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/ ↗

The NSW Parliament's Modern Slavery Committee will travel to Griffith on Thursday 19 June 2025 to hold its third hearing as part of its inquiry into modern slavery risks faced by temporary migrant workers in rural and regional New South Wales. The committee will hear from local councils, advocacy and community groups and health organisations. "The committee is travelling to Griffith this week to hear directly from those who provide support to and advocate for victim-survivors of modern slavery in the region," Dr Joe McGirr MP, Committee Chair said. "The committee appreciates the time taken by local stakeholders to provide evidence to the committee."The hearing will be held in the Cabaret Room at the Gem Hotel from 8.45 am. The hearing will be open to the public and live streamed on the NSW Parliament's website: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/Pages/webcasts.aspx For further information about the inquiry, including the translated terms of reference, please visit the committee's website. The enquiry came on the heels of a landmark report from independent NSW Anti-slavery Commissioner James Cockayne found there are an estimated 16,400 people trapped in modern slavery in NSW.The report found in Griffith, in NSW’s Riverina region, there were some early warning indicators that suggested the possibility organised labour trafficking may be emerging on a small scale.

Scalabrini Communities is honoured once again to be the recipient of the Xref Engages Best Workplace Award for 2025, reflecting its exceptional leadership practices and deeply engaged workforce.  The Best Workplace Awards celebrate organisations that have achieved exceptional levels of employee engagement and satisfaction as well as demonstrating effective leadership practices and positive workplace cultures. Specifically, they acknowledge organisations that give their people a voice, achieve outstanding employee engagement and use feedback to make positive organisational change. Scalabrini’s achievement of three consecutive Best Workplace Awards since 2023, along with an outstanding employee satisfaction score of 84.2 per cent—well above the 80 per cent benchmark—reflects its unwavering commitment to cultivating a positive and engaging workplace culture.This recognition further underscores the organisation’s ability to sustain high employee morale and deliver strong, effective leadership, firmly establishing Scalabrini as a leader in workplace excellence and staff retention.  Commenting on the accolade CEO Richard de Haast said, “We are thrilled to be recognised in this way three years running. This is an outstanding achievement and recognises how the team continuously explore new ways to help our team members feel connected and that they belong in our Scalabrini Communities. "This resonates deeply with the team as shown by our nine per cent labour turnover compared to the 30 to 40 per cent in the aged care sector.”

Autism Awareness Australia has teamed up with TAFE NSW to launch a new online course specifically designed for early childhood professionals who want to better support autistic children in their services. The microskill course, "Autism Awareness for Early Childhood Professionals," can be completed in just two hours and is completely free for NSW educators.Nicole Rogerson, CEO of Autism Awareness Australia, is refreshingly direct about what this course isn't. "This isn't just another box-ticking training module," she said. "We're challenging autism myths, building confidence, and getting to the heart of what inclusive education looks like for our youngest learners."The numbers tell a compelling story. Children identified with autism before the age of six are far more likely to access early intervention, leading to significantly improved developmental outcomes. And here's the thing that makes early childhood educators so crucial in this picture: they're often the first people outside the family to notice the early signs."Recognising the early signs of autism isn't just helpful, it's lifechanging," Rogerson explained. "ECEC professionals are often in that vital position to spot what families might not yet see."The course covers ground that many educators have been asking for: how to recognise early signs in babies, toddlers and preschoolers; understanding how autism can present differently in boys and girls; and learning practical strategies to support children's sensory, emotional and communication needs.But perhaps most importantly, it tackles the myths that continue to harm both practice and children.The five interactive modules don't just throw theory at busy educators. They provide downloadable resources and practical strategies that can be implemented immediately in early childhood settings."When educators can respond with empathy and understanding, they change lives," Rogerson said, "and they're far less likely to burn out while doing it."It's worth noting that this course was developed with input from the people who matter most: early childhood leaders and families of autistic children, alongside subject matter experts and TAFE NSW teachers.This autism awareness course is just one offering in the broader Early Childhood Education and Care Professional Learning Program, a partnership between the NSW Department of Education and TAFE NSW that launched late last year. More than 1,600 NSW early childhood professionals are already registered and accessing professional development opportunities designed to strengthen their knowledge and skills.Rogerson sees the urgent need for this kind of targeted professional development. "We're delivering high-impact, digestible learning designed to lift the quality of inclusive practice across the sector, reduce burnout, and help tackle Australia's deepening skills shortage in early childhood education and care."For NSW early childhood professionals ready to strengthen their autism awareness and inclusive practice skills, the course is available now through the ECEC Professional Learning Program. Two hours of learning that could make all the difference to the children in their care.Because sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is simply know what to look for, and how to respond with understanding when they find it.NSW early childhood professionals can access the free course through the Early Childhood Education and Care Professional Learning Program. For more information about autism awareness and support, visit Autism Awareness Australia.

Central Darling Shire council is set to host Local Government Minister and State Member.On Wednesday, June 18, Central Darling Shire Council will be hosting the NSW Local Government Minister, Ron Hoenig, and State Member for Barwon, Roy Butler. They will be visiting the Baaka Cultural Centre, from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, and making an announcement regarding the future for Central Darling Shire. Members of the community are welcome to attend.A worthwhile date to put in your diaries, if you will be in the area. The respective politicians have been touring the area, including several sites in Broken Hill.

The Ivanhoe War Memorial is set for restoration works. The Council welcomes news that it will receive $10,000 from the NSW Government for the Ivanhoe War Memorial Restoration project. The work will address preservation risks and ensure the long-term protection of the memorial. Key works include repairing deteriorating concrete, upgrading fencing, and implementing measures to prevent damage to the memorial from water, trimmers, and mowers in the surrounding grassed areas. Minor landscaping will also be undertaken. The grant money comes from the Department of Communities and Justice’s Community War Memorials Fund. Ivanhoe is one of 14 war memorials in NSW that will be receiving funding under the grant. Without this grant money the project would not be possible. The work will be completed within the next 12 months.

The glass trophy sits proudly on the shelf, a tangible reminder of something much bigger than an award ceremony. For Central Darling Shire Council, their win in the First Nations Community Partnership category at the 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards represents years of genuine collaboration and respect built around the Baaka Cultural Centre.But it wasn't just one success story that caught the judges' attention. The small council found itself recognised as finalists in three separate categories—a remarkable achievement for any local government, let alone one serving some of NSW's most remote communities.Innovation Born from NecessityThe council's "Properties for Sale in Central Darling Shire" Facebook page might sound like a simple idea, but it represents the kind of practical innovation that rural councils excel at. When traditional property marketing doesn't quite fit your community's needs, you create something that does.The page earned finalist status in its category, recognition for turning social media into a genuine community service. It's the sort of grassroots approach that makes perfect sense once you see it in action—using the platforms people actually check to share information about available properties in the shire.When the Lights Went OutThe third finalist recognition came for something no council wants to be good at: emergency response. The Local Emergency Management Committee's handling of the 2024 power outage demonstrated what happens when preparation meets crisis, and community partnerships prove their worth.The submission recognised "the combined efforts of Council and all the various government, business and volunteer emergency response agencies in helping residents during the power outage." It's a modest description for what was likely days or weeks of coordinated effort to keep people safe and informed when the power grid failed.In remote areas like Central Darling Shire, a power outage isn't just an inconvenience—it can be a genuine emergency. Communication systems fail, essential services stop working, and vulnerable residents can find themselves cut off from help. The response that earned finalist recognition was built on relationships and planning that happened long before the crisis hit.The Cultural Centre AchievementThe Baaka Cultural Centre represents something deeper than a building or a program. Its recognition in the First Nations Community Partnership category reflects genuine collaboration between council and Aboriginal communities—the kind of partnership that takes time to build and trust to maintain.The glass trophy they brought home isn't just recognition for the council; it represents acknowledgment of the cultural centre's role in preserving and sharing Aboriginal heritage while strengthening community connections. These partnerships can't be created overnight or ticked off a compliance checklist—they require ongoing commitment and mutual respect.Small Council, Big ImpactFor Central Darling Shire Council, these three recognitions highlight the unique position of rural local government. With smaller populations and tighter budgets, rural councils often have to be more creative, more collaborative, and more connected to their communities than their urban counterparts.The Facebook property page, the emergency response coordination, and the cultural centre partnership all reflect this reality. They're solutions born from understanding exactly what their communities need and finding practical ways to deliver it.The 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards drew entries from councils across the state, making Central Darling Shire's triple recognition even more significant. It's validation that innovation and excellence aren't measured by population size or budget—they're measured by how well you serve your community.That glass trophy on the shelf tells a story about partnership and respect, but the two finalist recognitions tell an equally important story about innovation, preparation, and genuine community service. Together, they paint a picture of a council that understands its role and executes it with both creativity and heart.

There will be minor disruption to traffic and street parking, for tree maintenance.This will take place on Williams St (between Galena St & Sulphide St).The maintenance will begin on Tuesday June 17, concluding on Friday, 4 July 2025.As part of Council’s scheduled tree maintenance works along Williams Street, special traffic management measures will be implemented around the active work zones to ensure the safety of both vehicular traffic and pedestrians. Residents are asked not to park their vehicles on the roadway adjacent to their properties if works are being carried out in the vicinity. Motorists are asked to be patient and obey all signage and directions given by traffic controllers or portable traffic signal systems. Managed vehicle and pedestrian access will be maintained to properties and along footpaths. However, minor delays may be experienced.For further information please contact: Tobias Hack, Council's Works Team Leader via phone (08) 8080 3109.

Warren Brown adjusts his hearing aids as he speaks, a quiet reminder of decades spent around firearms. As president of the Griffith Sporting Shooters Association, he's seen firsthand what years of shooting without proper hearing protection can do."I've lost most of my hearing. That's why I'm wearing these," he says, tapping the small devices. It's this personal experience that fuels his support for sound suppressors—what Hollywood calls silencers but what Brown knows are simply tools to protect what's left of his hearing.The debate over hunting rights has reached fever pitch in NSW Parliament, where the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party has introduced their "right to hunt" bill. The legislation would establish a new hunting authority with power to issue licences allowing recreational shooters to use sound suppressors and night vision equipment.For Brown and others in rural communities, it's about practical solutions to real problems. "They're not silencers—that's a Hollywood concoction," he explains patiently. "They're sound moderators or sound suppressors. There's benefits to neighbours who are nearby where shooting might be happening. It stops them from being alarmed about it."But the Greens see something far more sinister. MP Sue Higginson's words paint a different picture entirely: "The proposed law seeks to enshrine a 'right to hunt' and allow hunters to shoot in the darkness of night, in the forests of NSW, with night vision equipment and silencers. It's literally a horror movie nightmare unfolding before us."The gulf between these perspectives runs deep, splitting along familiar urban-rural lines that define so much of Australian politics.Life on the LandHelen Dalton knows both sides of this divide intimately. The independent MP for Murray, formerly with the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party, is also a farmer and firearm user. She's lived the reality that many urban politicians can only imagine."The Greens, they're not living the environment that we've got out where I am," Dalton says with characteristic directness."Obviously, they're not impacted by these feral animals as much as what we are. Because if they understood, Sue Higginson wouldn't be making some of these complaints, because we're losing the battle."That battle isn't metaphorical. Dalton has hit a goat while driving; others in her community have struck pigs. The financial cost runs deeper than vehicle repairs. "Animals like pigs and goats, if you've got sheep that are lambing, they will take the lamb," she explains. "Foxes work in pairs and will sometimes take the lamb's kidneys or tongues so they can't suck. It's a big financial cost, but you know, just the whole issue of seeing your livestock basically being eaten alive."The imagery is stark, but it's the daily reality for farmers across rural NSW. For them, feral animal control isn't about sport—it's about survival.Strict Standards RemainBoth Brown and Dalton are quick to emphasise that their support for expanded hunting rights doesn't mean loosening Australia's strict gun laws. The framework established after the Port Arthur massacre remains fundamental to their thinking."Australia has very strict firearms laws, and there's no suggestion that they should be changed or watered down," Brown says firmly. "This proposal is about opening up public land and private land, providing the landholder is in agreement, to opportunities for people to hunt, particularly feral animals."Dalton knows the licensing process intimately, having navigated it herself. "To get a shooting licence, you had to apply about five times because they don't want just anyone to have a licence," she recalls. "It's quite rigorous. We've had the gun laws coming in after the Port Arthur massacre. It's been very much tightened up."The safety measures are comprehensive: guns locked in one safe, ammunition in another. "I haven't got a problem with all of that, and I certainly don't want US-style gun laws," Dalton emphasises. "Society will not accept that sort of thing, but what we will accept are some clever shooters coming in and giving us a hand to control feral pests."The Real CostThe Nature Conservation Council's CEO Jacqui Mumford argues the bill would weaken firearm laws and raise serious public safety concerns. For urban environmentalists, the focus remains on potential risks rather than current realities.But for farmers like Dalton, the cost of inaction is measured in dead livestock and damaged vehicles. "If you hit them in a vehicle, they're going to do a lot of damage," she says simply. It's not just about money—though the financial impact is real—it's about watching animals you've raised and cared for being "basically eaten alive."The divide seems unbridgeable at times. City-based Greens see "horror movie nightmares" where rural communities see practical solutions to pressing problems. Environmental groups worry about public safety where farmers see an opportunity to protect their livelihoods and their hearing.What both sides share is a genuine concern for safety and wellbeing. The question is whether they can find common ground in the space between Hollywood stereotypes and rural realities, between environmental protection and practical pest control.For now, the debate continues in Parliament, with each side certain they're protecting what matters most. Warren Brown will keep adjusting his hearing aids, Helen Dalton will keep dealing with feral animals, and somewhere in the middle, NSW will need to find a way forward that acknowledges both the genuine concerns of environmentalists and the daily realities of life on the land.

Ruth McRae OAM has been in local government long enough to know that some decisions weigh heavier than others. As Mayor of Murrumbidgee Council, she's had to make plenty of tough calls, but few sit as uncomfortably as the one announced this week.Come 16 September, the council will hold a public auction at their Jerilderie office, selling off properties whose owners haven't paid their rates and charges. It's the kind of decision that keeps mayors awake at night, but one that McRae says the council simply can't avoid any longer."We strongly encourage anyone affected to settle their outstanding balances before the auction date to avoid the sale of their property," she said, her words carrying the weight of someone who understands what losing your land means in rural communities.The numbers tell their own story. Around $350,000 in unpaid rates had been hanging over the council's books. Since word of the auction got out, about $80,000 has come in from property owners who suddenly found ways to settle their accounts. But $270,000 still remains outstanding, and the council has reached the end of its patience—and its legal obligations to other ratepayers.The Legal RealityUnder the Local Government Act 1993, councils have the right to sell land when rates remain unpaid for more than a year on vacant blocks, or more than five years on other properties. It's not a power councils exercise lightly, but it's one they're legally entitled to use when other options have been exhausted.McRae describes it as "a difficult decision," but emphasises it's one the council must make. "Unpaid rates and charges are a heavy burden on the council and all ratepayers," she explains. It's the kind of practical reality that defines local government—when some don't pay, everyone else carries the load.The auction will be held at 11am on 16 September at the council's Jerilderie office on Jerilderie Street. It's a modest venue for what could be life-changing transactions, but it reflects the straightforward nature of the process.No Frills, No PreviewsDon't expect glossy brochures or weekend open homes. This isn't your typical real estate auction. The council has been clear: no photographs, no descriptions, no additional information about the properties will be available. Prospective buyers won't even get to inspect what they're bidding on before the hammer falls."All properties will be sold sight unseen and prospective buyers must carry out their own due diligence," the council states matter-of-factly. It's buyer beware in the most literal sense—a reflection of the auction's purpose as debt recovery rather than property marketing.The approach might seem harsh, but it's designed to be. These aren't investment opportunities being marketed to eager buyers; they're assets being sold to recover money owed to the community.Community NotificationThe council hasn't hidden the process away. Letters have gone out to anyone with an interest in the affected properties. Notices will be placed on-site at each property. The auction details will appear in local newspapers, the NSW Government Gazette, and across all the council's communication channels—website, digital platforms, and social media pages.It's the kind of comprehensive notification process that ensures nobody can claim they didn't know what was coming. For the property owners involved, those letters and notices represent final warnings—last chances to sort things out before losing their land entirely.The Human CostBehind the legal framework and bureaucratic processes are real people facing the prospect of losing their property. In rural communities like those across the Murrumbidgee, land often represents more than just an asset—it's heritage, livelihood, and identity rolled into one.The $80,000 that's already come in since the auction was announced suggests some property owners were perhaps hoping the problem would go away, or that the council wouldn't follow through. Now they know better.For those who still haven't paid, time is running out. September 16 isn't far away, and once that auction starts, the opportunity to settle directly with the council ends. Properties will go to whoever bids highest, regardless of their original value or what they mean to their current owners.It's a reminder that in local government, as in life, bills eventually come due. And when they don't get paid, the consequences can be more serious than anyone wants to contemplate.The auction details are available on the Murrumbidgee Council website for anyone who needs them—whether they're property owners scrambling to settle their debts, or potential buyers interested in what might be on offer come September.