The Murray-Darling Basin Authority held its regular meeting in Canberra on September 4, tackling a range of pressing water management issues across Australia's largest river system.Authority members spent considerable time with NSW Government representatives discussing funding challenges for ageing infrastructure in joint programmes. The meeting also covered current determinations by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal and progress on various water limit adjustment projects under the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism.Progress on reconnecting river country initiatives for the Murrumbidgee River featured prominently in discussions, with members receiving updates on next steps for the Menindee water limit adjustment project. However, the Authority learned that some environmental water deliveries have been temporarily paused while new metering and measurement equipment is installed. The NSW Government is also working on urgent regulatory amendments during this period.The ongoing Basin Plan Review received significant attention, with members hearing about outcomes from a workshop involving senior officials from states and the Commonwealth. Key policy positions were considered during these discussions, and the Authority also received updates from meetings with staff from the Inspector General of Water Compliance.In a major development, members endorsed a new framework for assessing sustainable water extraction limits and approved initial assessments of 17 groundwater areas. These assessments will be included in a discussion paper that will be available for public consultation in early 2026, giving communities and stakeholders a chance to have their say on water management decisions.The Authority heard directly from the Sustainable Rivers Audit First Nations Leadership Group, highlighting the important role of Aboriginal communities in river management. Rachel Kelly, Chair of the Basin Community Committee, also provided an update on community perspectives and concerns.River modernisation efforts received strong support from Authority members, who expressed enthusiasm for the Joint Programmes Menindee Review. This support was reinforced by ongoing backing from the Basin Officials Committee, demonstrating broad institutional support for the modernisation efforts.Several administrative decisions were finalised during the meeting. The Authority approved amendments to the water limit adjustment register, which will be updated on the MDBA website. Members also agreed to water accounting assessments for incomplete recovery adjustments for the 2024-25 period.Current river conditions present a mixed picture across the basin. The Murray River system continues to experience dry conditions, and while water storage levels rose during winter, they remain slightly below the long-term average for this time of year. This contrasts sharply with the Northern Basin, which has received above-average rainfall. As a result, between 400 and 600 billion litres are expected to flow into Menindee Lakes by the end of October.The meeting was chaired by Daryl Quinlivan, with Chief Executive Andrew McConville and Authority members Professor Stuart Bunn, Dr Jane Doolan, Belinda Duarte AM, Roseanne Healy, Allison Mudford, and Rene Woods in attendance.

BOM issues warning for the Back CountryBureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury has issued a warning for the corner country of outback NSW, South Australia and Queensland."In that area, we may see high end severe thunderstorms with locally destructive winds and giant-sized hail potentially exceeding 5 cm in diameter."With the potential for flash flooding and damaging winds and hail, make sure you're prepared: ✅ Secure loose outdoor items. ✅ Charge your devices. ✅ Stay informed with official warnings.

Dental health is something which slips so easily through the cracks, in the midst of all the other things we deal with in day to day life.BUT......Did you know that free dental care is available to all children under the age of 18 years who live within the Far West Local Health District, and have a Medicare card? The Broken Hill Dental Clinic has Dental Therapists and Oral Health Therapists who specialise in the care of children and adolescent dental needs.Staff combine clinical expertise with a gentle reassuring approach that helps patients feel at ease. To make an appointment, or to find out more about our children's services, phone the Public Dental Service on 1800 679 336. Please have your Medicare card ready.Good dental health is vital for children's physical and mental wellbeing, supporting proper eating, speech, and development, and setting the foundation for lifelong oral health. Key reasons for prioritising dental care include preventing pain and infection, maintaining space for permanent adult teeth, ensuring proper jaw and facial development, and avoiding long-term health issues. Establishing healthy habits early through good hygiene, diet, and regular dental visits is crucial for preventing decay and ensuring a child grows into a healthy adult.  How it impacts development and function:Eating and Nutrition: Strong teeth are essential for chewing and grinding food, which is necessary for good nutrition and growth. Speech Development: Teeth play a crucial role in forming sounds and speaking clearly. Jaw and Facial Structure: Baby teeth help shape the jaw and face, and their early loss can impact this development. Preventing long-term issuesSpace for Adult Teeth:Baby teeth hold the space for adult teeth to emerge in the correct position. Early loss of baby teeth can lead to adult teeth becoming crowded or misaligned. Lifelong Habits:The habits children learn early in life, such as regular brushing and a healthy diet, often last a lifetime, fostering good oral health into adulthood. Systemic Health:Untreated dental decay can lead to pain, swelling, and infection that can spread, affecting a child's overall health and even their growth. Key actions for good oral healthRegular Brushing:Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a small, soft toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Healthy Diet:Limit sugary foods and drinks like sweets, juice, and flavored milk. Plain tap water and plain milk are the best drinks. Fluoride:Water containing fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and prevents decay. Early Dental Visits:Schedule the first dental visit by the time the first tooth appears or by age one, and continue with regular check-ups. 

Do you know a first year apprentice who could use help? The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships (the scholarships) support NSW apprentices who are experiencing financial hardship They are looking for apprentices who demonstrate a capability for vocational education and training and a positive attitude and commitment to both workplace and formal training.The scholarships aim to assist eligible apprentices in successfully completing their trade training. Applications are welcome from apprentices in both metropolitan and regional areas, including school-based apprentices. This program is administered by Eligible applicants must:be a first-year apprentice in an approved apprenticeship in NSWbe employed by an employer based in NSWbe experiencing financial hardship at the time of applicationbe an Australian citizen or permanent residentSchool-based apprentices are eligible to apply.Who can’t applyApplicants are ineligible if they are one or more of the following:are a second-year or third-year apprenticean apprentice outside NSWnot an Australian citizen or permanent resident Applications close September 19, with anticipated assessment outcome date November 2025.For more information, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/bert-evans-apprentice-scholarship-2025#:~:text=19%20September%202025-,Program%20objective,both%20workplace%20and%20formal%20training.

Police have charged a 46 year old man with several offences following a police pursuit and crash that occurred in Broken Hill on August 26.At 2:00am Tuesday August 26, police tried to stop a red Holden Commodore on Depot Road, Broken Hill. The driver of the commodore failed to stop, engaging police in a pursuit throughout local streets before it collided with two parked vehicles and a residential garden on Cummins Street, Broken Hill.The driver exited the crashed vehicle, ran from the scene and was unable to be detained by pursuing police.Following investigations, yesterday (Thursday 4 September) police stoped a vehicle travelling on Menindee Road, Broken Hill arresting a 46 year old man who is alleged to have been the driver during the pursuit and crash on 26 August.The man who was currently on bail similar pursuit and driving offences was taken to Broken Hill police station where he was charged with 8 offences; police pursuit - drive dangerously, two counts of drive whilst disqualified, drive unregistered vehicle, not give particulars to owner of damaged property, refuse to submit to oral fluid test, not disclose identity of driver as required, and possess drug.He appeared before court yesterday and was bail refused to re-appear at Broken Hill Local Court on Tuesday September 9.

A 24-year-old Narrandera woman is facing over $3,000 in penalties and court proceedings following a serious traffic incident that occurred during school zone hours in the small town of Matong.The incident unfolded at 8:28 AM on Wednesday, 27 August, when Narrandera Highway Patrol officers conducting routine speed enforcement detected a gold Holden Commodore sedan travelling at more than double the posted speed limit.Police radar detected the vehicle travelling at 82 km/h through the designated 40 km/h school zone - a breach of more than 40 kilometres an hour over the limit during the critical morning school period when children are most vulnerable.The vehicle was intercepted a short distance from the detection point, leading to the discovery of multiple serious offences.When stopped, the driver was unable to produce a valid licence. Subsequent checks revealed she was operating the vehicle with a Class C learner's licence that had been disqualified. Further investigation uncovered that the vehicle was both unregistered and uninsured.The situation escalated when roadside drug testing allegedly returned a positive result for methamphetamine, adding drug driving charges to the mounting list of offences.The woman received immediate infringement notices totalling $3,117:$1,429 for exceeding the speed limit by more than 30 km/h in a school zone, accompanied by the loss of six demerit points$844 for operating an unregistered motor vehicle on public roads$844 for using an uninsured vehicleBeyond the immediate financial penalties, the woman was issued with a court attendance notice for the more serious charges of driving whilst disqualified and drug possession. These matters will be heard before Narrandera Local Court in October, where additional penalties including potential licence disqualification periods and further fines may be imposed..

An unlicensed driver driving an unregistered vehicle has escaped serious injury, on the Mid Western Highway, between Hay and Goolgowi.The driver, a 29-year-old man left Hay and drove in a northeasterly direction along the highway, in a vehicle with expired ACT registration.He allegedly fell asleep 85 kilometres from Hay, veered off the road before awakening and over-correcting. The front wheel buckled and the vehicle flipped and rolled.Passing traffic saw the dust from the incident and stopped to give assistance.The sole occupant crawled from the vehicle, and attempted to stand, as emergency service were called.Police attended and spoke to the driver to obtain their version of events and conducted a breath test for alcohol, which returned a negative result.The driver was issued infringements for driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle, and driving without a licence.

Hay Seniors 10.18 (78) defeated Ultima Seniors 9.10 (64)The Hay Senior Lions earned a fitting end to their Golden Rivers Football League campaign, securing an emotional 14-point victory over Ultima at Macorna on the weekend in a thrilling contest that had supporters on the edge of their seats.It was déjà vu all over again as the Hay Lions made the trek to Macorna to repeat their 2024 Grand Final encounter against Ultima. The atmosphere was electric."That was next level really," said Mick Cattanach, reflecting on the contest. "We played them a lot and we know them really well."The Lions started strongly, controlling the tempo in the opening quarter, but struggled to convert their dominance into scoreboard pressure."I think he started really well and sort of dominated. We had the ball a lot during the first quarter and probably stayed in the game a little bit because we didn't kick that accurately," Cattanach explained. "We were the dominant team but probably didn't show on the scoreboard as much."The first quarter set the tone for what would become a recurring theme - Hay's superior field position and ball control being undermined by poor goal-kicking accuracy that kept Ultima within striking distance.The second quarter saw a momentum shift as Ultima capitalised on Hay's missed opportunities to fight back into the contest.“The second quarter started to get back in the game, we made some mistakes. Once again, we didn't take our opportunities and they came right back in it and got a one-point lead in that second quarter," Cattanach said.However, the Lions showed their resilience when it mattered. “The boys sort of adjusted, got the game going again and then we kicked two or three goals which were really important," he noted, crediting the half-back line's improved performance in getting the ball moving forward.The third quarter continued the see-sawing nature of the contest, with both teams trading blows in what became an increasingly physical encounter.Image: The victorious players and coaches; Jason Aylett (co-coach), co-captains Brad Pocock and Jack Cattanach, Lion's icon Robert 'Buck' Howard (back), and co-coach James Moran. Image: Steph Cattanach."The third quarter was a bit the same sort of back-and-forth," Cattanach observed. "We were probably got a bit sore and a few injuries, but once again we just kept them at bay and still maintained that lead."Despite being the better team for much of the final quarter, Hay couldn't shake their determined opponents, with goal-kicking accuracy again proving costly."The last quarter probably we were a better team but we didn't put them away and in the end our goal kicking accuracy again kept them in the game," Cattanach said.The defining moment came when Ultima mounted a late challenge, but Hay's defensive pressure proved decisive. Key players Brad Pocock, Pat Jubb, and others stood tall when it mattered most."They were getting quite close to us in the last quarter and Pat Jubb did a really great defensive play, Brad Pocock was really big in that last quarter and we managed to rebound the ball," Cattanach explained."I think when it came to pressure around the footy, our contest at the footy, we were just really tough for the contest and our tackling was just a little bit better."Halfback/midfielder Josh Dwyer was awarded the best-on-ground medal for his outstanding performance throughout the contest.Several other players distinguished themselves in the hard-fought victory: Fergus Cattanach, Dylan Collis, Jack Cattanach, Jack Headon, Jacob Watson, Declan Watson (crucial final quarter goal), Brad Pocock, and Kenneth Jubb.When the final siren rang across the field, the cheers erupted like fireworks from the Hay crowd. Emotional scenes unfolded as supporters embraced their Lions - sons, brothers, and partners all sharing in the triumph. Tears of joy flowed freely as emotions ran high.The victory provides the perfect conclusion to the Golden Rivers Football League season for the Hay Lions, delivering another memorable chapter in their ongoing rivalry with Ultima.

A groundbreaking fish passage technology that has already helped over 7,500 native fish navigate the Lake Wetherell outlet regulator is set to enter its second year of trials, with the NSW Government hosting a community celebration to mark this significant milestone in river restoration.On Saturday, 20 September 2025, the NSW Government will host a free community day at the Lake Wetherell Outlet Regulator on Main Weir Road from 10am to 3pm. The event will feature a free BBQ, behind-the-scenes demonstrations of the Fishheart control system, information stands about the project and the health of the Barka (Darling River), and a community art installation where visitors can help paint the pipes.The celebration marks the launch of Year 2 of the temporary tube fishway trial, a pioneering project that represents the first time this technology has been tested under Australian conditions on native inland freshwater fish at this scale.The fishway trial emerged from one of Australia's most devastating environmental disasters. In three separate events between December 2018 and January 2019, millions of fish—including endangered Murray Cod—died en masse along a 40-kilometre stretch of the Darling River near Menindee.An independent panel concluded that over a million fish may have died in these events, caused by a combination of drought, algal blooms, and sudden temperature drops that mixed low-oxygen water. Menindee fish deaths | Murray–Darling Basin AuthorityFurther tragedy struck in 2023, when millions more fish died in similar circumstances, highlighting the ongoing crisis facing Australia's longest river system.The Darling River is known as "Baaka" to the Barkindji people, with "Barkindji" literally meaning "people of the Baaka." These Aboriginal people have lived along the river for at least 45,000 years, with the waterway providing not only cultural foundations but also sustaining life through food supply from the waterways and surrounding areas. The fish deaths have particular significance for Indigenous communities, as these species hold high cultural value and are central to traditional life along the river.The Fishheart fishway system is an advanced, floating hydraulic technology that utilises artificial intelligence to detect fish and regulate water flow, ensuring efficient and safe passage. Unlike traditional fishways, the system is adjustable, allowing researchers to fine-tune operations based on real-time environmental conditions. Over 7,500 fish used the new temporary fishway at Lake Wetherell during its first 2.5 months of operation to find new homes, more food, and spawn and recruit, with the vast majority being native species dominated by bony herring.The first fishway in NSW was constructed at Audley Weir on the Hacking River near Sydney, but early designs were based on northern hemisphere species like salmon and trout, making them largely ineffective for Australian native fish. Unlike northern hemisphere species, most Australian native fish cannot swim up and over the artificial drops that weirs and dams create in waterways, leading to fish becoming stranded at the base of barriers. Fishways - NSW Department of Primary IndustriesThe trial forms part of the $25 million Restoring the Darling-Baaka River Program, which includes 26 actions addressing recommendations from the Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer. The program has already used better data from enhanced monitoring and modelling to strategically release water to avoid conditions that lead to fish deaths on at least nine occasions over the last 18 months. Currently in the Lower Darling-Baaka, fish can only migrate upstream as far as Lake Wetherell and Menindee Main Weir, with regulators and weirs blocking fish passage and contributing to significant increases in fish biomass, especially in the Menindee town weir pool. Menindee Lower Darling-Baaka The trial represents an exciting opportunity to test innovative fishway technology while DPIRD Fisheries develops a business case with partner agencies to find effective and permanent fish passage solutions. Due to the complexity of the existing weirs and regulators that allow flow management throughout the Menindee Lakes system, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to restore fish passage. The trial serves as an experimental approach to gauge the feasibility of temporary passage methods while working towards long-term solutions.The community day represents more than just a celebration—it's an opportunity for residents to engage with cutting-edge conservation technology that could reshape how Australia manages fish migration around artificial barriers. With the success of the first year demonstrating the technology's potential, the second year of trials will provide crucial data for scaling up these solutions across the Murray-Darling Basin.For the Barkindji people and other communities along the Baaka, the fishway trial offers hope that their river—the lifeblood of their culture and survival—can be restored to health for future generations.The community day runs from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, 20 September 2025, at Lake Wetherell Outlet Regulator, Main Weir Road, Menindee.

The Central Darling Shire Council election is scheduled for September 20, 2025, with mobile voting available across multiple locations to ensure accessibility for all residents.Mobile voting schedule:Ivanhoe Community Hall: 18 September (8:30am-5:30pm), 19 September (8:30am-6:00pm)Menindee Civic Hall: 18 September (8:30am-3:30pm), 17 September (8:30am-6:00pm)Tilpa Community Hall: 16 September (12:00pm-2:00pm)White Cliffs Community Hall: 17 September (12:00pm-3:00pm)Wilcannia Community Hall: 15-16 September (8:30am-5:30pm), 19 September (8:30am-6:00pm)Key candidates include:Ward A: Owen Whyman, Monica Kerwin, Rhonda Hynch, Peter SullivanWard B: Max Bradley, Robert Vagg, Fay Johnson-Stone, Rachelle Crawford, PeterResidents living in Ward C are not required to vote, as Daniel Fuel has been elected unopposed.The September Ordinary Council Meeting has been moved to Wednesday, 17 September 2025 from the originally scheduled 24 September date. This change accommodates the 20 September Council Election timeline, ensuring the meeting occurs before polling day rather than after.Family Day Care Service Expansion to IvanhoeCouncil has resolved to support the establishment of a Family Day Care service in Ivanhoe. The council will write to both the State Member for Barwon and Federal Member for Parkes seeking support and assistance in securing funding for this community initiative, following advocacy and consultation with local residents.In response to community feedback, Council is implementing changes to the Wilcannia Council Chambers to create a more culturally inclusive and welcoming environment for all community members. The changes include:Relocating portraits of former Council presidents and mayorsInstalling an Honour Board to respectfully display their names and terms of serviceThis initiative reflects the council's commitment to acknowledging the diverse community it serves.Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Community Service Awards, recognising individuals, volunteers, and events that have made meaningful and positive differences across the shire.Award categories include:Citizen of the YearYoung Citizen of the YearVolunteer of the YearService to the CommunityOutstanding Local Event of 2025Nomination deadline: 4pm on Tuesday, 30 September 2025Nomination forms are available on Council's website or can be collected from Council offices as printed forms.Administrator Bob Stewart provided an update on the transition process, noting that while the election campaign is underway, he wishes all nominated candidates success. Stewart highlighted several achievements during the administration period, including successful grant applications and community projects reaching completion.He particularly noted the Baaka Cultural Centre's success in winning its category in the recent LGNSW awards, congratulating all those who contributed to this achievement.The Administrator confirmed that detailed progress reports have been prepared for the incoming elected council, ensuring continuity of governance and acknowledging the residents' patience during the administration period.The council has provided QR codes linking to elections.nsw.gov.au for residents to easily find more information about their voting options and stay informed about the election process.For more information about any of these matters, contact Central Darling Shire Council at PO Box 165 Wilcannia NSW 2836, Phone: 08 8083 8900

A groundbreaking 26-megawatt hybrid renewable energy system has begun full operations at a New South Wales mine site, marking the first time an off-grid solar and battery system has powered a mining operation in the state.The pioneering project at Tronox's Atlas–Campaspe mineral sands mine near Hatfield represents a significant milestone in Australia's mining industry transition towards cleaner energy, delivering up to 40 per cent renewable power whilst dramatically reducing diesel dependency.The innovative system has replaced 41 distributed diesel generators that previously powered the mine, reducing annual carbon emissions by around 13,000 tonnes and displacing nearly five million litres of diesel each year.The comprehensive hybrid power solution combines multiple technologies:11-megawatt solar farm providing clean daytime power3MW/6MWh battery energy storage system for power stability and storage12MW of diesel generation for backup power13 kilometres of high-voltage powerlines connecting the componentsThe system has the potential to operate in "hydrocarbons-off mode" most days, meaning the mine could run entirely on renewable energy during optimal conditions. This capability represents a significant advancement in mining industry sustainability, demonstrating that large-scale industrial operations can successfully integrate substantial renewable energy components.Western Australia-based Pacific Energy announced the project's completion on Monday, describing it as an "important step" in the off-grid power system specialist's expansion to Australia's east coast.The company has extensive experience in weaning remote mine sites off diesel and other fossil fuels, with the vast majority of their pioneering work conducted in Western Australia, including one of Australia's biggest off-grid hybrid renewable energy projects at Gold Fields' St Ives mine south of Kalgoorlie."The Atlas-Campaspe system is the first we've delivered in NSW and marks an important step in our operational expansion on Australia's east coast," Pacific Energy stated in their announcement.The project team and client achieved full operational status on Friday, July 18 after safely and successfully testing the system's functionality on the mine site's operating processing plant.The successful testing phase demonstrates the reliability and integration capabilities of hybrid renewable systems in demanding industrial environments, particularly important for continuous mining operations that require stable, uninterrupted power supply.This NSW milestone follows a growing trend across Australia's mining sector towards renewable energy adoption, driven by both environmental commitments and economic benefits. The substantial diesel displacement – nearly five million litres annually – represents significant cost savings alongside the environmental benefits.The project's success could accelerate similar deployments across NSW and other states, as mining companies seek to reduce operational costs and meet increasingly stringent environmental targets.The 13-kilometre high-voltage powerline network represents sophisticated infrastructure planning, enabling the integration of distributed renewable generation with existing mine operations. The battery storage component provides crucial grid stability services, smoothing out solar intermittency and ensuring consistent power delivery to critical mining equipment.The system's design allows for flexible operation modes, from full renewable generation during optimal solar conditions to hybrid operation when weather or operational demands require additional power from diesel generators.This achievement positions NSW as an emerging leader in mining sector renewable energy integration, potentially attracting further investment in clean technology solutions for resource industries across the state.The Atlas–Campaspe mine is located near Hatfield in NSW and operates as a mineral sands extraction facility under Tronox's ownership.

The August meeting of Carrathool Shire Council began with heated debate over the council's 2025-2026 Community Grants Scheme. Councillor MS Armstrong initially moved that late and ineligible applications should not be accepted, but the motion lapsed due to lack of support.Councillor NJ Smith successfully countered with a motion to accept all applications, including those submitted late or deemed ineligible, which passed by four votes to three after being seconded by Councillor GR Peters.The council ultimately approved $23,957.98 in community grants across the shire, with funding distributed among:Goolgowi: $4,348 for projects including vacuum cleaner, defibrillator, and Christmas treeHillston: $13,276 for various community projects including hospital equipment, sports facilities, and arts council fixturesRankins Springs: $4,833.98 for golf club refrigeration, recreation ground upgrades, and school equipmentCarrathool: $1,500 for campdraft yard improvementsDuring closed council sessions, several significant infrastructure projects received approval:Bringagee Road Upgrade: Council approved a major rehabilitation project costing $1,169,000 to provide a 7-metre wide seal over 12.67 kilometres. The project will utilise $378,000 from Roads to Recovery funding and $790,000 from the local road reserve.Hillston Water Tower Issues: Following problems with the water tower's 2022 relining, council resolved to pursue warranty claims, take the tower offline temporarily, and review operations in early 2026 whilst considering additional storage options.Goolgowi West Water Supply: A community meeting will be arranged to discuss water supply options with residents.The council approved substantial plant and equipment replacements totalling over $800,000 in changeover costs:Mini Excavator: Trading a Hitachi 1.7 for a new Kubota 1.7S with accessories ($36,050 changeover)Water Tanker: Replacing an Isuzu with a new UD 6x4 bogie drive system ($261,027.45 changeover)Prime Mover: Trading a Kenworth 409 for a new Kenworth T909 with sleeper cab ($353,821.45 changeover)Padfoot Roller: Replacing a 20-tonne Multipac roller ($159,000 changeover)The council approved several smaller funding commitments:$1,000 donation to Hillston Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser$90 refund for Active Farmers' Hillston Hall hire$80 fee waiver for South West Arts event at Carrathool HallGeneral Manager Review: A performance review for General Manager Rick Warren was scheduled for September 2025, to be conducted by the full council following the ordinary meeting in Hillston.Transport Issues: Council agreed to lobby through local member Helen Dalton for a bus stop and 80km/h speed limit in Tabbita, and seek input into road works on the Kidman Way.The council noted its statement of bank balances as at 31 July 2025, confirming payments totalling $3,449,458.25. Budget revotes of $203,000 and $1,201,841 were approved for the 2025/26 financial year.

Griffith is set to benefit from a substantial $3 million investment from Federal and NSW Governments aimed at beautifying the Central Business District and enhancing local tourism facilities, representing a significant boost for the regional economy.Griffith is set to benefit from a $3 million investment from the Federal and NSW Governments to beautify the CBD and improve local tourism sites. The funding is part of the NSW Sustainable Communities Program, which is aimed at creating new jobs, supporting business innovation and strengthening communities. The funding comes with a commitment to inclusive community consultation. Griffith City Council's project will be considered by the Roads Parks and Pathways Enhancement Committee, which will make recommendations to Council to finalise the scope of works. The process will also include opportunities for the community to contribute ideas through workshops, walkshops and other engagement activities. This approach ensures that residents and businesses will have direct input into how the substantial funding is allocated, creating a genuinely community-driven transformation of the city centre.Mayor Doug Curran emphasised the collaborative approach to the project."This investment provides us with an exciting opportunity to further enhance our city centre and tourism attractions. It's important that our community has a voice in shaping this project. Through workshops and other activities, we'll be inviting people to share their ideas so the end result reflects what matters most to Griffith."The NSW Government's Sustainable Communities Program is designed to help minimise the social and economic impacts of water recovery measures on Basin communities under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. This $3 million allocation to Griffith comes from the Program's Early Investment Round, the first round of funding targeted to nine Southern Basin local government areas identified as most vulnerable to water recovery measures. This funding represents recognition of Griffith's strategic importance in the Murray-Darling Basin and the government's commitment to supporting regional communities facing challenges from water policy changes.The Council says it will continue to work with the community to ensure the project delivers the best possible outcomes for residents and visitors.The implementation timeline and specific projects will be determined through the community consultation process, ensuring maximum benefit for both local residents and the growing tourism sector that contributes significantly to Griffith's economy.

Don't miss out on this prime opportunity for the young person in your life to enjoy the Griffith Careers and Employment Expo.On Friday October 24, from 10am to 3pm, at the Griffith Regional Sports Stadium, the event is open to the Public – free entry!What’s included if you choose to become and exhibitor? 1 x Table, 2 chairs, Trestle table, Black Table Cloth. Powered and non powered sites are available. Cost is $150 Member, $250 Non Member. Whether you are a student looking at future career paths or job seeker looking for employment, the opportunity is there to gain valuable insights, expand your network, and connect with potential employers and training providers across diverse industries! There'll also be a job board showcasing positions vacant.Attracting a wide range of exhibitors from a diverse range of industries, ready to talk to students and job seekers about potential opportunities!Also, back by popular demand are 15 minute presentations focusing on what employers are looking for, education opportunities beyond highschool, apprenticeship and traineeship advice and more! Times: 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2.00pm.Schools and jobseekers are all Welcome!

Hay community invited to share morning tea for life-changing conversationsThe Interreach Hay Community Centre is opening its doors for a special R U OK? Day morning tea, encouraging locals to come together for meaningful conversations that could change a life.On Thursday 11 September, from 9:30am to 11am, community members are invited to join what organisers describe as "a relaxed morning tea as we come together for a friendly community check-in."The event coincides with R U OK? Day, Australia's national day of action that encourages people to start conversations about mental health and wellbeing. With tea, coffee and morning tea provided, the gathering offers a comfortable setting for neighbours to connect and check in on each other's wellbeing.R U OK? Day has a deeply personal origin story that resonates with families across Australia. The initiative was founded by advertiser Gavin Larkin in 2009, after his father Barry tragically took his own life in 1995. Filled with grief and regret, Gavin wished he had asked his father if he was okay, and this ignited an idea to create a platform that encouraged meaningful conversations about mental health.The first R U OK? Day was held on 29 November 2009, but the annual timing later changed to be on the second Thursday of September. The message for the first R U OK? Day was "a conversation can change a life" - a slogan that continues to drive the movement today.Tragically, founder Gavin Larkin died from lymphoma in 2011, but his family have continued to promote the campaign, ensuring his vision of preventing suicide through connection continues to reach millions of Australians.The beauty of R U OK? lies in its simplicity. The campaign encourages the use of a four-step model to have meaningful conversations: (1) ask the person how they're going, (2) listen without judgement, (3) encourage the person to take action, such as seeking support from a mental health professional and (4) check in with the person by following up with them at a later time.This approach, known as ALEC (Ask, Listen, Encourage action, Check in), empowers ordinary people to make a difference without needing professional training.While R U OK? Day falls on the second Thursday of September each year, the organisation emphasises that asking "are you OK?" should be part of everyday relationships with friends, family, teammates and colleagues. This year's theme, "Ask R U OK? Any Day," reinforces that meaningful conversations about mental health shouldn't be limited to one day annually.People can experience things like relationship breakdowns, financial difficulties, health issues or periods of major change at work, home or in life, and won't always tell you if something's troubling them. The earlier you give someone an opportunity to open up to you, the sooner they can find appropriate support and the greater the chance that together, you can stop small problems from becoming bigger ones.Research shows the campaign is making a real difference. Campaign awareness and participation have increased significantly, from 66% and 19% in 2014 to 78% and 32% by 2017. An overwhelming majority (90%) of people who are regularly asked R U OK? feel more supported, connected and cared about.Those on the receiving end of a meaningful R U OK? conversation report feeling supported, heard, safe and better about managing their situation having talked it through with someone who showed genuine interest and concern.The statistics paint a sobering picture of Australia's mental health landscape. 8.8 people take their lives every day in Australia, and an estimated 55,000 Australians make a suicide attempt every year. Rural communities often face additional challenges including geographic isolation, limited access to mental health services, and economic pressures from drought and other environmental factors.Events like the Hay morning tea play a vital role in strengthening community connections and ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles. In any given year in Australia, one in five of us will experience symptoms of mental illness, but 60% will not reach out for help.The morning tea format removes barriers and creates an approachable environment for conversations. By asking, 'Are you OK?' and listening with compassion, we can help to decrease the feelings of disconnection and unbelonging that put people at risk and support them to seek help long before they reach crisis.For those interested in supporting R U OK's mission beyond attending the morning tea, donations can be made via QR code on event materials. R U OK? Limited is on the Register of Harm Prevention Charities, and the organisation continues to expand its reach through corporate sponsors, ambassadors and government funding.As Hay prepares to host its R U OK? Day morning tea, the event represents more than just a community gathering. It's an opportunity to honour Gavin Larkin's legacy and his father Barry's memory by ensuring that in 2025, fewer people feel they have nowhere to turn.On the R U OK? website, Larkin stated that "getting connected and staying connected is the best thing anyone can do for themselves and for those who may be at risk".The Interreach Hay Community Centre morning tea on Thursday 11 September offers the perfect opportunity for locals to do just that. Sometimes the most powerful tool for helping someone is the simplest: genuinely asking "Are you OK?" and taking the time to listen to the answer.For more conversation tips and resources, visit ruok.org.au

Central Darling Shire Council announced at its August meeting they will support the establishment of a Family Day Care service in Ivanhoe. The Council formally agreed to support this service at the August Council meeting. Despite growing local needs Ivanhoe does not have a regular childcare service. This is placing pressure on families and making the town less attractive to potential new residents. Central Darling Shire Council said they support the establishment of a Family Day Care service in Ivanhoe. The Council formally agreed to support the service at the August Council meeting. Despite growing local needs Ivanhoe does not have a regular childcare service. Before anything can happen, funding will need to be sourced.

Marathon Mitch reaches Cobar milestone in epic charity runDetermined runner Mitch McKenny has reached Cobar right on schedule, marking a significant milestone in his extraordinary 1,100-kilometre journey from Broken Hill to Newcastle to raise funds for Angelman syndrome research.The father-of-one, who has earned the nickname "Marathon Mitch," arrived in Cobar on Sunday September 1 as planned, eleven days into his epic 29-day fundraising challenge for baby Huxley Maguire.McKenny was inspired to undertake the mammoth run after his close friends Jess and Bree Maguire's son Huxley was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome at just four months old. The rare neurological condition affects development and can cause seizures, speech impairment, and movement difficulties."Seeing what Jess and Bree are going through, and knowing there are families across Australia facing the same challenges, I knew I had to do something significant," McKenney said as he prepared to leave Cobar for the next leg of his journey.The timing of his Cobar stopover coincided with the town's Running on Empty Festival, creating an unexpected but perfect opportunity for locals to show their support for the cause. Community members gathered to cheer McKenny on, with some joining him for sections of his run through town.Local Cobar resident Sarah Thompson, who walked alongside Mitch for several kilometres, said the community was inspired by his determination. "To see someone push themselves to this limit for a mate's kid – that's the spirit of the outback right there," she said.McKenny's fundraising effort, dubbed "Huxley's Heroes," aims to raise over $150,000 for Fast Australia, a charity supporting research into Angelman syndrome and other rare genetic conditions. All donations over $2 are tax deductible.Since departing Broken Hill on August 22, McKenney has been maintaining an impressive pace, covering approximately 38 kilometres each day despite challenging weather conditions and the physical toll of running on bitumen for extended periods.The route takes him through some of NSW's most iconic outback towns, with upcoming stops including Nyngan on 5 September and Dubbo on 9 September, before winding through regional communities toward his final destination in Newcastle on 19 September.Local businesses and communities along the route have rallied behind the cause, offering accommodation, meals, and encouragement to keep McKenny motivated during the gruelling challenge."The support from every town has been incredible," McKenny said. "People are coming out to run with me, walk their dogs alongside me, even ride horses with me for a bit. It's not just my run anymore – it's become a community effort for Huxley and all the families dealing with Angelman syndrome."Fast Australia CEO praised McKenny's efforts, noting that funds raised will contribute directly to research aimed at finding treatments and ultimately a cure for the condition that affects approximately one in 15,000 births.For those wanting to support Marathon Mitch, donations can be made via the QR code on promotional materials or by contacting [email protected]. Community members in upcoming towns are encouraged to follow the "Move for a Cure" Facebook and Instagram pages for run-in times and opportunities to show support.McKenny's next major stop is Nyngan on September 5, where locals are already planning a community welcome for the determined runner who's proving that mateship and determination can move mountains – one kilometre at a time.

Sturt Highway Taskforce MeetingOn 5 August I attended the quarterly meeting of the Sturt Highway Taskforce in Darlington Point. The meeting included presentations from Transport for NSW (TfNSW) on road safety, pavement planning and future investment along the Sturt Highway.TfNSW outlined the Strategic Regional Transport Plans (SRTPs), which are now being developed across NSW. The Riverina-Murray plan will go out for consultation in 2026, and councils, including Hay, will have the opportunity to update and confirm their priorities. It is essential that local government remains closely involved, as on the ground realities of road use and community needs.The Taskforce also heard about the forward works program. Each year TfNSW spends approximately $0.5 million on the Sturt Highway, including bitumen resealing, heavy patching, and rehabilitation works. While welcome, this level of investment is still only half of what is required to properly maintain a highway of such importance. The Taskforce resolved to continue advocating strongly for increased funding and a clear 10-year strategy for the Sturt.Discussion also turned to the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). With oversized and over-mass vehicles expected to use the Sturt Highway to transport turbine components, careful planning and upgrades will be needed to ensure the road network can safely handle the load. Councils, including Hay, called for local government to have a seat at the table in route selection and planning conversations. We also emphasised the importance of securing legacy projects, such as overtaking lanes and road safety improvements, so that regions benefit from this major infrastructure investment.The Sturt Highway Strategic Directions document was formally adopted at the meeting and will now be promoted to key state and federal ministers. Hay Shire Council will also make the document available to the community.

“There are four young people walking around in the early hours trying to get into cars and houses,” said Balranald Shire Council on their social media today. They are advising the community to ensure their cars and doors are locked.“Also, if you have any CCTV footage for around 2am on Wednesday 3 September 2025 with these young people entering your property, can you please take it to the police.”