New mental health units, water security projects and biosecurity boosts headline the 2025 NSW Budget for remote and regional communities.The Minns Government has handed down the NSW State Budget. Here is what is on the cards for communities living in the Back Country:$12.0 million Broken Hill Hospital Emergency Department Upgradenew Broken Hill Mental Health Unit as part of the $669.8 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program.Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at the Menindee Central School $1.8 million for Community Connectors to continue providing support to First Nations high school students in Lightning Ridge and Wilcannia.Continuing $24.8 million for the Wilcannia Weir Refurbishment Project, co-funded by the Australian Government, aiming to improve water security, upgrade infrastructure and minimise public health risks.$780,000 for Gayini (Nimmie-Caira) between Maude and Balranald, for project management and construction activities to repair the flood damaged assets at Gayini by floods in September 2022.$6.0 million over two years to support priority asset and infrastructure work to increase the capacity and capability of the Central Darling Shire Council as it exits administration.$255.6 million for the Murray and Murrumbidgee River Constraints Program to increase connections to the Murrumbidgee and Murray River systems.$63.5 million for the Resilient Rivers Water Infrastructure Program to modernise water infrastructure across the Leeton and Griffith Shire Regions.$9.3 million state-wise to continue the Feral Pig and Pest Control Program targeting pigs and deer to protect the State’s agricultural productivity and mitigate environmental and economic risks$23.1 million for the Dubbo Alcohol and Other Drug Residential Rehabilitation Centre to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can develop skills to cope and address the underlying causes of substance use, while maintaining a connection to their community when receiving care$15.0 million in 2025-26 for operational expenses to address increasing costs of rural and regional transportation for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.$2.0 million to extend the Western Air Services Subsidy, enabling commercial flights to Bourke, Walgett, Lightning Ridge and Cobar.“We are boosting biosecurity with an additional $100.0 million to protect our farmers’ production, strengthen control and response programs, and defend our wonderful, unique natural environment for regional communities,” NSW Treasurer The Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC said. “We are also investing $41.2 million to modernise the State’s primary industries research and development program so our farmers have the future tools and knowledge to adapt and thrive.”

Winter bugs, including ‘flu, RSV and Covid-19 have caused a 40% jump in GP consultations, according to MedmateAs winter well and truly sets in, residents across Back Country communities could turn to online doctors to get help with nasty colds and flu, avoiding long waits and busy clinics.Medmate, a leading online health service in Australia, says it has seen a 40% jump in cold and flu consultations over the last month. They say this surge is being driven by common winter bugs like influenza, RSV, and COVID-19, which are hitting hard in regional communities, where getting to a doctor can be a real trek.Dr. Ganesh Naidoo, a practising GP and founder of Medmate, says people are changing the way they want to see a doctor. "When you're unwell at home, the last thing you want is to wait a fortnight for a GP appointment or spend hours in a hospital emergency department," he explained.Medmate offers quick online consultations with qualified Australian doctors, many of whom have experience in general practice and emergency care. Patients can chat with a doctor in as little as 15 minutes, with services starting from just $19.90 for eligible consultations. Medmate says this means you can get advice, prescriptions, medical certificates, or even referrals without leaving your living room."Our service is designed to be simple, safe, and medically sound," Dr. Naidoo added. "Our doctors know when someone can be safely looked after at home, and when they need to be sent to a hospital. This helps keep our hospitals from getting overwhelmed and supports a more efficient health system for everyone."With GP wait times stretching out across many parts of the country, and local hospitals seeing more and more people with minor coughs and fevers, services like Medmate are proving to be a lifeline. They operate seven days a week, making it easier for people in places like Hay, Balranald, Ivanhoe, Wilcannia, and Menindee to get the care they need when they need it most."This is about smart, accessible care," said Dr. Naidoo. "We're giving Australians a trusted clinical alternative that's safe, affordable, and meets all the national telehealth standards – and we're doing it when the system is really under the pump."Medmate's data shows that the biggest increases in demand are in colder southern states, including NSW, where the flu season is peaking and traditional clinics are feeling the strain. Meta title: Rural Communities Consider Online Doctors Amidst Winter Virus SurgeMeta Description: Medmate says remote NSW towns like Hay, Balranald and Wilcannia should consider online doctors, as winter viruses hit, offering quick, affordable care and easing pressure on local clinics.

The highly anticipated federal government's "Cheaper Home Batteries" program officially launches today, July 1st, offering Back Country households an opportunity to slash their energy bills and contribute to a more stable electricity grid. The initiative offers around a 30 per cent discount on the upfront cost of installing a home battery, and is being hailed by industry experts as the most significant development in consumer energy since the widespread adoption of rooftop solar.Rewiring Australia, a leading research organisation, projects that adding a home battery to an average household with rooftop solar and all-electric appliances could lead to savings of approximately $1,000 a year."The upfront cost of batteries has been a significant hurdle for many, despite a high desire to install them," said Dr. Saul Griffith, Founder and Chief Scientist of Rewiring Australia. "This policy is a crucial step towards making this bill-saving technology accessible to more Australians."The Albanese Government's election promise to subsidise battery installations by 30 per cent will run until 2030, offering a sustained incentive for homeowners and businesses to embrace energy storage. This policy arrives after years of lobbying and consultation by industry groups like the Smart Energy Council (SEC) and Clean Energy Council (CEC)."This is not just a milestone, but the next chapter in our nation’s clean energy journey – the next phase in consumers taking control of their energy bills," stated Con Hristodoulidis, CEO General Manager for distributed energy.How it Works and What You Need to Know:The "Cheaper Home Batteries" program, delivered through the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), provides an upfront discount of roughly 30 per cent on eligible small-scale battery systems, ranging from 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to 100 kWh. For instance, a 10 kWh battery, typically costing around $11,120, could see a rebate of approximately $3,300, reducing the net cost to $7,400. The discount is facilitated through the creation and sale of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), with the 2025 rate equating to around $372 per kWh of usable capacity.Eligibility is straightforward:The rebate is not means-tested, meaning it's open to any household or business installing a solar battery.It's limited to one solar battery per household or business.The battery system (5 kWh to 100 kWh nominal capacity, with the rebate applying to the first 50 kWh of usable capacity) must be installed with a new or existing solar photovoltaic (PV) system.Batteries must be on the Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved product list and installed by a Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accredited installer.Crucially for grid stability, on-grid batteries must have the technical capability to participate in a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), though participation is generally optional (with some exceptions, as detailed below).The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) advises Back Country residents to research thoroughly, compare quotes, and choose an appropriately sized battery for their energy needs. Be wary of "too-good-to-be-true" offers, as the CER is keeping a close eye on compliance and sales tactics to protect consumers.The NSW Twist: Boosted Incentives for VPP ConnectionWhile the federal rebate takes over from the NSW state home battery rebate, which ceased on June 30, there's good news for those in NSW looking to maximise their savings. Under the state's Peak Demand Reduction Scheme, households connecting their solar battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) can access a boosted discount.From July 1, incentives for joining a VPP will increase to up to $550 for a 10 kWh battery and up to $1,500 for a 27 kWh battery. The actual amount will depend on your chosen VPP provider and contract, including how much you get for sending solar to the grid and when the VPP can access your battery. Current VPP providers offering the NSW incentive include AGL, Amber, Engie, Globird, Origin, Powow, and Shinehub.What is a Virtual Power Plant (VPP)?VPPs are a network of aggregated and coordinated consumer energy resources, like your home battery, that can be controlled by a third party. They essentially pool stored energy from many homes to support the grid during peak demand or supply shortages. This not only helps you reduce your bills by optimising energy use, but also contributes to overall grid stability."If just two in 10 Australian homes installed batteries, the collective on-demand peak reduction output could be three times that of the country’s largest coal power station, or nearly double that of the Snowy Hydro 2.0 scheme," said Francis Vierboom, CEO of Rewiring Australia. While VPPs are still evolving, and their complexity can be a hurdle for some, the financial incentives are causing more homeowners to consider joining up. With the federal government's substantial rebate and the added incentives for VPP participation, the path to lower energy bills is becoming more affordable. 

Coles Supermarket has recalled a sandwich favourite, nationallyColes is recalling Coles Smooth Peanut Butter 1kg and Coles Crunchy Peanut Butter 1kg, sold between 01/05/2025 and 30/06/2025 at Coles supermarkets and Coles Online nationally with a Best Before date of 05/02/2027, due to aflatoxin contamination.The product is: Coles Smooth Peanut Butter 1kg and Coles Crunchy Peanut Butter 1kg Best Before date: 05/02/2027 Dates sold: Between 01/05/2025 and 30/06/2025. Food products containing aflatoxin may cause illness if consumed. Any customers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.In a statement released today, Coles apologised to its customers."We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience. "Customers can return the product to any Coles supermarket for a full refund. "Coles Online customers can receive a full refund or credit by contacting Coles Online Customer Care on 1800 455 400." 

The Minns Government has handed down the NSW State Budget. Here is what is on the cards for communities living in the Back Country:$12.0 million Broken Hill Hospital Emergency Department Upgradenew Broken Hill Mental Health Unit as part of the $669.8 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program.Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at the Menindee Central School $1.8 million for Community Connectors to continue providing support to First Nations high school students in Lightning Ridge and Wilcannia.Continuing $24.8 million for the Wilcannia Weir Refurbishment Project, co-funded by the Australian Government, aiming to improve water security, upgrade infrastructure and minimise public health risks.$780,000 for Gayini (Nimmie-Caira) between Maude and Balranald, for project management and construction activities to repair the flood damaged assets at Gayini by floods in September 2022.$6.0 million over two years to support priority asset and infrastructure work to increase the capacity and capability of the Central Darling Shire Council as it exits administration.$255.6 million for the Murray and Murrumbidgee River Constraints Program to increase connections to the Murrumbidgee and Murray River systems.$63.5 million for the Resilient Rivers Water Infrastructure Program to modernise water infrastructure across the Leeton and Griffith Shire Regions.$9.3 million state-wise to continue the Feral Pig and Pest Control Program targeting pigs and deer to protect the State’s agricultural productivity and mitigate environmental and economic risks$23.1 million for the Dubbo Alcohol and Other Drug Residential Rehabilitation Centre to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can develop skills to cope and address the underlying causes of substance use, while maintaining a connection to their community when receiving care$15.0 million in 2025-26 for operational expenses to address increasing costs of rural and regional transportation for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.$2.0 million to extend the Western Air Services Subsidy, enabling commercial flights to Bourke, Walgett, Lightning Ridge and Cobar.“We are boosting biosecurity with an additional $100.0 million to protect our farmers’ production, strengthen control and response programs, and defend our wonderful, unique natural environment for regional communities,” NSW Treasurer The Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC said. “We are also investing $41.2 million to modernise the State’s primary industries research and development program so our farmers have the future tools and knowledge to adapt and thrive.”

ACCC Report into Digital Platforms Signals Urgent Need for Support of Local Journalism As a journalist, I will not deny it is sometimes galling to see news on social media being treated as gospel. The gift of google means someone can fact check news or facts in seconds, but yet sometimes people appear to consider being misinformed as somehow still informed.Country Press Australia (CPA) is basically an advocacy body for small country newspapers, news services and mastheads such as ours. In the midst of global tech giants using their indomitable resources and power to drive all aspects of media consumption, it is hard for the little guys like us to have a voice. Country Press Australia has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s final report from its Digital Platform Services Inquiry.They have described it as a landmark moment that recognises the systemic challenges facing regional and local news publishers in the digital age. CPA President Andrew Schreyer said the report confirms what independent publishers have known for years; global tech giants are using their market dominance to control how journalism is accessed, valued and monetised in Australia, to the detriment of local news. “This report confirms what our members have experienced for a long time,” Mr Schreyer said. “Local and regional publishers continue to face deeply entrenched power imbalances in their dealings with the major digital platforms. This has real consequences for the sustainability of journalism in our communities.” Mr Schreyer said the federal government must now move quickly to implement the News Bargaining Incentive legislation, especially in light of Meta’s refusal to renew deals with publishers since announcing their withdrawal from news arrangements last year. “Meta has walked away from compensating publishers entirely, and others like TikTok have never come to the table at all,” he said. “The incentive legislation is essential to ensure that all major platforms are required to contribute to the journalism they benefit from, either by negotiating in good faith or by making a fair payment.” He also emphasised that public funding support for journalism, including through the News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP), must be directed to publishers who are actively producing local public interest journalism. “Funding should go to the journalists and newsrooms who are on the ground covering councils, courts, community stories and local sport,” Mr Schreyer said. “These are the voices that hold local institutions to account and help communities stay connected. They need direct and meaningful support.” The ACCC report draws attention to a range of broader issues threatening journalism, including a lack of dispute resolution options for small publishers, harmful practices by dominant platforms, and the growing use of AI tools that can devalue or displace credible news. “We support stronger platform obligations to prevent scams and fake reviews, and we also support enforceable transparency requirements that ensure fair treatment of news content,” Mr Schreyer said. “We need to see the major platforms treated as gatekeepers with clear responsibilities when it comes to how news is ranked, labelled and monetised. “We urge the government to consider the rise of AI and its use of publishers’ content and the need for publishers to be fairly compensated for this as part of the News Bargaining Incentive framework.” He said the rise of AI-generated content and the continued spread of misinformation on social media made it more important than ever for Australians to understand what credible journalism looks like. “Improving digital literacy must be a national priority,” Mr Schreyer said. “Australians need the tools to distinguish fact-based journalism from misinformation, especially in an environment where AI and algorithms are shaping so much of what people see.” Country Press Australia represents almost 240 independently owned newspapers that serve regional, rural and suburban communities across the country. These publishers are embedded in the communities they serve and continue to provide vital public interest journalism in an increasingly disrupted media environment. Mr Schreyer said the ACCC report provides a clear path forward and urged the government to act. “We strongly support the ACCC’s push for a new digital competition regime and external dispute resolution so our members can operate on a level playing field,” he said. “Our regional, rural and local news outlets are the backbone of Australia’s democracy and they must be supported through practical reforms and fairer digital market conditions.”

Fake notes circulating in the districtPicture this: you're serving a customer at your shop counter when they hand you what looks like a perfectly legit good ol’ Aussie pineapple aka a $50. But something feels off. The texture's wrong, the window's murky, and when you look closer, there's tiny text saying ‘motion picture use only’.That's exactly the scenario police in the district are warning local business owners and residents about, after reports of counterfeit currency doing the rounds in our community."Imitation banknotes can look like real currency but are intended to deceive people, have no value and are not legal tender," police said in their community alert this week.While Australia's counterfeiting rates remain relatively low nationally - with only around 12,000 fake notes detected across the country in 2021/22 - even a handful circulating locally can cause real headaches for small businesses and residents who get stuck with worthless paper.The good news is that Australian banknotes have some pretty distinctive security features that make counterfeits relatively easy to spot once you know what to look for.Police have outlined four key warning signs that should set off alarm bells:Genuine Australian notes are made from polymer - a type of plastic that has a distinctive smooth, almost slippery feel. Counterfeits often use paper, which feels completely different in your hands. "If it feels like paper, it's probably fake," one local business owner told us.Every genuine Australian note has a clear circular window in the bottom left corner that you can see straight through. On counterfeits, this window is often black or too murky to see through properly.Some fake notes literally have text on them indicating they're for motion picture use only - these are prop notes used in films and TV shows that have somehow made their way into circulation. They're completely worthless as currency.The serial numbers in the top left and bottom right corners of genuine notes should be identical. If they don't match, you've got a fake.The Reserve Bank of Australia's latest figures show counterfeiting remains at historically low levels, with only about six fake notes detected per million genuine ones in circulation. The new series of banknotes - the ones with the tactile bumps for vision-impaired users - have proven particularly difficult to counterfeit.Most counterfeiters have been targeting the older $100 notes, though the quality of fakes varies dramatically. Some are incredibly crude and easy to spot, while - according to banking security experts - others require a closer look."While the overall counterfeiting rate is low, the quality of counterfeits varies, with some being very crude and others being more sophisticated."The boys in blue are urging people to trust their instincts. If something feels off about a note, take a moment to check it properly. And if the person handing it over rolls out the aggro when you start examining their money more closely, that's a red flag worth taking seriously."If there is any doubt and the person presenting the note becomes confrontational, give your local police station a buzz pronto to attend and assist," police advised.If you do end up with a counterfeit note, the Australian Federal Police recommend handling it as little as possible. Pop it in an envelope, write down how you came to have it, and take it to your local police station to lodge a report.Just remember - there's no reimbursement for counterfeit notes, so the few seconds it takes to check could save you real money.For local business owners especially, it's worth taking a moment to familiarise your staff with these security features. A quick feel of the polymer, a glance at the clear window, and a check of those serial numbers could be the difference between accepting genuine currency and getting stuck with worthless paper.The reality is that while counterfeiting isn't a huge problem nationally, when it does happen locally, it tends to affect the same businesses and community members repeatedly as the fake notes get passed along.By staying alert and sharing this information with neighbours and fellow business owners, we can help keep these counterfeits from circulating further through our community.If you have any concerns about suspicious currency, contact your local police station pronto.

By Fleur Stelling and Gordon O’Brien, Gulbali InstituteScientists from Charles Sturt University (CSU) and the Gulbali Institute in Albury are celebrating another successful golden perch breeding event in the Lower Murrumbidgee floodplain – a positive sign for the health of the area’s rivers and wetlands.Golden perch, also known as yellow belly, are an important native fish in the Murray–Darling Basin. Finding both young and adult fish shows that these fish are breeding and surviving in the floodplain lakes. Water scientist Dr Gordon O’Brien said finding young and adult golden perch during monitoring is great news. “These floodplain lakes can play a big role in helping native fish populations grow again”.But the golden perch weren’t alone.The team also found other native species, including bony herring, carp gudgeon, Australian smelt, silver perch, Murray cod as well as freshwater prawns, yabbies, and three kinds of turtles: Eastern long-necked, broad-shelled, and short-necked.All of these were caught, recorded, and safely released.Caption; Field team member Gordon O’Brien with a golden perch at Yanga Lake, late April 2025. Image CSU.Looking back to around 100 years ago, the lower Murrumbidgee floodplain was full of life. These lakes provided homes for massive numbers of fish and fed thousands – even hundreds of thousands – of fish-eating birds such as pelicans and cormorants.But things changed. Over the past 125 years, river regulation and altered river flows have caused many lakes to become cut off from the river. This made it harder for fish and other animals to survive.Recently, wetter weather and the delivery of environmental water — provided by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (NSW DCCEEW) — have helped reconnect the lakes to the river.This gives fish a better chance to breed, move around, and grow their populations.“These floodplain lakes are perfect for fish,” Dr O’Brien said.Looking forward, the CSU team, led by Professor Skye Wassens, will keep studying the Murrumbidgee lakes, wetlands, rivers and creeks for the next four years as part of the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder’s Flow-Monitoring, Evaluation and Research Program.Prof Wassens and team want to learn more about where golden perch and other native species come from, how they move, and how introduced fish and habitat changes affect native species.“Our research helps us understand the natural resources we have,” Dr O’Brien said, “and how we can manage rivers and floodplains to keep them healthy – not just for fish, but for all the native wildlife and people that depend on them.”Field team members Jedda Kelly and Maxine Kelly setting fish nets at Tala Lake, late April 2025. Image: CSU

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole has backed the NSW Police Association’s move to no longer conduct prisoner transfers, as police want to get back to doing what they do best, and that is policing. From July 7, police across the state will begin refusing to transport inmates to and from court, supervise prisoners in courtrooms, or house them in police stations once they’ve been bail refused. Police believe these tasks clearly fall under the responsibility of Corrective Services and Juvenile Justice. Mr Toole said this comes well after the Police Association of NSW warned Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Police Yasmin Catley of this 12 months ago at the Police Association Conference. “Clearly they have not done anything about it,” he said. “The decision to cease prisoner transport duties is long-overdue as the situation has been putting both public safety and frontline policing at risk. “Our police are not prison guards, they’re not taxi drivers for criminals, and they should not be expected to play this role. “Regional police are being pulled from frontline duties to drive prisoners hundreds of kilometres, often sleeping overnight in stations and leaving entire communities without police coverage. “We’ve got police in the bush off the beat for days, towns left vulnerable, and officers burnt out — all because the Government refuses to properly resource Corrective Services.” The NSW Opposition questioned Minister Catley at the most recent budget estimates hearing on Labor’s commitment made to the Police Association in 2024 to address this issue. Mr Toole said the Minister agreed she was aware of the matter, but was not aware of any steps that had been made to reaching a resolution nor committed to prioritising this matter. “This is a damning failure by the Minns Labor Government and a Minister who has completely dropped the ball,” he said. “We back our cops 100 per cent, but they need more than words. They need a government that stands with them, not against them. "The Government was warned of this, and they’ve done nothing. Now they’ve got a crisis of their own making. “Enough is enough. “The Minister must fix this broken system now, stop hiding behind excuses and start delivering real solutions.”

The price of postage is to increase from July 17, with ordinary letters up from $1.50 to $1.70. There will also be an increase in the price for ordinary large letters, delivered at the regular timetable. These changes are subject to finalising regulatory processes and follow the ACCC’s preliminary view not to object to the increase. There is no change proposed to the price of concession stamps, at $3 for a booklet of five stamps, or to seasonal greetings card stamps, at 65c for a small letter. The pricing of business letter services will also change fromJuly17. More detail on these price changes is available at auspost.com.au/disruptions-and updates/pricing-updates. Priority label will increase from 70c to $1. Australia Post said priority increases were higher than regular prices to help cover the higher costs and greater losses associated with providing this faster service. Australia Post has provided an indication of future year prices for FY27 and FY28 in its price notification documents to the ACCC in response to customer feedback that this would help with their planning.

A partnership, created with the aim of transforming opportunities for Aboriginal people in western and far western New South Wales has been forged between the Murdi Paaki Regional Assembly (MPRA) and the University of New England (UNE). The MPRA and the UNE recently signed a statement of intent at Cobar to enhance educational pathways, workforce participation, community engagement and sustainable development in the Murdi Paaki Region. This region spans over 40 per cent of the state. Independent Chairperson of the MPRA, Grace Gordon, said it was a very proud day at the signing to be standing alongside UNE and community to commit to the future of young people and the region. Ms Gordon told the gathering the partnership has the greatest potential to shrink and overtime, close the education and economic participation gaps between First Nations and non - Indigenous people in the Murdi Paaki Region. “This will be a game changer for First Nations here and elsewhere in New South Wales,” she said.“Our people have expressed their worry about the lack of First Nations teachers in schools, the removal of opportunity for post school education, lack of fulfilling work and the withdrawal of professional services, especially in remote areas. “In signing this Statement of Intent we’re opening up doors for education and all that flows on from that”. Ms Gordon told the gathering of her own experience of using education to improve her opportunities and to eventually attend university. “I’m an example of what a First Nations person in a remote part of NSW can achieve with supported, structured access to education.”The statement of intent will be implemented using a multi-faceted approach. There will be many specific programs rolled out which can provide various opportunities and skills for the local youth. It will mean First Nations youth can achieve degrees while remaining in their local communities, MPRA and UNE will collaborate on monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of the partnership, ensuring that it is effectively addressing the needs of the community and delivering positive change. The emphasis and general theme throughput these implementations will be a culturally and community led approach.

In a world where people often chase opportunities across the globe, Carolyn Holmes has found her treasure right where she started, in the heart of Balranald. Carolyn is the Senior Executive Assistant at Balranald Shire Council. She can be seen on the Council live streams of meetings, and is the mainstay of the council, making sure everything ticks over smoothly. Born in 1965, Carolyn's childhood began in nearby Beverford, where she lived with her parents, two sisters, and a brother. Life took a devastating turn in April 1972 when she was just six-and-a-half years old. Her father was killed in a car accident at Lake Charm, an event that would reshape her family's entire trajectory. The tragedy was compounded by her mother being hospitalised in Melbourne after the same accident, while six months pregnant. The family moved back to Balranald to live with Carolyn's grandmother during this difficult period. Despite the heartbreak, there was also hope. “Much to our surprise, in July 1972, my baby sister was born healthy,” she said. Returning to Balranald proved to be a blessing for the young family. Carolyn and her siblings attended Balranald Central School, where they created many happy memories. The town became their playground, from backyard cricket matches to impromptu tennis games in the street. “Balranald was and still is a very safe place for children,” Carolyn reflects. “Although, like any small town, you get rumours and everyone knowing everything about everyone.” It's this honest affection for her hometown that characterises Carolyn's perspective – she sees both the charm and the quirks of small town life with equal clarity. Many of her childhood friendships have endured, with some friends still calling Balranald home while others have ventured to distant places. These connections, forged in childhood, remain an important part of her life today. Carolyn's professional journey led her to Balranald Council, where she has built a career dedicated to serving her community. While she describes the role as having "its ups and downs, especially with the revolving door to the General Managers office," her love for the work shines through. Her dedication hasn't gone unnoticed. Among her proudest achievements is receiving a Norma Male Award at the Council. When asked about her proudest achievements, Carolyn's answer comes from the heart. “My biggest achievements are having my three children, and then my grandchildren.” It's clear that family remains at the centre of her world, and her grandchildren bring particular joy to her life. Looking ahead, her dreams are beautifully simple and deeply personal: “I want to travel around Australia and spend more time with grandchildren,” she said. Carolyn is endearingly modest, and the epitome of small town dedication and heart. She has explored much of Australia through holidays in New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and Victoria, with Western Australia and the Northern Territory still on her travel wish list. Yet despite these adventures, she always returns to Balranald with appreciation. Carolyn’s love of her hometown is very clear. “The community is always ready to help when needed. The town is safe for children to grow up," she says. In these simple words lies the essence of what makes small towns special; the safety, the support, and the sense that everyone looks out for one another. Carolyn Holmes embodies the spirit of Balranald itself. Through personal tragedy and triumph, career challenges and achievements, she has remained rooted in the values that make small communities strong.

Griffith City Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Grant as its new General Manager following the announcement of Council’s long-serving and highly respected General Manager Brett Stonestreet to retire later this year.Mr Grant brings over 14 years of leadership experience across the Local Government, not-for-profit and private sectors to his new role in Griffith. This experience includes the position of Director City Lifestyles at Campbelltown City Council, as well as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO with Cricket Australia and Chief Operating Officer with Hyundai Motor Company Australia.Griffith Mayor, Councillor Doug Curran said, while it was a highly competitive field, Council was delighted that Mr Grant was determined as their preferred candidate at the Ordinary Council meeting on 19 June 2025.“We’re very pleased to have Mr Grant joining us as General Manager,” said Mayor Curran.“I look forward to working very closely with Scott on projects and priorities our community has told us are important to them.” “The depth of his knowledge, proven leadership skills and community-focused approach will be an asset to Griffith as we continue to grow and evolve.”Mr Grant said he is looking forward to stepping into the role.“I am genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing to the continued success of Griffith City Council and working closely with the team, the Councillors and the community to help shape a strong and sustainable future for our diverse City,” Mr Grant said.“Griffith has a strong reputation and great potential, and I look forward to building on that.”The offer has been accepted, and Council is now progressing through the required regulatory processes, with the contract expected to be signed within the next fortnight.Following the completion of the contract process, Mr Grant will commence in the role on 25 August 2025 under a 5-year Performance Based Contract.

Hay Shire Councillors listened to their community when they voted against a recommendation from Council staff for the approval of a Development Application for an unmanned truck refuelling station on Moama Street. Hay Shire Council recommended the Development Application, with entrance via University Road, be approved with stringent conditions. South Hay residents in the vicinity of the proposed development filled the gallery at Council’s Ordinary monthly meeting last week to vehemently oppose the application by IOR (diesel fuel supplier). “I believe the authoritarian who has given IOR the green light to go ahead with the 24-hours fuelling station at 310 Moama Street is in breach of Council’s fundamental values: Vision, Mission Statement and Corporate values,” South Hay resident, Julie Lawrence told Council. “Vision: Where people are resilient, healthy and safe, living together with a strong sense of community in a vibrant and prosperous economy. “Country people are resilient, we have to be, that’s a given. Health and safety – every single objection submitted is concerned about safety and you are choosing to ignore this. Breach number one. “We have a strong sense of community, but this proposal does nothing, I repeat nothing for the economics of Hay. “The email (from the developer) states that locals will only ‘assist’ in the build, then after that there’s nothing. It will be economically depriving by taking away from four ratepaying businesses and devaluing all the residential property in that area. Breach number two. “The Mission Statement is to be a progressive rural council committed to 1. Caring for the welfare of our communities, which the proposal does not. It is clearly not in the welfare of our community. Breach number three. 2. Protecting and enhancing the environment. On page 147 (of the application) it admits, and I quote, that storm water and oily water management landscape buffer strip will be provided along the street frontage of University Road to aid with the removal of nutrients and suspended solids present in the storm water run-off. Breach number four. 3. Building a climate that encourages opportunities for all. That should be just for Hay Shire residents, not a big Queensland fuel company, or apparently now American. 4. Managing the Council’s resources in an open and accountable manner consistent with the principles of value for money and equity. “This is a prime piece of agricultural land which should still be rated as agricultural and is being destroyed and changed forever, for what? Breach number five,” Ms Lawrence continued in her presentation to Council. “Corporate values: It states Council will deliver integrity, openness, responsiveness and quality of service. Under the responsiveness heading it state that: We will consult with our community and be guided by their wishes. We will deliver on our promises. Yet another breach – number six. “So Council, please be guided by our wishes. You are meant to service the people in the Hay Shire. Honour what you have been voted by the people to do. “Do not breach the Council values. “I agree with an IOR site, but elsewhere. Not in our little town. That will take away from four businesses.” The site is across Hay Caravan Park, Bishop’s Lodge Historic House and Comfort Inn Bishop’s Lodge Motel and a number of residential properties. The 4.2ha site was previously used as farmland in connection with Ruberto’s Winery which has since closed down. A Development Application similar to the more recent proposal was applied for in 2016 but withdrawn by the applicant as it was not a permissible use in the zone at the time. In December 2023, the applicant successfully applied for a planning proposal to amend the Hay Local Environmental Plan to allow a service station to be built on the block. The mood in the gallery and among the majority of councillors was for an unmanned fuel station to be built well out of town, not in a residential part of South Hay. Sharon Hicks, who lives directly across the road from the site, also spoke and said the Leeton and Hillston unmanned fuel stations were abominable and nothing more but dust concrete bowls. She also raised concerns about noise and floodlights on six-metre-high towers, strong enough to light up a stadium. “Ampol and Shell will lose their traffic, because IOR offers discounted fuel to their customers.” Tony Domaille also lives across the road from the site and said he was at a loss as to why an unmanned fuel station would be built opposite a caravan park. “You’re going to have cattle trucks arriving in the middle of the night, all types of trucks,” he said. “Hay is a declining population. “Over $24million will be going out of Hay (if the development went ahead). Just be careful we don’t end up with no fuel stations and on an unmanned diesel truck refuelling station. This business just doesn’t bring enough to town. “Repairs are always done by outside contractors. “Construction will take a month, that leaves a bit of lawn to mow.” In response to IOR’s commitment to screen the site by planting mature trees, Cr Paul Porter quipped, “you can’t put lipstick on a pig. It’s still a pig”. The Development Application was refused on recommendation from Cr Martyn Quinn, seconded by Cr John Perry. Cr Tapper declared a pecuniary interest in the DA due to the location of his home, and left the room during discussion.

Swimmer Michael Powell has chosen to put his body on the line to raise funds to contribute to a rural scholarship, set up his late father-in-law’s memory.Mr Powell has partnered with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, who also facilitate the Bruce Simpson Rural Leadership Scholarship - a $2 million perpetual fund that will support rural leadership.“I lost my leg at age four,” Mr Powell said. “I’ve spent my life pushing limits on the sports field, in open water, and now in one of the world’s toughest swims: the icy North Channel from Northern Ireland to Scotland“I’m swimming to honour my late brother-in-law, Bruce Simpson. “Bruce tragically and unexpectedly passed away in 2024, leaving lasting impact on rural Australia. “After my own dad passed, Bruce was the one I turned to. “He was generous, wise, and humble. A steady presence in his community and in my life.”Mr Powell aims to raise $100,000 for the scholarship and the challenge he is undertaking at the end of July is not for the faint-hearted.“Swimming the North Channel is no small challenge,” Mr Powell said. “From Northern Ireland to Scotland, it’s colder than the English Channel and fewer than 120 people have ever completed it.“I’ve tried twice before. Ten hours in the water each time. I didn’t make it. But I’ve never stopped thinking about it.“This year, I’m going back for a third attempt. And this time, I’m swimming with purpose.“I’m doing it for Bruce.”To donate, visit the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.

NSW Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, officially opened the newly upgraded RSPCA Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital during a visit to the State’s far west today.After a $1.8 million investment from the NSW Government, the hospital has undergone a substantial change to better serve the needs of animals and communities across the far west region.“The RSPCA Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital plays a vital role in caring for pets and other animals in some of our most remote communities,” Mr Hoenig said.“I’m pleased the NSW Government was able to support a much-needed upgrade of this important facility – its first major renovation in over 50 years.“The upgrade will give RSPCA NSW the space and modern facilities needed to ensure its staff can deliver the best standard of care for animals in Broken Hill and the broader region.“Improving animal welfare standards and promoting responsible pet ownership are key priorities of the NSW Government and it’s wonderful to see this renovation completed.”The funding facilitated the construction of extended medical and treatment spaces, new consulting rooms and isolation wards.There was also a major equipment upgrade including a new ultrasound machine, a digital x-ray machine, dental equipment, new surgery tables and a steriliser for surgical instruments.“Our Broken Hill Veterinary Hospital is a valuable community resource, providing vital care for all creatures, great and small, including companion animals, livestock, and wildlife,” said RSPCA NSW CEO, Steven Coleman.“This reopening signals an exciting new chapter for animal welfare in the far west. RSPCA NSW has a very special history and close connection with the Broken Hill community, and we are looking forward to continuing to provide our essential services in the area for many years to come.”Broken Hill City Council Mayor, Tom Kennedy commended the Government for its support of the local animal welfare service.“Broken Hill and our surrounding communities are very reliant on the RSPCA services given our isolation, and this upgrade will ensure RSPCA NSW can increase their capacity to help animals in our region,” the mayor said.

Griffith High School and Wade High School will officially resume their original identities, abandoning the Murrumbidgee Regional High School name imposed when the NSW Coalition government merged them in 2018.The merger proved disastrous. More than 300 students transferred to other schools, teaching positions remained chronically unfilled, and the community never accepted what independent MP Helen Dalton called a forced marriage that no one wanted.After Labor won the 2023 state election, the government reversed the merger. A consultation process this year confirmed overwhelming community sentiment - nearly 90 per cent of 500 local residents polled wanted the schools to return to their original names.Griffith High, established in 1933 and named for the town itself, will reclaim its identity alongside Wade High, which opened in 1971 honouring Leslie Wade, the civil engineer who developed the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area.The name changes take immediate effect, though visual elements like logos, uniforms and school colours won't be finalised until Term 1, 2026. Meanwhile, construction has begun on new multipurpose halls for both schools, featuring air-conditioned performance spaces, basketball courts and modern facilities, with completion expected by mid-2026.Dalton, who fought the merger from its inception, praised Education Minister Prue Car for listening to what the community wanted and restoring two separate, proud, high-quality high schools.The reversal represents a rare admission that the super school experiment failed completely, costing the community hundreds of students and undermining educational outcomes in the process.

Griffith City Council is asking residents to visit Connect Griffith, Council’s online community engagement hub, to have their say on a range of projects, strategies, plans, policies and initiatives that they have in the pipeline.They would like to know what you think of the following projects:Draft Yenda Growth Area Master Plan and Site-Specific DCP Section | Comments or submissions will be received until 4pm Friday 27 June 2025.Draft Hanwood Growth Area Master Plan | Comments or submissions will be received until 4pm Friday 27 June 2025.Expression of Interest – First Nations Advisory Group at Pioneer Park | Expressions of Interest are now open and will close on 30 June 2025.Draft Model Media and Social Media Policies | Comments or submissions will be received up to 4.00 pm, 10 July 2025.Draft Model Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy | Comments or submissions will be received up to 4.00 pm, 10 July 2025.Draft Data Breach Policy | Comments or submissions will be received up to 4.00 pm, 10 July 2025.Review of Council’s Local Policies | Comments or submissions will be received up to 4.00 pm, 24 July 2025Notice of Proposed Name – Valentini Bridge | Written submissions will be received up until 4pm, Friday 27 June 2025Griffith Housing Strategy | Submissions close 4pm, Friday 27 June 2025.Griffith Economic Development Strategy | Survey Open nowTo have your say, follow this link: https://connect.griffith.nsw.gov.au/

Here’s the lowdown on all things new Griffith hospital.With such a major change, there may be a lot of people confused and unsure about when and how to access services. Here’s all the changes and dates in which changes may occur.All health services on the Griffith Base hospital campus, except dental, will move into the new hospital. This includes all services in the existing hospital, the Ambulatory Care Hub and the Renal Unit.All health services on the Griffith Base hospital campus, except dental, will move into the new hospital. This includes all services in the existing hospital, the Ambulatory Care Hub and the Renal Unit.Patients in all inpatient wards, Intensive Care and Emergency Department will transfer to the new hospital. Around 400 staff have received training to work in the new hospital. As well as items transferring, the new hospital is equipped with thousands of items of new equipment and furniture – from IV poles to wheelchairs and beds to medical and IT equipment. The Renal Unit opens in the new hospital on Friday June 27.Teams have been preparing and planning for this move for over two years to ensure it is a smooth and safe transition. Access to the new hospital remains the same for now, with the public to continue to use the existing hospital main entry to access the new hospital. Car parking will also remain the same with a drop-off/pick-up zone and several new accessible parking options available at the front of the hospital for those with limited mobility. If you need to go to the Emergency Department (ED). If patients need to attend the ED they need to continue to use the same hospital main entry. The 24-hour ED will remain open in the current hospital until 7.30am on Wednesday June 25 when the new ED will commence operations. To assist staff at this busy time, people with non-urgent and non-life-threatening health issues are recommended to see a GP or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222. From 7:30am on Wednesday June 25, signs will be in inside the hospital’s main entry to direct the public to ED’s location in the new hospital. Patients can use the same drop off and pick up zones located at the existing hospital main entry. The closest parking is the existing carpark at the front of the hospital. If you need to attend the maternity and birthing Unit please use the hospital main entry. From 7.30am on Tuesday June 24, signs inside the hospital main entry will direct the public to the maternity unit’s location in the new hospital Patients can use the drop off and pick up zones located at the existing hospital main entry. The closest parking is the existing carpark at the front of the hospital.In the days prior to opening there will be some temporary changes to hospital services while departments relocate from the old hospital to the new hospital. Staff will be available to provide assistance and directions at the hospital main entry. Visitation to inpatients is limited on 24 and 25 June as staff move equipment and patients into the new facility.Patients and families will be kept informed. Outpatient services including medical imaging, will be limited on 24 and 25 June whilst staff complete the move. Most outpatient services resume in the new building on Thursday 26 June.  NSW Pathology’s last outpatient collection at the old hospital is 5pm on Tuesday 24 June. The service will re-open on the ground floor of the new hospital on at 7.30am on Monday June 30. Ambulance and emergency service vehicle entry to the hospital will change on Wednesday June 25 from Noorebar Avenue to Warrambool St.  Dental services will remain in the same location, accessible from Warrambool St. There is and will not be any change to community-based services These following community-based services will continue as normal. Community Health will remain in the same location in Yambil St, Griffith and relocate to the campus in late 2025. The Transitional Aged Care Program and Aged Care Assessment Services will remain in the same temporary location in Kokoora St, Griffith and relocate to the campus in 2026. Community Mental Health Drug and Alcohol services will continue to operate from their current permanent location in Yambil St, Griffith. NSW Pathology Collection Centre from their current permanent location at Banna Avenue, Griffith