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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has concluded the ballt draw for the 2025 federal election for the Farrer electorate, with a public event in Albury on FridayFarrer incumbent MP Sussan Ley was drawn at number one position on the ballot paper.Full ballot draw positions are as follows:1. Sussan Ley - Liberal Party2. Glen Hyde - Labor Party3. Michelle Milthorpe - Independent4. Richard Hendrie - The Greens5. Emma Hicks - Pauline Hanson’s One Nation6. Peter Sinclair - Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party7. David O’Reilly - Gerard Rennick People First8. Rebecca Scriven - Family First Party9. Tanya Hargraves - Trumpet of PatriotsAustralians will go to the poll on Saturday May 3.

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) met for its 468th meeting in MarchOver three days, Councillors participated in a strategic workshop and discussed the critical challenges and opportunities faced by NSWALC, LALCs and communities toward achieving the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan 2022-26.Council reviewed the key themes identified as part of NSWALC’s ongoing Strategic Planning process including further exploring four key areas of focus for the new plan:Land Activation: Deliver sustainable revenue, jobs and housing for community; Community Outcomes: Foster community partnerships, community planning initiatives and community priorities; Foundations: Deliver strong governance and operational foundations to drive positive community outcomes; Advocacy: Advocate for Land Rights with respect to acquisition and activation and community outcomes, as well as CAPO and Closing the Gap.Over the coming months NSWALC will continue to work through these key themes to create a draft 2026-2030 Strategic Plan to confirm organisational priorities for the next four years.Meeting with the NSW Treaty CommissionersCouncil met with NSW Treaty Commissioners Naomi Moran, Aden Ridgeway and Dr. Todd Fernando to discuss Treaty ahead of the commencement of the NSW Treaty process later in 2025. Council emphasised NSWALC’s recommendations on Treaty principles and the importance of an inclusive pathway to Treaty including ensuring that the treaty process is responsive to the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal peoples, protects and strengthens existing self-determination structures, such as LALCs, and ensures that the process protects existing gains by Aboriginal peoples – such as Land Rights in NSW.Statutory Investment Fund UpdateCouncil was updated on the performance of the Statutory Investment Fund, which in the 2024/25 Financial Year to date (as of 28 February 2025), has returned $41.2 million. According to NSWALC this is$11.89 million over budget.NSWALC Sponsorship ProgramCouncil discussed sponsorship support for the NSW Aboriginal Culture, Heritage & Arts Association Inc (ACHAA) 2025 Regional Conference.  The official opening of the conference will be hosted at the Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre 20-21 May 2025. Council approved sponsorship of $30,000 to support the ACHAA 2025 Regional Conference.NSWALC Community Fund GrantsCouncil approved $600,000 in funding across four LALCs under the NSWALC Community Fund Grant Program for the following programs that were determined to be best aligned with the NSWALC Strategic Plan 2022-2026:Gilgandra LALC Project: The Pines – Clean-up & securityCasino-Boolangle LALC Project: To maintain cultural lands and improve operational capacityCowra LALC Project: Erambie Land Management Plan – Part 3Walhallow LALC Project: Walhallow Cultural Tourism Capacity Building.Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Council AppointmentsCouncil nominated Cr Danny Chapman as NSWALC’s primary representative to the Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Council (AFAC). Cr Diane Randall was nominated as an alternate representative.

Charmaine Calis appointed MASP CEO MASP's Board of Directors is pleased to announce Charmaine Calis as the organisation’s new full time CEO. MASP Board Chair Mary Rydberg said Mrs Calis’ appointment came after a comprehensive recruitment process. “This decision reflects our commitment to selecting the most appropriate and qualified candidate,” she said. “Charmaine's experience, proven leadership, and exceptional vision for the future stood out among a highly competitive field. "The Board of Directors looks forward to working with Charmaine and staff as we continue our commitment to achieving a community with individuals and families equipped to lead safe, secure, healthy and fulfilling lives.” Mrs Calis joined MASP in 2022 as the organisation’s Director of Corporate Services following an extensive career in Local Government and said it was an ‘honour’ to be appointed MASP’s fourth ever CEO after acting in the role for the past 12 months. “Over the last 12 months, I've gained a much greater understanding of the important role MASP plays in our community and the incredible work our staff does every day,” she said. “I'm very excited to be able to contribute to that work and support MASP as we continue to progress into the future.” Mrs Calis paid tribute to former CEO Vince Wilson, who resigned in October 2024 for health reasons. “Vince had a major impact on MASP during his time by setting a clear direction which has paved the way for MASP to remain a key service provider in the Mallee and Far West NSW communities,” she said. “The organisation will remain forever indebted to his leadership and I am committed to carrying on his legacy while also taking MASP forward.”

The Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia (IAPA) was founded in 2022 by Wilcannia’s Owen Whyman.Owen Whyman, Lawrence Brooke, Derek Hardman and Jamin. Image: IAPAWith ties across the Back Country community leader and Barkindji / Malyangapa man Owen Whyman is determined to bring a voice for Aboriginal people to the upcoming 2025 federal election.“I started IAPA because of the destruction of the Baaka (Darling) River system,” Mr Whyman said.“Our river is our mother. Without the river, we can’t tell our stories.”In traditional language, Baaka means ‘river’ and Barkindji means ‘people of the river’.My Whyman says IAPA is a grassroots party providing all Australians an alternative to the main Parties.“While other political parties appear to be sympathetic to Indigenous concerns, not much changes.”IAPA says it wants to see Indigenous control of Indigenous school education, particularly for school refusers and serious funding of Indigenous lead programs to reduce youth suicide, and aims for the Party to be involved in all issues that involve or impact on Indigenous people.In the 2022 election IAPA stood candidates in the NSW and Queensland Senate, as well as in the NSW electorates of Parkes, Page and Roberton.“This election, we hope to have candidates in NSW, Queensland, Northern territory, Western Australia and possibly Victoria,” Mr Whyman said.Candidates will be announced soon, according to Mr Whyman.Mr Whyman previously worked for the Western NSW Aboriginal Legal service and was president for the Paroo National Park. Mr Whyman founded the dance group Barkindji Baaka Dance and Cultural Group where he continues to teach traditional dance and digeridoo to the young people of Wilcannia and surrounds.Holding a Diploma in Primary Healthcare, Mr Whyman currently serves as deputy chair of the Mutawintji Board of Management and Land Council and is president of the Wilcannia AECE.

Emergency services remain at the scene of a fatal two truck crash in the state’s west.About 5.35pm Wednesday 9 April 2025, emergency services were called to Sturt Highway, Euston, following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Barrier Police District attended a found two trucks had collided.One driver died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified.The other driver, a 29-year-old man, was assessed at the scene before being taken to hospital for mandatory testing.One of the trucks was carrying insecticide, and as a result of the collision, caused a chemical spill which Fire and Rescue NSW are worked to contain and decontaminate.A crime scene has been established and investigations commencing with the assistance of the Crash Investigation Unit.A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner. The Sturt Highway remains closed in both directions at the Murray Valley Hwy and motorist are urged to avoid the area. For more information visit www.livetraffic.com.

Funding is being sought for Council to undertake test bores to identify a suitable ground water source for Hay. Council currently draws water from the Murrumbidgee River, but fears there could be a major risk on the water supply should the river water become unavailable or unsuitable. General Manager, David Webb said Council’s Integrated Water Cycle Management Plan was updated in 2022, and identified a risk to Hay’s water supply without having a secondary water source. Council hopes to secure this through groundwater. Two areas within the Lower Murrumbidgee Deep Aquifer, situated near Hay Water Treatment Plant, have been identified as potential groundwater sources to supply Hay. “Since water quality data from existing bores near the identified groundwater source were considered representative, samples were collected and tested.” Mr Webb said. “Additionally, an assessment was carried out to determine whether Hay Water Treatment Plant could effectively treat water from the new groundwater source, should treatment be necessary.” The first bore tested showed a very high sodium level which far exceeds the Australian Drinking Water Guideline (ADWG). Slightly elevated levels of iron, manganese and chlorine were also reported. A very high iron level was detected in the second bore, with sodium and total dissolved solids slightly exceeding ADWG limits. Both bores tested were on private land. “Based on the test results, water from the two bores is not considered to be of good quality, primarily due to excessive levels of sodium, dissolved solids and iron,” Mr Webb said. “Hay Water Treatment Plant is not equipped to manage these water quality exceedances. “Upgrading the plant and implementing new treatment processes, particularly to reduce high sodium levels, could be complex and costly. The bores used for testing (respectively 120 metres deep and 250 metres deep) are considered relatively shallow. “According to the hydrogeologist’s report, the bores need to be drilled deeper to reach the next aquifer, which may yield better quality water. “It is quite expensive to sink a bore and funding will be needed.” Mr Webb said staff were working with the relevant departments to obtain funding to identify a suitable ground water source.

ICPA Rankins Springs Branch member Sally Argent Smith accepted a certificate on behalf of her son Gus, who rode his bike home from school. You might be thinking, yes, my child also rides home from school. However, this was a ride with a difference, to say the least. Gus, then a Year 11 student at Scots All Saint School rode 365 kilometres home from Bathurst to his family farm near Rankins Springs. Gus made the ride to raise awareness and a good $20,000 for the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association of NSW (ICPA-NSW) and his local Rankins Springs branch as a way of giving back. Gus started out on his mammoth ride at 3am on December 7, in the pouring rain. He then battled the elements, cycling in the wet, and the heat; as the day went on, temperatures reached 35 degrees. Gus rode into Rankins Springs at 3pm to tears and cheers from friends, family and the community. A well-versed triathlete, this was an incredibly amazing feat even for an athlete such as Gus, ICPA NSW honoured Gus at the recent conference, delivering heartfelt thanks for the amazing effort.