Heads up folks! Double demerits start today! Double demerits are in place in NSW and ACT for five consecutive days from Thursday until Monday over the 2025 Easter long weekend and then four consecutive days from Thursday April 24 to Sunday April 27 over the ANZAC Day long weekend.  Easter: April 17 to April 21 2025, and then over the ANZAC Day long weekend - April 24 to April 27 2025Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends and are enforced by police. They apply throughout the whole of the start date, and end at midnight on the finish date shown in the table above.Please drive safely and take extra care on the roads to protect yourself, your loved ones and all road users.During double demerit periods, double demerit points apply for speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seat belt and riding without a motorcycle helmet.Keep in mind that Mobile Phone Detection Cameras are active in NSW and the ACT and drivers caught using their phones during a double demerit period will be hit with a $410 fine ($544 in a school zone) and 10 demerits. Certain driving and parking offences attract an additional demerit point if committed in an operating school zone. Remember to always drive with care and attention through school zones. Be aware that failing to do so can come with heavy penalties heavy penalties.According to the NSW government, demerit points stay active for a three-year-period, starting from the date of the offence.All licence holders start with zero demerit points. As a licence holder commits an offence that has a demerit point penalty, the points are then added to their driving record.While the fines may be hefty, only the points are doubled during double demerit periods.

Early education places are currently available in HillstonHay Children's Services (HCS) have places available in the Hillston Billy Lids sessions, in all age groups.HCS says the Early Learning Centre (Long Day Care) aims to support our community by providing a nurturing education and care environment for children aged 0-6 years. "Our Educators pride themselves on building strong relationships with children and families, ensuring that they can explore and develop in a safe and age-appropriate space. "We honour play-based programs to facilitate children reaching their milestones and develop their own identities."Throughout the day children will spend time with their key Educators in smaller groups of peers of a similar age. "This allows the Educators to design activities and spaces that honour each child’s individual stage of development."Hours and Session InformationLong day care:Monday to Friday (Excluding Public Holidays)50 weeks per year (closedown period Dec-Jan annually)8:15 am to 5:00pmHCS also provides a school holiday program (vacation care) during school holidays only.Monday to Friday (Excluding Public Holidays)8.15am – 5.00pmFeesStandard Day: $135.00 per sessionCasual Day: $135.00 per sessionVacation care: $65.00 per sessionHCS is a CCS Approved Service.This service is a recipient of funding under the NSW Department of Education’s Start Strong for Long Daycare Centres program and fee relief is available for families of eligible children. For further information in regards to fees, please see the HCS website or contact 02 6993 1757, opt 1   This is sponsored content. If you wish to discuss how you can spread your message across the Back Country Bulletin, contact us today. [email protected]

Central Darling Shire Council has resolved to amend its venue hire agreement, specifically impacting private functions at the Wilcannia Hall. A condition has been added stating that Council will not be taking higher hiring bookings at Wenya Hall for private functions for birthdays and personal celebration events if alcohol is involved. This decision follows a recent hire where the bond taken did not adequately cover cleaning and damages, particularly in instances where alcohol was present. Additionally, the General Manager has been authorised to reject any hire applications for council venues based on their merits if there is potential for damage to the facility.

The period of administration for Central Darling Shire Council has been extended until September. This extension is due to legislative requirements concerning regulations and notice of meetings for the upcoming council elections. The administrator reported that discussions with the Office of Local Government are underway to establish a timetable for these elections. This timetable must include the signing of regulations, their presentation to parliament for a specified period, and a subsequent three-month notice period for the election. As a result, the exact timing of the election remains uncertain.Central Darling Shire has been under administration since 2013 due to significant financial and governance issues.It covers an area of Western NSW the size of Tasmania, including Ivanhoe, Menindee and Wilcannia. The population is about 2,000 people.Central Darling’s issues have been exacerbated by this combination of size and low population density.

Remote polling paces for the Farrer and Parkes Electorates, for the upcoming May 3 federal election.

An estimated 200,000 people live with Parkinson’s Disease in Australia. One in five people are diagnosed before 50, and the disease is the second most common neurological condition after dementia. While the ‘average’ experience involves motor symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and slowness of movement, along with potential non-motor symptoms such as mood changes and fatigue, every individual's journey is unique. This is poignantly illustrated by the recent experience of a local aged-care worker who suspected she might have Parkinson's after witnessing family members live with the disease. Initially, she wasn't overly concerned when she went for testing. However, her anxiety escalated when her GP's receptionist contacted her urgently the morning after her appointment. “It was then I started to worry and all I could think about on the trip to Deniliquin was I had a brain tumour like my sister,” she recounted. In a surprising turn, her fears were allayed when she received the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Her relief was so palpable her doctor asked if she had understood correctly. For many Australians, the experience of Parkinson's disease encompasses a range of common symptoms. These are broadly categorised into motor and non-motor symptoms. Motor symptoms include tremors, rigidity: Stiffness and resistance to movement can affect the limbs and trunk, slowness of movement can make everyday tasks challenging, difficulty maintaining balance, changes in walking patterns, such as shuffling or taking small steps. Non-motor symptoms are mood changes, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, sensory issues and gastrointestinal problems. Parkinson's disease is progressive, however, the rate of progression varies significantly from person to person, with some experiencing a slower advancement while others face a more rapid decline in function. Managing Parkinson's disease typically involves a multi-faceted approach. Medications are often prescribed to help control motor symptoms like tremors and rigidity. Therapy, including physical and occupational therapy, plays a vital role in improving mobility, balance, and coordination. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining social connections, can also significantly contribute to overall well being. In certain situations, surgical interventions may be considered to help manage symptoms. In the Australian context, while the average age of diagnosis is 65 years, it's important to note that younger individuals can also be diagnosed with Parkinson's. As the local woman, who does not wish to be identified, stated with resilience, ‘Life is for living with what you've been dealt and I am focused straight ahead’.

The meeting of Central Darling Shire Council for March was highly productive.Central Darling Shire Council is undertaking a process to classify certain properties as operational land in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993. The council has resolved to give public notice of this proposed resolution, allowing for a period of not less than 28 days for submissions from the public. Following the closure of submissions, a further report will be presented to the council to consider the classification of the listed properties as operational land.Central Darling Council Strategizes on Climate Change Risks to Community AssetsThe strategic risk of climate change was brought to the attention of Central Darling Shire Council, highlighting the importance of considering the council's ability to protect and preserve community assets against climate-related risks. This consideration aims not only to benefit the community but also to potentially avoid future expenses related to insurance and public liability claims. The council acknowledged the challenge of redistributing funding to build resilience while potentially undertaking less other work. The report on this matter was received and noted.Independent Valuation Sought for Land Purchase from Maarri Ma Health Aboriginal CorporationCentral Darling Shire Council is moving forward with a potential land purchase from the Maarri Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation at Manindi. The council has resolved to seek an independent valuation for the land.The General Manager will report back to the council on this valuation, including the costs associated with making the existing housing suitable and compliant for tenants, for further consideration on whether to proceed with the sale.The next ordinary council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, at the council chambers in Wilcannia.

Emergency services have responded to a fatal aircraft crash in the state’s North West.About 7.15am today Tuesday April 15, emergency services responded to reports of an aircraft crash at an airstrip on White Cliffs Aerodrome Road, White Cliffs.The male pilot of the aircraft died at the scene, with the body yet to be formally identified. Inquiries indicate the man was the sole occupant of the aircraft.Officers attached to Barrier Police District, along with NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service and NSW State Emergency Service, were deployed to the scene.Police have secured a crime scene and, with assistance from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.A report will be prepared for the information of the coroner.Investigations continue.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information supplied is confidential. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Community Meeting: Barwon-Darling Basin Landholders Flooding Information SessionDate: Wednesday, 16th AprilTime: 6:00-7:00 PMJoin Online Here NSW State emergency Service (SES) is inviting landholders along the Barwon-Darling Basin between Bourke and Menindee Lakes to attend a community information session online about how to prepare for flooding within your catchment.Representatives from the NSW SES other relevant agencies will be on hand to answer questions and provide guidance specific to the local area.SES says the session will provide up-to-date information on current river levels, potential flood risks to properties and access routes, what to expect in coming weeks as flows move downstream, how landholders can prepare and stay informed and what support and resources are available."We’d like to hear your local knowledge and provide you with an opportunity to ask questions," and SES spokesperson said."Please join us to stay informed and help strengthen flood preparedness for your community."If joining from your mobile device (phone or tablet), please download the Microsoft Teams App or scan the QR code below.

Recently, Griffith Women In Business held their very first "SHINE" event at Paris' Place on Binya st. The event was a content creation and business branding event."The event took place at an absolutely gorgeous air BnB, and the photographer was Sophie O'Brien Photography," said Griffith Women in Business President Jacinda Violi. "It was a great success and we look forward to doing it again so women can update their professional profiles, get content and B-Roll for their social media and network with other women doing the same thing."Griffith Women in Business regularly put on events for their members which enrich and inspire strong business women.GWIB Memberships are now openGriffith Women in Business is here to connect, support and inspire local women working in the community.With a mixture of networking events, workshops and inspirational keynote speakers, a membership can help you gain business success.Full events calendar, with events for all tastes. Events range from more casual style catchups to celebrity staring keynote events.As a member you can enjoy event benefits such as discounted event tickets, early access to keynote events and access to the GWIB Mentor program and events.Become a Griffith Women in Business MemberDid you know the Griffith Women in Business (GWIB) has an Annual Mentor Program?The GWIB Mentor Program aims to bring women together and deliver significant benefits to both mentor and mentee.The aim of the GWIB Mentor Program is to link members of Griffith Women in Business with successful local women in order to engage in a one-to-one mentoring relationship to provide personal development and career growth.Mentor programs have significant benefits for both Mentors and Mentees which include: Helping with career progression, improving your job satisfaction, increasing your motivation, developing your leadership skills, developing your problem-solving skills and building your confidence and self-esteem.Consider becoming a member.

Central Darling Shire Council is grappling with ongoing financial sustainability issues and significant delays in receiving grant payments, according to recent council meeting discussions. During a meeting, the council noted the need for state government ongoing financial support. The administrator reported meeting with the Honorable Ron Honig and local member Roy Butler to discuss this, among other items.Concerns were also raised regarding the Federal Budget, which saw very small increases in financial assistance grants roads recovery and other programs. The administrator expressed personal disappointment, stating that these "small increases will not even keep up with the ongoing cost increases council's fa facing" .Furthermore, the council is experiencing delays in receiving outstanding grants for flood damage and transport . The General Manager indicated that claims have been lodged, with some dating back before Christmas, totaling "just over a million dollars" . Payment for these older claims is expected in the next month or so, while another claim submitted in January is anticipated to be paid by May. The administrator requested the General Manager to follow up on transport grant payments, expressing concern about the length of time they are taking . These financial reports were received and noted by the council.

Residents in Wilcannia, Tilpa, and Menindee are being urged to prepare for potential flooding as floodwaters from upstream Queensland make their way downstream. While specific details regarding the expected impact are still emerging, the Central Darling Shire Council (CDSC) is advising residents to begin preparations now, as situations including isolations and impacts on primary producers are possible. The focus is currently on the Paroo and Barwon-Darling River systems and Menindee Lakes.Information regarding timelines, the anticipated volume of floodwater, and river peaks is still pending. A significant challenge in forecasting is the lack of early warning gauges on the Paroo River within the Shire. However, Council has welcomed the news that one gauge is to be reactivated on the Paroo, and investigations are underway for two others.The Central Darling Shire Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) is now operational and is holding joint meetings with the Unincorporated area. The CDSC LEMC is also participating in SES briefings with northern Councils currently experiencing flooding1 . Council is collaborating with all relevant agencies, with the SES serving as the lead combat agency.An online Community Information session, hosted by the SES, took place recently and was attended by landholders, community organizations, and Council staff. This meeting included information from the Bureau of Meteorology. Attendees were informed that, based on current data, river peaks between Walgett and Wilcannia are likely to occur later in April and into May, with potential river heights remaining uncertain at this stage. The peak at Menindee is most likely anticipated in late May or early June. It was also noted that, typically, flows from the Paroo River do not reach the Darling River. Council is pleased with the plans for further community briefings as more information becomes available.Wilcannia is expected to be the first area within the Shire to be affected by the floodwaters. The Council has welcomed the SES confirmation of a presence and base of operations in Wilcannia. As part of the ongoing flood preparations, Council is working with the SES to conduct infrastructure inspections of levy banks. To support the agriculture sector, an Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA) has been established, with an officer integrated into the SES Incident Management Team. The dedicated phone number for AASFA is 1800 814 647. Efforts are also underway to ensure Central Darling has timely access to funding support under the Natural Disaster Declaration Funding Assistance program to provide rapid assistance to communities if needed

Labor candidate for Farrer Glen Hyde is calling on the Liberal and National parties to match Labor's commitment to Keep Rex Flying. Labor candidate for the seat of Farrer says the Albanese Labor Government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring regional Australians have access to reliable, affordable, and accessible air travel. “This builds on the strong advocacy of Senator Deborah O’Neill, Labor’s Duty Senator for Farrer, who has consistently championed the needs of regional communities,” Glen Hyde said.Rex is the only airline that flies to the Leeton-Narrandera airport, and as a provider of regular services to Albury, Griffith and Mildura and Mr Hyde said it is an essential part of competition and frequency of services in large parts of the electorate.“The Albanese Government has committed to supporting Rex and keeping regional communities connected to the services they need and deserve,” he said. “This is because regional Australians deserve to know that their government has their backs. Where markets struggle to deliver essential services, it is essential that regional communities are supported by government. “In stark contrast, the Nationals and Liberals have shown nothing but confusion and contradiction. Nationals Leader David Littleproud and Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley have publicly criticised Rex and Labor’s position, while offering no real solutions. “Nationals Senator Perin Davey joked about the future of Rex in a speech the Senate. Their approach would see the largest regional airline in Australia carved up and sold for parts, leaving regional Australians stranded.“Only Labor remains committed to securing regional aviation, while the Liberals and Nationals dismiss Government action as “a bridge too far”.”“Regional Australians deserve a government that will fight for them, not abandon them,” Senator Deborah O’Neill, Labor Senator for New South Wales said.“While Labor is doing everything we can to protect regional aviation, the Liberals and Nationals have made it clear they oppose any intervention to help."Aviation services are critical to keeping communities across Farrer connected,” Mr Hyde said“Not everyone is a pilot, or has the resources to fly their own plane. People in our communities need access to regular and reliable services to access medical services and stay connected to families, employment and economic opportunity.”

In a recent election announcement, Sussan Ley MP says a Dutton Liberal Government would deliver a $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund, she describes as "ground-breaking.""(We will) deliver a guaranteed annual funding stream in perpetuity for regional, rural, and remote Australia – including for communities in southwestern NSW," Ms Ley said in a statement.But Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) President Matt Burnett said such a fund must include non-competitive, formula-based funding streams.“It’s fantastic to see the Coalition hear our calls for increased funding that recognises the extraordinary pressures on our regional, rural and remote councils.“This election we are calling for $3.5 billion per year in formula-based funding to address the financial stressors on councils to meet modern community needs,” Mr Burnett said.“With massive road networks to build and maintain, and ratepayers spread over vast geographic areas, many of our regional councils are facing unique and additional challenges.“It’s crucial that the Regional Australia Futures Fund supports formula-based, non-competitive funding to all regional councils to ensure that every community benefits.“Continued reliance on competitive funding programs hinders our ability to plan and budget for the long-term needs of our communities.”Ms Ley said if elected the Coalition will immediately invest $5 billion into regional Australia, to help lift education and childcare investment, grow the regional health workforce and fix local roads. "The Fund will be transparent and benchmarked with a legislated State of the Regions review by an independent committee, which will inform each four-year investment plan. Following extensive consultations with regional communities, the Coalition says it has identified initial key priorities of the Regional Australia Future Fund, which include fixing local road and transport networks to save country lives and drive economic productivity and growing the regional health workforce so families can access health and aged care – locally and affordably. “Communities across Farrer have told me how federal funding has fallen through the floor under Labor," Ms Ley said“Our councils have not been supported by Labor and this put even more upward pressure on rates.” “Southwestern NSW needs and deserves serious money to fix our roads, improve our mobile and internet coverage, and improve access to healthcare and childcare.” “This Fund has been designed to deliver for regional Australia – including southwestern NSW – in perpetuity, so we can get Australia back on track.”

Schools across NSW are throwing open their gates for the public to access outdoor facilities outside of school hours every day of the week, in a trial allowing families and communities greater access to green space.Menindee Central School is part of a NSW trial, opening up school premises for community use during the holidays.“I’ve never been a fan of locking up school grounds to the public. I want kids and families to be able to use the grounds outside of school hours,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.“It seems like a waste to keep hundreds of school ovals locked up at night, over the weekends and during school holidays.“It’s why we’re throwing the gates of this public land open – it means people who live in apartments have more space to enjoy the outdoors, and kids have more options to get off their devices and play outside.This trial, conducted in 11 schools across the state, will open up school ovals, sports courts and playgrounds for the public to use for personal and recreational use, giving people access to space that has been locked up for no reason for many years.The NSW Government’s existing shared spaces program already opens up almost 200 schools’ outdoor facilities during school holidays for public use, however, it does not permit the opening of ovals outside of school holidays.Unlocking this extra green space outside of school hours is especially important at a time when we are encouraging more young people to get off their devices and to get active, following the introduction of mobile phone bans in schools and social media restrictions championed by the Minns Labor Government.The shared spaces trial will also provide more critical green space and outdoor recreation as we continue to build much needed new homes and apartments for young people and families across the state.Other participating schools include Kogarah High School, Bardwell Park Infants School, Delegate Public School, Hernani Public School, Kambora Public School, Manly West Public School, Roseville Public School, Seaforth Public School, Strathfield Girls High School and Teralba Public School.A full list of schools taking part in the Share Our Space program, including the trial, can be accessed here.

Michelle Spence is friendly, capable and approachable. President of the ICPA, she takes the time to explain the stance of the Hay Branch on issues, and to provide a friendly reminder ICPA is an organisation which fights for all children, not just children living on farms or attending boarding schools. “Anyone who has had or has a child growing up in Hay has already benefited from the work ICPA does, without realising it,” she said. “Implementations and changes such as Sky Muster Plus, seat belts on buses, detection systems on buses, the Tertiary Access Payment, and the school fee waivers for VISA holders are just a few examples.” The 3G closure and reported significant disparities between the level of service which was promised and the level of service which eventuated after the closure has been one of Michelle’s biggest fights. “I have members who have family members who are struggling with fear and anxiety relating to health issues which might become emergencies fast, and with no or highly reduced service.” Michelle decided she would bring positivity and a solution of sorts with her to conference in regards to the ongoing 3G issues. “The week before conference I attended the pop-up meeting Telstra held in Hay,” she said. “I asked them what they can realistically do for me, as they are never going to turn 3G back on. “They changed the bandwidth on my Cel-Fi and updated it. “So, at the conference I asked the Telstra professionals, who were the same ones as at the pop up, if they would come to the CWA Market Day to be held on May 10, soothers can benefit from these adjustments and updates. “I am not having the same service as before the 3G shutdown but it has been better than any service I have had since it shut down. “Many case studies conducted in the region have reflected how sad and frustrated people are with the loss of service and change in experience. “It has taken us back in time. “Where, in the last five years or so we have been able to enjoy being able to take work calls in the paddock, be connected with our children and at hand if there is an issue, to be able to text the bus driver if we are on our way but running late, we cannot do any of those things anymore. “If the cattle driver is late, a simple text would let us know without significant impact to the day. Now since the change, we have to go back to the house to check to see if we have messages, or if we have an emergency, this makes it beyond hard.” Michelle has members who have family members with health issues, and they are rightly angry and scared. “There have been community sessions happening since 2018 and we have done all the things they told us to do,” she said. “We were promised equal to better service. This has not happened, and now the solutions offered, and things they want us to do, they wold not ask people in metropolitan areas to do. “These include sending workers out in pairs - which farms and small business do not have, and if they do it is not viable, buying alternative resources at our own cost, which we did before the closure, and more.” The change which Michelle, the Hay Branch of ICPA and ICPA on a broader scale advocate for in fact does not just end up impacting the sector of education. There are many offshoots which can benefit rural areas. One of these such areas was mentioned in the Tertiary portfolio report, delivered at the Euston conference. Those studying to be a teacher, nurse, midwife or social worker will now be eligible for the Commonwealth Prac Payment to support them undertaking mandatory workplace placement required for university and vocational education and training qualifications. The Country Universities Centre in Hay has also been fiercely advocated for by the ICPA. The aim is to encourage more professionals to the area by implementing or advocating for a HECS/Fee Help reduction to people who remain in the area for a specific amount of time. Michelle is patient, and provides good insight into the way the ICPA works. “Some motions have been presented in different ways, in different wordings and to different areas; we never stop trying. “Local ICPA branches are the grassroots level, and from there motions go to the State conferences. From there they go to deputations in Canberra and the themes of the motions are presented on behalf of local branches and state.” “As President of the Hay branch I feel quite energised and excited,” Michelle said. “There are quite a lot of new young members coming into the ICPA and taking on executive roles, and learning and understanding what has to be done, the effort needed to fight for and achieve change. “I am also quite liking the complete energy shift which has occurred within ICPA both in the branch and state levels.” Speaking to Michelle and gaining an insight into ICPA really actually makes you believe you can make a difference - all for a simple $10 annual membership.

Campaigns for candidates vying for seats in the 2025 election have been launchedSeveral campaign launch events were held last week, as official campaigns in the seat of Farrer and Parkes swing into action. Independent Candidate for Farrer Michelle Milthorpe hosted her Campaign Launch Party at the Noreuil Park Foreshore in Albury. According to organsiers 150 community members attended as Ms Milthorpe addressed the crowd, and shared her reasons for running, “I didn’t feel represented anymore, so instead of whinging I decided to do something about it,” Mrs Milthorpe said. “We’ve clocked over 1000kms in the last few days visiting communities, and I think over 40 000kms since September, which I think is the important work, listening to people and hearing what is going on for them. It’s these conversations that energise me to keep going,” “We know we have issues here in Albury, and there are things we need and things we can do better. We know that we need a greenfield single-site hospital and I am committed to keep advocating for that. “We want the best and we deserve the best.”“The situation in our electorate is so dire, that If we don’t make change now, these rural towns will continue to decline and there will be nothing left for the people that live there. They deserve better than that,” Ms Milthorpe said.Labor’s candidate for Farrer Glen Hyde will officially launch his campaign on Sunday, April 13 in Thurgoona. NSW Senator Deborah O’Neill is scheduled to appear with Mr Hyde.Mr Hyde has previously spoken about his motivation for standing in the electorate.“Having spent the last two decades representing and then working in the Australian Public Service, it seemed a perfect fit for my skills, knowledge and experience. “It is also an opportunity to put to rights some of neglect we've seen from the Farrer incumbent over the last dozen or so years. “It seems to me that she has spent a lot of time concentrating on her own aspirations than those of the people of Farrer.” Despite not needed to launch an official campaign, current Member for Farrer Sussan Ley MP said she is excited for the election.“I am excited this election has finally been called,” Ms Ley said in a statement on her website. “Excited because it gives the people of Farrer – all Australians for that matter – a chance to change the direction of this nation.“As Peter Dutton said, we live in the best country in the world, but only if we’re governed well!“From Albury to Griffith and across the electorate, I’ve spoken to so many people over the last three years; mums and dads, small and large families, business owners and manufacturers, all who say, ‘they are just not getting ahead’.”The election will be held on May 3.Information on prepoll and postal voting can be found on the AEC Website

Super Early Bird Tickets Now Available!Hay, NSW – Rainbow on the Plains, the vibrant festival celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community, cultural diversity, and the spirit of inclusion, is thrilled to announce its theme for 2025: TRANSITION. This year, the festival honors the incredible resilience and journeys of our trans community, embracing the beauty of growth, transformation, and unity. Set to light up Hay once again, the Rainbow on the Plains promises an unforgettable weekend packed with dazzling events, joyful celebrations, and meaningful connections. Highlights include:Rainbow on the Greens: An all-ages event with entertainment for every generation with live performances, kid-friendly activities, and mouthwatering food from diverse vendors. Street Parade Extravaganza: A colorful display of creativity and cheer that will bring the streets alive. Engie Fair Day: Relax, shop, listen to some tunes and connect with friends in a welcoming space filled with local treasures. Saturday After Party: DJs, drag performers, and an electrifying nightlife experience you won’t want to miss. Annual Pride Cup: Sportsmanship, community spirit, and a shared love for inclusion take centre stage in this much-loved event. To mark the start of ticket sales, Super Early Bird tickets are now available for a limited time! This exclusive offer gives festival-goers the chance to secure their place at the most vibrant celebration of inclusivity, diversity, and community in Australia. People can get their tickets at www.rainbowontheplains.com.au The Rainbow on the Plains team invites people from across the country—and beyond—to join them in reflecting, celebrating, and transitioning together. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience, and stay tuned for future announcements on the artist lineup, it is sure to impress!

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has concluded the ballot draw for the 2025 federal election for the Parkes electorate, with a public event in Dubbo yesterdayNationals candidate Jamie Chaffey, who is standing in place of retiring member Mark Coulton, drew position seven.Full ballot draw positions are as follows:Parkes1. Mark Carter - Pauline Hanson’s One Nation2. Stephen Pope - Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party3. Trish Frail - The Greens4. Petrus van der Steen - Trumpet of Patriots5. Bob Wilson - Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia6. Nathan Fell - Labor7. Jamie Chaffey - The Nationals8. Maurice Favey - Family First9. Stuart Howe - Independent10. Sally Edwards - LibertarianAustralians will go to the poll on Saturday May 3.