that breaks away completely from NSW.Having unsuccessfully campaigned for the seat of Murray in both the 2019 and 2023 state elections, Landini is emphatically warning if the expanse beyond the Great Dividing Range doesn’t break off and form their own government a lot of state-owned government services will vanish.  “At the moment, even towns like Hay, for example, a lot of their patients are now transported into Wagga Base Hospital. What that’s done is lead to a decline in the Hay Hospital,” he said.The submission to register a party called The Riverina State comprised a list of 1646 members and was submitted on October 17. It will be processed in the coming months.