Edward River Council has joined Hay Shire Council in welcoming the opportunities and potential the recent EnergyCo access rights announcements for projects in the South West Renewable Energy Zone will deliver for its communities. Edward River Council CEO, Jack Bond said it was still very early days in the planning of these large-scale projects, and further engagement and negotiations were continuing with all four successful developers – Bullawah Wind Farm, Pottinger Energy Park, Yanco Delta Windfarm and Dinawan Energy Hub. “Our community, and especially those living in Booroorban, will be consulted throughout to ensure their voices are heard and acted upon," Mr Bond said. “Council will work with the project developers to safeguard the future of the project areas and ensure that our communities can benefit from the economic growth that these renewable energy projects will drive, both in the short-term and into the future. “We will also stay abreast of what is being made available by EnergyCo through their Community Employment and Benefits Program and share this information with our community. “With all projects being required by the energy regulator to amend their project scopes to some degree, it will be some time before we will have all the details of the four projects. “We will endeavour to keep our residents well informed as we progress through negotiations and receive finalised planning information.”

Congratulations to The Rustic Pear of Balranald, business of Zoe Griffiths and her mum Robyn held a fundraiser for Daffodil Day recently."Thanks to our generous community we managed to raise $505.50 from Daffodil sales last week, all for Can Assist Balranald Branch. Huge thanks to everyone who supported this great cause," said the business on their social media page.The town of Balranald is simply phenomenal, never failing to get behind every cause they can.In 2024, Australians gave a bunch for Daffodil Day, raising over $3.3 million towards lifesaving cancer research. This year, the Cancer Council is aiming to surpass this amount, although country wide figures are not yet known for 2025."We know that almost 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, so it takes all of us to give hope for better treatments and better outcomes," the Cancer Council said on their website.Thanks to small towns like Balranald, the cause will never be lost.  

Griffith City Council has announced the appointment of its new General Manager, Scott Grant, who commenced in the role this week.Mr Grant (pictured) will lead Council’s operations, working closely with Councillors, staff and the community to deliver important projects and services.He has more than 14 years of leadership experience across Local Government, not-for-profit and the private sector. His background includes roles with Campbelltown City Council, Cricket Australia and Hyundai Motor Company Australia.Mayor, Doug Curran said Mr Grant’s appointment was an exciting new chapter for Griffith.“The General Manager plays a vital role in ensuring Council remains accountable, efficient and focused on delivering for the community,” Mayor Curran said.“Scott brings a wealth of experience, energy and fresh ideas and we’re confident his leadership will provide strong direction for the years ahead.”Mr Grant said he looks forward to meeting people across Griffith and learning more about the community.“I am honoured to take on the role of General Manager at Griffith City Council. My first priority is to get to know the Councillors, staff and wider community to understand what matters most for Griffith,” Mr Grant said.In a statement, the Council also acknowledged the contribution of long-serving General Manager, Brett Stonestreet, who officially retired last Thursday.

Country race meetings are the heartbeat of regional Australia. Unlike city races where only a small percentage of people attend, country race days see entire towns turn out to support their local event.These gatherings are far more than just horse racing – they're central to the social, cultural and economic life of the communities that host them.Many people plan all year for their local race meeting. When racing stewards cancel events at the eleventh hour, it's not just disappointing – it's financially devastating. Months of planning, food preparation and community investment go to waste.The recent cancellation of the much-anticipated Louth Races perfectly illustrates this problem. Racing stewards called off the event in a pre-dawn meeting and refused to reassess the track later that morning, despite forecast sunshine.By the time the races were scheduled to start, the track had dried out, but the decision couldn't be reversed. The community lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in direct costs and missed visitation opportunities.There was a string of cancelled country races in 2023, with local committees given little chance to make tracks safe before their events. After discussions with Racing NSW, racing stewards began working more closely with organisers to help races proceed when possible.It's disappointing that the Louth Races didn't receive this same consideration.Country race clubs deserve the right to appeal cancellation decisions and receive compensation when events are cancelled without good reason.These communities put enormous effort and resources into their race meetings. They shouldn't be left to wear the costs when decisions are made too hastily or without proper consideration of changing conditions.If you wish to, show your support by signing the petition calling on the NSW Government to:Allow country race clubs to appeal Racing NSW cancellation decisionsProvide compensation when events are cancelled without good reasonSign the petition at: https://www.roybutler.com.au/country_race_cancellations

Rural road and drought funding falls short, says Independent MPIndependent MP Helen Dalton has criticised new government funding for rural roads and drought programs, saying it's welcome but nowhere near enough to address the bush's pressing needs.The NSW Government announced $155 million for a 'rural road blitz' and joined with the Federal Government to pledge $43.2 million for drought resilience programs this week.However, Mrs Dalton said the funding barely scratches the surface of what's needed."Our rural roads are a disgrace. Locals pay rego and fuel tax but are forced to drive on dangerous, car-wrecking potholes. This funding won't even touch the backlog," Mrs Dalton said."Councils are broke and the bush deserves roads as safe as Sydney's."The $155 million rural road blitz aims to repair damage from successive floods that have wreaked havoc across regional NSW in recent years.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin welcomed the additional funding, saying it was long overdue."There's a long backlog of repairs to be done, and our local councils need funding to fix our local roads and bridges too - but this is an essential step forward in making our ruined roads driveable once again," Mr Martin said."Our families and friends deserve to drive on roads that are safe and fit for use - and this funding will go a long way towards getting our roads back on track."On drought resilience, Mrs Dalton said farmers deserved real action, not token workshops."You don't stop drought with coaching sessions. Real resilience is building water infrastructure – like Lake Coolah off-river storage and dams," she said.The $43.2 million drought investment will fund the Farm Business Resilience Program, providing farmers with coaching, workshops and other resources to support drought management and planning throughout 2025 and beyond.While NSW Farmers welcomed the drought funding, Mrs Dalton argued the government's approach was misguided."Instead, Labor is stripping productive water out of the bush with buybacks. That's a slap in the face for regional Australia and a direct hit on our nation's economic future," she said.Mrs Dalton said agriculture must be at the centre of national policy, given its crucial role in Australia's economy."Agriculture underpins Australia's economy. Our farmers feed and clothe the nation, and drive billions in exports. Undermining agriculture through water buybacks threatens not just the bush, but our entire economic future," she said."If governments are serious about drought resilience, they'll stop ripping water away and start funding real projects that keep rural communities in business and secure Australia's long-term prosperity."NSW Farmers' Mr Martin took a more diplomatic approach, saying the drought investment recognised the ongoing challenges facing farmers."Drought is a reality of farming, but it's still a huge challenge - and farmers have to manage risks very carefully, so they can keep on farming into the future," Mr Martin said."It's great to see the Minns and Albanese Governments have recognised this and are providing farmers with resources that can drive decision-making through tough conditions, so they can continue to produce food and fibre for the world."The funding announcements come as drought conditions persist across southern and western NSW, adding pressure on already struggling rural communities dealing with damaged infrastructure and ongoing water restrictions.

The Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) is a government program designed to help regional and remote students with the costs of relocating for tertiary education. Administered through Services Australia, it's a one-off payment of up to $5,000 that can significantly ease the financial burden of starting university or TAFE away from home.To be eligible for the TAP, you must meet several key requirements:Be 22 years or younger when you start your courseBe in your first year of tertiary studyBe enrolled in a Certificate IV or higher qualification lasting at least one academic yearStudy full-time (part-time may be accepted in special circumstances with proof)Your family home must be in an inner regional, outer regional, remote, or very remote areaYou must move to a tertiary education provider at least 90 minutes away from your family home by public transportComplete Year 12 or equivalent educationIf you're dependent on your parents or guardians, their combined income must be under $250,000Independent students are exempt from the parental income testAs of 2025, students who took one or more gap years after completing Year 12 are now eligible, provided they meet all other criteria.The payment amount depends on where your family home is located. Inner regional areas can receive $3,000 paid as a single payment. Outer regional, remote, and very remote areas can be eligible for up to $5,000 paid in two instalments.The first payment is made approximately six weeks after your qualifying course starts. For those receiving $5,000, the second instalment follows later in the academic year, provided you remain enrolled.The TAP is designed to help with costs associated with relocating for study, including:Accommodation expensesMoving costsTextbooks and study materialsTravel expensesGeneral living costs during the transitionApplications for 2025 are open from January 1 and close on December 31. You can apply at any time during this period through your myGov account linked to Centrelink.To apply:Create a myGov account if you don't have oneLink Centrelink to your accountComplete the TAP application onlineProvide required documentation (proof of address, course enrolment, etc.)Essential documents:Proof of your family home locationConfirmation of course enrolmentEvidence of completing Year 12 or equivalentParental income information (if dependent)The TAP is a one-time payment—you can only receive it onceIt's considered an equity scholarship and generally doesn't affect other Centrelink payments (unless combined scholarships exceed $10,094 annually)Both university and TAFE students are eligible, provided the course meets tertiary-level requirementsOnline-only courses typically don't qualify unless they include mandatory in-person componentsIf you need assistance with your application or have questions about eligibility:Visit the Services Australia websiteCall the Youth and Students lineUse the Centrelink multilingual phone service on 131 202 for non-English speakersThe TAP represents a substantial investment in supporting regional students' educational aspirations. For many, it's the difference between being able to pursue tertiary education and having to forgo opportunities due to financial constraints. If you're a regional student planning to start university or TAFE in 2025, it's worth checking your eligibility and applying early in the year.

Magpie swooping season what you need to know: Spring brings protective parent behaviour as magpies defend their young across the countrySpring has arrived across Australia, and with it comes one of the country's most talked-about seasonal phenomena: magpie swooping season. As these intelligent black and white birds enter their breeding period, some become fierce protectors of their nests and young.Magpie swooping season typically runs from August to November, with peak activity occurring in September and October. However, the behaviour isn't random aggression – it's calculated parental protection.Only between 10 and 20 per cent of magpies actually engage in swooping behaviour, and approximately 90 per cent of male magpies won't swoop, while females typically don't swoop at all. This means the vast majority of magpies you encounter will leave you alone.Breeding season lasts from August to November but can vary by locationSwooping typically occurs within 50 metres of the nest for pedestrians, 100 metres for cyclistsMost swooping incidents involve near misses with beak clicking rather than actual contactThe defensive behaviour lasts 6-8 weeks while chicks are in the nest and learning to flyDuring nesting season, females lay three to five eggs and incubate them for about three weeks. It takes about four weeks for hatchlings to fledge and leave the nest. During this vulnerable period, parent magpies – predominantly males – become highly protective.To magpies, the faster you're moving, the greater the perceived threat, which is why cyclists, joggers and dog walkers are common targets. The birds are responding to what they perceive as potential predators approaching their offspring.Australian magpies are remarkably intelligent birds. Research has shown that magpies can recognise at least 100 different people, and may be less likely to swoop individuals they have befriended. They can associate faces and body types with previous experiences, sometimes targeting specific demographics of people.This intelligence works both ways – how you engage with magpies year-round will influence whether you'll be targeted during swooping season, as they remember your face and behaviour.Swooping season usually begins first in northern parts of Australia and moves progressively southwards. Records in south-eastern Queensland and northern NSW typically start in July and August, while southern Victoria peaks in September.Interestingly, magpies rarely swoop people in Tasmania, though the reason for their more relaxed attitude is unknown.Safety Strategies include:Avoiding the Area:Check the community website Magpie Alert (magpiealert.com) to identify swooping hotspots in your areaIf possible, avoid areas with known nesting magpies for about a month while chicks are in the nestProtect Yourself:Wear sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat or helmetCarry an umbrella above your head – this makes you appear larger and can deter swoopingTry drawing eyes on the back of your head or helmet, as birds are less likely to attack if they think you're watching themFor Cyclists:Get off your bike and walk through swooping areas – this reduces the perceived threat levelAttach cable ties to your helmet or a flag to your bike to help direct swooping birds away from your faceGroup Safety:Travel in groups when possible – magpies are less likely to swoop multiple peopleIf You're Swooped:Stay calm and avoid sudden movementsMove quickly and safely out of the area without trying to scare or fight the birdDon't wave your arms or shout, as this increases the perceived threatMagpies aren't the only native birds that swoop – butcher birds, plovers (lapwings), red wattlebirds, and laughing kookaburras also engage in this behaviour during their respective breeding seasons.While most swooping encounters result in harmless near-misses, injuries can occur. Injuries range from head pecks to eye injuries, and there have been tragic cases where people have fallen and suffered fatal head injuries after being startled by swooping birds.Some people report success in reducing swooping risk by feeding magpies regularly, as this makes humans appear less threatening to nesting birds. However, this approach hasn't been systematically studied.Being slow, mindful and gentle in your interactions with these intelligent animals year-round is key to living harmoniously with them.Magpies are protected throughout Australia, so it's illegal to kill or harm them. However, some states provide exceptions for particularly aggressive birds that attack humans, though relocation is more common than removal.The Magpie Alert website (magpiealert.com) is a free, community-sourced platform that tracks aggressive swooping incidents across Australia. Users can check for swooping hotspots and report their own encounters to help protect others.Remember, swooping season is temporary – usually lasting just 4-6 weeks while magpie parents are protecting their most vulnerable young. By understanding their behaviour and taking appropriate precautions, we can safely share our environment with these remarkable native birds.

$236,700 tobacco haul intercepted near Finley: random breath test uncovers major contraband operationA routine traffic stop on the Newell Highway has resulted in one of the region's largest tobacco seizures, with police discovering almost 90,000 cigarettes and 50 vapes allegedly being transported for illegal sale across regional NSW.Murray River Police District officers were conducting mobile patrols near Finley at 11:30pm on Sunday, August 24, when they pulled over a vehicle for a random breath test approximately one kilometre north of the township.The subsequent vehicle search revealed a substantial contraband operation.The seized items included:87,900 cigarettes packed in 15 boxes50 vaping devices10.5 kilograms of loose-leaf tobaccoCombined estimated street value: $236,700The 41-year-old male driver was arrested at the scene and transported to Albury Police Station where he was formally charged with two serious offences; convey tobacco products with intent to defraud revenue (Customs Act 1901), and possess commercial quantity of vaping goods (Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act).The man was granted conditional bail and will appear before Finley Local Court on Tuesday, September 23.Police will allege the contraband was destined for distribution across multiple regional centres including Forbes, Leeton and Narrandera, suggesting an organised commercial operation spanning central and southern NSW.The Newell Highway location places the interception on a major north-south freight route, indicating the alleged operation may have involved interstate transport of the illegal products.The seizure highlights ongoing police efforts to combat the illegal tobacco trade, which costs government revenue and often involves products that don't meet Australian safety standards.The case will proceed through the court system where the full circumstances of the alleged operation will be examined.

Ivanhoe residents are advised of an update to the opening hours for the Ivanhoe Post Office, starting Monday, September 1. The Central Darling Sire Council announced this in a recent media release and on their social media.This will be a trial for three months, with Australia Post undertaking a consultation process at the end to ensure services meet the community's needs. The post office will be open Monday to Friday. Further details are on Council's website.

Subsidised native seedlings available to eligible ratepayers from August to SeptemberEdward River Council has reopened its annual Rural Tree Planting Scheme, offering local landholders the opportunity to purchase native seedlings at heavily subsidised rates to boost biodiversity and enhance their properties.The scheme is available to local ratepayers with properties of one hectare or more within the Edward River Council local government area.Own or manage property within the Edward River Council areaHave rateable land of at least one hectare (2.47 acres)Be current ratepayers with Edward River CouncilEdward River Council covers the urban area of Deniliquin and surrounding region across the southern Riverina plains, including localities such as Barratta, Blighty, Booroorban, Conargo, Mayrung, Morago, Warragoon and Willurah. The council area spans 8,884 square kilometres and serves approximately 8,430 residents.Cost: $1.35 per seedling (heavily subsidised from commercial rates)Species Available: Over 60 native varieties including:River red gumVarious wattle speciesBottlebrush varietiesMelaleuca speciesEucalyptus varietiesOrdering Period: 4 August 4 to September 12 2025.Collection: May to June 2026.The scheme operates on a tiered allocation system based on property size:1-10 hectares: Up to 50 seedlings10-500 hectares: Up to 150 seedlingsOver 500 hectares: Up to 300 seedlingsThese limits ensure fair distribution across different sized properties while recognising that larger properties have greater capacity for tree planting projects.The Rural Tree Planting Scheme aims to increase native vegetation coverage across the Edward River region. Participants can expect multiple benefits from their tree planting projects:Biodiversity Enhancement:Provides habitat for native wildlifeCreates wildlife corridors connecting existing vegetationSupports native bird and animal populationsProperty Improvement:Reduces soil erosion and improves land stabilityProvides windbreaks for crops and livestockEnhances natural beauty and landscape valueCan provide shade and shelter for animalsEnvironmental Impact:Contributes to carbon sequestrationImproves local air qualitySupports natural water cycle and soil healthApplication ProcessProperty owners interested in participating should contact Edward River Council directly to confirm their eligibility and begin the application process.Contact Details:Phone: (03) 5898 3000Email: [email protected]: https://www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/.../Rural-Tree-SchemeApplications must be submitted between August 4 and 12 September 12 2025. Late applications cannot be accepted due to nursery ordering requirements and seasonal planting considerations.With collection scheduled for May to June 2026, successful applicants have time to plan their planting areas and prepare sites appropriately.The collection period coincides with optimal planting conditions in the region, giving seedlings the best chance of establishment before summer heat.Property Preparation: Landholders should consider factors such as soil type, drainage, existing vegetation, and intended land use when planning where to plant their allocated seedlings.Ongoing Care: While the seedlings are provided at subsidised rates, successful establishment requires appropriate watering, protection from stock, and ongoing maintenance during the establishment period.The scheme coincides with Landcare Australia's annual celebration, which acknowledges people who are actively restoring, enhancing and protecting the natural environment in their community. Previous iterations of the program have seen strong community participation, contributing to the gradual increase in native vegetation across the shire.The initiative represents a practical partnership between council and rural landholders, recognising that private land management decisions play a crucial role in regional environmental outcomes.Council encourages eligible ratepayers to apply early, as the scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis within each property size category.For more information about eligibility requirements, available species, or the application process, contact Edward River Council during business hours.

A man will face court charged over an alleged break and enter at a home in Broken Hill.Just after 7am on Tuesday August 19, police were called to a home on Williams Street, Broken Hill.Barrier Police District officers were told between 11.30pm on Monday August 18 and 7am on Tuesday August 19, an unknown person allegedly forced entry into a home before stealing a number of personal items along with cash before leaving the scene.Police established a crime scene and began an investigation into the incident.Following inquiries, about 1.15pm today; Wednesday August 20, police arrested a 36-year-old man on Chloride Street, Broken Hill.Police searched the man allegedly locating and seizing a small amount of drugs – believe to be methylamphetamine.He was taken to Broken Hill Police Station and charged with aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence – people there, possess prohibited drug, and goods in personal custody suspected being stolen.He was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 4 tomorrow Thursday August 21.

Local charity offers flexible volunteer opportunities with full training providedThe St Vincent de Paul Society's Broken Hill Meal Centre is calling for community volunteers to join their team providing essential food services to people experiencing homelessness or facing food insecurity.The meal centre operates daily to provide nourishing meals and a welcoming environment for those in need, but requires additional volunteer support to maintain its kitchen operations effectively.Volunteers at the meal centre take on various responsibilities including food preparation, serving meals to clients, maintaining kitchen cleanliness standards, and supporting the overall efficiency of daily operations.The volunteer roles are designed to be flexible, allowing people to contribute according to their available time and work-life balance commitments.The organisation emphasises that no prior experience is necessary to volunteer at the meal centre. All required training will be provided to new volunteers, ensuring they feel confident and prepared for their roles.This approach removes barriers for people who want to help but may feel uncertain about their ability to contribute effectively in a kitchen environment.According to Vinnies, volunteering at the meal centre offers participants a chance to expand their skills and experience while increasing employability. The organisation positions the volunteer work as beneficial both for the community and for personal development.The role also provides an opportunity for people to give back and directly assist community members who need support.People interested in volunteering can contact the meal centre by calling (02) 6862 5758 or sending an email to [email protected], potential volunteers can express their interest online through the organisation's volunteer portal at mvportal.vinnies.org.au/login.The organisation encourages interested community members to contact them to start their volunteer journey immediately.The meal centre serves as a crucial community resource, addressing food insecurity and providing a dignified dining experience for vulnerable residents. The service relies on volunteer support to continue its daily operations and maintain its welcoming atmosphere.Community volunteers play an essential role in ensuring the centre can continue meeting local demand for its services throughout the week.

Teen P-plater faces court after Leeton police chase - Friday night pursuit ends with alcohol charges for provisional licence holderA 19-year-old Leeton man is facing court after allegedly leading police on a dangerous pursuit through the town's streets while over the legal alcohol limit for his provisional licence.The drama unfolded at 9:56pm on Friday, August 22, when police spotted the teenager driving a LDV T-60 utility eastbound onto Dooley Lane in Leeton. Officers positioned at an intersection, activated their warning lights to direct the driver to pull over, but instead of complying, the young man allegedly accelerated away from police.What followed was a dangerous chase through Leeton's streets, with police alleging the P-plater travelled at excessive speeds and drove the wrong way down a one-way street in his attempt to evade arrest. The pursuit came to an end when the driver turned into a car park with no exit, effectively trapping himself.Rather than surrender, the teenager allegedly abandoned his vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. However, police quickly caught up with the young man and placed him under arrest before transporting him to Leeton Police Station.At the station, the 19-year-old underwent a breath analysis which allegedly returned a reading of 0.099 grams of alcohol in 210 litres of breath. Police confirmed the driver held a NSW P2 Provisional C Class licence, which requires zero alcohol tolerance while driving.The man's licence was immediately suspended and he received a court attendance notice for driving with middle range PCA and police pursuit charges. The matter will proceed through the court system where he will face the legal consequences of his alleged actions that Friday night.

Balranald Shire Council is seeking community feedback on plans to upgrade Benanee Road from its current unsealed condition through an online survey.The consultation covers the road that provides access to Lake Benanee, located 13 kilometres east of Euston on the route to Balranald. The road serves residents, tourists, and local businesses travelling to and from the lake area.Currently unsealed, Benanee Road faces typical challenges of gravel roads in rural NSW. During wet weather, the road becomes difficult to navigate and may be closed for safety reasons. In dry conditions, it requires regular grading and generates dust.Benefits of Sealing the RoadUpgrading Benanee Road to a sealed surface would provide:All-weather access to Lake Benanee and surrounding areasReduced long-term maintenance costsImproved safety for road usersBetter connectivity for residents and visitorsLess dust affecting nearby propertiesLake Benanee is a recreational area featuring a beach, public toilets, and information bay accessible from the Sturt Highway. The rest area includes gravel parking, shelters, toilets and bins. Sealing the access road would improve year-round accessibility for tourists and recreational users.Similar projects across NSW have demonstrated the benefits of sealing unsealed rural roads. The recent $5.7 million Kyalite Road upgrade project included road surface reconstruction and drainage improvements for enhanced safety and usability.Balranald Shire Council maintains a significant road network throughout the shire and regularly seeks community input on road improvements. The council's unsealed road network is typically closed during wet weather to prevent damage and ensure safety.The consultation allows residents and road users to share their experiences and priorities regarding the Benanee Road upgrade. Council is seeking feedback on:Current usage patternsSafety concernsEconomic impacts of the unsealed roadPriority areas for improvementEnvironmental considerationsWeather ConsiderationsBalranald Shire's unsealed roads face weather-related challenges, with closures during wet conditions. Sealing Benanee Road would eliminate weather-related access issues, providing consistent access for emergency services, local businesses, and residents.Complete the online survey: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=40ThafcRPES8FlOO2jekr86wJteb41tAjz7Fxy6I--lURFdSTEMzSUxCRllCMzhHUUJWWERLMTRSNC4u&route=shorturlThe survey allows community members to provide input that will inform council's planning process for this infrastructure upgrade.Community feedback from the consultation will help determine the scope and timing of the Benanee Road upgrade project. The upgrade would improve transport connectivity and road safety in the Balranald Shire area.Council encourages all residents and road users to participate in the consultation process. Input from the community will be considered in planning this infrastructure improvement.

Thirty-four not-for-profit organisations across the Far West region have received a funding windfall through Transgrid's Community Partnerships Program, with grants of up to $10,000 supporting vital community projects.The second round of Transgrid's Far West NSW Community Partnerships Program has delivered $200,000 in funding to organisations spanning sporting clubs, schools, cultural groups, and essential community services across the region.From Broken Hill to Menindee, Clare to White Cliffs, the grants will support a diverse range of initiatives designed to strengthen community facilities, enhance local services, and fund important events that bring people together.The successful recipients represent the backbone of rural communities, with organisations including local cricket and soccer clubs, emergency services, cultural centres, and vital support services such as Meals on Wheels and domestic violence support services."These not-for-profit groups are absolutely essential to the fabric of our bush communities," said a community representative. "It's fantastic to see them receiving the recognition and funding they deserve for projects that will make a real difference to people's lives."The breadth of recipients demonstrates the program's commitment to supporting diverse community needs. Sporting organisations such as the Barrier District Cricket League, Broken Hill Tennis Association, and AFL Broken Hill will benefit alongside educational institutions including Broken Hill North Public School P&C and Broken Hill School of the Air P&C.Cultural and heritage organisations haven't been forgotten, with grants awarded to the Broken Hill Art Exchange, Broken Hill Military Museum, and West Darling Machinery Preservation Society, ensuring the region's rich history and cultural life continue to thrive.Emergency and community support services also feature prominently among recipients, with St John Ambulance Australia (NSW), WIRES, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, and The Salvation Army (NSW) all receiving funding to enhance their vital community services.Complete List of RecipientsThe 34 successful organisations are:Foundation Broken Hill on behalf of Broken Hill Engineering Reference Group3rd Broken Hill Sea ScoutsAFL Broken Hill - Trustees Jubilee Oval (Crown Land Reserve)Agfair Broken HillAlma Soccer ClubBarrier District Cricket League IncorporatedBroken Hill Art ExchangeBroken Hill Clay Target Club IncBroken Hill Desert Rats Rod and Custom Club IncBroken Hill Junior Soccer AssociationBroken Hill Military Museum IncBroken Hill Model Flying Club IncBroken Hill North Public School P&CBroken Hill School of the Air P&CBroken Hill Speedboat Club IncBroken Hill Tennis AssociationBroken Hill Veteran and Vintage Car ClubCentral Broken Hill Football ClubClare Public School P&C Inc (Riverina region of NSW)Country Women's Association of NSW Menindee BranchDomestic Violence (NSW) Service ManagementMeals on Wheels Broken HillMenindee Charities IncorporatedNorth Broken Hill Cricket ClubRed Dirt Film Club IncRegional Development Australia Far WestSilver City CRCSilver City Racing ClubSt John Ambulance Australia (N.S.W.)St Vincent de Paul Society NSWThe Trustee for The Salvation Army (NSW) Property TrustWest Darling Machinery Preservation Society Broken Hill IncWhite Cliffs Sporting ClubWildlife Information Rescue & Education Service Limited (WIRES)The Community Partnerships Program recognises that rural and remote communities often face unique challenges in securing funding for essential projects and services. By providing grants of up to $10,000, Transgrid is enabling these organisations to undertake meaningful initiatives that might otherwise remain unfunded.With projects now set to commence, communities across the Far West can look forward to enhanced facilities, improved services, and strengthened community connections thanks to this significant investment in local organisations.

A man has been charged following an investigation into the alleged theft of hundreds of thousands of dollars from ATMs in the state’s far west.Last week, Barrier Police District detectives began an investigation after reports more than $700,000 cash was unaccounted for from ATMs in the Broken Hill area.Following inquiries, about 1.30pm on Tuesday August 26, investigators executed a search warrant at a home in Broken Hill, seizing digital devices, ATM security tags and keys. While executing the warrant, a 32-year-old man was seen driving into the street before driving off after seeing police.The vehicle was stopped nearby on Cummins Street and the man was arrested.During a subsequent search of the vehicle, police allegedly seized $6,235 cash, ATM security tags and keys.The man was arrested and taken to Broken Hill Police Station where he was charged nine counts of larceny greater than $15,000, and knowingly deal with proceeds of crime.Police will allege in court that a man allegedly accessed ATMs as part of his employment, depositing over $375,000 directly into personal and business accounts.He was granted conditional bail to appear in in Broken Hill Local Court on Tuesday September 9, 2025.

First-term councillor cites extended travel requirements as council begins countback processBroken Hill City councillor Ashley Byrne has resigned from his position effective immediately, with work commitments requiring him to be away from the city for extended periods.The first-term councillor announced his resignation on Friday, prompting council to contact the NSW Electoral Commission to initiate a countback process to fill the vacant position.In a statement, Mr Byrne said serving the community had been "one of the greatest honours" of his life."I am grateful to have had the opportunity to represent a community I care so deeply about," he said."Unfortunately, my work roster will now require me to be out of town for extended periods, so I am no longer able to give the duties of councillor the time, attention, and presence it deserves."The resignation creates the first vacancy on the current Broken Hill City Council term. Under NSW electoral law, the position will be filled through a countback process conducted by the Electoral Commission, which examines preference flows from the most recent election to determine the replacement councillor.Mr Byrne expressed his continued commitment to the community despite stepping down from elected office."This community shaped who I am and my belief in the city's potential is as strong as ever," he said. "I look forward to continuing contributing to the community in other ways outside of office."The countback process typically takes several weeks to complete once initiated by the Electoral Commission. The successful candidate will serve the remainder of Mr Byrne's term.Broken Hill City Council has not indicated when the countback process is expected to conclude.

“State Government attempts to buy off rural voters with “pathetic” Sustainable Communities payments,” - Independent Member for Murray, Helen Dalton.Helen Dalton has described the State Government’s $15 million one-off Sustainable Communities payment as “pathetic” and “hush money.” The payment is part of a $160 million Sustainable Communities scheme, designed to offset the impact of damaging water policies in the Murray Darling Basin. “It’s estimated that the State and Federal Government will do $2 billion a year worth of damage to the regional Australian economy with their water policies,” Helen said. “So, $15 million a is a pathetic drop in the river.” Ms Dalton says the payments are being made in order to silence Local Councils who are the primary recipients of the money. “I know how politics works. The government is just trying to buy silence while they do over the people of Murray, again,” said Helen.“Premier Chris Minns needs to fix the problem which is his governments failed water policies,” she continued.“No amount of hush money will silence the people of my electorate. “I’ve also told Minister Moriarty that we don’t want a handful of pocket change. “We just want sensible water policies that protect and promote farming families along the Murray Darling Basin.“The Minister and the Premier wouldn’t need to use taxpayer-funded hush money to silence anyone if they simply stood up the to the Federal Government, and the Murray Darling Basin Authority, and started running NSW rivers for the benefit of the NSW people.”

The community of White Cliffs is set to benefit from some much-needed improvement works to the Community Hall. Central Darling Shire Council has welcomed news from the State Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, that an application for upgrade works at White Cliffs Hall has received grant funding. Council applied for the grant through the NSW Government’s 2025 Community Building Partnership Program (CBP). This application was successful in securing $16,500 for the hall improvement project. The project will see improved safety, accessibility, and useability of the Community Hall. Work will include flooring, refurbishment and locking mechanisms on the existing emergency doors, internal painting, and a new ABC transmitter.