No more precarious and lengthy travel for residents and travellers on Pooncarie Road.The historic $48.8 million Australian and NSW Government-funded sealing projects have been completed.“Central Darling Shire Council appreciates the funding support from the Australian and NSW governments because the road desperately needed to be sealed for road safety reasons,” said Central Darling Shire General Manager Greg Hill.“Now we can keep the road open during wet conditions, benefiting both residents and tourists.“This is a significant achievement.“I would like to congratulate everyone involved in these projects over the last three years including our Shire Services Director, and the project manager for council, Reece Wilson, and his team.“These are major projects for not only our shire but also the far west region."The benefits will be long lasting. We also expect to see more tourists visiting the area now that the road is sealed.”Federal Government financed $31.7 million and the NSW Government contributed $17.1 million to the projects.The ventures were delivered by Wentworth Shire Council and Central Darling Shire Council between 2021 and 2024.Prior to this, 87.5 kilometres of Pooncarie Road between Menindee and Pooncarie had a dirt surface.Motorists had to live with less than safe conditions, longer travel times and regular road closures after heavy rainfall would some communities stranded for extended periods.“This project has been a real game changer for local communities with motorists now able to travel on a reliable road surface that’s much safer and resilient to wet weather.“Improved access for tourists, locals and freight services will benefit these far west communities including the western pastoralists who are operating sheep, goat and cattle industries in the area,” said State Member for Barwon Roy Butler.The sealing projects have led to easier access to essential services, while also boosting freight efficiency.Improved access also means increased tourism opportunities, including for visitors to the popular Menindee Lakes.More than 75 people worked on the sealing projects which also provided a boost to local employment.“These projects are a good example of all three levels of government working together to make this long overdue sealing a reality.“I’m happy more of our communities are benefiting from better roads,” said State Member for Murray Helen Dalton.“Our investments in a better Pooncarie Road will benefit current and future generations for many years to come.“Rural and regional communities rely on roads for so much of their well-being and I am pleased to see these improvements to far west roads being delivered,” said Labor spokesperson for the state seats of Barwon and Murray, Stephen Lawrence.Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said it's an exciting milestone for the Menindee community after working with them to secure the initial funding for this project back in 2019."I'm thrilled that this project has now been completed," Mr Coulton said."I've been involved in this project from the very start. I still remember the initial conversations with the Menindee community when they told me that the best way to support their future prosperity would be to seal the Pooncarie Road, enabling tourists and locals easier access to the beautiful Menindee Lakes."The upgrade of Pooncarie Road between Menindee and Pooncarie has involved sealing 87.5 kilometres of road from dirt to bitumen, significantly reducing travel times and ensuring the local community have regular access to essential services regardless of weather."Previously, the dirt road would be impassable following heavy rainfall, isolating the community for weeks at a time."Now, not only do locals and freight operators have more reliable access along this stretch of road but more tourists are able to visit the area year-round."The former Coalition Government recognised the benefits of this project and now the Menindee community is reaping the rewards."Congratulations to Central Darling Shire Council on the great job completing this project."

Ivanhoe Dry Times Truck, Tractor, Car and Bike Show as well as a private benefactor, donated money for the purchase of two Christmas trees and wonderful Christmas lights.This has really got Ivanhoe looking choc full of Christmas spirit, with Columbus Street, Ivanhoe's main street, looking lit up and festive.Congratulations Ivanhoe, your town may be small but your hearts and community spirit are big.

The NSW Department of Education has concluded an investigation into a sewage leak at Ivanhoe Central School in October which impacted the school oval, parking area and cricket nets.The Department has organised installation of a new aerated wastewater treatment system in the summer school holidays. This will include underground works to connect a new sewer line, laying top soil and turf and installing a new outdoor garden tap.The works re expected to be completed by the start of term one, 2025.Trenching and excavation work will happen on the school oval, which will e partially and temporarily fenced.There will be increased traffic during the period in which work is undertaken, with vehicles accessing the school grounds via the Raleigh Street entrance.

Temperatures will soar in northern parts of NSWThe Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is warning of heatwave conditions for the region tomorrow (Sunday) and Monday.The Monday forecasts for Ivanhoe are for a maximum of 48 degrees on Monday, but a BOM spokesperson told ABC Radio Riverina the mercury could go higher.Hay and Wilcannia are also tipped to reach highs of 48 degrees.Monday's forecasts:Wilcannia - 48 max / 29 minHay - 48 max / 27 minBalranald - 46 max / 25 minMenindee - 46 max / 27 minIvanhoe - 48 max / 27 minIn its Summer Long-Range Forecast Bureau warns that summer is likely to be warmer than average across most of the country.

A Hazard Reduction burn is scheduled today at Bushy Bend in Hay commencing at 1pm.The Hay HQ Brigade will use a low intensity burn, in small patches to ensure it is a well-controlled and targeted burn.The RFS request that members of the public remain clear of Bushy Bend area for the duration of the hazard reduction, this includes abstaining from the use of exercise equipment and the walking track.Remember that smoke from hazard reduction burning can affect some people more than others. NSW Health reminds people that children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of air pollution.If you have asthma or a lung condition, please reduce your outdoor activity. If you develop shortness of breath or coughing, take your reliever medication, or seek medical advice. Please only call Triple Zero (000) if you see unattended fire. For more information visit the Hazards Near Me app:https://www.nsw.gov.au/emergency/hazards-near-me-appor the #NSWRFS website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr

BY MICK CATTANACH Hay Senior cricket team had its first defence of the Creet Cup on Sunday against arch rivals Griffith. After holding the cup for the entire 2023/24 season, Hay was determined to keep homeground supremacy and hold the Cup in the first challenge. Winning the toss, Hay skipper Simon Bunyan, chose to bat on a pitch that was going to be challenging for the batters after recent rain. Openers Jensen Hargreaves and Liam Whitbourne weathered the early storm, seeing Hay through to over 14 without loss and the score on 24. However, Hay lost both openers after doing the hard work in successive overs before the drinks break. Worse was to follow when Simon Bunyan pulled his first ball straight to mid wicket to be out caught, leaving Hay at a precarious three for 30. However, this brought Rupert Lilburne to the crease with Dean Aylett. The pair put on the most important partnership of the match. Batting cautiously initially, they pushed for singles before moving to a more aggressive stance. Constantly turning the strike over, the pair put on 66 runs. In over 33, Dean lost his wicket, attempting to force the score and departed for a well-made 28. Rupert was then joined by brother Digby, maintaining momentum, hitting a number of towering sixes and driving the Hay total above 100. Rupert eventually lost his wicket caught at long on one run short of a half century, a crucial innings. Digby following soon after for a hard hitting 25. However, Hay's scoring wasn't finished. A 20-run ninth wicket partnership between Tom McGufficke and Mick Harrington helped the total to a very competitive 165. Tom then lost his wicket caught in the deep, on the second last ball of the innings. Importantly, Hay had batted its full 45 overs, and with a slow outfield and a strong bowling attack was entitled to feel confident at the break in innings. This was only enhanced in the second over when Digby Lilburne removed two Griffith batsman to leave their run chase in trouble, with only one run on the board. A partnership then developed as Griffith moved the score onto 34, but Rupert Lilburne's persistence over a long opening spell paid off as eventually he clean bowled the opening bat in over 11. From this point Hay tightened up scoring, with Simon Bunyan and Dean Aylett squeezing the Griffith batting with tight bowling. Wickets started to follow, with Dean getting two LBWs and Simon clean bowling the dangerous Ollie Barter for 27. Isaac Gardiner joined the attack and his miserly off-spin gave the batters little opportunity to score and eventually he picked up two wickets in an unchanged nine over spell, as Griffith fell to 8 for 84, at the end of over 28. With Hay right on top and requiring only the two wickets for victory, the Griffith tail wagged for a number of overs. The Hay attack and fielding remained determined. In time, Digby returned to the attack got one wicket, and then after another partnership Dean picked up the last wicket in over 41. Hay hadbowled Griffith out for 127 in over 41, to run out victors by 38 runs in a tough contest. Hay was the dominant team for the most of the match, with contributors across the team. Hay retains the Creet Cup, and will now await further challenges over the next few months. Hay 165 all out (R Lilburne 49, D Aylett 28, D Lilburne 25, T McGufficke 19, J Hargreaves 14, L Whitbourne 11) defeated Griffith 127 all out (D Lilburne 3/30, I Gardiner 2/21, D Aylett 2/28, S Bunyan 1/22, R Lilburne 1/26).

The Minns Government says it is making progress towards increasing Aboriginal water rights and providing for Aboriginal access and ownership of water for cultural and economic purposes.The NSW Government says it has gathered valuable feedback on the draft Aboriginal Water Strategy through an extensive consultation that was held from July to September this year.The process allowed the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to hear the perspectives of nearly 400 stakeholders across New South Wales.Over the three-month consultation period, DCCEEW officers held 52 face-to-face workshops, along with three online workshops on the draft strategy, and received more than 40 written submissions."This process will enable Government to consider and incorporate these important perspectives before finalising the Aboriginal Water Strategy and associated Action Plan in 2025," a spokesperson said."Once in place, the Strategy will be a foundational document that aims to recognise Aboriginal people’s water rights and strengthen their role in water planning and management.It will allow relevant Government agencies to work more closely with Aboriginal people on water matters in order to improve water knowledge and maintain and preserve cultural sites."The feedback from this year’s consultation is now available in a What We Heard report.“Completing consultation on the draft Aboriginal Water Strategy is a fantastic step forward as we build a stronger and more collaborative partnership between the NSW Government and Aboriginal communities in relation to water management," Minister for Water Rose Jackson said.“This process is vital as we work to make sure that we are managing our waterways in a way that respects and upholds Aboriginal peoples’ water rights, values and cultural obligations to care for Country.“More than 400 people have had their say on the draft Strategy and feedback gathered in more than 50 face-to-face workshops held right across New South Wales and 42 written submissions – this will help us to fine-tune the details before we launch the final Aboriginal Water Strategy next year.“We know how important it is to have a strategy that recognises the diverse views and interests of Aboriginal peoples in a meaningful and practical way, which is why we engaged directly with as many communities as possible.“This just the beginning of a stronger partnership with Aboriginal communities, and we will continue to hold ongoing conversations and action planning at the local level to deliver on this commitment.”“I am proud the NSW Government is continuing to take steps to ensure that we recognise Aboriginal people’s water rights and strengthen their role in water planning and management," Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said.“Consulting with a diverse group of stakeholders on the Aboriginal Water Strategy will ensure we maintain our waterways in a way that respects Aboriginal water rights.“This will be another key step in closing the gap for Aboriginal people which is a top priority of the Minns Labor Government."

I recently read a ‘news’ article which said some of the creative way people are reducing their electricity bills are to…… turn their air conditioner off. Granted, some people are not fans of air conditioning, or will take steps to keep cool before they turn their cooler on, but if people are getting to the point where they can’t afford to pay the bill, so they forgo comfort, it feels like a problem. When did keeping cool in summer or keeping war in winter become a luxury and not a necessity?According to the 2023 ACOSS Heat Survey, heatwaves were responsible for 36,000 deaths between 2006 and 2017 in Australia. As well as the risk to life and health, heat also has severe economic impacts.Well, what happens when needing to be cool and not being able to afford to keep cool collides?Rental homes in Australia are less energy efficient than owner-occupied homes. One study found because of inefficient appliances and a lack of weatherproofing; renters pay eight per cent more in energy bills than homeowners in like-for-like homes.There is a saturation of advice and tips for saving electricity within a household, something for which we are all grateful. However, only so much can be done for costs, in a time when many people are resorting to not turning on their air conditioning as they can’t afford the electricity.In the harsh hot summer, we experience in these areas, it beggars’ belief people would have to resort to this.Over 90 per cent of people on income support payments say not being able to afford to cool their homes in hot weather is making them sick.Even those who have air conditioning avoid using it because it is too expensive, a survey by Australian Council of Social Service has found.Heat-related illnesses: Heat stress is a leading cause of weather-related deaths and can lead to heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. Heatstroke is a medical emergency with a high fatality rate. Exacerbated illnesses: Heat can make underlying illnesses worse, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, and mental health. Increased risk of accidents: Heat can increase the risk of accidents. Transmission of infectious diseases: Heat can increase the risk of transmission of some infectious diseases. Dehydration: Dehydration is more likely to happen in people who are less heat tolerant, such as children and the elderly.Taking simple actions could save a household of four around $760 a year.If you've got a second fridge, getting rid of it could save around $172 a year.Switching off the game console after use could save up to $193 a year.Using the clothesline instead of the dryer once a week could save $79 a year.Installing a water-efficient 4-star showerhead could save $315 a year on water bills. You’ll also save on your energy bills because less water will need to be heated. Visit these links to look at advice on how to save wherever you can.https://www.energy.gov.au/households/household-guides/life-stages-advice/rentershttps://calculator.energyrating.gov.au/Unfortunately, I don’t have the answer to the big problems, like the cost-of-living crisis, or electricity bills. But check on the ones you love this summer, and people you know who are vulnerable (families with small children and the elderly). If there is no clear option for you other than to keep the air conditioning off, please ensure you, or you people are looking after their health.

Helen Dalton MP, Member for Murray, says the truth about what she describes as $13 billion of wasted taxpayer money needs to be told.The independent member is referring to a new four-year study into the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) Plan reveals mixed results.The four-year study released last involved 12 scientists from Australia’s leading universities, and drew on data from 1980 to 2023. The report is co authored by Matthew Colloff, Kate Lanyon, Jamie Pittock, Milo Costanza-van den Belt, Sarah Wheele, Quentin Grafton, John Williams, Fran Sheldon, Richard Kingsford, Gilad Bino, Luigi Renzullo and Bradley Moggridge.Professor Kingsford, from the University of NSW, is well known in the region, having worked extensively on water bird research in the Low Bidgee eco-region and across the entire Murray-Darling Basin. “It is the most comprehensive report card to date on government policies to protect the Murray-Darling,” said one of the report’s authors Jamie Pittock, a professor at the Australian National University.“We found expensive and contentious reforms, including the once-vaunted Murray-Darling Basin plan, have mostly failed to improve outcomes for people and nature along the river system.“The result is deeply alarming for a natural asset so fundamental to Australia’s environmental, cultural and economic well-being.”Ms Dalton said the research confirms what our communities have known for years.“This Basin Plan was destined to fail from the start.“You can’t fix complex river system issues with simplistic ‘just add water’ solutions.“These childlike ‘solutions’ and lazy politics aren't just failing - they're making things worse. “While billions are wasted on flawed water buybacks, basic issues like pest control and infrastructure maintenance are ignored.”Ms Dalton said the river systems are being overrun by carp, claiming the pest species accounts for 90 per cent of river biomass.The report found just two of 12 MDB Plan environmental indicators were met and claims flows required to achieve environmental outcomes were not met at 65 per cent of the river gauge sites assessed.The report says abundance of waterbirds is declining and the incidence of very large fish-kill events is increasing, as witnessed at Menindee Lakes, NSW, twice in the past decade.“The basic human right to access adequate, safe drinking water is not being met in many towns, including predominantly Indigenous communities such as Wilcannia,” Mr Pittock said.The finding of this recent report is contrary to claims in several studies, including one commissioned by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.In response, Ms Dalton has released her own 12 Steps to a Better Murray Darling Basin Plan on her website.Step one is to stop water buybacks.“We must reinstate legislated protections to ensure water projects don’t hurt communities and only proceed if they have neutral or positive effects.”Ms Dalton’s plan also calls for upgrades to Burrinjuck Dam to increase capacity, and build mid-Murrumbidgee storages at Lake Coolah and Lake Mejum, near Narrandera.“Dams often need to release water during floods, worsening downstream flooding as seen in 2016 and 2022,” Ms Dalton’s plan reads.“Building mid-Murrumbidgee storage would reduce flood impacts, improve efficiency for agriculture and the environmental water holder.”Menindee Lakes also form part of the Member for Murray’s plans.“A proposed solution is to let 712 gigalitres through Menindee, reserving some for local needs, and swap it for water from the Murray system to improve supply and reduce restrictions.”Ms Dalton refers to Lake Alexandrina and Albert in South Australia as ‘fake lakes’ and has previously called for the water bodies to be returned to estuarine waters, rather than fresh water.“Changes must be implemented on these fake lakes to return an estuarine managed system, which would save water, restore natural ecosystems, and improve balance across the Murray-Darling Basin.”Ms Dalton claims floodplain harvesting in northern NSW and outdated water meters in south-eastern South Australia are issues that need addressing.“Installing accurate meters in NSW and smart meters in South Australia will ensure water use is properly measured and managed.“Meter, monitor and police water use,” she urges in her 12 step plan.On social media Ms Dalton compared the $13 billion spent on the MDB Plan as being equivalent to 32,500 family homes, 13,000 Ferrari sports cars or $903 from every Australian taxpayer.The Murray Darling Basin Authority has not released a response to the recent report by scientists.

The man who pled guilty to transporting homemade pipe bombs along the Sturt Highway will serve his sentence in the community.Thirty-three-year-old Timacoy Jason Williams remained in custody after pleading guilty to all charges at his October 4 appearance at Griffith Local Court and was sentenced on November 20 by Magistrate Wright.For the two charges of possess explosive device in public place, one charge of possessing a prohibited drug and one charge of custody of a knife in public place, Williams received concurrent sentences of 22 month of imprisonment, to be served in the community.On a second charge of prohibited drug possession Williams was convicted under Section 10A but no penalty was imposed.Williams’ Intensive Correction Order states he must not commit any offence and must submit to supervision by the Lismore Community Corrections District Office.Williams is also to perform 120 hours of community service and address his mental health and substance abuse issues.The charges relate to the discovery of two suspected pipe bombs in a vehicle stopped on the Sturt Highway near Hay on September 30.The discovery resulted in 50 kilometres of the highway being closed for eight hours between Hay and Maude, while Police investigated.The court heard Williams acted suspiciously during a routine traffic stop, where he was the passenger in the vehicle, smelt of cannabis and was not wearing a seatbelt. When asked for his ID, an agitated Williams gave a false name.The driver produced a positive drug test on the roadside, leading Police to further search the vehicle.Officers searched the car and found a black sports bag in the passenger side footwell, which contained cannabis and two silver metal cylinders with fuses which officers identified as pipe bombs.A jewellery box and a satchel bag containing a wallet with Williams' true name on it were also found.The box and bag were searched and police found cannabis and a clear resealable bag containing a crystal substance believed to be methamphetamine.A 29.5-centimetre knife was also found under the passenger seat.Police also found other items including a 'Mongrels' outlaw motorcycle gang vest, a black ski mask and black tactical gloves.At an earlier appearance the court heard Williams has ties to bikie gangs and had what was referred to as an “extensive criminal history.”Williams’ sentence will expire on September 19, 2026.

The Ivanhoe Community Working Party has sponsored a Christmas event.Head down on December 13 4pm to 6pm, to Ivanhoe Community Hall. Come together as a community and enjoy a community Church Christmas service and outback carols and dinner. Ivanhoe is such a small community but never fails to come together to make things happen.

The NSW Government is currently spending significantly more public money promoting coal than helping regional communities transition away from it, according to new research by the Australia Institute. The report, Greenwashing Coal in New South Wales, reveals a stark contrast in funding priorities. The Australia Institute says state government organisations which are meant to be supporting communities with the transition away from coal have an initial budget of just $5.2 million, while public subsidies for coal research and promotion far exceed this amount. The report's key points:The NSW Government’s proposed Future Jobs and Investment Authorities for the Hunter, Illawarra, Central West and North West regions aim to assist coal-reliant communities' transition. But they are severely underfunded with a collective budget of just $5.2 million for all four authorities.These Authorities are not able to access increased funding from the Future Jobs and Investment Fund until 2028-29.Organisations devoted to promoting and prolonging the NSW coal industry, by contrast, have significantly more resources:Coal Innovation NSW spent $27 million last year and has a balance of $45 million.The coal industry organisation Low Emissions Technology Australia (LETA) is promoted as a $700 million fund. This fund is publicly subsidised, but recently asked to stop receiving contributions due to a significant surplus of funding.The report calls for the abolition of Coal Innovation NSW and associated funds. It also recommends royalty deduction subsidies to LETA be immediately abolished.“The NSW Government is far more focused on promoting coal than helping communities move away from it,” said Rod Campbell, Research Director at The Australia Institute. “The current approach undermines both the state’s emissions reduction efforts and the future of regional communities.“What governments do is more important than what they say. Regional communities need funding to transition smoothly, but instead the lion’s share of government funding is used to promote speculative technologies that assist the coal industry. “The NSW Government has the opportunity to lead the way by redirecting funds and ensuring these communities thrive in a post-coal economy. It should impose a moratorium on new coal projects, abolish Coal Innovation NSW and end royalty deductions for coal industry promotion.“In contrast to the meagre funding in NSW, the German Coal Commission budgeted $3.4 billion per year to allow its regions to move past coal. This is what genuine climate leadership and caring for communities looks like. Unfortunately, the NSW Government has a long way to go.“This research shows that the NSW Government is happy to use the budget to subsidise the coal industry, just as its response to the Newcastle coal port protests showed that it was happy to sacrifice democratic rights for the coal industry.”Beau Blenman, a 7th generation Hunter Valley local who has worked in mining for over two decades said: "Coal mining has devastated our once-beautiful agricultural valley, damaging the environment and eroding the fabric of our community.”"The toll from coal mining in the Hunter has been severe, from polluted air to degraded aquifers. Despite the government’s claims of caring about biodiversity, mining rehabilitation efforts here have been woefully inadequate."We're witnessing our weather systems change while foreign-owned companies profit at the expense of our land and people,” Mr Blenman said.

The tragic death of Molly Wilkes, a 22-year-old victim of domestic violence, has exposed a critical flaw in Australia's superannuation system, leaving her family grappling with grief and a fight for justice. Molly's story sheds light on the urgent need for reform to prevent perpetrators of abuse from profiting from their victims' superannuation death benefits.Molly's story is sadly not unique. Relationships NSW reports that, on average, it takes seven attempts for a survivor to leave an abusive relationship. Molly had tried six times to escape her abuser before her tragic death. Under current superannuation laws, only spouses, children, or financial dependents are eligible to receive death benefits. This rigid system allowed Molly's abusive husband, despite her prior nomination of her mother as beneficiary, to claim her superannuation, adding another layer of pain to an already unbearable loss.This is yet another infuriating and damaging blow to the abused, another cog in the system which allows the abused to profit and come out on top.Julie Adams OAM, Molly's mother, embarked on a tireless campaign to prevent this injustice, challenging the super fund and the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA). Both entities expressed sympathy but were bound by the current legislation, which only allows for refusal of payment if the beneficiary is found guilty of murder, excluding even manslaughter convictions.The fight for change extends beyond Molly's case. Experts and advocates are calling for a comprehensive review of the superannuation death benefits system. Alex Kelly, acting CEO of the Financial Rights Legal Centre, stresses the need to empower super funds to consider family violence in death benefit distribution decisions. Legal experts believe that the superannuation industry is ready for reform. Key proposed changes include:Amending the law to allow funds to consider evidence of domestic violence and financial abuse when determining beneficiaries.Empowering AFCA to consider domestic violence when assessing the fairness of a fund's decision.Ensuring super funds follow best practices when supporting survivors.It does not stop at cases such as Molly's.Women have been denied access to their abusive partners' superannuation death benefits. This injustice stems from a system that often fails to recognize the complex financial dynamics of abusive relationships, leaving survivors in precarious financial situations.The sources highlight several cases where the system has failed to protect these women. In one instance, a woman who endured 29 years of abuse was denied any portion of her deceased partner's superannuation. Despite living apart at the time of his death, a decision attributed to his physical abuse, she was unable to prove financial dependence due to his control over their finances. This case underlines how the system's reliance on traditional financial markers of dependence can disadvantage survivors who have experienced economic abuse.Another woman faced a similar fate when her deceased de facto partner's superannuation was awarded to his parents, despite her claims of financial dependence. She had left their shared home to protect her well-being from his "violent episodes," but this separation was used against her in the superannuation claim. These cases demonstrate a distressing pattern of the system prioritizing technicalities over the realities of abusive relationships.Experts argue that reforms are urgently needed to address this gap in the superannuation framework. Definitions of a long term relationship created by government departments, or guidelines used to label them, are failing to see the nuances and methods of control an abuser can employ.Sharing a lease with an abusive partner can be misinterpreted as a genuine long-term relationship, potentially granting the abuser access to the victim's superannuation upon death.Super funds to consider a wider range of factors, including evidence of financial abuse, isolating behaviors, and testimonies from those close to the deceased.Advocates call for a more holistic approach that considers the nuanced dynamics of domestic violence and financial abuse. Super Consumers Australia, for instance, proposes amendments that allow funds to consider these factors when making decisions on death benefits. Additionally, they urge for clarification on the role of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) in considering domestic violence when assessing the fairness of a fund's decisionWhile legal experts believe the superannuation industry supports these changes, they caution that clear legislation is crucial to guide funds in navigating these sensitive situations. Ultimately, the current superannuation system risks perpetuating the harms of domestic violence even after death. Conducting a comprehensive independent review of the death benefit system to ensure its effectiveness for all Australians.Molly's legacy is a call to action.It is a plea to lawmakers, superannuation funds, and the community to recognize the urgent need for reform.By addressing these critical flaws, we can strive to ensure that superannuation benefits serve their intended purpose—to provide financial security—and not become a tool that further victimizes those who have already endured so much.

The Brighter Beginnings team are striving to get young children ready for school.They are holding a free online education session for caregivers of 4 and 5-year-olds, all about school readiness. Brighter Begginings' Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist and Senior Paediatric Speech Pathologist will share expert tips and fun activities to help children feel confident and prepared for school.There are two ways you can access this fantastic information; join the session on Microsoft teams on Wednesday, December 11 at 11am (Meeting ID: 486 453 547 928, Passcode: eT29q6AQ).The session will also be recorded and available to watch anytime.For more information, call 08 8080 1770.Simply tune in to give your child the best start to their school journey.

Homes out West Mobile Outreach Team will be coming to Wilcannia.On February 5 from 11am to 2pm they will be at the Wilcannia Hall to help with any social or Government housing questions.They will assist you with lodging your housing application online. They can check in to see if you already have applications.They can also let you know what help is available private rentals, and provide you with information if there is a housing issue. This meeting will be at the Wilcannia Community Hall, 78 Woore Street Wilcannia.

Great news for Menindee residents and visitors! The Central Darling Shire Council has been busy making some important improvements to mobility access around town. You'll now find it much easier to get around at three key locations:Menindee Post Office: No more struggling with steps or narrow doorways!Public Toilets: Everyone deserves access to clean and accessible facilities.Supermarket: Grocery shopping just got a whole lot easier for people with mobility challenges.These upgrades are a big win for inclusivity and demonstrate the Council's commitment to making Menindee a more liveable community for everyone. They recognized the need for these improvements through their Disability Inclusion Action Plan (2021-2025), which was developed based on feedback from people with disabilities.The plan focuses on breaking down barriers to inclusion and highlights the importance of accessible infrastructure. Specifically, it calls for:Better access to community facilities: This includes places like the Post Office, public toilets, and the supermarket.Upgraded public toilets: Making sure they are accessible to everyone.Improved paths of travel: This means accessible parking, footpaths, and kerb ramps that make it easier to get around town and access important services.The Menindee mobility access project was made possible thanks to a $178,000 grant from the Stronger Country Communities Fund.The Council is actively seeking additional funding opportunities to continue improving accessibility throughout the Shire.It's fantastic to see local councils taking concrete steps to make their communities more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.

The iconic White Cliffs underground motel is being offered for saleThe White Cliffs' Underground Motel, the largest underground motel in the world is being offered for sale by Out of the Ordinary Outback, the company currently responsible for the motel.White Cliffs Underground Motel is one of only three “dugout”-style hotels in the country, where the temperature remains a conformable 22 degrees, regardless of scorching temperatures above ground.The motel boasts 48 unique hotel rooms, a restaurant and cafe, a bar, museum and conference space, and has existing approval for expansion.The remote community of White Cliffs best known for its opal mining history but is surrounded by ancient rock carvings from the traditional custodians of the nearby Mutawintji National Park – the people of the Pantjikali, Wanyuparlku, Wilyakali and Malyangapa Nations.The asking price is currently undisclosed.The motel is closed for it's annual summer break and will re-open in March 2025.Images: White Cliffs Underground Motel

Australian rapper Briggs (Adam Briggs) posted a message to fans on Sunday evening, of a racial slur that occurred Balranald.Adam Briggs, who performs as Briggs and self-describes as Senator Briggs (although not a member of the Australian Senate), is an Aboriginal Australian rapper, record label owner, comedy writer, actor, and author.On his social media platforms, Briggs posted a story, describing an incident that occurred at an unnamed motel in the town.Briggs was travelling with a family member and claims a woman made a racial slur when they were checking in at reception."While we're checking into this motel a woman wanders into reception and says 'Welcome to BOONGranald!' I did ask if she in fact had said 'BOONGranald,' she sheepishly confirmed," the post read."Instant refund. The year is 2024."Briggs is well known for his stance on the recent Voices to Parliament referendum, where he led a vocal Yes campaign, and his stance on the lowering the age of children's imprisonment.Briggs has been contacted for comment.

It's almost school holidays, which means kids will have more free time… and probably spend a lot of that time online! While the internet is a valuable tool for education and socializing, it's important to be aware of the dangers too.23 Just like in the real world, there are safe places and places you need to supervise your kids. That's why various organizations like Crime Stoppers, NSW Police Force, eSafety Commissioner, and the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) have teamed up to provide resources for parents, carers, and educators to help kids stay safe online.You might be surprised to learn that 84 per cent of Australian children aged 8-12 are already using social media and messaging apps.That's why it's never too early to start talking to your kids about online safety. Think of it like teaching them to ride a bike – you wouldn't let them ride off without a helmet and some basic skills!So, what are some of the dangers kids face online? The sources highlight a few key challenges:Exposure to harmful content: This could include violent or sexually explicit material.Inappropriate contact: Kids may receive unwanted messages or be contacted by adults posing as children.Online grooming: Predators may build relationships with children online with the intention of exploiting them.Sextortion: This involves tricking children into sending explicit images and then blackmailing them.The sources provide several real-life examples of these dangers. In one case, a 13-year-old girl was manipulated into performing sexual acts on camera while chatting with someone she met in an online game.Another case involved a 15-year-old boy who was tricked into sending explicit images and then blackmailed for money.It's important to remember that any child can be a target, regardless of their background. Offenders often target children who are alone online and may not have the knowledge or maturity to understand the risks.But don't panic! There are plenty of things you can do to help keep your kids safe online. Here are a few tips from the sources:Be open and supportive: Let your child know they can come to you if anything goes wrong online, without fear of getting in trouble.Talk about online safety: Have regular conversations with your kids about the potential dangers and how to stay safe. Resources like conversation cards translated into different languages can be helpful.5Be present: Encourage your kids to use devices in open areas of the home where you can keep an eye on their activity.Set boundaries: Use privacy settings and parental controls to monitor content and limit access to devices.Teach them how to spot red flags: Suspicious accounts, personal questions from strangers, and requests for sexualized chat are all warning signs.What if something does happen? The sources emphasize the importance of reporting any incidents of online child exploitation. Here are the steps to take:Collect evidence: Take screenshots or photos of the conversation and record any relevant details like usernames and URLs.Block the user: Prevent further contact on the platform where it occurred.Report it: Contact the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) as soon as possible.Remember, no information is too small.Even seemingly insignificant details could be crucial to a police investigation.The sources provide a wealth of resources to help parents and carers keep kids safe online, including the Child Online Safety Fact Sheet, which offers guidance on recognizing warning signs, protecting children, and reporting online child exploitation.Ultimately, keeping kids safe online is a shared responsibility. Parents, carers, educators, and law enforcement agencies all have a role to play in creating a safer online environment for children. By working together and staying informed, we can help kids enjoy the benefits of the internet while minimizing the risks.