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 Dynamic new leader for dynamic new shire: Louie Zaffina
Dynamic new leader for dynamic new shire: Louie Zaffina

07 February 2025, 4:00 AM

Louie Zaffina is the first mayor of Balranald Shire since the region exited its period of administration.Experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly and approachable to boot, he is the strong head of a dynamic new council.A second-generation Italian immigrant, Louie’s parents came to Australia from Italy in the 1950’s. They settled in the Euston area, and purchased land to make a farm.They ran market gardens, before foraying into the realm of table grape growing.Louie was born in Robinvale Hospital, and enjoyed a happy childhood on the farm.“We were poor, we didn’t have much, but we were happy,” said Louie. “My childhood was really good, surrounded by a lot of friends.”When Louie started his education at Euston Public School, he spoke both English and Italian.“My parents largely spoke Italian and broken English with a heavy accent,” he recalled. “I learnt a lot of English from my older sisters.“I remember often knowing the Italian word for different things, but didn’t automatically know the English word.”After completing his secondary education at Robinvale High School, Louie completed an apprenticeship as a motor mechanic at the local Ford dealership.He worked successfully in the sector until his father fell ill. Louie then went to run the family farm. “My father actively encouraged me to learn a trade in case,” he said. “Having grown up on the farm I knew what to do, and since my return my focus and passion has been producing quality table grapes.”Louie and his wife Kylie attended the same high school, Robinvale High School, but got to know each other after they attended the school.They were married and have five beautiful children ranging in age from 35 to 21. They also have eight grandchildren, ranging from age six to two.Louie always had a passion for trying to help in the community however he can, and helping to discover and implement solutions to community issues. Louie has been a member of the Euston Co-Operative Rural Society since 1998 and chair since 2005. The Co-Op is made up of around 60 table grape growers covering 1,600 acres at Euston. The Co-op’s primary function is to deliver water from the River Murray via high-pressure pipeline to the growers for irrigation purposes. The Co-Op has affected positive and significant changes for farmers in the area.In his role, he has been a capable advocate for the members he represents, and has had to confer with and assist council in many instances, during its time of administration.He was appointed to the EPAC (Euston Progressive Advisory Committee), and has been very active in advocating for and uplifting the profile of Euston on many fronts.Although he is a staunch advocate for all things Euston, Louie is also an emphatic advocate for equality throughout the entirety of Balranald Shire. “It is understandable the way Euston may have been considered to be under the wing of Robinvale, a larger town very close,” Louie said. “It has therefore been an area of Balranald Shire which may have not always received the attention it has needed in the past.“It is clear to me, however, none of Balranald Shire has received the attention it has needed. Where other Shires have been proactive in seeking out funding, grants and opportunities for improvement, Balranald Shire seems to have been stagnating in the past, not adequately represented in previous decades.“I want what is fair for the whole of Balranald Shire; Euston, Balranald, Kyalite, Clare and all other parts.“We are really lucky coming out of administration, we have a varied and motivated representation of the whole shire on board.”“The Shire has a slew of opportunities walking through the door, including the mines, renewables, and more. We need to make the most of these good opportunities.”The Sturt Highway and its subpar condition is an issue of which Louie is incredibly passionate. “I have repeatedly sought but have had no answer from the Minister of Transport for NSW, Helen Dalton, and Sussan Ley among others, as to why the segment of the Sturt Highway which is in the worst state is the part which runs through Balranald Shire.”Louie understands other councils have the specific funding and contractual agreement needed to maintain and improve the roads in their LGA, but Balranald has not.“This is another issue which needs to be looked into; why we do not have that when other shires do, and what it will take for Balranald shire to get this,” he said.“As soon as you cross from Balranald Shire to another Shire, the change is clear.”While Louie was reasonably confident he would do well in the election, he was happily surprised when elected mayor. He will assess whether he would like to throw his hat in the ring to remain mayor in two years’ time (mayors are voted in every two years in Local Government), he is certainly keen on remaining on council for as long as possible.His other major passions are continuing to farm high quality table grapes and spending time with his family.Louie was a talented and enthusiastic table tennis player for 30 years, and still gets the gear out now and again for a game with the family.When he gets the time, he likes to fish and visit his grandchildren.“We are really lucky, all of our children and grandchildren are located close by,” Louie said. “They are all here in Euston except for two who live near Mildura.”

Give your workplace or business a mental health overhaul
Give your workplace or business a mental health overhaul

06 February 2025, 10:00 PM

Creating a mentally healthy workplace is the responsibility of all employers, leaders and workers in NSW.Make your workplace safer and healthier by learning about how to manage mental health, registering for free training and coaching and completing the Workplace Wellbeing Assessment.The NSW Government website has free training and coaching which can help you create a mentally healthy workplace.Our experts can train your workforce on how and why to protect psychological health at work.They can also work with employers and leaders one-on-one to fine tune your mental health initiatives, or confidentially coach leaders on how to manage issues that may be affecting your employees’ mental health at work.Eligible businesses can access one or both programs, in the order that suits you.Programs include: How to create a mentally healthy workplaceManaging mental health in your workplaceMental health at work resourcesLegal obligations and rightsCreating mentally healthy workplaces case studiesOne in five Australians have taken time off work in the past 12 months because they felt stressed, anxious, depressed or mentally unhealthy. This statistic is more than twice as high among those who consider their workplace mentally unhealthy.Australian workplaces are trying hard to make workplaces more mentally healthy but let's all take every step we can to keep that momentum going.For more information visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/employment/mental-health-at-work?fbclid=IwY2xjawIQ9edleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdnP7sOxS-2c25T8WuaLYpXIAC7b39SGDJETOGQKYnNOFxtpa9HGvYoCBQ_aem_g_Sq7W1TOgPlTfjxpj0MCQ

Book in for your breast screen in Hay
Book in for your breast screen in Hay

06 February 2025, 4:00 AM

Get onto it girlies, and book in for your breast screening.Call 132050 to book in.Women aged 50–74 are invited to screen every two years.Women in their 40s and over 75 are also welcome, but BreastScreen NSW recommend you speak with your doctor first. BreastScreen NSW is a free health service for women from all cultures and language groups. Women under 40 are not eligible to attend BreastScreen NSW, but don't let this stop you from being proactive about your health.If you’re aged under 40 and are concerned about your risk of breast cancer (including family history) you should discuss this with your doctor. Women under 40 are at a much lower risk of developing breast cancer.Breast screening can be less effective for women under 40 due to higher breast density, which can make it harder to see small cancers on an x-ray. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are recommended to screen from age 40. More than 75 per cent of breast cancers are found in women aged over 50. While cancer can occur in younger women aged 40-50, it is less common.  It’s important to note that breast screening can be less effective for women in this age group. This is because higher breast density can make it more difficult to see a cancer on the x-ray. More than 75 per cent of breast cancers occur in women over 50. Regular breast screens are the best way to find breast cancer early.  You will no longer receive invitations from age 75 however you can contact us to make a booking. Please talk to your doctor to find out if breast screening is right for you. 

Informal bus stops and other road safety reminders
Informal bus stops and other road safety reminders

05 February 2025, 10:00 PM

Safety should never take a holiday, but as school is just around the corner, it is a timely reminder for all of us to slow down for the school zones. Class may not be in session, but there will be school zones in place as some children may still attend school on these days, so when driving through a school zone remember to stay under the 40km/h speed limit.Ever heard of informal bus stops?In rural and regional areas, school children may be dropped off and picked up at temporary bus stops that don't have any signage or infrastructure - they're often just the end of a driveway or residenceWhen driving on country roads remember to keep a look out for children who may be waiting for their bus or crossing the road to get to their stop.If your child gets the bus from an informal stop, go with them if you can and hold their hand when crossing the road. If they're old enough, have a conversation with them about how to cross safely.And slow down to 40kph when passing a bus, with flashing lights, on your side of the road.Emphasize the importance of always using a pedestrian crossing, looking both ways carefully before stepping into the road, waiting for a safe gap in traffic, and never running across the road; always hold an adult's hand when crossing if you are young, and make sure to make eye contact with drivers before stepping out into the road. If you're taking a nap in the passenger seat this summer, make sure your belt stays low across your hips with the sash firmly across your chest and mid shoulder.We all know it's tempting to recline your seat on a long drive, but doing so can mean your seatbelt isn't adjusted properly.Did you know it is in fact legal to sleep in your car in New South Wales as long as you park legally. However, some councils have introduced laws to prevent people from sleeping in their cars for long periods of time. When sleeping in your car, safety should always be a top priority. One of the biggest hazards to be aware of is carbon monoxide poisoning, so be sure to crack a window for fresh air circulation. Additionally, bright lights can disrupt your sleep, so consider investing in window coverings for privacy and light blockage.

Farm Fire Fighting Vehicle Trial
Farm Fire Fighting Vehicle Trial

05 February 2025, 7:00 PM

Vehicles which are used to respond to an emergency bush fire incident may not need to be registered under a Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles (FFFV) Trial running until March 31. This trial follows an initial trial which occurred between December 2023 and March 2024. The new trial will enable more feedback to be obtained to inform future options for a longer-term solution. Participants in the first trial need to nominate FFFVs again to participate in the second trial.A vehicle nominated for the FFFV trial must be declared suitable for safe use and in thoroughly serviceable condition by the owner and can be used only in connection with emergency bush fire incidents on road or road related areas within a 100 kilometre radius of the storage address.To ensure that the FFFV is suitable for the trial, owners should refer to the safety guidance included in the Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles Trial factsheet before nominating their vehicle, in addition to consulting the NSW Rural Fire Service Operational Guide.To nominate a FFFV for the trial, submit the digital Farm Fire Fighting Vehicle Nomination and include the required photographsOnce the form is submitted, you will receive an acknowledgement with a copy of the nomination by email. These must be produced to Police or Authorised Officers upon request.The nomination is valid from the time you receive the acknowledgment until the trial ends on March 31, after which the exemption will no longer apply. Transport will review nominations and contact customers if there are any safety concerns with a FFFV or if it must be withdrawn from the trial for safety reasons.Vehicles in the trial are exempt from registration and number plates are not required. Any old number plates on the vehicle should be removed and returned to a Service NSW service centre. To view the Farm Fire Fighting Vehicles Trial factsheet visitchrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/noindex/2024-12/Farm-Fire-Fighting-Vehicle-factsheet-December-2024.pdfNSW Rural Fire Service Operational Guide visitchrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/242713/FFU-Operational-Guide.pdfTo view the Farm Fire Fighting Vehicle Nomination visithttps://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/farm-fire-fighting-vehicle-nomination

Far west communities to benefit from worker accommodation funding
Far west communities to benefit from worker accommodation funding

05 February 2025, 4:00 AM

$5.1 million for new health worker accommodation in Far Western NSW Communities in Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Wentworth, Buronga and Dareton are set to benefit from new Key Worker Accommodation which will help attract, recruit and retain more healthcare workers in Far West NSW. “As we get one step closer to a new health service in Wentworth, it is welcome news that the government is boosting its investment in rural healthcare services and infrastructure," Independent Member for Murray, Helen Dalton, said. “The new accommodation units will be an opportunity to fill desperately needed vacant health care positions and support communities that are currently begging for quality health services.” The Minns Labor Government will invest $5.1 million in health worker housing in Far Western NSW as part of the Key Health Worker Accommodation program. The $200 million program supports more than 20 projects across rural, regional and remote NSW. “It is critical we attract and keep health workers not just in Far West NSW, but across the whole of rural and remote NSW," Mrs. Dalton said. "This investment will hopefully draw medical professionals to the bush.” The funding will secure approximately 120 dwellings across regional NSW. This includes building new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and the purchase of properties such as residential units. The four-year program will support the recruitment and retention of more than 500 health workers and their families by providing a range of accommodation options. “It is essential that health in rural and remote NSW is not neglected and people in the bush receive the same level of care as their city cousins," Mrs. Dalton said. The program is one of a number of investments the Minns Labor Government is making to strengthen the regional, rural and remote health workforce and builds on the success of the NSW Government's $73.2 million investment in key health worker accommodation across five regional local health districts (Far West, Murrumbidgee, Southern NSW, Hunter New England and Western NSW).

Parkes MP calls for action on youth crime
Parkes MP calls for action on youth crime

05 February 2025, 1:00 AM

The latest news and views from Member for Parkes Mark CoultonChange needed to address crimeThe Moree, Narrabri and Gunnedah communities are still reeling from the tragic death of a man after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a vehicle allegedly stolen by three 14-year-olds from Moree.Sadly, this incident is just the tip of the iceberg. Communities throughout my electorate have been dealing with youth crime for years, but over the past year it seems to have escalated and now it’s resulted in the death of an innocent man.It should never have come to this, but enough is enough and our communities deserve to see some action to tackle this issue and help them feel safe.I’m backing my state Nationals colleague, Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan in his calls for the NSW Government to take immediate action and deliver major legislative reforms to address this issue. In particular, bail laws need to change so that courts cannot grant bail to repeat serious offenders, regardless of their age.We can’t keep throwing money at the issue and funding the same services that are currently not making a difference. Something needs to change if we want to see real, tangible outcomes on the ground.Back to school costs hit families hardMost children across the Parkes electorate will be returning to the classroom this week, however new data has revealed that back-to-school costs are further burdening many families that are already struggling with the basics as a result of Labor’s cost-of-living crisis.Under the Labor Government, education costs have risen an alarming 11 per cent and parents are being forced to make impossible choices. Many families are unable to afford basic school supplies, uniforms or digital devices.According to The Smith Family’s recent Pulse survey, 87 per cent of parents worried about affording back-to-school costs. The findings reveal more than half of parents fear their children will miss out on essential digital devices, and nearly 60 per cent said 2024 was harder than ever to cover school costs due to skyrocketing everyday expenses like groceries, rent, and petrol.Education is a fundamental right; yet under Labor, it is becoming increasingly out of reach for many Australian families. Children cannot reach their best potential if they cannot access the basics to succeed in the classroom. Only a Coalition government will fight cost-of-living pressures, build a stronger economy and get Australia back on track.Australia Day honoursI'd like to congratulate the eight people from the Parkes electorate who were named in the Australia Day 2025 Honours List, including Shanna Whan from Narrabri who received a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), Dennis Lowder from Wee Waa who received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), Patricia Hadley from Narrabri who received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), Rodney Towney from Dubbo who received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), Kim Vodic from Broken Hill who received an Australian Corrections Medal (ACM), Inspector Helen McWilliam from Moree who received an Australian Police Medal (APM), Anthony Battam from Narrabri who received an Emergency Services Medal (ESM), and William Birch from Narrabri who received a Public Service Medal (PSM).An incredible honour for each of these well-deserving individuals who contribute so much to our wonderful electorate!Community groups in the Parkes electorate have until this Friday 7 February to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOI) for Round 9 of the Stronger Communities Programme.Grants of up to $20,000 are available for community organisations and local governing bodies for infrastructure projects that deliver social benefits for local communities. Dozens of community groups have benefitted from this funding over the years, and I look forward to seeing some great projects go ahead under this latest round.If your community group has a suitable project in mind, I encourage you to check the guidelines and submit an Expression of Interest to my office by 5pm AEDT on Friday 7 February. For more information and to download an EOI form, visit my website HERE

MASH in Balranald
MASH in Balranald

03 February 2025, 7:00 PM

The Mallee Artists Swan Hill (MASH) will launch their new exhibition at The Balranald Gallery on Friday, February 7 with an afternoon tea at 2pm, giving locals an opportunity to meet and talk with the artists.Featuring more than 48 works of art created by the all the members of the small, but active Swan Hill based artist group the exhibition will be on show for six weeks.Incoming president of MASH, Gail Autry, said that the group has been trying to get an exhibition at Balranald for a while and were pleased when the opportunity presented itself and the members were very excited at being able to bring their works to Balranald. “We have exhibited at The Swan Hill Gallery, Cohuna and the Grain Shed in Swan Hill in the past,” Ms Autry said.The group has been going for more than 23 years and is comprised of like minded people getting together to enhance their knowledge of art, teach each other new things and a social outlet.“Once a month we try to have workshops with someone from within the group showing the other members something that is of interest to them to expand,” Ms Autry added“It is a very diverse and social group, when we meet each week, we have our cuppa and our cake.“Some days you might just chat a lot or you might just do something very small but other times you get together and you might do a whole heap of different things.“We also have some bigger workshops throughout the year where we have a professional artist come in and show us some different things.”There will be artworks from many genres and styles on display each depicting a different style from the diverse group of artists. The group ventures out regularly to visit the many galleries in the region to expand their creativity and visit with artists from different areas.On display will be oils, water colours, acrylics, and sculptures with all the works available for sale.Ms Autry said that they are trying to get MASH out into the wider world so that not only other people from different areas can experience their work but also the MASH artist can experience other artists work.The Balranald Gallery has been run by volunteers for more than 40 years and is housed in the lovingly restored old freemason lodge at 51 Mayall Street.

Farewell to the Menindee mailman
Farewell to the Menindee mailman

03 February 2025, 1:00 AM

Next week sees the last two runs for the Wentworth – Pooncarie - Menindee Mailman – Geoff Metcalfe.Retirement calls for the Menindee mailman after 27 and a half years as an Australia Post contractor. In close to 30 years, he only missed one trip, when he chopped his forefinger off and had to have surgery.Geoff and his wife, Dianne Metvcalfe bought the business from Denis Dezdjek on August 1,1997. This purchased them a white Isuzu 4-ton truck, and a thriving freight business. Before Denis, the run was serviced by Bert Bertalli. They upgraded to the iconic Isuzu 8-ton truck when there was too much freight for the smaller truck and trailer.By 2010, the drought had decimated the freight business, and most of the customers we serviced in Menindee were no longer trading. Table Grape Growers, Tandou, Tandou Cotton, professional fishermen and stone fruit growers to name a few. It was about this time that we sold the truck and the mail service became a ute.Many, many changes over the years, the main one being the sealed road reaching Menindee in 2024 - at least Geoff had a little time on the fully sealed road!That unsealed road presented a few challenges. "The corrugations were enough to rattle your teeth, and hard on vehicles - home serviced after every trip. And in winter, getting bogged was an occupational hazard, as was pulling tourists out of the mud," recalled Geoff's wife Dianne on social media."The floods of 2011 were memorable. The road was nowhere to be seen near Yampool crossing, and near Tolarno Station it was an utter mess. "Months of delivering the mail via Broken Hill when it became impossible to get through…. ‘The mail must go through’."Reflecting on the past 27 and a half years, it is clear that resilience and dedication have played a huge part in Geoff’s tenure as the Menindee Mailman. The communities along the run have witnessed firsthand his commitment and tireless work ethic, regardless of the conditions. Geoff's retirement marks the end of an era, but his service will not be forgotten by those who relied on his dependable deliveries."

 Local politicians call for change
Local politicians call for change

02 February 2025, 7:00 PM

Youth crime crisis in Parkes electorate demands urgent action, say local leadersFollowing a tragic incident in Gunnedah involving a fatal collision with a vehicle allegedly stolen by three 14-year-olds from Moree, local leaders are demanding immediate and decisive action from the NSW Labor Government to combat the escalating youth crime in the Parkes electorate. Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, and Nationals candidate for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, have joined state Nationals colleagues in calling for significant legislative reforms, highlighting a deep sense of frustration and urgency among affected communities.Communities Reeling from Tragedy“I know the Moree, Narrabri and Gunnedah communities are still reeling from this shocking tragedy,” stated Mr Coulton, expressing his condolences to the loved ones of the Narrabri man who lost his life in the incident. Mr Coulton noted that the incident is just the tip of the iceberg, as communities throughout the electorate have been grappling with youth crime for years, which he says has worsened over the past year. He believes the situation has reached a critical point where residents' safety is compromised.Government Inaction Under ScrutinyDespite a $26.2 million package announced by the NSW Labor Government in March last year, aimed at addressing regional youth crime, Mr Coulton said that there has been no tangible change on the ground, and that if anything, crime has only worsened. He raised concerns about the effectiveness of current approaches, questioning the efficacy of existing youth organizations. “Back then, I questioned whether throwing more money at some of the existing youth organisations would make any difference when they don’t seem to be working currently. Something needs to change,” he said.Calls for Legislative ReformEchoing these sentiments, Mr Chaffey, former Chair of the Country Mayors Association of NSW, is pushing for legislative changes, particularly to bail laws. He supports his state Nationals colleague Brendan Moylan’s call for courts to deny bail to repeat serious offenders, regardless of their age. Mr Chaffey emphasized that people have been screaming for change, but we are yet to see any practical solutions.Parliamentary Inquiry Yields No ResultsMr Chaffey also expressed his disappointment that a NSW Parliamentary inquiry into regional crime, which he had previously advocated for, has not produced any tangible outcomes. Despite three hearings being held in October in Bourke, Broken Hill and Kempsey, he said that no interim report or practical solutions have been released. Mr Chaffey also questioned why hearings were not held in more towns, given that this is an issue felt across the entire Parkes electorate.Focus on Intervention and DiversionIn the face of this crisis, Mr Chaffey emphasized that if we do nothing, nothing will change. As the Nationals candidate for Parkes, he pledged to fight for greater youth intervention and diversionary programs to tackle the underlying reasons why young people turn to crime. Mr Chaffey is hopeful that, if elected, the Coalition can implement positive diversionary programs in the Parkes electorate, noting the earlier the intervention, the greater chance of reform.Community DesperationThe situation has left communities in the Parkes electorate feeling unheard, with Mr Coulton saying they deserve to see some action to tackle this issue and help them feel safe. The calls for immediate legislative and practical solutions demonstrate a growing urgency and a demand for real change from the NSW Labor Government

Hay does it again!
Hay does it again!

02 February 2025, 4:00 AM

Small town spirit gets the job done time after time.Countless times, the community has come together to locate items, give a helping hand, and just be there for others. Brooke Wade helped a visitor to the town to find a very special ring. It all began with visitors enjoying a cool off at Sandy Point while calling through on a 42-degree day. “We always call in to Hay when travelling,” said Bec Francis, 53 (right). “We love Hay because of its amazing dog park where we can let our dog, Mango out for a nice run, its great facilities and friendly people.” However, on this occasion, it was too hot for the dog park, so Bec looked for a place they could pull up by the river and have a swim. When she opened the car door, Mango jumped straight out and eagerly ran into the water. As it was a spur of the moment swim, Bec didn’t stop to remove her jewellery. While enjoying their cool off in the river, the band slipped off Bec’s hand. “I could feel it going, but it happened in an instant,” she said. “I froze in the exact spot and tried my hardest to feel around and try to find it. The bottom of the river was just more than arm’s length and as hard as I tried, I could not find it.” Desperate to recover the treasured item, Bec and her daughter Mackenzie called out to a nearby boat for help, thinking it was possible they had a net with them they could use to scoop up the ring. The people on the boat, including Brooke Wade, immediately came to help, and there were 10 people looking for the ring. After some 15 minutes there was still no luck finding the ring. This ring isn’t just any ordinary ring. It was her late husband’s wedding band who died in April 2022 from a virulent and rare case of squamous cell carcinoma. “He was an amazing man; although he was in a lot of pain, he never lost the essence of who he was.” The ring is a different in appearance to your average gold band. “We called in to the local jeweller at Adelaide, to sort out our rings before we got married,” Bec said. “My husband was wearing his bracelet he was gifted for his 21st birthday by friends, they bought at the jam factory. “While we were looking, the jeweller noticed the bracelet, and said he made that. “We couldn’t believe it, but he did indeed make the bracelet, so we had a matching ring made.” After he passed, her 23-year-old daughter has always worn the bracelet, and Bec wears his wedding band. Brooke took to a Hay site on Facebook, to reach out for help. Before she knew it, Serena and Jason Wall headed down to Sandy Point with Jason’s metal detector. Having to keep on travelling, Bec and Brooke swapped contact details, and Bec and her little convoy kept on driving. “We were 45 minutes out of Hay when Brooke texted, and the part I could see said, “Guess what?” Brooke sent through a picture of Jason with the ring on his finger. “I pulled over, and burst into tears. “I hadn’t cried all this time but finding the ring meant so very much. “The ring won’t bring my husband back but it is so indescribably good to have it back. “I caught up with Jason and he laughingly told me he found six bottle tops, ring pulls and foil before he found the ring,” Bec said. Jason had only been YouTubing how to look for items with a metal detector underwater the day before. “I am so grateful to beautiful Brooke, with her quietly positive nature, and the wonderful Hay community coming together to help. It is absolutely amazing and we are forever grateful.” Bec said while they have always called into Hay on their regular travels, they will make sure to always come to Hay, as it holds an even more special meaning for them.

Fran James
Fran James

02 February 2025, 1:00 AM

Fran James survived a major health scare recently which altered her perspective of life, in the most positive way. “I switch the news on and there are people still dying and suffering all over the world, it is a constant reminder of how lucky I am,” Fran said. “People so often complain about Hay but we are truly fortunate to live here. “Our children walk or ride to school and happily ride their bikes around the town. And whenever I or someone calls for help, people are at the ready, the town comes together to help each other.” Fran describes herself as a ‘typical stubborn German,’ ignoring the signs and pushing on. After a while though, Fran’s body decided enough was enough, and she eventually slipped into semi-consciousness. “I have no energy, but I am still here,” she said. “You’ve got to keep a positive attitude, and look at the bigger picture. Fran and her neighbour, Doris Parker, were both out the front watering their gardens at the same time. Doris noticed something wasn’t right with Fran, and insisted on taking her in her car to the Hay Hospital. Once there, Doris stayed with her, determined to get to the bottom of it. Fran was adamant she would be going home, and after an examination, Fran was allowed to return home with Doris. A few days later, Ellie Parr, one of Fran’s grandchildren, came to visit with her husband Simon and baby daughter Ava. During the visit Simon, a paramedic, became quite concerned with Fran’s health. “He told me sooner or later I was going to take a breath and that breath would not be there,” Fran said. Simon then contacted the ambulance, and they came to take Fran to Hay Hospital. “I barely remember being in the back of the ambulance but what I do remember, even in my semi-conscious state, was feeling very peaceful,” she said. When they got to the hospital they were met by Doctor Shaz, who said he knew she would be back. During Fran’s stay in hospital, the staff were very caring towards her, and she was even allowed to go home to shower, check on her Jack Russell, Little Girl. This lifted her spirits immensely. “People were really there for me, people all came together to get me through this difficult time, friends, family and medical professionals; I don’t know what I did to deserve such good people in my life,” she said. Her family all sat around the table, having come together for Fran. She looked around at her family, feeling immeasurably blessed. She was reading a book recently, and a line from that brought to her attention that Hay and surrounds are one of the flattest places in the world. “I think about that when driving over the plains, how lucky we are to live in such a special place,” she said. Fran and her second husband John came to Hay 20 years ago, and Glen Jamieson, one of her three children, came too. After a time, Fran and John decided to move away, but Glen chose to stay, and settled here. Sadly, Fran lost John five years ago. “Around that time, Glen suggested it was time I came to live in Hay where he could take care of me, and real estate was a lot cheaper at that time, so I did,” Fran said. “He dotes on me.” She managed well living independently until her health became an issue. Fran has a heartwarming perspective on the importance of being there for others, as people have been for her. “It is so important to give people a hug, to let them know you care and we are all in this together,” she said. “At the time, it may feel like something small, but reaching out to others is such a big moment, one they might remember for a long time.” Fran is hoping she will still be able to drive, and is trying hard to do everything she can to stay on top of her health. “Our hospital deserves all the praise it can get,” she said. “The staff go away to train and gain knowledge and then come back, wanting to provide their community with the best medical care and support. “They do a phenomenal job, battle with so much and fight for better conditions and wages when they should just get it; it is such a tough job.” Turning a worrying experience into something valuable is a gift Fran is determined to hold onto. “Life can be very precarious,” she said. “It is and has been really helpful for me to look at experience such as this and think, what has this taught me? “What can be gained out of this? “I feel as though this has been another step towards helping me be a better person, to care for others and remember what really matters. “I just wanted to say a big thank you to all the medical professionals, my family, neighbours and friends, I am very grateful,” Fran said. “We need to always remind ourselves we are lucky to live in such a great town and have so many good resources at our fingertips.” Fran’s experience offers a lesson we can all take on board; be proactive about your health, and remind yourself what is really important in life.

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