So, you're driving home from work or to your school holiday vacation destination on a quiet country road when the car ahead starts weaving between lanes, the driver clearly distracted by their phone. Do you know what to do next?NSW Police and Crime Stoppers are making it easier than ever for locals to report dangerous driving behaviour, launching a renewed push to get risky drivers off our roads before tragedy strikes.The "Share If You Care" campaign targets the four deadly D's - drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving - that continue to claim lives across our region. The message is simple but urgent: if you see someone driving dangerously, report it."Distracted driving can cost lives," the campaign materials state bluntly, reflecting what local police see every day on our roads. Whether it's someone texting while driving, someone clearly under the influence, or reckless behaviour that puts everyone at risk, community members are being encouraged to speak up.Reporting is straightforward - witnesses can contact Crime Stoppers at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000. The service allows people to report anonymously, removing any hesitation about getting involved.But the campaign goes beyond just reporting. New resources help drivers understand what to do if they're involved in a crash, including step-by-step guidance on ensuring safety, contacting emergency services, and exchanging details properly.The crash response card reminds drivers of crucial steps often forgotten in the stress of an accident: ensure you're in a safe location away from traffic, call Triple Zero if anyone is injured, and take photos of vehicle damage and the scene. It also includes space to record essential details like registration numbers, driver details, and insurance information.For those whose vehicles need towing, the card provides guidance on contacting reputable services and understanding your rights - including that you're not required to use the crash site towing service if your vehicle can be moved safely.The initiative comes as police continue to see preventable accidents across the region. Every dangerous driver reported could potentially save lives, whether it's someone driving under the influence on a Friday night or a distracted driver checking their phone during school pickup time.The campaign emphasises that Triple Zero should still be saved for genuine emergencies, but Crime Stoppers provides the perfect avenue for reporting concerning behaviour before it escalates to an emergency situation.Local police are hoping the community will embrace their role as extra eyes on the road. After all, we all share these roads with our families, friends and neighbours. Looking out for each other isn't just good neighbourliness - it could be the difference between someone making it home safely or not at all.The resources are designed to be kept handy - whether in your glove box, wallet, or saved on your phone. Because when it comes to road safety, being prepared and knowing how to help could make all the difference.For more information about the campaign or to access the crash response resources, visit the NSW Police Force website or contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

So you're standing in your kitchen, banana peel in one hand, takeaway container in the other, staring at three bins and wondering which one gets what. If you're like most people across NSW, you've probably had this moment more than once since the green bin arrived.It's been a year since Hay council introduced the three-bin system, and while the idea is simple enough – food scraps and garden waste go in the green bin – the reality has proven a bit more complicated.By July 2030, every home in New South Wales should have its own food organics and garden organics bin. Many already do, but there's still widespread confusion about exactly what should go under that green lid.The rules have shifted over time, which hasn't helped. Pizza boxes, tea bags, cardboard, timber and bamboo utensils were all welcome when FOGO started in 2013, but the Environment Protection Authority has since tightened things up. Now it's food and garden waste only."We want to keep things out like plastics and anything that might allow for microplastics to break down into the FOGO," explains Alexandra Geddes from the EPA. "Some of those containers that you might get from a takeaway shop that have plastic lining in them are billed as compostable when they're actually not."The contamination problem is real. Those green "compostable" bags? They often aren't. Pet waste, paper towels, vacuum cleaner dust, lint from the dryer – none of these belong in the green bin, yet they keep turning up.Across the state, the rollout varies dramatically. Of NSW's 128 councils, 57 have introduced FOGO bins, another 13 have plans in place, 32 collect garden waste only, and 26 offer no organic collection at all. Each council sets its own rules within EPA guidelines, which adds to the confusion.The stakes are higher than just getting your bins right. The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates 45 per cent of all organic waste still ends up in landfill – a massive waste of potential.When the system works, it works beautifully. Councils collect the organic waste and send it to composting facilities, where it's turned into nutrient-rich compost that many then buy back for their own use or sell to farmers. It's a circular economy in action.At composting facilities across the state, workers sort through truckloads of green bin contents, removing contamination by hand. What starts as household scraps eventually becomes the kind of organic fertiliser that can transform tired soil.Farmers using FOGO-derived compost report dramatic improvements in soil health. Organic carbon levels that might have taken decades to build naturally can bounce back within months. Better soil means better water retention, more nutrients, and more resilient farming systems.The education challenge remains significant. People need to understand that their kitchen scraps aren't just waste – they're raw material for Australia's agricultural future. Every apple core, coffee ground, and grass clipping has the potential to enrich soil somewhere down the line.The golden rule is elegantly simple: if it grew or came from a living thing, it belongs in the FOGO bin. Your fruit and vegetable scraps, meat and bones, bread and pasta, coffee grounds and tea leaves, grass clippings and garden prunings – they're all destined for a second life.What doesn't belong is equally straightforward: anything with plastic, including those misleadingly labeled "compostable" containers, plastic bags, fruit stickers, and anything that didn't grow or wasn't once alive.The revolution is happening, one household at a time. It just needs all of us to get on board – and remember that sometimes the greenest choice isn't the bag marked "compostable," but the simple act of putting organic waste where it belongs.

One year on: coercive control laws start to change the conversationPicture this: you're scrolling through your phone when a message pops up from your partner asking where you are, who you're with, what you're wearing. Again. It might seem caring at first glance, but for many Australians, this constant monitoring has become a daily reality that leaves them feeling trapped and afraid.It's been twelve months since NSW made coercive control a criminal offence, and while the law is still finding its feet, it's already starting to shift how we understand domestic violence."But I've never been hit," is something support workers hear regularly from people calling helplines. It's a phrase that cuts to the heart of why these new laws matter so much.The truth is, coercive control doesn't always leave visible bruises. Instead, it works through a pattern of behaviours designed to scare, isolate, and dominate. It might look like love bombing in the early stages of a relationship – the excessive gifts, flattery, and pushing for quick commitment that feels romantic but is actually about gaining control.From there, it can evolve into something much darker. The shaming starts – degrading comments, sharing private information, making jokes at someone's expense until their dignity feels stripped away. Then comes the gaslighting, where victims are told they're imagining things, that they're too sensitive, that what they experienced didn't really happen.Financial abuse is another common thread. Partners might be prevented from working, forced to hand over their wages, or have money hidden from them. Some are made to quit their jobs entirely, creating complete financial dependence.The NSW legislation defines coercive control as using abusive behaviours towards a current or former partner with the intention to coerce or control them. Importantly, it recognises that this kind of abuse doesn't require physical violence to cause serious harm.Detective Inspector Sarah Thompson from the NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Unit says the law has given officers new tools to intervene earlier. "We're seeing cases where we can now take action before the violence escalates," she explained. "It's about recognising the pattern of control that often precedes physical assault."The law has also prompted important conversations in communities across NSW. Local domestic violence services report more people reaching out for help, often because they've finally got words to describe what they've been experiencing.For those who recognise themselves in these descriptions, support is available. The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463) operates 24 hours a day, while 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) provides national counselling and information services. MensLine Australia (1300 789 978) offers support specifically for men, and 13 Yarn (13 92 76) provides culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.The NSW Police Force has also developed a free app called "Empower You" that helps victims document incidents safely and connects them with support services. It's available through both the App Store and Google Play.While the legislation marks an important step forward, advocates stress that changing entrenched patterns of abuse takes time. The real test will be how effectively the law is implemented and whether it translates into meaningful protection for those who need it most.For anyone reading this who sees their own relationship reflected in these warning signs, remember that help is available. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. What matters is taking that first step toward safety and support.As one survivor put it recently, "Having a name for what I was going through changed everything. It wasn't all in my head – it was real, and it was wrong."In a crisis, call Triple Zero (000).Support Services:Emergency: Triple Zero (000)NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 4631800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 | 1800respect.org.auMensLine Australia: 1300 789 978 | mensline.org.au13 Yarn: 13 92 76 | 13yarn.org.au

Independent Member for Murray, Helen Dalton, said she has brokered a deal between WIN TV and Channel 7 and returned programming to air last night. In a statement Ms Dalton said the change in programming was due to Mrs. Daltons intervention, after meeting with executives from WIN TV and Seven West Media to help resolve the dispute that resulted in Seven programs suddenly taken off the air. “This is a big win for the people of Griffith, Leeton and surrounds,” Ms Dalton said.“I’m glad when the two networks were pushed, they quickly came to realise the gravity of their decisions.” It’s understood that popular programmes such as the AFL, Home and Away, 7 News and The Chase Australia will continue to be broadcast on WIN after they reached an agreement late yesterday (July 3). “It just goes to show how quickly things can get done when the importance of issues is pointed out” Ms Dalton said. WIN CEO Andrew Lancaster told Ms Dalton the breakdown in negotiations was not expected, or wanted, by WIN. Seven executives told Mrs. Dalton both parties were keen to come to a resolution today. The deal between WIN television and Seven West Media to share programming collapsed on July 1. This has meant shows such as Sunrise, Seven News and the AFL were no longer broadcasted into Griffith, Leeton and South Australia.“Free to air TV still plays a very important role in the lives of many people in regional Australia and the networks need to respect that fact,” Ms Dalton said. “Free to air TV is vital and should never be forgotten,” she added.

Picture this: you're watching the NSW Treasurer deliver a budget that cuts transport spending by 34 per cent, slashes education infrastructure by 41 per cent, and offers zero additional cost of living relief to struggling families. Meanwhile, sitting in government reservoirs across the state is something that could change everything – 450 gigalitres of surplus water worth a potential $6.3 billion.It's a figure that has caught the attention of politicians and irrigators alike, including Murrumbidgee Electorate MP Helen Dalton, who sees an opportunity that could address multiple crises at once."If the NSW government decided to sell 450 GL of their water surplus to the federal government to block the destructive water buybacks, they could boost budget spending by a whopping five per cent while also allowing our regional communities to thrive once again," Dalton posted on social media this week.The numbers paint a stark picture. Opposition Leader Mark Speakman has pointed out that government spending per GDP has dropped from 2.5 per cent to 2 per cent, at a time when communities are crying out for investment in essential services and infrastructure.But there's another layer to this story – one that goes beyond budget figures to the heart of what's happening in our irrigation communities.Right now, Murrumbidgee Irrigation has two modernisation projects on the table that could save nearly 12 billion litres of water while improving supply reliability for farmers. The Channel Lining and Piping Project and the Barren Box Efficiency Improvement Project represent exactly the kind of forward-thinking infrastructure investment that regional communities need."These projects aren't just about saving water," explains a spokesperson for Murrumbidgee Irrigation. "They're about securing the future of agriculture in our region while making the system more efficient for everyone."The projects are currently open for community feedback, with submissions closing on 15 July. If approved, they'll progress to a formal funding application to the Australian Government – another piece in the complex puzzle of water management across the Murray-Darling Basin.For regional communities who've watched water buybacks hollow out their economies, the idea of selling surplus water to fund essential services while protecting productive agriculture feels like common sense."It's about killing two birds with one stone," as Dalton puts it on her social media. "The state gets the revenue it desperately needs for schools, hospitals, and transport. Regional communities get to keep their water allocations and see investment in infrastructure that secures their future."The timing couldn't be more critical. With cost of living pressures mounting and essential services under strain, finding creative solutions that don't pit regional communities against city priorities has never been more important."Whether the NSW government will consider this approach remains to be seen. But for communities along the Murrumbidgee and beyond, it represents hope that there might be a way forward that doesn't involve choosing between a strong state budget and thriving regional economies.As the consultation period for the irrigation modernisation projects continues, one thing is clear – regional communities aren't just sitting back and waiting for solutions to be imposed on them. They're actively working to find ways to use less water, save more money, and build a more sustainable future.The question now is whether government will listen.Community feedback on the Murrumbidgee Irrigation modernisation projects is open until 15 July. Details are available through the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment's water infrastructure program.

Police are renewing their appeal for information as they continue to investigate the death of a man whose body was found on the side of the Newell Highway, about 11km south of Jerilderie, in the state’s south last month.Officers attached to Murray River Police District were called to the scene, about 12:35pm on Tuesday June 17, where the body of a 44-year-old man was found on the side of the road.Police have now identified the man as Mark Akers.He had suffered critical injuries, which police now believe are the result of being hit by a car. Police are treating Mr Aker’s death as suspicious. Police are appealing for information about a 2021 model black Toyota Landcruiser 200 series with distinctive pink stickers on the windscreen seen travelling on the Newell Highway between Jerilderie and Finley in the early hours of Monday June 16 to contact them or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Man charged with trespass and larceny offences – Murrumbidgee PD The old saying, measure twice, cut once could be changed in this case to think twice, cut once. This incident can serve as a timely reminder to all in the Back Country - be careful where you are cutting wood.A man appeared in court on July 2, charged with larceny and trespass offences in the state’s south.On Friday June 20, officers attached to Rural Crime Prevention Team were notified of reports of a person allegedly trespassing and removing firewood at a rural property in Darlington Point.Officers responded to the property and commenced an investigation.Police seized a number of items from the property including a block splitter, chainsaw cover, fuel container, broken chain and padlock and ratchet strap.Following extensive investigations, about 3.30pm June 30, a 24-year-old man was arrested at Griffith Police Station.He was charged with larceny value less than/ equal to $2000 and enter enclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse.He was refused bail top appear in Griffith Local Court today (Tuesday 1 July 2025).Police will allege in court the man cut down trees on the property and stole between 500 and 700 kilograms of wood.

The NSW Government has announced a significant investment of $1 million to Local Government NSW, aiming to empower councils and communities across the state, in the crucial fight against domestic and family violence.The funding forms part of the government's broader $38.3 million 'Pathways to Prevention' program, which marks NSW's first dedicated primary prevention strategy for domestic, family, and sexual violence. The NSW Government says the initiative recognises the vital role local councils play as key connectors within their communities, often linking with local organisations and support services for domestic and family violence. "We know that domestic, family and sexual violence is preventable – and primary prevention is about stopping it before it starts,” said Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison. “We want to work with local communities on the ground to change the underlying beliefs and cultures across our society that have tolerated – and even condoned – violence against women and children. “We can’t do this alone. We need councils – and the communities they represent – to help.”The funding will enable Local Government NSW to implement several key initiatives:Employ a Domestic and Family Violence Primary Prevention Officer to coordinate prevention activities with local councils, communities, and non-government organisations, boosting community awareness and understanding.Develop a comprehensive guide to assist councils in delivering localised primary prevention initiatives, including action planning templates and prioritisation tools.Provide unconscious bias training, gender equality initiatives, and resources to enhance awareness and understanding of primary prevention across all local councils in NSW.Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, highlighted the collaborative nature of this challenge. "Eliminating domestic and family violence is a complex challenge that requires the whole of government and the whole of community to work together to achieve this goal,” he stated. “As the closest level of government to communities, councils can play an important role in preventing gendered violence and help build a society that promotes gender equality, healthy relationships and is free from violence.”NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin echoed these sentiments, emphasising the unique position of local councils to drive lasting change. “By harnessing local knowledge and networks, primary prevention initiatives can play a critical role in fostering attitudes and behaviours that result in safer communities,” Dr Tonkin said. “I’m pleased to see that local primary prevention initiatives will be supported through the partnership announced with Local Government NSW.”

Edward River Council has announced the official launch of VisitDeni.com, the region's first standalone tourism website. Council says the new digital platform is dedicated entirely to showcasing the vibrant Edward River region, marking a significant milestone for local tourism.Previously, information about the area was hosted as part of the broader Visit the Murray website. VisitDeni.com now operates independently, offering a bespoke experience that truly reflects the unique character and charm of Deniliquin and its surrounding villages.In a statement, the Council emphasised the site's purpose.“The new site is designed to inspire and inform, whether visitors are planning a quick overnight stay or an extended escape.”A key feature highlighted by the Council is the user-friendly one-click, printable itinerary builder. This tool allows visitors to effortlessly plan their ideal trip, bringing together a diverse range of experiences. "From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to rich history, vibrant art, and the welcoming communities of the Edward River region, VisitDeni.com brings it all together in one easy-to-navigate space,” Council said.Beyond inspiring travellers, Council says the website also serves as a crucial showcase for the region’s local businesses, particularly those in tourism, hospitality, and accommodation. Tourism operators are strongly encouraged to create a free listing via ATDW-online.com.au to ensure their business is prominently featured on the new site.The Council also noted the dynamic nature of the platform. “VisitDeni.com is designed to evolve alongside the region, with regular updates and new content to keep visitors engaged.” To further enhance visitor engagement and keep the Edward River region top-of-mind for future travel plans, users can subscribe to a seasonal tourism e-newsletter.Additionally, the site integrates with Instagram, leveraging the popular social media platform to share the region’s beauty and unique experiences with an even wider audience.In their announcement, the Edward River Council extended an open invitation. “Edward River Council invites everyone to explore the new VisitDeni.com site and discover why the Edward River region is one of regional Australia’s most exciting destinations.”

Council are warning people while Council owns the water meter, property owners are responsible for ensuring it's protected from damage or theft.Griffith City Council advises residents that a $2,000 fee will apply if a water meter on their property is stolen, missing, or tampered with.The $2,000 fee demonstrates the seriousness of water theft which is a criminal offence that puts unfair financial pressure on the whole community. Water theft not only disrupts supply but also drives up expenses for all ratepayers, who ultimately shoulder the cost of rectification.While Council owns the water meter, property owners are responsible for ensuring it's protected from damage or theft. Only Council staff are authorised to connect to or disconnect from Council’s water mains. Unauthorised connections will be investigated as suspected water theft.Tampering with water infrastructure is dangerous and can put lives at risk. There is a very real danger of electrocution. Tampering can also contaminate the water supply, posing a health hazard to the community.If your water meter has been stolen, you must report the theft to Police and notify Council immediately. Council will then arrange for a new meter to be installed as soon as possible.“Every drop of water is a valuable community resource. Water theft and tampering affect everyone by adding financial pressure to ratepayers and putting additional stress on our water network,” Griffith Mayor Doug Curran said.Residents are encouraged to help protect their community’s water supply by staying vigilant and promptly reporting any suspicious activity.For further information or to report a stolen water meter, please contact Council on 1300 176 077.So, if you are like me and wonder why on Earth people would steal a water meter, here’s a possible reason why.Some believe thieves may be selling the water meters as scrap metal. However, there’s also a chance people may be using stolen water meters in between scheduled readings to avoid large water bills.

Member for Murray, Helen Dalton, has asked for an urgent meeting with WIN Television CEO Andrew Lancaster to discuss WIN's sudden loss of free-to-air access to Seven Network programming .The decision affects many popular television shows, including Seven afternoon and evening news services, Home & Away, Sunrise, and AFL broadcasts. “At this stage, it’s hard to say why the agreement between Seven and WIN has broken down,” Ms Dalton said. “But the people in my electorate should not lose access to the Seven shows on WIN.” Ms. Dalton is also calling on new Federal Minister for Communications, Anika Wells, to immediately investigate whether WIN TV is in breach of its broadcasting license as a result of the reduced services. WIN’s licenses give the company a free to air broadcasting monopoly in some parts of regional Australia, which is why WIN has traditionally screened programming from networks Seven and Ten. Earlier this year, WIN also stopped screening programming which was sourced from Sky News. “People need to understand how important free to air TV is to the lives of people in regional Australia,” Helen said. “Our internet and mobile coverage is patchy at best, so we can’t use streaming services, including 7 plus.” “We don’t have easy access to information out here, like they do in the cities, and wholesale changes to broadcasting schedules have a devastating impact on our communities,” Ms Dalton said. “The breakdown of the broadcast agreement between Seven West Media and WIN Television should never have been allowed to happen." “This situation must be reversed immediately.” Ms. Dalton said she understood why local businesses were considering a boycott of advertising on WIN until the Seven programming is restored. “Perhaps WIN thought they could make this change and people wouldn’t get angry,” Ms Dalton said. “If so, that demonstrates a complete misunderstanding of their audience and contempt for advertisers.” “The fact is that people in regional areas don't see free to air TV as a luxury or as outdated technology. They see free to air TV as a lifeline and that lifeline must be restored immediately,” Ms Dalton said. “These changes represent further regional inequality and cultural disconnection, and that’s simply not acceptable.” .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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