Back Country Bulletin
Back Country Bulletin
News from the Back Country
Get it on the Apple StoreGet it on the Google Play Store
Visit HayVisit BalranaldVisit Outback NSWYour local MemberEat, Drink, StayEmergency Contacts
Back Country Bulletin

News


Coercive control - what is it? NSW laws are now tougher
Coercive control - what is it? NSW laws are now tougher

15 May 2025, 2:00 AM

Coercive control is now a crime in NSW — here’s what it looks like, who’s at risk, and what the law means for survivors.Coercive control - what is it? NSW laws are now tougherCoercive control is when someone repeatedly hurts, scares or isolates another person to control them.From July 1, 2024 coercive control became an offence in NSW.The criminal offence captures repeated patterns of physical or non-physical abuse used to hurt, scare, intimidate, threaten or control someone.Unfortunately, the law only applies to abusive behaviour that happens after 1 July, 2024.Coercive control can be hard to spot because it often starts slowly or builds up over time.Coercive and controlling behaviours can be subtle, and the abuser often hides what they are doing from others, making the victim feel like they are going crazy or "making too much of it."The abuse does not have to be physical.Coercive control can happen in other types of relationships. However, the legislation will be tested in current and former intimate partner relationships in the first instance, according to NSW Government information.Research shows that it is most dangerous within intimate relationships and suggests 1 in 4 women and 1 in 14 men have experienced intimate partner violence since age 15.In addition, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men reported experiencing emotional abuse by their spouse or de facto partner since age 15.For women, pregnancy, early motherhood and separation can be times of increased risk for women. The abuse might begin during these times, get worse, or happen more regularly.Coercive control is a factor in 97% of intimate partner murders, according to the NSW Government.The NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team found nearly 80% of all victims of intimate partner violence homicides that occurred in NSW between 2000 and 2018 were women.Worryingly, coercive control has been strongly linked to intimate partner homicide.The NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team found that in 97% of intimate partner domestic violence homicide cases, the victim had experienced coercive and controlling behaviours before being killed.Those living with a disability, and the elderly, are also at increased risk of abuse from a range of people, including intimate partners, family members, paid or unpaid carers or other residents in supported accommodation facilities.Coercive control takes many forms, but red flags include:Isolation: A partner consistently prevents the other from seeing family or friends, controls their communication (e.g., monitoring phone calls, social media), or restricts their movements.Intimidation: This could involve threats of physical violence, but also includes threats to harm the victim's loved ones or pets, or using intimidating behaviour to create fear.Control over daily life: The perpetrator dictates what the victim can wear, eat, or how they spend their time. They might make all the decisions about where the victim lives, works, or what they purchase.Economic or financial abuse: This involves controlling the victim's access to money, preventing them from working, or unreasonably restricting their financial independence.Monitoring and surveillance: This can include tracking the victim's movements, checking their devices, or using technology to keep tabs on them.Psychological abuse: Examples include constant belittling, humiliation, gaslighting (making the victim doubt their own sanity), and other manipulative tactics.Shame-based conduct: This involves the perpetrator using shame or humiliation to control the victim. Examples include mocking a partner's weight or appearance, or sulking or becoming angry if sexual advances are rejected.The challenge now comes in the sentencing of those brought before the courts.The first case in NSW to be prosecuted occurred in the Riverina, and came before Magistrate Wright last December.The defendant pleaded guilty to financial abuse, controlling his partner's phone and using padlocked doors to keep his victim isolated.Evidence presented to the Court included a statement to the victim: "This will be your last night, I am going to murder you".In court, NSW Police urged Magistrate Wright to consider the victim's safety."[The offender has] no indication of any remorse," the prosecutor said at the time."[We are] asking you to consider the safety of the complainant as paramount."Magistrate Wright said the 'facts are disturbing' but did not impose gaol time, and instead sentenced the man to an 18-month intensive corrections order to be served in the community.For help, contact 1800RESPECT by calling 1800 737 732, texting 0458 737 732, or using the online chat service.

Clarifying P-Plate rules: false claims circulate, NSW set for significant changes in 2025
Clarifying P-Plate rules: false claims circulate, NSW set for significant changes in 2025

14 May 2025, 8:00 PM

Recent viral online content, including AI-generated articles and social media posts, has caused confusion among newly licensed Australian drivers by making false claims about extensive, nationwide changes to P-plate laws by the Federal Government.However, it is crucial to understand that the Federal Government does not create or amend road rules. Each state and territory in Australia is responsible for setting its own laws, including those applicable to provisional license holders.Claims circulating online, such as a national extension of the red P1 period to 18 months, a nationwide curfew, a ban on hands-free mobile use for all P-platers, and increased fines across the board, have been identified as false.While these specific nationwide changes are not occurring, New South Wales (NSW) is indeed set to implement some significant changes to its P-plate laws in 2025.Among the most impactful updates expected to come into effect from August 2025 are changes to the provisional licensing period and night driving restrictions. The P1 licence period in NSW is expected to be extended from the current 12 months to 18 months. Additionally, a new night-driving curfew is anticipated for drivers under the age of 216. The August 2025 reforms are also set to impose tighter regulations on mobile phone and digital device usage. Previously permitted hands-free mobile phone functions will no longer be allowed for P-plate drivers under these rules.Beyond the August changes, other modifications to mobile phone rules are planned for NSW in 2025. A 12-month trial will commence allowing P-plate drivers aged 25 and older to use a mounted mobile phone specifically for GPS navigation. This trial aims to assess whether allowing this leads to an increase in accidents.However, for all provisional license holders in NSW, stricter rules on mobile phone use will be implemented. P2 drivers, in particular, will face prohibitions on using any mobile phone function while driving, including hands-free options, even for purposes like navigation or music. The penalties for provisional license holders caught using mobile phones while driving are also set to increase.Other aspects of NSW P-plate laws will remain consistent or see separate adjustments. There will be no changes to the current speed limits for learner and provisional drivers; NSW does not impose reduced speed limits for P-platers. Regarding vehicles, there is no blanket ban on turbocharged vehicles in NSW. Potential changes are also noted regarding passenger restrictions for drivers under 25 on their red Ps, potentially limiting them to one passenger under 21 between 11 pm and 5 am, with exemption processes available.In related news providing cost of living relief, a 20 per cent discount on registration for light vehicles, dealer plates, and caravans will be extended for an additional 12 months in 2025.It is important for provisional drivers across Australia to remember that road rules, including P-plate restrictions on passengers, curfews, and mobile phone use, differ significantly between states and territories. For instance, some states already have passenger limits for P1 drivers under a certain age at all times, while others apply them only during night hours. Similarly, mobile phone rules vary, with some jurisdictions allowing hands-free use for green P2 drivers while NSW prohibits it for all P-platers. Penalties for breaking rules are also determined by each state and territory.These forthcoming changes in NSW in 2025, particularly those expected in August, underscore a continued focus on enhancing safety and responsibility for provisional drivers on the state's roads. Provisional drivers should consult official NSW Government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding these rule changes.

NARRANDERA AND BARELLAN DOMINATE KNOCKOUT
NARRANDERA AND BARELLAN DOMINATE KNOCKOUT

13 May 2025, 8:00 PM

BY JAMIE PARSONS The Narrandera Lizards have taken away the Proten Cup Knockout for the fourth time, bouncing back after fears the club would fold only weeks ago. The men’s team only got together for the first time last week, with club officials ringing around to get enough numbers to play. Coaches Malek Afuamua-Lyons and Barlow Simpson won the shield on their first day as coaches. In the women’s knockout Barellan were once again far and away the best team of the four clubs who entered women’s sides on the day, going through without a point scored against them with a 16-0 win over Ivanhoe, 30-0 over Rankins Springs and then 34-0 over Ivanhoe again in the final. Narrandera started off well with a win over hosts Barellan, who were short a few players for the day. The Rams went down by 4 in that game but bounced back to beat Hillston 12-4.The Bluebirds had a ton of numbers turn up after a very good pre-season however couldn’t quite get it together on the field, going down 16-0 to Ivanhoe in their first game before their loss to Barellan.New boys the Deniliquin Blue Heelers turned up with a full squad in a very good sign. They were soundly beaten in a 32-0 victory for Narrandera in their first game but regrouped for a much better showing in an 18-6 loss to Ivanhoe in their second.The Ivanhoe Roosters had a successful day with a squad full of returning players. Despite wins over Hillston and Deni they just couldn’t get there in the final, going down 16-8 to the Lizards. New coaches Dwayne Evans and Jay Little look to have the Roosters poised to be competitive once again. Their women’s side also had a decent hit out despite missing several stars. In probably the best game of the day the Hens got up over the Bluebirds girls 10-6 with a try on the fulltime siren. In Hillston’s other game they fought out a very tough 0-all draw against the Rankins Springs Dragonettes, with neither side giving an inch. Round 1 is fast approaching with all teams heading to Ivanhoe on May 24. Hopefully the Goolgowi and Rankins Springs boys and the Goolgowi and Narrandera girls can get their sides primed in time for their first hit-outs. Full Knockout ResultsMen’sNarrandera 10-6 BarellanIvanhoe 16-0 HillstonNarrandera 32-0 DeniliquinBarellan 12-4 HillstonIvanhoe 18-6 DeniliquinFinal – Narrandera 16-8 Ivanhoe Women’s Barellan 16-0 IvanhoeRankins Springs 0-0 HillstonBarellan 30-0 Rankins SpringsIvanhoe 10-6 HillstonFinal – Barellan 34-0 Ivanhoe

Sunraysia Solar Farm continues commitment to community with annual funding program
Sunraysia Solar Farm continues commitment to community with annual funding program

13 May 2025, 2:00 AM

The Sunraysia Solar Farm, located in Balranald, continues its strong history of community engagement and funding through its annual community sponsorship program. This initiative provides crucial funding to local groups and businesses, supporting a variety of projects across the region.The program has been a consistent feature of the solar farm's commitment to the community, offering annual funding to support local initiatives. As part of this ongoing effort, the Sunraysia Solar Farm will again be providing its Annual Community Sponsorship Funding this year.Local groups, clubs, and organisations are encouraged to submit their applications for this year's funding round. Applications can be sent to [email protected]. The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, July 4.Looking back, the program has a proven track record of supporting valuable community projects. For instance, in 2022, a total of $20,000 was made available for community projects, with proposals due by July 8, 2022. The program has supported a diverse range of initiatives over the years. Past projects include support for the Balranald Football Netball Club, the Balranald Community Growth Strategy Forum, and the Five Rivers Outback Festival.The sponsorship program is specifically designed to prioritise projects that significantly benefit the local community. It also focuses on initiatives that support the natural environment and those that promote health and well-being within the area.Beyond the sponsorship program, the Sunraysia Solar Farm maintains a broader commitment to working transparently with the local community. The project aims to keep residents informed, actively address concerns, identify opportunities for local business involvement, and provide feedback on how community input helps shape outcomes. Establishing open dialogue with local residents and stakeholders is a key objective.It's also worth noting that regional areas like Sunraysia can potentially benefit from other funding avenues, such as the NSW Government Regional Community Energy Fund, which supports energy projects in regional parts of the state.Community groups seeking funding from the Sunraysia Solar Farm's program are encouraged to reach out for any questions about the funding process.

Balranald Shire Council asks for public assistance to stop vandalism
Balranald Shire Council asks for public assistance to stop vandalism

12 May 2025, 11:00 PM

Balranald grapples with persistent vandalism as latest incident hits senior citizen amenitiesThe Balranald Shire is once again dealing with the costly aftermath of vandalism, with the latest incident occurring on Saturday, May 10, targeting the Balranald Senior Citizen amenities. This follows a previous act of vandalism at the very same amenities earlier last week, which had already necessitated repairs.Balranald Shire Council highlighted the direct financial impact of these incidents, stating on social media that "the cost of vandalism comes directly from your rates, reducing the money available for Council’s other services such as road maintenance." The Council is actively seeking community assistance in curbing vandalism across the shire.This recent act is the latest in a concerning series of alleged vandalism incidents that have affected the Balranald Shire. In September 2024, Council issued a media release expressing significant disappointment over similar spates of alleged vandalism in both Balranald and Euston. Those incidents allegedly involved rocks and debris being thrown at caravans and vehicles, with some caravans also being hit with golf sticks.The alleged vandalism in 2024 had significant repercussions, leading to bad reviews on social media, particularly on platforms like WikiCamps Australia, which many travellers use to plan their trips. This has resulted in tourists potentially avoiding the Balranald Shire, which has a significant and direct impact on local businesses. These businesses work hard to promote the shire as a tourism destination, and tourism makes a vital contribution to supporting local jobs and employment.Council has stated that this "abhorrent behaviour will not be tolerated" and needs to cease immediately, noting its significant impact not only on businesses but also on the Council from a tourism perspective and the community from a safety perspective.The Balranald Shire previously enjoyed a very good reputation with travellers as a safe and desirable destination, a reputation Council is determined to restore. Police have been responding to reports, but they can only act if incidents are reported. Residents are strongly encouraged to report any acts of vandalism.Information regarding vandalism can be reported directly to the police via their database online. Alternatively, individuals with information can contact Council, or contact the police anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the NSW Police online system. When contacting police regarding vandalism, quoting report number E101122574 is helpful.

Council seeks public Input on classifying recently acquired land
Council seeks public Input on classifying recently acquired land

12 May 2025, 8:00 PM

Central Darling Shire Council is inviting residents to have their say on a proposal to classify three recently acquired properties as operational land. This classification change is a significant step that will allow the council greater flexibility regarding the future use or potential sale of these parcels.The properties in question were purchased by the Council in February 2025 at a sale of land for unpaid rates auction. The Council now proposes classifying them as operational land in accordance with section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW).Why classify land as operational?Changing the classification of land to operational enables the council to put the land to an operational use. Crucially, it also allows for the potential disposal of the land in the future should the need or demand arise. This differs from community land, which is typically held for public use and enjoyment and has stricter limitations on its management and disposal.The three specific properties the draft resolution addresses are:•49 Yartla Lane / 49 Menindee Street: Identified as Lot 2 DP 397881.•44 Paringa Street, Menindee: Identified as Lot 7 Section 27 DP 7586691.•21 Cleaton Street, Wilcannia: Identified as Lot 2 DP 5248321.The Council is seeking public submissions regarding this draft resolution. This is your opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed classification of these particular properties.How to make a submission: Submissions must be made in writing. You can send your comments via:•Mail: The General Manager, Central Darling Shire Council, PO Box 165, Wilcannia NSW 28361.•Email: [email protected]'s important to note that submissions sent via social media will not be accepted.The deadline for all submissions is 4pm on Friday, May 30.Residents are encouraged to review the draft resolution and make a submission if they have any comments or concerns about the proposed classification of these land parcels.

Milthorpe thanks volunteers "I'm not going anywhere"
Milthorpe thanks volunteers "I'm not going anywhere"

11 May 2025, 2:00 AM

Michelle Milthorpe Thanks Supporters, Reflects on Campaign of Integrity and Community Backing Independent candidate for Farrer, Michelle Milthorpe, has expressed deep gratitude to the community for their support during a grassroots campaign driven by integrity, hard work and a commitment to listening. “This campaign was never about politics-as-usual,” Mrs Milthorpe said in a statement to media. “We were a novice team, made up of locals who simply care about our community. We stayed positive, stayed focused, and always led with respect.” With close to 200 volunteers donning their orange shirts, the team letterboxed, doorknocked, and walked thousands of kilometres across the electorate—spreading the message of change, fairness and genuine representation. “We had a small budget, but a strong community. That’s what powered this campaign. People stood beside me because they want something better for Farrer—not more of the same,” Mrs Milthorpe said. The campaign faced some clear challenges, including the spread of misinformation and being denied the opportunity to correct the record. “We ran against a small group who continually circulated misleading claims, particularly around funding. I was fully transparent from the beginning about receiving a donation from Climate 200, and never misrepresented that fact,” Mrs Milthorpe said. “What’s disappointing is that the same level of scrutiny isn’t applied to major parties and their funding arrangements. I would ask the media to reflect on that and be more objective moving forward.” Mrs Milthorpe expressed issue with being incorrectly labelled throughout the campaign. “I ran as an independent, and to repeatedly be referred to in other ways was not only misleading—it was dishonest and insulting. It undermined the intelligence of voters and the integrity of the many hardworking people who supported this campaign.” Mrs Milthorpe also shared her hope that future vote counts might better reflect the nature of the contest, after Saturday night’s count proceeded using a two-party-preferred (2PP) method, despite earlier advice that it would follow a two-candidate-preferred (2CP) approach. “It meant that the live results didn’t give a clear picture of the actual contest,” she said. “I’d like to see more consistency and clarity around how independent candidates are represented in the count—it helps voters better understand what’s really happening.” Looking to the future, Mrs Milthorpe is hopeful that Farrer will no longer be considered a safe seat, saying that increased competitiveness is essential to securing fairer representation. “I’d like to thank people for trusting me with their vote. If nothing else, we’ve shown that this electorate can no longer be taken for granted. That alone is a win for our community.” While no firm decision has been made yet, Mrs Milthorpe is open to standing again. “This campaign might be over, but I’m not going anywhere. I’ll take some time to reflect, but I will always stand up for Farrer. We deserve better—and I’m here to help us get there.”

Have Your Say on the NSW Meat Industry Levy Regulation
Have Your Say on the NSW Meat Industry Levy Regulation

10 May 2025, 2:00 AM

Have Your Say on the NSW Meat Industry Levy RegulationMeat producers and interested parties across New South Wales are invited to provide feedback on proposed changes to the state's meat industry levy regulations. The NSW Food Authority is seeking submissions on the draft Meat Industry (Meat Industry Levy) Regulation 2025. This is a chance for organisations and individuals to comment on any matter relevant to the proposed new regulation. Feedback can be submitted online, via email, or by mail. The deadline for submissions is Sunday, June 1 2025. This feedback period is part of an open process where all comments will be reviewed and could lead to modifications to the draft regulation before it becomes law.So, what's going on?The Meat Industry Levy is a contribution required from meat producers in NSW, specifically occupiers of land who are liable to pay an animal health rate to Local Land Services. This levy supports essential food safety activities throughout the meat supply chain, ultimately benefiting the industry and consumers by ensuring meat is safe and suitable for consumption. The current levy structure requires producers to pay $5 annually plus 0.6 cents per stock unit of notional carrying capacity, with an average levy around $14 and a maximum cap of $130 per producer.The levy funds are crucial for several key activities. These include:•Enforcing the branding of meat.•Ensuring correct food labelling on meat products.•Conducting investigations into issues like meat substitution, illegal slaughter, and unlicensed meat businesses.•Participating in national standard-setting processes related to meat safety.•Educating the meat industry through food safety program audits and inspections.The proposed changes in the draft Meat Industry (Meat Industry Levy) Regulation 2025 are being put forward to remake the existing 2016 regulation. Importantly, the proposed changes do not involve altering the current annual meat industry levy amount. Producers will continue to pay the same calculation method ($5 plus 0.6 cents per stock unit, capped at $130).Instead, the focus of the proposed changes is on administrative amendments. These updates are intended to ensure the regulation remains relevant and fit for purpose, aiming to streamline processes for government and remove unnecessary red tape for producers while maintaining the necessary contribution to food safety activities.Key proposed administrative changes include:•Adjusting the date for issuing notices of levy payable to 31 March to better align with Local Land Services rates notices.•Removing duplicated text concerning notifying changes in land occupancy or ownership, as this is already covered elsewhere.•Eliminating a redundant $5 fee for applying for a certificate showing levies due.•Clarifying that certificates of levies due and payable issued by Local Land Services do not need to follow a specific prescribed format.•Making it easier for producers to dispute the validity of a levy by allowing these objections to be lodged with the Local Court instead of the District Court.•Setting the interest rate on overdue levies at 2% above the Commonwealth Bank's overdraft index rate for businesses, consistent with how Local Land Services calculates interest on other overdue rates and levies.•Removing outdated references to paper-based levy books, as land and producer details are already kept electronically.•Removing the requirement to provide certain property identification and personal details of new landowners when giving notice of sale or transfer of land.•Removing the requirement to provide certain property identification details when applying for a certificate about meat industry levies due and payable.These administrative adjustments aim for improved clarity and efficiency. After the submission period closes on 1 June 2025, all feedback will be carefully reviewed. The draft regulation may be modified based on this input before the new Meat Industry Levy Regulation 2025 is finalised and becomes law. Producers and the public will be notified when this occurs.

Transgrid's Broken Hill & Far West NSW Community Partnerships Program has opened applications for its second round.
Transgrid's Broken Hill & Far West NSW Community Partnerships Program has opened applications for its second round.

09 May 2025, 11:00 PM

Funding Opportunity Opens for Far West NSW Community GroupsLocal community groups and not-for-profit organisations in Broken Hill and the Far West NSW region have a chance to secure funding to support their vital work. Transgrid's Broken Hill & Far West NSW Community Partnerships Program has opened applications for its second round.This program represents a new $500,000 funding initiative launched by Transgrid specifically for community organisations and not-for-profit groups in these areas.Eligible organisations can apply for funding of up to $10,000 to support local initiatives aimed at creating long-term community benefits.Applications for this round are now open but will close on Friday, 23 May 2025.The first round of this funding initiative previously closed on December 7, 2024, with funds already distributed to successful applicants. Looking ahead, another round is scheduled to open on Monday, 31 March 2025.This new $500,000 initiative is separate from Transgrid’s $1.5 million contribution to the NSW Government’s community support package, which assists residents and businesses affected by the recent outage.Transgrid has a history of supporting the community through its broader Community Partnerships Program, having contributed over $1 million in the past two years to nearly 250 organisations. These have included a wide range of groups such as sporting clubs, Indigenous groups, social welfare and aged care providers, emergency response services, and youth organisations.To be eligible for the current funding round, organisations must be located in or serve a location that was directly impacted by the October 2024 outage. Eligible postcodes listed for this round include 2648, 2715, 2836, 2879, 2880, covering areas such as Whitecliffs, Wilcannia, Broken Hill, and Menindee.Organisations encouraged not to miss out on this opportunity to make a lasting impact in their community. Apply now. Further information is available on the Transgrid Community Partnerships Program webpage.

Get down to Balranald Fire Station open day today!
Get down to Balranald Fire Station open day today!

09 May 2025, 8:00 PM

Balranald Fire Station Opens Doors to Community - Discover the Benefits of Fire Station Open DaysBalranald is inviting the community to step inside for a day of fun and learning. The Balranald Fire Station, located at 123 Market Street, will host an open day on Saturday May 10, running from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the family along and engage with the dedicated crew who serve our area.Visitors can look forward to a variety of activities designed for all ages. There will be a free sausage sizzle, the chance to explore fire trucks and equipment, and even an opportunity to try out the fire hoses. Guided tours of the station will be available, allowing residents to see behind the scenes. It's also a perfect time to chat with the friendly crew about essential fire safety tips for your home and find out how you can potentially join the crew yourself. The team is keen to see everyone there.The Balranald event highlights the many advantages of attending Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Open Days held across the state. These events offer significant benefits to the community, providing a direct connection with the people and resources dedicated to our safety.Attending an FRNSW Open Day is a valuable experience for several reasons.It's a chance to meet local firefighters, ask them questions, and gain insight into their daily duties and responsibilities.You can explore specialised equipment and fire trucks, learning about the technology FRNSW uses to combat fires and respond to various emergencies.Boost Your Safety Knowledge: Open Days are packed with crucial fire safety information, including how to prevent fires, plan safe escapes, and the vital importance of having working smoke alarms.Connect with Your Community: These events help foster a sense of community, allowing residents to interact directly with their local fire station and understand the services they provide.Understand FRNSW's Role: Open Days underscore FRNSW's commitment to enhancing community safety, quality of life, and confidence by working to minimise the impact of hazards and emergencies.

Strong female presence in the shearing industry, Kayla Garner
Strong female presence in the shearing industry, Kayla Garner

09 May 2025, 5:00 AM

Kayla Garner of Hay, and integral part of the shearing company Wilshear, is the epitome of the modern mother. Successful and well known in her field, involved and committed to providing her children with the best possible life, and part of a close and large family that lends a hand when they can. Daughter of Lionel and Wilma, and having dynamic relatives such as Libby Eason and Will Miller in that family tree, one could theorise that the nature is indeed genetic. If anyone could say they have it all, it probably would be her. She has lived her life with motivation and drive, earning it for herself wherever she turns. She helps her father Lionel run the family business. She operates as Shed Manager, and also in a wool classing role. She has always been a fixture in the sheds. She accompanied her father Lionel to work every school holiday from a young age. Kayla never failed to succeed and shine in a male dominated industry. Kayla says it has somewhat become a fine art to accomplish all tasks before rain hits, and navigating around floodwaters, but they make it work. She says the days become substantially longer though. Additional travel and sometimes detouring is required. They can already be hours into their day before they can get the tasks at hand done. This ends up dragging the day out consider ably. Her loving partner Hunter is their three children’s primary carer. “I would not be able to do it without him, he is a perfect stay-at-home dad, I am very lucky, he does it all,” Kayla remarked. “The kids are also extremely helpful, which is a huge help.” When water and rain do impact the ability to get to the sheds, Kayla uses that as a much needed opportunity to lesson plan, mark work, and catch up on paper work. Kayla delivers Certificate IV Wool Classing at TAFE HAY. She has always consid ered herself a hands-on teacher. Even before taking on her TAFE role, train ing others in the sheds, and helping wherever she can. “The industry was currently experiencing a shortage of wool classers, meaning TAFE NSW graduates were even more in demand,” Kayla said. Certificate IV in Wool Classing is an 18-month course which qualifies graduates to work as wool classers. Units in the course include preparing wool for sale; classing fleece lines and documenting wool clips. Kayla has been select ed to be a member of an AWEX board (Australian Wool Exchange). This is the way of the future for her industry, in regards to document ing and traceability for the whole wool pipeline. She will bring to the board her experience with the program, and suggest ways to improve or make changes. Another immense love of hers has been martial arts. Although finding the time to devote to this is understandably difficult of late. “The children, Hunter, and myself when time permits, often practise in the backyard. “That is about the extent of it these days,” Kayla said with a laugh. She and Hunter have competed in various places including Dubbo, Bathurst, Ungarie and Orange. Hunter had always been involved in boxing and martial arts, and Kayla’s love for it came later. “I am a very competitive person, I thrive on competition,” she said. “We were living at the back of a dojo; we could not find a rental. “Hunter’s friend offered us the loft at the back of the dojo. “There was a Jujitsu tournament underway when I came home from a day at the sheds. “With no prior experience whatsoever, I was repeatedly encouraged to have a go, told that it wasn’t all that different to wrestling a sheep. “In five seconds, I had beaten an opponent from Spain who was top three in the field. “The next go I had, I tied against a black belt, although I did not know any of this at the time,” she laughed. Her children are involved in so many pursuits in the community. When commended on that with time schedules being so hectic, Kayla remained matter of fact. “We want to build community involvement and for them to feel the wealth of belonging.” It’s clear that this is something Kayla already has in droves. In the midst of the multitude of things already on her plate, she is President of Hay Branch of Little Athletics. She credits her and her partner’s strong sense of community, and also immense help from her family in the positive shaping of her children. “Hunter travels to Sydney for study a couple of times a month. “All of my family work, but always help and sort out work around my kids, so I am beyond grateful,” she said. “Our little family is blessed here in Hay, we have a lot of support behind us. “We also try to get the kids out and about as much as we can. “We recently travelled to the Great Ocean Road and Griffith City Theatre. “We want to expose them to different experiences and teach them that there is a big wide world out there. “They need to see as much as they can, so they can figure out where they fit, and to make some dreams and goals of their own,” she said. She was Australian National Wool Handling Champion in 2013, and has more than 15 years’ experience as a wool classer. At the young age of 34, she has accomplished more than many would in a lifetime. It is so heart warming to see younger generations still blessed with community spirit, and old fashioned family values. Add to that the fearless pursuit of dreams and ambitions, it is truly something to behold. An inspiration for young women now and future generations, hats of to you Kayla, a true role model!

Nominate a volunteer today!
Nominate a volunteer today!

09 May 2025, 2:00 AM

Time to Honour Our Heroes: NSW Volunteer Awards Nominations Now OpenIt’s time to shine a light on the incredible individuals who selflessly give their time and skills to make a difference across our communities. Nominations for the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are now officially open, providing a vital opportunity to recognise these everyday heroes.Volunteering is defined as time willingly given for the common good and without financial gain. It encompasses more than just formal roles; it includes giving your time, sharing your skills, and helping out in your community. Acts of giving and helping that are deeply embedded in cultural practices are also forms of volunteering. For example, cooking a meal to give to firefighters is considered volunteering because it benefits people outside your immediate household and family. However, helping only family members or those you live with, like cooking a meal for a cousin's birthday, is not classified as volunteering in this context.The contribution of volunteers in NSW is immense. In 2023 alone, 4.3 million residents volunteered, contributing a staggering 893.9 million hours. This effort resulted in an estimated $178 billion economic benefit to the state. On average, volunteers in NSW dedicate about 4 hours per week to their efforts. This vital workforce is diverse, including young people, seniors, skilled professionals, and people with disabilities. Notably, over 737,000 young people aged 15-24 were among the volunteers in 2023. Informal volunteering is also prevalent, with 4.4 million residents helping non-family members with tasks. A significant portion of volunteering – 47.5 per cent – happens within local communities, while 33.4 per cent is done from home or online.The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards aim to celebrate this significant contribution. There are seven award categories designed to honour a wide range of volunteers, whether they are young people, seasoned volunteers, leaders, or those serving in emergency services.Nominating someone is straightforward and takes place via The Centre for Volunteering's website. Simply navigate to the “Awards” section to get started.The 2025 nomination process allows for two distinct types of recognition:Nomination for Recognition Only: This is the simplest way to acknowledge a volunteer. These nominations are not judged, but the volunteer will be invited to their regional ceremony and presented with a certificate identical to those nominated for judging. This process requires completing four parts.Nomination for Judging: This is for nominees who will be considered for the main NSW Volunteer of the Year Award within their category. This requires completing three detailed questions about the nominee's work, and all must be finished for the nomination to be accepted by the Judging Committee.It is important to note that volunteers and volunteer leaders are not permitted to nominate themselves. The power to recognise their efforts lies with the community they serve.Don't miss this chance to show your appreciation for the volunteers who strengthen our communities every day. Be quick to submit your nominations, as they close at 5pm on Friday May 23.https://www.volunteering.com.au/awards/about-the-awards/

1-20 of 791
Back Country Bulletin
Back Country Bulletin
News from the Back Country

Get it on the Apple StoreGet it on the Google Play Store