Helen Dalton MP, Member for Murray, says the truth about what she describes as $13 billion of wasted taxpayer money needs to be told.The independent member is referring to a new four-year study into the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) Plan reveals mixed results.The four-year study released last involved 12 scientists from Australia’s leading universities, and drew on data from 1980 to 2023. The report is co authored by Matthew Colloff, Kate Lanyon, Jamie Pittock, Milo Costanza-van den Belt, Sarah Wheele, Quentin Grafton, John Williams, Fran Sheldon, Richard Kingsford, Gilad Bino, Luigi Renzullo and Bradley Moggridge.Professor Kingsford, from the University of NSW, is well known in the region, having worked extensively on water bird research in the Low Bidgee eco-region and across the entire Murray-Darling Basin. “It is the most comprehensive report card to date on government policies to protect the Murray-Darling,” said one of the report’s authors Jamie Pittock, a professor at the Australian National University.“We found expensive and contentious reforms, including the once-vaunted Murray-Darling Basin plan, have mostly failed to improve outcomes for people and nature along the river system.“The result is deeply alarming for a natural asset so fundamental to Australia’s environmental, cultural and economic well-being.”Ms Dalton said the research confirms what our communities have known for years.“This Basin Plan was destined to fail from the start.“You can’t fix complex river system issues with simplistic ‘just add water’ solutions.“These childlike ‘solutions’ and lazy politics aren't just failing - they're making things worse. “While billions are wasted on flawed water buybacks, basic issues like pest control and infrastructure maintenance are ignored.”Ms Dalton said the river systems are being overrun by carp, claiming the pest species accounts for 90 per cent of river biomass.The report found just two of 12 MDB Plan environmental indicators were met and claims flows required to achieve environmental outcomes were not met at 65 per cent of the river gauge sites assessed.The report says abundance of waterbirds is declining and the incidence of very large fish-kill events is increasing, as witnessed at Menindee Lakes, NSW, twice in the past decade.“The basic human right to access adequate, safe drinking water is not being met in many towns, including predominantly Indigenous communities such as Wilcannia,” Mr Pittock said.The finding of this recent report is contrary to claims in several studies, including one commissioned by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.In response, Ms Dalton has released her own 12 Steps to a Better Murray Darling Basin Plan on her website.Step one is to stop water buybacks.“We must reinstate legislated protections to ensure water projects don’t hurt communities and only proceed if they have neutral or positive effects.”Ms Dalton’s plan also calls for upgrades to Burrinjuck Dam to increase capacity, and build mid-Murrumbidgee storages at Lake Coolah and Lake Mejum, near Narrandera.“Dams often need to release water during floods, worsening downstream flooding as seen in 2016 and 2022,” Ms Dalton’s plan reads.“Building mid-Murrumbidgee storage would reduce flood impacts, improve efficiency for agriculture and the environmental water holder.”Menindee Lakes also form part of the Member for Murray’s plans.“A proposed solution is to let 712 gigalitres through Menindee, reserving some for local needs, and swap it for water from the Murray system to improve supply and reduce restrictions.”Ms Dalton refers to Lake Alexandrina and Albert in South Australia as ‘fake lakes’ and has previously called for the water bodies to be returned to estuarine waters, rather than fresh water.“Changes must be implemented on these fake lakes to return an estuarine managed system, which would save water, restore natural ecosystems, and improve balance across the Murray-Darling Basin.”Ms Dalton claims floodplain harvesting in northern NSW and outdated water meters in south-eastern South Australia are issues that need addressing.“Installing accurate meters in NSW and smart meters in South Australia will ensure water use is properly measured and managed.“Meter, monitor and police water use,” she urges in her 12 step plan.On social media Ms Dalton compared the $13 billion spent on the MDB Plan as being equivalent to 32,500 family homes, 13,000 Ferrari sports cars or $903 from every Australian taxpayer.The Murray Darling Basin Authority has not released a response to the recent report by scientists.

The man who pled guilty to transporting homemade pipe bombs along the Sturt Highway will serve his sentence in the community.Thirty-three-year-old Timacoy Jason Williams remained in custody after pleading guilty to all charges at his October 4 appearance at Griffith Local Court and was sentenced on November 20 by Magistrate Wright.For the two charges of possess explosive device in public place, one charge of possessing a prohibited drug and one charge of custody of a knife in public place, Williams received concurrent sentences of 22 month of imprisonment, to be served in the community.On a second charge of prohibited drug possession Williams was convicted under Section 10A but no penalty was imposed.Williams’ Intensive Correction Order states he must not commit any offence and must submit to supervision by the Lismore Community Corrections District Office.Williams is also to perform 120 hours of community service and address his mental health and substance abuse issues.The charges relate to the discovery of two suspected pipe bombs in a vehicle stopped on the Sturt Highway near Hay on September 30.The discovery resulted in 50 kilometres of the highway being closed for eight hours between Hay and Maude, while Police investigated.The court heard Williams acted suspiciously during a routine traffic stop, where he was the passenger in the vehicle, smelt of cannabis and was not wearing a seatbelt. When asked for his ID, an agitated Williams gave a false name.The driver produced a positive drug test on the roadside, leading Police to further search the vehicle.Officers searched the car and found a black sports bag in the passenger side footwell, which contained cannabis and two silver metal cylinders with fuses which officers identified as pipe bombs.A jewellery box and a satchel bag containing a wallet with Williams' true name on it were also found.The box and bag were searched and police found cannabis and a clear resealable bag containing a crystal substance believed to be methamphetamine.A 29.5-centimetre knife was also found under the passenger seat.Police also found other items including a 'Mongrels' outlaw motorcycle gang vest, a black ski mask and black tactical gloves.At an earlier appearance the court heard Williams has ties to bikie gangs and had what was referred to as an “extensive criminal history.”Williams’ sentence will expire on September 19, 2026.

The Ivanhoe Community Working Party has sponsored a Christmas event.Head down on December 13 4pm to 6pm, to Ivanhoe Community Hall. Come together as a community and enjoy a community Church Christmas service and outback carols and dinner. Ivanhoe is such a small community but never fails to come together to make things happen.

The NSW Government is currently spending significantly more public money promoting coal than helping regional communities transition away from it, according to new research by the Australia Institute. The report, Greenwashing Coal in New South Wales, reveals a stark contrast in funding priorities. The Australia Institute says state government organisations which are meant to be supporting communities with the transition away from coal have an initial budget of just $5.2 million, while public subsidies for coal research and promotion far exceed this amount. The report's key points:The NSW Government’s proposed Future Jobs and Investment Authorities for the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West regions aim to assist coal-reliant communities' transition. But they are severely underfunded with a collective budget of just $5.2 million for all four authorities.These Authorities are not able to access increased funding from the Future Jobs and Investment Fund until 2028-29.Organisations devoted to promoting and prolonging the NSW coal industry, by contrast, have significantly more resources:Coal Innovation NSW spent $27 million last year and has a balance of $45 million.The coal industry organisation Low Emissions Technology Australia (LETA) is promoted as a $700 million fund. This fund is publicly subsidised, but recently asked to stop receiving contributions due to a significant surplus of funding.The report calls for the abolition of Coal Innovation NSW and associated funds. It also recommends royalty deduction subsidies to LETA be immediately abolished.“The NSW Government is far more focused on promoting coal than helping communities move away from it,” said Rod Campbell, Research Director at The Australia Institute. “The current approach undermines both the state’s emissions reduction efforts and the future of regional communities.“What governments do is more important than what they say. Regional communities need funding to transition smoothly, but instead the lion’s share of government funding is used to promote speculative technologies that assist the coal industry. “The NSW Government has the opportunity to lead the way by redirecting funds and ensuring these communities thrive in a post-coal economy. It should impose a moratorium on new coal projects, abolish Coal Innovation NSW and end royalty deductions for coal industry promotion.“In contrast to the meagre funding in NSW, the German Coal Commission budgeted $3.4 billion per year to allow its regions to move past coal. This is what genuine climate leadership and caring for communities looks like. Unfortunately, the NSW Government has a long way to go.“This research shows that the NSW Government is happy to use the budget to subsidise the coal industry, just as its response to the Newcastle coal port protests showed that it was happy to sacrifice democratic rights for the coal industry.”Beau Blenman, a 7th generation Hunter Valley local who has worked in mining for over two decades said: "Coal mining has devastated our once-beautiful agricultural valley, damaging the environment and eroding the fabric of our community.”"The toll from coal mining in the Hunter has been severe, from polluted air to degraded aquifers. Despite the government’s claims of caring about biodiversity, mining rehabilitation efforts here have been woefully inadequate."We're witnessing our weather systems change while foreign-owned companies profit at the expense of our land and people,” Mr Blenman said.

The tragic death of Molly Wilkes, a 22-year-old victim of domestic violence, has exposed a critical flaw in Australia's superannuation system, leaving her family grappling with grief and a fight for justice. Molly's story sheds light on the urgent need for reform to prevent perpetrators of abuse from profiting from their victims' superannuation death benefits.Molly's story is sadly not unique. Relationships NSW reports that, on average, it takes seven attempts for a survivor to leave an abusive relationship. Molly had tried six times to escape her abuser before her tragic death. Under current superannuation laws, only spouses, children, or financial dependents are eligible to receive death benefits. This rigid system allowed Molly's abusive husband, despite her prior nomination of her mother as beneficiary, to claim her superannuation, adding another layer of pain to an already unbearable loss.This is yet another infuriating and damaging blow to the abused, another cog in the system which allows the abused to profit and come out on top.Julie Adams OAM, Molly's mother, embarked on a tireless campaign to prevent this injustice, challenging the super fund and the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). Both entities expressed sympathy but were bound by the current legislation, which only allows for refusal of payment if the beneficiary is found guilty of murder, excluding even manslaughter convictions.The fight for change extends beyond Molly's case. Experts and advocates are calling for a comprehensive review of the superannuation death benefits system. Alex Kelly, acting CEO of the Financial Rights Legal Centre, stresses the need to empower super funds to consider family violence in death benefit distribution decisions. Legal experts believe that the superannuation industry is ready for reform. Key proposed changes include:Amending the law to allow funds to consider evidence of domestic violence and financial abuse when determining beneficiaries.Empowering AFCA to consider domestic violence when assessing the fairness of a fund's decision.Ensuring super funds follow best practices when supporting survivors.It does not stop at cases such as Molly's.Women have been denied access to their abusive partners' superannuation death benefits. This injustice stems from a system that often fails to recognize the complex financial dynamics of abusive relationships, leaving survivors in precarious financial situations.The sources highlight several cases where the system has failed to protect these women. In one instance, a woman who endured 29 years of abuse was denied any portion of her deceased partner's superannuation. Despite living apart at the time of his death, a decision attributed to his physical abuse, she was unable to prove financial dependence due to his control over their finances. This case underlines how the system's reliance on traditional financial markers of dependence can disadvantage survivors who have experienced economic abuse.Another woman faced a similar fate when her deceased de facto partner's superannuation was awarded to his parents, despite her claims of financial dependence. She had left their shared home to protect her well-being from his "violent episodes," but this separation was used against her in the superannuation claim. These cases demonstrate a distressing pattern of the system prioritizing technicalities over the realities of abusive relationships.Experts argue that reforms are urgently needed to address this gap in the superannuation framework. Definitions of a long term relationship created by government departments, or guidelines used to label them, are failing to see the nuances and methods of control an abuser can employ.Sharing a lease with an abusive partner can be misinterpreted as a genuine long-term relationship, potentially granting the abuser access to the victim's superannuation upon death.Super funds to consider a wider range of factors, including evidence of financial abuse, isolating behaviors, and testimonies from those close to the deceased.Advocates call for a more holistic approach that considers the nuanced dynamics of domestic violence and financial abuse. Super Consumers Australia, for instance, proposes amendments that allow funds to consider these factors when making decisions on death benefits. Additionally, they urge for clarification on the role of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) in considering domestic violence when assessing the fairness of a fund's decisionWhile legal experts believe the superannuation industry supports these changes, they caution that clear legislation is crucial to guide funds in navigating these sensitive situations. Ultimately, the current superannuation system risks perpetuating the harms of domestic violence even after death. Conducting a comprehensive independent review of the death benefit system to ensure its effectiveness for all Australians.Molly's legacy is a call to action.It is a plea to lawmakers, superannuation funds, and the community to recognize the urgent need for reform.By addressing these critical flaws, we can strive to ensure that superannuation benefits serve their intended purpose—to provide financial security—and not become a tool that further victimizes those who have already endured so much.

The Brighter Beginnings team are striving to get young children ready for school.They are holding a free online education session for caregivers of 4 and 5-year-olds, all about school readiness. Brighter Begginings' Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist and Senior Paediatric Speech Pathologist will share expert tips and fun activities to help children feel confident and prepared for school.There are two ways you can access this fantastic information; join the session on Microsoft teams on Wednesday, December 11 at 11am (Meeting ID: 486 453 547 928, Passcode: eT29q6AQ).The session will also be recorded and available to watch anytime.For more information, call 08 8080 1770.Simply tune in to give your child the best start to their school journey.

Homes out West Mobile Outreach Team will be coming to Wilcannia.On February 5 from 11am to 2pm they will be at the Wilcannia Hall to help with any social or Government housing questions.They will assist you with lodging your housing application online. They can check in to see if you already have applications.They can also let you know what help is available private rentals, and provide you with information if there is a housing issue. This meeting will be at the Wilcannia Community Hall, 78 Woore Street Wilcannia.

Great news for Menindee residents and visitors! The Central Darling Shire Council has been busy making some important improvements to mobility access around town. You'll now find it much easier to get around at three key locations:Menindee Post Office: No more struggling with steps or narrow doorways!Public Toilets: Everyone deserves access to clean and accessible facilities.Supermarket: Grocery shopping just got a whole lot easier for people with mobility challenges.These upgrades are a big win for inclusivity and demonstrate the Council's commitment to making Menindee a more liveable community for everyone. They recognized the need for these improvements through their Disability Inclusion Action Plan (2021-2025), which was developed based on feedback from people with disabilities.The plan focuses on breaking down barriers to inclusion and highlights the importance of accessible infrastructure. Specifically, it calls for:Better access to community facilities: This includes places like the Post Office, public toilets, and the supermarket.Upgraded public toilets: Making sure they are accessible to everyone.Improved paths of travel: This means accessible parking, footpaths, and kerb ramps that make it easier to get around town and access important services.The Menindee mobility access project was made possible thanks to a $178,000 grant from the Stronger Country Communities Fund.The Council is actively seeking additional funding opportunities to continue improving accessibility throughout the Shire.It's fantastic to see local councils taking concrete steps to make their communities more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.

The iconic White Cliffs underground motel is being offered for saleThe White Cliffs' Underground Motel, the largest underground motel in the world is being offered for sale by Out of the Ordinary Outback, the company currently responsible for the motel.White Cliffs Underground Motel is one of only three “dugout”-style hotels in the country, where the temperature remains a conformable 22 degrees, regardless of scorching temperatures above ground.The motel boasts 48 unique hotel rooms, a restaurant and cafe, a bar, museum and conference space, and has existing approval for expansion.The remote community of White Cliffs best known for its opal mining history but is surrounded by ancient rock carvings from the traditional custodians of the nearby Mutawintji National Park – the people of the Pantjikali, Wanyuparlku, Wilyakali and Malyangapa Nations.The asking price is currently undisclosed.The motel is closed for it's annual summer break and will re-open in March 2025.Images: White Cliffs Underground Motel

Australian rapper Briggs (Adam Briggs) posted a message to fans on Sunday evening, of a racial slur that occurred Balranald.Adam Briggs, who performs as Briggs and self-describes as Senator Briggs (although not a member of the Australian Senate), is an Aboriginal Australian rapper, record label owner, comedy writer, actor, and author.On his social media platforms, Briggs posted a story, describing an incident that occurred at an unnamed motel in the town.Briggs was travelling with a family member and claims a woman made a racial slur when they were checking in at reception."While we're checking into this motel a woman wanders into reception and says 'Welcome to BOONGranald!' I did ask if she in fact had said 'BOONGranald,' she sheepishly confirmed," the post read."Instant refund. The year is 2024."Briggs is well known for his stance on the recent Voices to Parliament referendum, where he led a vocal Yes campaign, and his stance on the lowering the age of children's imprisonment.Briggs has been contacted for comment.

It's almost school holidays, which means kids will have more free time… and probably spend a lot of that time online! While the internet is a valuable tool for education and socializing, it's important to be aware of the dangers too.23 Just like in the real world, there are safe places and places you need to supervise your kids. That's why various organizations like Crime Stoppers, NSW Police Force, eSafety Commissioner, and the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) have teamed up to provide resources for parents, carers, and educators to help kids stay safe online.You might be surprised to learn that 84 per cent of Australian children aged 8-12 are already using social media and messaging apps.That's why it's never too early to start talking to your kids about online safety. Think of it like teaching them to ride a bike – you wouldn't let them ride off without a helmet and some basic skills!So, what are some of the dangers kids face online? The sources highlight a few key challenges:Exposure to harmful content: This could include violent or sexually explicit material.Inappropriate contact: Kids may receive unwanted messages or be contacted by adults posing as children.Online grooming: Predators may build relationships with children online with the intention of exploiting them.Sextortion: This involves tricking children into sending explicit images and then blackmailing them.The sources provide several real-life examples of these dangers. In one case, a 13-year-old girl was manipulated into performing sexual acts on camera while chatting with someone she met in an online game.Another case involved a 15-year-old boy who was tricked into sending explicit images and then blackmailed for money.It's important to remember that any child can be a target, regardless of their background. Offenders often target children who are alone online and may not have the knowledge or maturity to understand the risks.But don't panic! There are plenty of things you can do to help keep your kids safe online. Here are a few tips from the sources:Be open and supportive: Let your child know they can come to you if anything goes wrong online, without fear of getting in trouble.Talk about online safety: Have regular conversations with your kids about the potential dangers and how to stay safe. Resources like conversation cards translated into different languages can be helpful.5Be present: Encourage your kids to use devices in open areas of the home where you can keep an eye on their activity.Set boundaries: Use privacy settings and parental controls to monitor content and limit access to devices.Teach them how to spot red flags: Suspicious accounts, personal questions from strangers, and requests for sexualized chat are all warning signs.What if something does happen? The sources emphasize the importance of reporting any incidents of online child exploitation. Here are the steps to take:Collect evidence: Take screenshots or photos of the conversation and record any relevant details like usernames and URLs.Block the user: Prevent further contact on the platform where it occurred.Report it: Contact the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) as soon as possible.Remember, no information is too small.Even seemingly insignificant details could be crucial to a police investigation.The sources provide a wealth of resources to help parents and carers keep kids safe online, including the Child Online Safety Fact Sheet, which offers guidance on recognizing warning signs, protecting children, and reporting online child exploitation.Ultimately, keeping kids safe online is a shared responsibility. Parents, carers, educators, and law enforcement agencies all have a role to play in creating a safer online environment for children. By working together and staying informed, we can help kids enjoy the benefits of the internet while minimizing the risks.

Could Your Compost Pile Spontaneously Combust?We all know that compost piles can get hot, but can they actually catch fire? The answer, surprisingly, is yes – but don't panic just yet. While it's extremely rare for a compost pile to spontaneously combust, it is possible under certain conditions.So, how does this happen? It all comes down to heat. As organic matter decomposes in a compost pile, it generates heat through an aerobic process. If the rate of heat build-up exceeds the rate of heat loss, the temperature inside the pile can rise dramatically. When temperatures reach a critical point, spontaneous combustion can occur.Don't ditch your compost bin just yet, though. The sources emphasize that properly managed compost piles are safe. The key is to ensure adequate aeration and moisture. Turning your compost pile regularly introduces oxygen and helps regulate temperature, preventing dangerous heat build-up. Keeping the pile moist also helps to control temperature and promotes healthy decomposition.Even a hot compost pile isn't necessarily a bad thing. High temperatures are actually beneficial for killing pathogens and weed seeds. However, excessively high temperatures can damage beneficial microorganisms and deplete nitrogen levels in the compost.What's the ideal temperature for a compost pile? Around 71 degrees is considered optimal. While temperatures can sometimes climb higher, especially in hot climates, it's important to monitor your pile and take steps to cool it down if it gets too hot. This might involve turning the pile more frequently or adding water.The bottom line: while spontaneous combustion in compost piles is a real phenomenon, it's incredibly rare and easily preventable with proper management. So, keep composting, keep it moist, keep it aerated, and rest assured that your backyard is safe from fiery explosions (at least from the compost pile, anyway!).

The location of 2025 Koori Knockout was announced, with it set to take place in Tamworth in 2025.It’ll be the first time the city has hosted the prestigious tournament, where both current and future stars of the NRL will be on show.Taking place on October 3 - October 6 (long weekend) at Riverside Sporting Complex Tamworth, NSW, the honour of hosting the event was secured by WAC, who triumphed at the 2024 Koori Knockout in Bathurst.The Koori Knockout is a rugby league competition that brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teams from across New South Wales. Its significance extends beyond the playing field. The Koori Knockout is a powerful demonstration of pride, unity and resilience, offering a platform to showcase emerging talent, while also fostering connections among First Nations communities.The Koori Knockout has grown to be one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the world. In 2024, the tournament featured an extraordinary 138 teams, including current and former NRL and NRLW stars, showcasing the immense talent and passion within First Nations communities. The event attracted a live audience of 30,000 attendees and reached an impressive 500,000 viewers through television broadcasts, underlining its importance to the wider Australian public.

Toganmain Station boasts a massive wool shed located between Carrathool and Darlington Point. Built in 1875, in its heyday the property was that large that it had its own general store, carpentry and blacksmith workshops, wool scour, storage warehouse and medical centre. All of the workers from the out stations would come here to get their supplies. The main property was supplied mainly by stores in Hay and goods delivered by paddle steamer. Situated between Darlington Point and Carrathool, Toganmain Station boasted 13 miles (20 km) of river frontage and was established in 1867 by NSW’s Colonial Secretary Sir Alexander Macleay as one of the first grazing properties in the region. Thomas Robertson Senior bought the station’s original 167,000 acres (67,500 hectares) in blocks and it remained in the family until 1988. During the final years of the 19th century, Toganmain became a focal point of violent union uprisings over workers’ rights, leading to the birth of the modern labour movement. Disputes over pay rates erupted during the 1887 shearing season between unionists and non-unionists, and men who crossed the picket line were beaten and thrown in the river. In literature, Banjo Paterson immortalised the property in his 1905 poem Flash Jack from Gundagai, which opens with the line “I’ve shore at Burrabogie and I’ve shore at Toganmain”. Wool was taken from the station by paddle steamer to Echuca and then by train to Melbourne. In September 1876, a record was set in the shed for 202,292 sheep being shorn by 92 blade shearers, and more than seven million sheep have been shorn in Toganmain woolshed. The woolshed is one of the largest remaining in the Riverina. Now a long time since its hey day, it holds an iconic standing in Australian rural history. The shed has been out of action since the last shearing took place in 2001. It was declared non-compliant with NSW WorkCover work, health and safety guidelines. The Friends of Toganmain group is a band of determined and hardworking people of different origins, that want and have fought to try and restore this landmark. They have launched a GoFundMe campaign to start that process with a goal of at least $25,000 needed to cover the costs. The mini mum of $25,000 is for completion of the sub division, development applications, fencing, gateways, car parks and property admission, and essential work to stabilise the building, which has fallen into dire disrepair. The woolshed is part of Macquarie Bank's property group, Paraway Pastoral Company. Happily, in November 2022, Friends of Toganmain had managed to gain possession of the Toganmain Woolshed and shearers quarters. Christine Chirgwin, secretary of the Friends of Toganmain group, lives in Coleambally, and drives the considerable distance to Toganmain whenever she can. Like many, she has a love and passion for the building, and would be devastated to see it de cline any more than it already has. “Unfortunately, the shed has deteriorated significantly in the last two years,” Christine said. “What once could have been quite a reason able project has become quite an extensive one. It is heartbreaking. It has gotten to the point where the massive beams holding the roof up are cracking.” Although continued issues are still holding up the project to an extent, the group has an ambitious end goal. “The aim is to restore it so we can open it to the public, so they can enjoy and learn about its considerable history,” Christine said. “We want to, when the doors open to the public, have a button, where you press it and can hear the sounds of sheep shearing, an expert’s room where you can see sharpening of the blades, a wool classers table with wool classing going on, whether this is real life or videos and interactive displays. “At the moment, we are in preservation mode. We have to level the floor, re-roof, and tasks like re-roofing are to be done with old tin, to keep in line with the heritage look of the building. Meantime, Macquarie has allowed us to do some work, but we can’t do a lot.” Christine and the Friends of Toganmain are hopeful that other avenues of assistance will open up to preserve this piece of history. “We are hoping to attain sponsorship for the project down the line,” she said. “Us volunteers come from far and wide, many different places to come together and do what we can. “It is such a shame, at one time there were grants and things out there that we could have applied for, but the issues have gone on for so long now that those opportunities have dried up.”

Heads up guys – it is definitely time to start thinking and preparing to send your Christmas parcels and cards as soon as possible.The cut off times for Australia Post in News South Wales is if you are sending it within the state, it is December 20. If the package is going to WA, it is December 18, Tasmania December 19 and Northern Territory December 16.For more rural areas it would be wise to get in even earlier, to save disappointment.If you're sending a Christmas card within Australia, the postage cost is 65 cents during November and December.You can get this discount price provided the envelope is endorsed with "Card only", is no larger than 130mm x 240mm, no thicker than 5mm and no heavier than 250g.If you're sending a Christmas card overseas, the postage cost is $3 anywhere in the world.You can get this discount provided the envelope is endorsed with "Card only" and must be no larger than 260mm x 360mm, on thicker than 5mm and no heavier than 50g.Parcels up to 5kg are eligible for flat-rate postage options to anywhere within Australia.If you're using your own packaging, parcels are charged according to their actual weight or cubic weight equivalent, whichever is greater.Prices for parcels up to 5kg range from $10.95 for small Parcel Post, to $31.35 for extra-large Express Post.Australia Post does not typically deliver on weekends but they do offer weekend deliveries during the Christmas period.This was only introduced last month and is only available in some metro and regional areas, so best not to count on that service either.

Blue green algae is making the rounds lately. NSW Water have issued red alerts for the Darling River at Wilcannia and the Darling River at Caulpaulin.NSW Water has also issues amber alerts for the following areas: Darling River at Menindee Weir, Menindee Lakes at Lake Wetherell Site 4, Menindee Lakes - Cawndilla Outlet, Menindee Lake at Lake Wetherell Station 3, Darling River at Tolarno, Darling River at Trevallyn, Barwon River at Collarenebri, Yanga Lake at Regatta Beach, Murrumbidgee River at Maude weir Buoy.Alert DefinitionsRED ALERT These alert levels represent 'bloom' conditions. Water will appear green or discoloured and clumps or scums could be visible. It can also give off a strong musty or organic odour. Algae may be toxic to humans and animals. Contact with or use of water from red alert areas should be avoided due to the risk of eye and skin irritation. Drinking untreated or boiled water from these supplies can cause stomach upsets. Alternative water supplies should be sought or activated carbon treatment employed to remove toxins. People should not fish when an algal scum is present. Owners should keep dogs away from high alert areas and provide alternative watering points for stock. AMBER ALERT Blue-green algae may be multiplying, and the water may have a green tinge and musty or organic taste and odour. The water should be considered as unsuitable for potable use and alternative supplies or prior treatment of raw water for domestic purposes should be considered. The water may also be unsuitable for stock watering. Generally suitable for water sports, however people are advised to exercise caution in these areas, as blue-green algal concentrations can rise to red alert levels quickly under warm, calm weather conditions. GREEN ALERT Blue-green algae occur naturally at low numbers. At these concentrations, algae would not normally be visible, however some species may affect taste and odour of water even at low numbers and does not pose any problems for recreational, stock or household use.Alerts are declared where algal cell numbers exceed the triggers identified in the Guidelines for Managing Risk in Recreational Waters.NSW Health advises that any domestic use (including drinking) of surface water without appropriate treatment should be avoided at all times.For more information, visit NSW Water's website:https://www.waternsw.com.au/water-services/water-quality/algae-alerts#:~:text=The%20algal%20information%20line%20on,algae%20bloom%20please%20notify%20us.

At the November meeting of Balranald Shire Council, councillors moved to review the current Donations, Subsidies and Financial Assistance Policy.Written in 2017 and due for review in 2019, Cr Iain Lindasy-Field called the policy “antiquated and out of touch.”The discussions into the policy was prompted by three requests for support, tabled at the November meeting.Ian and Kate Weaver requested a $500 donation towards the fundraising efforts of Mildura Health Foundation to support the building and furnishing of the Dr Julie Zrna Centre. “The Dr Julie Zrna Centre will provide accommodation at little, to no cost for rural and remote patients receiving radiation treatment at the Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre,” The Weaver’s letter read.Robinvale Euston Rotary Club requested a donation of $500 towards their annual Christmas carnival and Balranald Pony Club asked for $1,059 garbage charges be waived. Under the current policy, Council was unable to approve any of the requests. At present the policy states donations can only be made in two rounds, closing in July and January, to a maximum of $500. The policy further states requests for financial support for organisation outside the Balranald Shire are not permitted.The Councillors unanimously agreed that support towards facilities such as the Mildura cancer treatment centre has a great benefit to local residents, despite being outside the shire.Cr Dwaine Scott suggested a donation from the Iluka Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) be used to support the Dr Julie Zrna Centre, which will be considered by Council at the December meeting.Cr Alison Linnett further suggested allocating an annual donation to the centre in Council’s budget.Discussions were held regarding the charging of garbage rates to Balranald Pony Club, which Deputy Mayor Dwaine Scott said was an unexpected expense to the volunteer organisation.“Can’t the fee be waived and credited back to them, to save that money coming out of the donations budget?” Cr Scott asked.“It’s got to come from somewhere,” Acting General Manager Glenn Carroll said.“We need to bring this (policy) up to date, to reflect the type of council we are, which is a progressive council,” Cr Lindsay-Field said.The policy will be reviewed at the December meeting.

Associate Professor Anthony Dowling grew up as ‘just another bush kid’. His family property, Merritop is 120 kilometres northwest of Hay, and 40 kilome tres north of Oxley. Their family connection on Merritop continues, with Anthony’s older brother Daniel and sister-in-law Natalie now running the property. Anthony’s father, Ted, was a soldier settler. Ted drew the block in a post-World War II ballot. Ted’s original one-room tin hut still stands on the family property. The other soldier settlers in the area were neighbours John McKeon at Kitcho, and Bill Goulding at Curragh.Anthony’s mother, Faye, came from Swan Hill where her father, Keith Dunoon owned the chemist. Faye studied pharmacy, and Merritop’s pan try was always stocked with interesting potions and ointments. Anthony’s childhood revolved around all things associated with an isolated Merino sheep property. His fondest memories include draining the airstrips after rain with the station hand Claude Woods (Gubba Woods’ great uncle), who worked with Ted for over 40 years.Once drains were dug, Claude walked around the house paddock to check the rams. Anthony and his siblings, Daniel and Sally would follow, looking at animal tracks, skid ding on clay pans, looking at the vegetation springing to life, and smelling the bush smells. Often, they would be covered in mud and Faye would hose them down before they were allowed inside. Fox whistling with Claude was another memorable childhood activity. “Claude would make fox whistles out of Log Cabin Tobacco tin lids and choose a hiding spot near a swamp or up a black box tree,” Anthony recalled. “It was always exciting watching the foxes run through the bushes before being shot.” Correspondence schooling started in a Merritop bedroom converted to a school room. “Mum found teaching two children hard enough, so when it came my turn to start school, the Tarwong Subsidised School was born,” Anthony said. “There, a governess schooled the Dowling and Schiller families. “The school was in the dining quarters of the Tarwong shearing shed, owned by the Schillers. “Claude and Mum would drive us children to school. "I was there for five years with my good friend and fellow classmate Louise Schiller (Hurst). “In grade four, I would drive the Datsun ute to and from school.” In 1977 the school closed, and Louise and Damien Shiller, and Anthony boarded at Claughton House for Year six to attend St Mary’s in Hay. Boarding at Ted’s old school, Assumption College, Kilmore, followed for the next six years. “Dad would often fly Daniel and I in the family Cessna to Moama to catch the bus back to Kilmore,” Anthony said. Mail runs were twice a week. “I still remember opening the old blue mail bag at Merritop to receive the offer to study medicine at the University of Melbourne,” he recalled. Notably, St Mary’s classmate John Johnston also started medicine the same year. Meanwhile, Sally was in Sydney studying Wool and Pastoral Sciences at the University of NSW, now working in Hay at Local Land Services as a Senior Land Services Officer. Six years later, Anthony graduated and commenced work as a doctor at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne. Over the next few years, he spent time working in Swan Hill, Shepparton and Warrnambool. After four years of hard work and passing his physician exams, he spent another three years of specialist training before becoming a Medical Oncologist; a physician specialising in the medical treatments of cancer. He married Karen Sims in 1994 and they moved to Toronto, Canada so Anthony could develop international experience. Whilst there he completed a Clinical Epidemiology qualification at the University of Toronto. Almost three happy years were spent in Toronto, which included the welcome births of Ruby and Angus. Clinical research was undertaken, and manuscripts published. The academic endeavours formed the foundation of his Doctor of Medical Sciences thesis. Anthony returned to St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne in 1999 as a Medical Oncologist and 26 years later remains there. For many years he was a visiting Medical Oncologist for Echuca and Shepparton and came across several Riverina families who required treatment. Anthony specialises in genitourinary cancers, particularly prostate cancer, and brain cancers. He is still actively involved in clinical research and teaches medical students, interns, and physician trainees. He is a Clinical Associate Professor from the University of Melbourne. Anthony enjoys returning to the Hay area to catch up with family and friends. Hiking, kayaking and photography, especially of birds, are favourite pastimes. He admires the prodigious photography talent of Margie McClelland and Alix McFarland and enjoys seeing what they post on social media. Anthony and Sally have kayaked many kilometres along the Murrumbidgee and Lachlan rivers along with lakes in the Hay, Booligal and Balranald areas. Sea kayaking in Tasmania, the Ningaloo reef at Exmouth and around Komodo Island in Indonesia have also been ticked off the bucket list. Getting out of the city and off the beaten track to trek in remote places is also a favourite pastime, with destinations including Madagascar, Mongolia, Borneo, Bhutan, New Zealand, Scotland and Kokoda. While in Australia trek highlights include Lara Pinta, the Bungle Bungles, Jatbula, Kakadu, Overland Track, and Victorian High Country, along with solo hikes such as the Great South West Walk near Portland and Wilson Promontory. And he has white water rafted some of Australia’s great rivers such as the Franklin, Snowy and Mitchell. Anthony’s message to readers is not to for get to look after your body and mind. “Just as a car needs a service, so does your body,” he said. “Women must find time to attend mammograms and PAP smears. “Likewise, regular skin checks are critical for everyone, as is doing the poo test (faecal occult blood (FOB)) that comes in the mail once you turn 50. “The chance of being cured of your cancer is very much dependent on it being detected as early as possible. “Don’t ignore early warning signs and do the screening tests. Equally important is dental hygiene and blood pressure checks along with maintaining a healthy diet, healthy weight, and exercising regularly. “Men must also have regular check-ups including blood pressure and the water works. If it’s taking you a long time to pass urine, it’s time to tell your doctor about it.” Additionally, Anthony encourages the kids of the area to dream big. “Just because you grow up in a remote area, doesn’t mean you can’t achieve,” he said. “Like most things in life, you need to work hard to achieve your goals. “You will likely need to leave the area to at tend university and to gain experience, but there is more flexibility these days due to online courses. “I wish all you bush kids all the very best.”

A MESSAGE FROM NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE COMMISSIONER, ROB ROGERS AFSMThe NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), which I have the privilege of leading, is the world’s largest volunteer firefighting organisation, with more than 70,000 dedicated members working tirelessly to protect lives and property across the State.When combined with the expertise of Fire and Rescue NSW, Forestry Corporation, and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the bush fire management resources available through the NSW Government form a robust and highly capable force.These resources are a vital line of defence, standing ready to assist communities during their time of need. However, no amount of preparation can substitute for individual and community vigilance.After several years of wetter-than-average conditions, it is critical that we do not allow complacency to take hold as we continue through the 2024/25 bush fire season.Every resident should take a moment to assess their personal risk. Ask yourself – am I, or is my property, at risk of bush or grass fires?The reality is simple – if you live, work or travel near bushland or grasslands, you are in a fire risk area.The next step is to determine your level of preparedness. Our research indicates that only 70pc of residents in bush fire-prone areas have a plan in place, and of those, only half have actively prepared their homes. This is a concerning statistic.The RFS strongly encourages all residents to develop a bush fire survival plan. Creating a plan is a straight-forward but crucial step in safeguarding your home, and loved ones. It can take as little as five minutes to start, yet the benefits can be life-saving.For those who already have a plan, it is equally important to review and update it regularly.Changes in family circumstances, property conditions, or the presence of pets and livestock can significantly impact your preparedness.Bush fire safety is not something to ‘set and forget.’Comprehensive resources and step-by-step guidance are available on the RFS website at rfs.nsw.gov.au. I strongly encourage every resident to use these tools to enhance their understanding of bush fire risks and improve their readiness.This bush fire season, my hope is that all communities across NSW will remain safe and well. However, preparedness is your greatest defence against the unpredictability of bush and grass fires.Let us work together to protect lives, property, and the communities we hold dear.Prepare your bush fire planCommissioner Rob Rogers has served the NSW Rural Fire Service for 45 years, beginning as a brigade volunteer in 1979. A holder of the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM), he has been Commissioner since July 2020.