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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From 1 July 1, the Seven Network signal will stop broadcasting into homes across the area, taking with it the AFL, international cricket, and shows like Home and Away that have been part of lounge room routines for decades.The change affects thousands of households who've relied on WIN TV's arrangement with Seven to bring Channel 7, 7mate and 7two into their homes. That deal, which has run for years, won't be renewed when it expires at the end of June.For Carl, a lifelong sports fan, it's more than just missing a game. Seven Network holds the exclusive free-to-air rights to Test cricket, the Big Bash, the entire AFL season, plus popular shows like Australian Idol, The Farmer Wants a Wife and Gilmore Girls. Come July, the only way to watch them in Griffith will be through 7plus, Seven's streaming service.That means residents need either a smart TV connected to the internet, or they'll have to plug their laptop into the television with an HDMI cord - assuming they've got stable home Wi-Fi.The decision comes from Seven West Media, which owns the Seven Network. WIN Network CEO Andrew Lancaster said his company was disappointed but respected Seven's right to pursue their own commercial strategies."WIN remains committed to serving our regional audiences with a strong local presence and programming," Lancaster said in a statement.It's been a tough year for television viewers in Griffith. Just twelve months ago, WIN pulled the plug on Sky News coverage in the area. Until 30 June last year, residents could watch programs on free-to-air Channel 53, but now need a paid subscription.The pattern is clear: regional viewers are increasingly being pushed towards paid streaming services as traditional broadcasting deals fall by the wayside.Seven West Media said they remained open to further negotiations, with a spokesperson noting: "The communities living in the Riverland and Griffith are incredibly important to Seven and pleasingly, they will continue to have access to all of our content, including the AFL and cricket, via our live and free streaming platform, 7plus."But "live and free" isn't quite accurate if you need to buy a smart TV or upgrade your internet connection to access it.The change won't affect jobs at WIN, with local operations and staff remaining in place. The network continues to broadcast other channels, including Nine Network programs and local news.Come July, when the first AFL match kicks off without a free-to-air signal reaching Griffith, thousands of lounge rooms will be a little quieter. The question is whether anyone with the power to change it will be listening.

It was just the thing to warm up a Hillston man’s week; discovering he’d scored $100,000 in a recent Lucky Lotteries draw.  The lucky man scored first prize in Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw 11005, drawn Tuesday June. “Wait a minute. You’re calling me from The Lott?!” the winning man excitedly said, when called. “You’re not pulling my leg, are you? “Wow! One hundred thousand dollars?! That’s incredible. “I had no clue this is what you were calling me about. “It’s been a cold and miserable day, and this news is just great. “I’m the happiest person right now! This memory will stay with me forever. “I’m going to kick back and relax for the rest of the day.” With a $100,000 boost heading his way, the cheery man wasted no time planning how he’d put his prize to good use. “I’ll buy a new car,” he said. “I’ve been wanting to upgrade mine for a while now. This takes all the hassle out of it.” His winning entry of 10 consecutive numbers was purchased via The Lott app.  In 2024, 147 Lucky Lotteries first prize and jackpot winning entries across Australia won more than $52.2 million.   Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot and Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot are raffle-style games, which means there is a set number of tickets in each draw. As each ticket number is unique there is no sharing of prizes.  In 2024, more than 195.3 million winners took home more than $4.84 billion in prize money from their favourite games in Australian lotteries.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP hosted Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoening MP on a tour around the electorate.In Broken Hill the pair visited the NSW operational base of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)."Health Minister Ryan Park MP made the announcement of $15 million in funding for the Royal Flying Doctor Service NSW / ACT so that they continue their important work, providing aeromedical and other vital health services to regional and remote NSW," Mr Butler said."It was nice to be able to meet with Broken Hill RFDS staff again to celebrate the services they provide and the grant that will sustain their services. "Thanks again to Ryan Park MP and his team for their work on this."WATCH a video of their visit hereAt the invitation of Broken Hill City Council Mayor Tom Kennedy, the two MPs took a look at the council’s newNSW funded $3.8m netball courts."The people of Broken Hill really love their sport," Mr Butler said. "It’s an AFL city, but they are also strong on other footy codes and sports including netball. "This is a very impressive facility, built to international standards. "It’s fantastic to see these sort of projects come to fruition. This is a facility of which the council and the city can be justly proud."Mr Butler and Hoening took a tour of Broken Hill's Line of Lode Precinct, guided by Chris Dougherty from Foundation Broken Hill."The Line of Lode Precinct is one of those must-see places in Broken Hill," Mr Butler said. "Under the direction of Foundation Broken Hill it includes the Miner’s Memorial, a moving tribute to all the miners who have lost their lives on the job. "There is also the Broken Earth complex a restaurant, which has recently had a major refit of its kitchen. "This precinct already draws a multitude of tourists every year - I met a few while I was there with minister - but hopefully the restaurant will open soon and realise even more of the potential of this amazing part of the city."The pair also visited Silverton to ride camels."Camels have had a long association with arid areas of Australia, including Silverton," Mr Butler said. "Petah from Silverton Outback Camels is a font of knowledge about the history of camels in this part of the world and also knows a lot about camels generally. "She took myself and Ron Hoenig for a bit of ride around the bush at Silverton, along with a group of tourists."Petah gets hundreds of tourists a year through her business. It is unique experiences like this that draw people from all around the world to this corner of Barwon. "Full disclosure - Petah is a good mate I used to work with."All images: Roy Butler MP

New research has revealed a staggering 16 billion passwords have been hacked.Researchers at Cybernews have uncovered a colossal cache of exposed datasets, each containing millions to billions of records, painting a grim picture of the pervasive threat of information-stealing malware.The likely culprits behind this digital deluge are infostealers, insidious software designed to silently siphon sensitive data from infected devices. These malware variants are adept at extracting credentials from web browsers, email clients, messaging apps, and even cryptocurrency wallets, feeding this stolen information directly to cybercriminals."This isn't just old breach data being recycled," warn the researchers. "This is fresh, weaponisable intelligence at scale." The sheer volume of this "fresh" data underscores the alarming effectiveness and widespread reach of infostealers, turning personal and business login details into potent tools for illicit activities.While there's a small silver lining – the datasets were only briefly exposed, preventing researchers from identifying who was controlling such vast amounts of data – the reality remains chilling: these 16 billion credentials are now in the hands of cybercriminals.The implications are dire and far-reaching:Account Takeovers: Cybercriminals can effortlessly hijack social media, banking, or corporate accounts, leading to significant financial and reputational damage.Identity Theft: Stolen personal details can be weaponized for fraudulent loan applications, impersonation, and other forms of identity-based crime.Targeted Phishing: With access to leaked data, attackers can craft highly convincing and personalized phishing scams, making them incredibly difficult to detect.Ransomware/Business Email Compromise (BEC) Attacks: Compromised business credentials pave the way for network intrusions and fraudulent wire transfers, crippling organisations.The exposed credentials span virtually every major online service imaginable, including Apple, Google, Facebook, Telegram, developer platforms, and VPNs. To put the scale into perspective, if each of these 16 billion usernames and passwords were printed on a single line of standard paper, the stack would tower beyond the edge of the stratosphere, reaching approximately 35 miles high!Protecting Yourself: Essential Defenses Against InfostealersGiven the omnipresent threat, safeguarding your digital life is paramount. Here are critical steps to limit your exposure to infostealers:Deploy Robust Anti-Malware: Ensure you have an up-to-date and actively running anti-malware solution capable of detecting and eradicating infostealers.Embrace Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords across different websites and services. A password manager is an invaluable tool for generating strong, unique passwords and securely storing them.Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA on every account that offers it. This adds a crucial layer of security, making it significantly harder for an attacker to access your account even if they have your login credentials.

Increase to Superannuation Guarantee welcome – but what does it mean for your take-home pay?• Check how increase to Superannuation Guarantee affects your pay• Use July 1 change as opportunity to review your retirement savings• Extra contributions to top-up your super can be made until June 30Australia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, is urging workers to check how next month’s increase to the Superannuation Guarantee will affect them. The change means the minimum contribution that employers are required to make to their employees’ superannuation funds will rise from 11.5 per cent to 12 per cent from July 1. CPA Australia’s Superannuation Lead, Richard Webb, says the increase could make a substantial difference to retirement savings in the long run. “For a young person on $60,000 a year, the increase translates to an extra $300 in their super account every 12 months. But depending on investments and fees, the cumulative effect of that increase could ultimately be worth thousands by the time they retire,” he said. While the increase in the Superannuation Guarantee will have a positive long-term benefit to retirement savings, Mr Webb reminds workers to check if their employer is making the extra contribution, or whether it comes out of their total remuneration package. “If your employment contract includes a total remuneration package including super, this could mean less take-home pay at the end of the month,” he said. “However, for those on award or enterprise agreements, your pay agreement is more likely to be a salary, which means the change will not affect your take-home pay. “It’s a good idea to check with your employer to see how they view the changes and what it means for you. Otherwise, you might get a shock if your take-home pay is a little less than expected.”  July 1 also marks the date when superannuation payments will now be included in the government’s Parental Leave Pay scheme. Mr Webb says now is the time for Aussies to take charge of their savings and ensure they are on track for a comfortable retirement. “There are no more legislated increases to the Superannuation Guarantee, so it’s up to individuals to take control of their super and make sure they are getting the most from their money,” he said. “This includes making sure the investment and insurance options within the fund are appropriate. “It’s important you put time aside to look at your superannuation. For example, if you have more than one fund, consider whether it is appropriate to consolidate them into one account, and use a good online calculator, such as the Moneysmart website’s tool, to estimate how your current balance will accumulate by the time you reach retirement age. “It’s never too late to look into growing your retirement savings, including making additional contributions to your fund before the end of the financial year. Your financial adviser will be able to help you with these decisions.” Next month's increase in the Superannuation Guarantee marks the end of a long-drawn-out process of incremental increases to the minimum super contribution requirement from 9 per cent to 12 per cent after it was legislated back in 2012. “It’s good to have finally reached the point where Australians will receive this much-needed increase in minimum superannuation contributions - but it should not have taken this long,” Mr Webb said. About CPA Australia   CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 175,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at cpaaustralia.com.au

Grants of up to $10,000 available for community organisations in New South Wales dedicated to fostering connections and improving mental wellbeing.Applications are now open for Australia Post’s 2025 Community Grants program, which funds community-led, local projects across Australia. Eligible not-for-profit groups from New South Wales can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects which have the primary purpose of improving connection and mental wellbeing in their local communities. An additional allocation of up to $250,000 is available to support initiatives in disaster-impacted regions.Since 2020, Australia Post has awarded more than 350 grants to community groups across Australia. Last year, the program awarded 71 projects across the country, contributing more than $500,000 in funding. More than half of successful applications were in regional areas.This year, Australia Post has announced a significant expansion of its Community Grants program for 2025.There is an additional allocation of up to $250,000 allocated to support grassroots initiatives that enhance mental wellbeing, foster connection, and build resilience in disaster-impacted communities. “In times of disaster, it’s local organisations that are best placed to support the recovery process,” Australia Post General Manager, Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said. “They understand their communities, know what’s needed, and are there for the long haul.” One of the successful New South Wales projects that benefited from the 2024 Community Grants Program was the 2024 recipient, Hockey Tweed in Murwillumbah, New South Wales.The 'Are you Okay' hockey round they have implemented will bring the community together, to share stories and educate on recognising mental ill health, being open to support and improving access to resources.  “At Hockey Tweed, we’re more than just a sports association, we’re a place where people come to connect and support each other,” Hockey Tweed Incorporated Immediate Past President Margie Coleman said.“After years of hardship, from COVID border closures to the 2022 floods, we wanted to place a focus on mental health and community connection. “Thanks to this implementation, we have been able to do this.“If you’ve got an idea that could lift your community, don’t hesitate. This grant could be the spark that brings it to life.”Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the Community Grant guidelines carefully to check eligibility requirements.Eligible organisations are able to apply until 11.59pm on Monday, 7 July 7.To check eligibility, visit: auspost.com.au/grants. Successful applicants will be notified in September 2025.  The Community Grants program illustrates Australia Post’s commitment to mental health, which includes a partnership with Beyond Blue that to date has delivered mental health resources to more than sixteen million letterboxes across Australia. Australia Post is also a founding member of Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, which supports mental health and wellbeing in the transport and logistics industries.  

The annual Ivanhoe Pig Comp has removed thousands of feral pests from the landscape, following another successful event.More than 500 entrants removed a total of 2208 feral pigs across the event, as well as wild dogs, foxes, rabbits and feral cats.Heaviest boar recorded over the June Long Weekend weighed in at 94.5 kilograms but it was a sow that topped the scales at 107 kilograms.The annual event is the brainchild of Ivanhoe’s Josh Robinson, and since first running in 2016, has become a popular trip for hunters across NSW and Victoria. As well as providing an ecomonic boost to local business, the competition also raises funds for the mental health charity, The Black Dog Ride, and Ivanhoe’s own not-for-profit groups.APDHA national president Ned Makim said competitions such as this deserve more recognition for the impact they have on the battle against a booming pig problem in the region.

Police are appealing for assistance from the public after a man’s body was found beside the Newell Highway in the state’s south yesterday.Officers attached to Murray River Police District were called to the scene 5km south of Jerilderie, about 12.30pm (Tuesday 17 June 2025), where a man’s body was found. He’d suffered multiple injuries.While he is yet to be formally identified, he is believed to be aged in his 40s.A crime scene has been established with an investigation now underway, assisted by specialist officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit.Anyone who was travelling along that section of the Newell Highway, about five kilometres south of Jerilderie, between midnight Monday June 16 and midday yesterday Tuesday June 17 and has dashcam footage, or any information they believe relevant, is urged to come forward and contact Finley Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Sunday 15 June marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.We need to let this serve as a poignant reminder of the seriousness of this issue.  Some 15 per cent of older people in Australia aged 65 and over are abused.Even worse, if it could get any worse, one in two perpetrators will be a family member.A new policy paper has raised on a blunt lack of support services for them.Relationships Australia NSW (RANSW) has released a policy paper detailing 29 recommendations to drive abuse down and increase services to older people who suffer from it.RANSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw said the current system is insufficient to protect older people and the NSW Government needs a strong response to the scale of the problem."Older people deserve dignity and safety, not abuse and neglect," Ms Shaw said."NSW has an ageing population and an increase in the incidence of psychological, financial, physical and other forms of harm to older people. "We need the abuse to stop, and we need to increase the accessibility of services for thousands of older people in this state who have found themselves in this situation.Ms Shaw said it is known that the situation is dire, and experience together with statistics show the situation will likely get worse. “It is incredibly hard for older people to disclose harm at the hands of a family member,” she said.Currently, the service system suffers from funding insecurity that creates a postcode lottery - meaning where you live greatly influences your chances of accessing support. Our own state funding ends in August 2025."That's why we have drafted a position paper which puts forward a set of 29 practical recommendations for the NSW Government to implement between now and 2030."The policy paper was drafted with the input of nine organisations that work in the sector.Some of the recommendations include that the NSW Government should maintain and expand regional and place-based approaches, such as through regional hubs, to address postcode injustice.Introduce a module on identification and response to the abuse of older people into the NSW Police Academy training program.Re-fund the Aged Crime Prevention Officer roles in the NSW Police, or identify alternative routes to ensure violence-informed and age-informed approaches at the first point of contact for the criminal legal system. Harmonise Enduring Power of Attorney laws and create a NSW Register of appointments.Legislate mandatory training and funding to support Attorneys or Guardians appointed under an Appointment of Power of Attorney / Enduring Power of Attorney or Appointment of Enduring Guardian.Explore the potential to mandate Elder Mediation for ageing-related family conflicts, in line with existing mandated mediation requirements for separating parents.At the review date of the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022 in July 2026, consider the opportunity to criminalise coercive and controlling behaviour by family members other than an intimate partner.Fund services for periods of at least five years, to improve providers' ability to attract, develop and retain experienced employees in critical front-line roles.

Residents of Menindee, Wilcannia, White Cliffs, Sunset Strip, Ivanhoe and Tilpa will vote on September 20 for three new councillors.Central Darling Shire will become a ‘Rural and Remote Council’ made up of three locally elected councillors from the community and three councillors appointed by the NSW Government.The last Councillors were dismissed in 2014.

Victoria Moves to Close Family Violence Order Loopholes for Young PeopleYoung people in Victoria may soon find it easier to stay protected under Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs), thanks to a set of reforms welcomed by the Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP).The changes, announced by Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny, aim to stop young people from “ageing out” of FVIOs just because they turn 18. Conor Pall, Deputy Chair of the Victim Survivors’ Advisory Council (and a Mildura local), first raised the issue in 2022, arguing that fear and risk don’t magically disappear on a birthday.Dani Edwards, MASP’s Manager of Family Safety, called the reforms overdue. “A young person doesn’t age out of fear or risk. They shouldn’t have to jump through hoops for protection just because they’re now legally an adult,” Edwards said. “This change means fewer young victim-survivors will have to relive trauma by reapplying for protection.”The legislation will also target loopholes that let alleged perpetrators avoid being served with an FVIO—even if they’re already in custody. Plus, Victoria will be able to issue orders for violence that happened interstate, a big win for people in border towns like Mildura and Swan Hill or those who’ve moved to escape abuse.To top it off, Victoria will introduce a standard two-year FVIO length, bringing the state in line with the ACT, New South Wales, and Western Australia.For those interested in the ongoing conversation, Conor Pall will be speaking at MASP’s Lunch For Change on September 5. Details and tickets: https://masp.org.au/change/ ↗