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Helen Dalton MP demands Farrer candidates come clean on water policy
Helen Dalton MP demands Farrer candidates come clean on water policy

30 April 2025, 4:39 AM

With the Federal election just days away, Independent Member for Murray, Helen Dalton, has called on all the candidates running for the seat of Farrer come clean on their water policy and position on water buybacks."Voters need to know which candidates have the back of people in the bush," Mrs. Dalton said.“So far only three candidates have outlined where they stand on these issues and that just isn’t good enough.”Ms Dalton said Independent Michelle Milthorpe has published her comprehensive water policy on her website and in a media release."She has also voiced her absolute opposition to water buybacks."Ms Dalton also said Emma Hicks (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation) and Peter Sinclair (SFF) have also stated their opposition to buy backs.“The Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley says she opposes water buybacks, but it appears she can’t provide a water policy."The Libs along with the National Party have decided to not make water, or water buybacks, a campaign policy.“Any candidate running for the seat of Farrar should have a clear policy on where they or their party stand on the highest priority issue facing people in the bush."To not do so shows utter disrespect for the people they want to vote for them," Mrs. Dalton added.Mrs. Dalton said she has travelled extensively through her electorate and held forums in parliament explaining her 7-point plan on how to fix the Murray Darling Basin.“If any of the candidates need some help figuring out what our water problems are, my phone number is easy to find.” Mrs. Dalton said.

Shear Delights - the last cookbook you will ever need
Shear Delights - the last cookbook you will ever need

29 April 2025, 11:00 PM

Carolyn Rees of Bellevue Station, Ivanhoe, has written the last cookbook you will ever need. ‘Shear Delights’ has 144 recipes of real food, for real people and it is truly amazing. It has everything you need to cook for 12 people over 12 weeks, although you can pare that down. For everyone from people who remember Grandma’s old-fashioned recipes but just can’t find them, that young couple who just moved out of home and could use some practical advice, such as how to effectively wrap sandwiches and step by step on how to cook a lamb roast, the value of information in the book is endless. Featuring meal plans and shopping lists to plan two weeks ahead, tricks of the trade, what you can cook a week ahead and what you can cook in two. A good cook could just pick up this book and be armed with everything they need to be a shearer’s cook. Carolyn and her family have run their sheep station, Bellevue, near Ivanhoe for a long time, and travelling 250 km one way for groceries is just part of that life. They all jump in and get the work done where it is needed. Carolyn cooked for their shearers, and knows exactly what time and other challenges and constraints face a shearer’s cook, and she knows good old fashioned tasty food. “There’s not a lot of time between runs and the food can’t be too spicy. “It needs to be plain but tasty, and lots of it! It has some amazing practical recipes.” The book has everything you need to cook for shearers, family or crowds,” Carolyn wrote in her foreword. The last pages are full of pictorial depictions of life on the farm, sunsets, shearing, and the whole family enjoying life on the farm and getting into getting the job done. ‘Shear Delights’ available from Shear Outback

 How a new ‘Fishheart’ project is combining science, community and Indigenous art to restore life in the Baaka-Darling River
How a new ‘Fishheart’ project is combining science, community and Indigenous art to restore life in the Baaka-Darling River

29 April 2025, 11:00 PM

 A new state-of-the-art tube fishway technology called the “Fishheart” has been launched at Menindee Lakes, located on the Baaka-Darling River, New South Wales.By Clare Hooker, Barbara Quayle, Dave Doyle, Reakeeta Smallwood via The ConversationThe technology – part of the NSW government’s Restoring the Darling-Baaka program – will allow native fish to move past large barriers, such as dams, weirs and regulators, when they need to. It’s hoped this will help the fish reproduce and survive, and reduce the risk of mass fish deaths in the Baaka.At the same time, meaningful policy reform and implementation can’t be achieved without input from First Nations communities. So, how do we do this? One creative collaboration on the Fishheart project suggests art may have a big role to play.Distressing imagesSeveral deeply distressing mass fish death events have occurred in the river since 2018, with millions of native fish, including golden perch, silver perch and Murray cod, dying due to insufficient oxygen in the water.These events are the outcome of compounding challenges in managing the Murray-Darling Basin, Australia’s largest inland river system. The basin, which stretches from Southern Queensland to South Australia, is a water source for some three million people.But the construction of infrastructure such as dams, weirs and regulators has profoundly disrupted the natural processes that once sustained healthy river systems. This disruption has been made worse by ineffective and conflict-ridden governance.The Baaka is a source of life and wellbeing for numerous communities. It should be cared for with the same urgency and coordination as a critically ill patient. If too many doctors or nurses are involved without a clear shared treatment plan, the patient suffers. Likewise, when multiple agencies attempt to manage a sick river, the system can break down.So, how can better care be achieved? For Barkindji Elder David Doyle the answer lies in doing it together.Diagrams courtesy NSW Department of Primary IndustriesSeeking and listening to the Aboriginal communityAboriginal peoples have been explaining the importance of Australia’s inland rivers for generations. The Aboriginal community at Menindee held protests about the health of the Baaka two years before the first mass fish deaths. Yet their voices and cultural knowledge have not reconfigured river policy.A report by the NSW Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer into the March 2023 mass fish deaths on the Lower Baaka identified the importance of including Aboriginal cultural knowledge in strategies for fish species regeneration and management.However, according to Barkindji Ngnukuu elder Barbara Quayle, the community’s experience of “consultation” has been a tick-box activity. She says there is no trust that cultural knowledge or community perspectives will actually be listened to.The power of the artsTraditional cultural knowledges are often held and expressed through various artforms, from story, to dance, to gallery arts. Within rural and remote communities, the arts and art-making create conditions that can help people work together to address complex issues. In fact, there’s a long history of the arts being used to address social conflict.Can the Fishheart help prevent fish kills? We don’t know. But the Barkindji community’s artistic input in the project is enabling a more integrated approach to finding out.Elders and community members have come together with regional arts organisation, The Cad Factory, and the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Fisheries branch, to design traditional knowledge-inspired art for the Fishheart pipes.This art was painted onto the pipes by members of Barkindji community over the past month. Other community art, including collaborations with the local school, was also placed around the site.Making the art gave everyone involved the time, space and tools to consider and discuss the project. We learned how the Fishheart technology is inspired by the human heart, with tubes resembling “veins” and “arteries” that can take fish in and “pump” them over barriers through a siphon effect, letting them circulate throughout the river.We discussed important details on how this technology works, which includes using artificial intelligence used to detect fish in the pipes and collect real-time data and photos of the migration. We also considered how we might further care for the river, by potentially allowing the removal of invasive species, or monitoring for diseases.The project also provided fisheries managers with the opportunity to hear community concerns, such as whether the installation of fishways might be perceived in ways associated with colonisation, or eventually lead to fish removal from the waterways.Most importantly, seeing the pipes visually transformed by Barkindji art connected the Fishheart to place and Country. The art provides a tangible expression of uninterrupted Barkindji custodianship for the river and the species that depend on it.With art, there is hope for creating policy together – policy that might promote the health of the river as a whole, rather than treating the symptoms of the problem.About the authors:Claire Hooker is a Senior Lecturer and Coordinator, Health and Medical Humanities, University of SydneyBarbara Quayle is the Vice-President of the Menindee Aboriginal Elders Council, Indigenous KnowledgeDave Doyle is Barkindji/Malyangapa Indigenous Knowledge holder, Indigenous KnowledgeReakeeta Smallwood is a Senior Lecturer in Nursing, Indigenous and Population Health, University of Sydney

Potential paid parking at Griffith Airport
Potential paid parking at Griffith Airport

29 April 2025, 5:00 AM

Griffith Council moves forward with plans for paid parking at Regional AirportGriffith Council is exploring options to introduce ticketless paid parking at Griffith Regional Airport, which is currently free and unlimited. The council has obtained three quotes from private suppliers for implementing the system.A newly formed airport committee, including councillors Christine Stead and Tony O’Grady, along with community members, is discussing the proposals. At its first meeting in March, this committee recommended approving a licence plate recognition ticketless paid parking system. This system is proposed to include three lanes for entry and/or exit.According to minutes from the March meeting, council staffer Peter Badenhorst presented an overview of the plan to the committee. Under the proposed licence plate recognition system, drivers will not need to collect a paper ticket upon entering the airport. Instead, cameras will read their licence plates to calculate the fee owed upon departure. Payment will be card-only, with no cash option available. Councillor O’Grady stated at the April council meeting that a cash system would cost more money, which is why the card-only option was chosen.Details regarding the specific fees for parking at the airport have not yet been provided.Funding for the installation of the ticketless parking system has been allocated in the 2024/25 budget. The council has obtained quotes for two different ticketless parking systems and various lane configurations from the three suppliers.

Flood update - Central Darling Shire
Flood update - Central Darling Shire

29 April 2025, 2:00 AM

Flooding update Central Darling Shire Council has welcomed Flood Peak Heights and timelines from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) about what to expect from the Queensland floodwaters as they reach our Shire and the Unincorporated area. The LEMC (Local Emergency Management Committee) is meeting twice weekly as we prepare for the floodwaters. This information from the BOM allows for greater direction for Local Emergency Management Committee agencies as they prepare for increased water flows. There is a Minor to Moderate Flood Warning for the Darling River at Bourke, Louth, Tilpa and Wilcannia. Tilpa is an emerging risk for Central Darling Shire. At Tilpa, minor flooding is likely towards the end of April, and moderate flooding is possible during the second week of May. No significant impact to the town is expected at this stage, but further road closures may be expected. Some remedial works could be done to the Tilpa levee depending on the river height. The BOM says: Minor flooding - Barwon and Darling Rivers downstream of Brewarrina to Bourke The Darling River at Bourke is currently at 9.92 metres and rising, above the minor flood level (9.50 m). It may peak around 11.20 metres from about Tuesday April 29 to Saturday May 3, with minor flooding. This is close to the moderate flood level (11.40 m). Darling River downstream of Bourke to Tilpa Moderate flooding is likely along the Darling River downstream of Bourke to Tilpa. The Darling River at Louth is currently at 8.42 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (8.60 m). The Darling River at Louth is likely to exceed the minor flood level (8.60 m) around this Friday April 25. The river level may exceed the moderate flood level (10m) during the first week of May and may reach around 10.90 metres from about Tuesday May 6 to Friday May 9, with moderate flooding.Higher levels are possible as upstream flows arrive. The Darling River at Tilpa The river at Tilpa is at 7.88 metres and rising, below the minor flood level (9m). The Darling River at Tilpa is likely to exceed the minor flood level towards the end of April and may exceed the moderate flood level (10.50 m) during the second week of May. The river level may reach around 11.40 metres from about Saturday May 10 to Saturday May 17, with moderate flooding. Higher levels are possible as upstream flows arrive. Darling River downstream of Tilpa to Wilcannia Minor flooding is likely along the Darling River downstream of Tilpa to Wilcannia during mid to late May. The Darling River at Wilcannia is currently at 6.32 metres and rising slowly, below the minor flood level. The Darling River at Wilcannia is likely to reach the minor flood level (9.00 m) during mid to late May. Higher levels, including moderate flooding, are possible. Further information is available on the BOM website. Central Darling Shire Council is advising people to be aware that the floodwaters will result in road closures and more information will be provided on this as it comes to hand. All Council road reports are available on the Central Darling Shire website: https://www.centraldarling.nsw.gov.au/Services/Road-conditions People are also encouraged to check with Live Traffic. Council would like to remind people that the SES and other emergency service agencies are striving to provide the most up to date information as it comes to hand. However, the flood situation involves many variables which means conditions are constantly changing. Updates are being provided as the information changes.

Daniel takes on epic 80km challenge for sight
Daniel takes on epic 80km challenge for sight

28 April 2025, 8:00 PM

At just 14 years old, Daniel Green is proving that determination and compassion know no age limits. This Friday (Anzac Day) the Hay local will embark on an 80km run from Hay to Booligal, to raise funds for The Fred Hollows Foundation and support its sight-restoring work.It’s the third time Daniel has taken on this extraordinary challenge and thanks to the incredible support of his family and local community, he has already raised over $2,000 to help restore sight to people around the world.A familiar face in Hay, Daniel is often seen running through town, where locals cheer him on as he trains nearly every day.His supportive mum, Tara, will be driving alongside him for the journey, while his five siblings will join him for sections of the run.“Daniel is always running,” Tara said.“He enjoys pushing himself for others and supporting The Fred Hollows Foundation.“He loves what Fred Hollows stood for and the values he had. “We are even planning a family trip to Fred’s grave in Bourke to pay our respects.“He has learnt about The Foundation’s work and Fred’s legacy, and wants to be part of that vision. “Like Fred, Daniel has always stood up for the underdog. He is passionate about helping people in need. We are all incredibly proud.”In New South Wales, The Foundation partners with several organisations to improve access to eye care in regional areas such as Lightning Ridge and Bourke.Last year, 182,000 generous New South Wales residents donated nearly $13 million to help The Foundation restore sight to those who need it most.  The community is encouraged to support Daniel by donating, sharing his story, or even running alongside him for part of his journey. For more information or to contribute, visit https://fundraise.hollows.org/fundraisers/danielgreen/daniel---s-dash

Back Country Bulletin Launches Week-Long Supporter Drive
Back Country Bulletin Launches Week-Long Supporter Drive

28 April 2025, 2:00 AM

Back Country Bulletin Launches Week-Long Supporter DriveThe team at Back Country Bulletin has kicked off a week-long campaign to rally community support for its ongoing mission of providing free, in-depth local news coverage. The digital news publication, which serves the underserved Balranald, Hay, Carrathool and Central Darling Shires, is urging readers to contribute financially to ensure the continued accessibility of its reporting."For one week, we're focusing on securing the financial support that allows us to deliver the news our community relies on," said editor and founder Krista Schade. "Our commitment is to keep our digital doors open to everyone, ensuring that access to vital local information isn't restricted by a paywall."DONATE HEREBack Country Bulletin emphasises the crucial role of community support in enabling its journalists to cover important local stories. "Independent journalism plays a vital role in keeping our community informed and holding those in positions of power accountable, now more than ever" Ms Schade explained. "Whether it's reporting on local council meetings, talking to candidates in the upcoming election, or highlighting the work our communities are doing, we strive to deliver news that matters."The publication's leadership stresses that every contribution, regardless of size, plays a significant role in sustaining its operations. "We've been heartened by the support we've received so far, since launching BCB last September" Ms Schade added, "We encourage those who value local news to contribute to this campaign. These funds directly support our ability to report thoroughly and accurately across the wide region of NSW that we serve." Back Country Bulletin's commitment to free access o news stems from a core belief that access to reliable information is a fundamental right. "We believe that everyone in our community deserves to be informed," Ms Schade stated. "This week's campaign is about ensuring we can continue to uphold that principle and keep our content freely available to all."The campaign will run for one week, Ending on Sunday May 4. Back Country Bulletin is encouraging readers to visit PressPatron to make a contribution and learn more about how their support makes a difference.Learn how Back Country Bulletin happened - watch the video here

Election 2025 - $937,000 promise for Boys to the Bush
Election 2025 - $937,000 promise for Boys to the Bush

27 April 2025, 5:00 AM

An elected Dutton Littleproud Coalition Government will provide $937,000 from a revitalised Safer Communities Fund (SCF) to Boys to the Bush to expand their program to support the communities of Cobar, Nyngan, Condobolin, Narromine, Bourke, Coonamble and Gunnedah, according to a recent election promise. The Nationals candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said this funding would help disadvantaged youth to break the cycle by providing mentorship, education and training, and community involvement. “I’ve heard firsthand from my own community of Gunnedah but also residents across the electorate of Parkes, safety is a high priority, and we’re responding with practical measures to help," Mr Chaffey said. "This funding is a direct response to the concerns raised by our community,” Mr Chaffey said.Boys to the Bush are also contributing $826,700 towards expanding their outreach program to Cobar, Nyngan, Condobolin, Narromine, Bourke, Coonamble and Gunnedah. Boys to the Bush, CEO & Co-Founder Adam DeMamiel said he was thrilled that Jamie Chaffey and The National Party have committed to funding Boys to the Bush should the Coalition be elected federally.“This commitment will allow us to expand our reach to more regional and rural communities throughout the Parkes electorate. These funds will ensure some of the most vulnerable youth gain access to our early intervention programs,” Mr DeMamiel said. “This commitment will not only support the youth and communities in the short term but will allow us to establish a permanent and long-term presence, in at least two more rural communities in need. Jamie has been a strong advocate for our organisation in the past and it fills me with optimism knowing he sees the impact our work is having across regional communities and is willing to work towards increasing such impacts,” Mr DeMamiel said.Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, Senator James Paterson, said under a Dutton Coalition Government, the communities of Cobar, Nyngan, Condobolin, Narromine, Bourke, Coonamble and Gunnedah will be stronger, more secure, and better supported to tackle crime.“Getting Australia Back on Track means keeping Australia safe – safe for families, safe for businesses, and safe for communities,” Senator Paterson said. “Projects delivered under the Safer Communities Fund will support local communities to deliver practical support to at-risk youth and reduce anti-social behaviour on our streets."The coalition says the revitalised SCF will build on the programme established by the previous Coalition Government, delivering grant funding to councils, schools, and local organisations to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, enhance security around community spaces, and promote social cohesion.

Election 2025 - Helen Dalton asks; Who will tackle the carp problem?
Election 2025 - Helen Dalton asks; Who will tackle the carp problem?

26 April 2025, 11:00 PM

Independent Member for Murray, Helen Dalton, is calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton to commit to killing off the carp in the Murray-Darling Basin if they form government following the May 3rd Federal Election. “One of these two men will be PM (Prime Minister) after May 3rd,” Ms Dalton, Member for Murray said. “The first thing either of them should do is rescue the Murray-Darling Basin from carp infestations.” For many years Government bureaucrats have planned for the release of the Carp virus Cyprinid Herpesvirus 3 which causes a fatal disease in carp known as Koi Herpesvirus Disease. But so far, neither Labor, nor the Coalition, have given the go-ahead for this to happen, leaving the Murray Darling Basin choked by carp infestations, according to the outspoken independent Member for Murray. “Carp are the ultimate home-invaders,” Helen said. “They were introduced from overseas, and these foreign pests kill our native Australian fish and ruin our rivers.” “They breed like rabbits and it’s time to clean the carp away, once and for all.” “This bureaucratic dilly-dallying must end now. We’ve been talking about killing the carp for years. It’s time to act.” “If Prime Minister Albanese, or Prime Minister Dutton releases this safe, tested virus once they have been elected, we could have carp-free rivers in a matter of months,” Ms Dalton said. “We must reclaim our rivers from this deadly foreign pest, which is why I am asking both men to tell the people of Australia whether they will kill off the carp immediately following the election.” “Voters have a right to know what they plan to do about the carp, before we all cast our vote on the 3rd of May.”

Election 2025 - Sussan Ley MP responds to BCB News questions
Election 2025 - Sussan Ley MP responds to BCB News questions

26 April 2025, 5:00 AM

Sussan Ley, Member for Farrer responds to BCB News election 2025 questionsWhat are the most pressing opportunities and challenges facing our electorate today, and what role do you see yourself playing in addressing them?So many people I talk to across Farrer feel they are going backwards or getting poorer. I want – Australia needs - our agricultural communities to thrive. We desperately need to address the cost of living to get the whole country back on track. Can you give an example of how you have helped others, in the past?90 percent of my job is assisting people with problems they urgently need to fix. If I had to reflect on more recent examples, it’s helping some of our most vulnerable negotiate with the National Disability Insurance Scheme. It is so challenging facing up to a large, complex and changing bureaucracy such as the NDIS. I hope in some small way I’ve been able to make that path a lot smoother.  What is your top priority – the job you will tackle first - if elected?There are three key concerns across the electorate which are equal in importance. 1 Ending water buybacks and bringing balance back to the Basin Plan. 2 Attracting more local GPs and investment in our vital rural health services.3 Restoring targeted mobile phone blackspot funding which has been starved of funding by Labor.Describe your own personality and why it would make you the ideal person to form Government.From the day I emigrated to Australia, I fell in love with the land and its people, and that has driven me since both in life and in this job. Canberra is a very long away from who and what we are.Every day I make it my goal of putting forward – and fighting for - the interests of rural Australians. 

Election 2025 - Pre-poll locations
Election 2025 - Pre-poll locations

26 April 2025, 2:00 AM

Election 2025 - Pre-poll locationsFarrer electorate:Griffith Aboriginal Community Centre, Wiradjuri Pl, GRIFFITHHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmDeniliquin Town Hall, 170 Cressy St, DENILIQUINHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmMildura Senior Citizens Club, 129 Tenth St, MILDURAHours: Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmParkes electorate:Cobar Youth & Community Centre 3 Harcourt St, COBARHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmPCYC Broken Hill 58 Gypsum St, BROKEN HILLHours: Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmBourke PCYC 2 Wilson St, BOURKEHours: Wed 30 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmWyalong CTC Centre 89-91 Main St, WEST WYALONGHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmCoonamble Showground Pavilion, 9567 Castlereagh Hwy, COONAMBLEHours: Wed 30 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmForbes Town Hall 2 Court St, FORBESHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmParkes PCYC 36-38 Pearce St, PARKESHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmWesley Community Centre 64-66 Church St, DUBBOHours: Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmDubbo PCYC Cnr Erskine St & Darling St, DUBBOHours: Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmThe Crossing Theatre - Band Room 117 Tibbereena St, NARRABRIHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pmMoree PCYC 360 Boston St, MOREEHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm. Sat 3 May 8 am–6 pmGunnedah PCYC 32 View St, GUNNEDAHHours: Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm. Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Fri 2 May 8:30 am–6 pm

SMC and CPA welcome Labor commitment to stop abusers getting access to their victim’s super
SMC and CPA welcome Labor commitment to stop abusers getting access to their victim’s super

25 April 2025, 8:00 PM

The Super Members Council (SMC) welcomes the election commitment by the Labor Party to reform super’s death benefit laws so family violence perpetrators do not profit from their abuse.SMC encourages all parties and independents to match the commitment and close this legal loophole in the next Parliament.Under existing laws, an abuser can receive a victim’s superannuation death benefit unless they are the direct cause of that person’s death. This currently applies even if the perpetrator has been convicted of family violence offences, or in cases when there was systemic abuse which indirectly contributed to the cause of the victim’s death. SMC advocated strongly for this reform in its submission and joint testimony - alongside Women in Super and ASFA - to the Parliamentary Joint Committee in Relation to Financial Abuse.In its advocacy, SMC has proposed several potential avenues for reform including:expanding the Forfeiture Rule to family violence-related crimes, which prevents murderers from inheriting their victim’s super; andinvestigating legislative reforms that would allow super funds to withhold death benefits in substantiated cases of family violence. Clear and robust evidence standards, judged by an independent body such as a court, would ensure procedural fairness and due process.SMC acknowledges the work of Committee members – led by Chair Senator Deborah O’Neil and Deputy Chair Alex Hawke – for pursuing this much needed reform, as well as the collective advocacy across the super sector.Closing this legal loophole was among SMC’s 12 policy priorities that it asked all parties and independents to support at this election to strengthen and enhance super.“These reforms are about standing up for victims of family violence,” Super Members Council Deputy CEO, Georgia Brumby said.“A perpetrator getting their victim’s super death benefit is an extension of the abuse. The intention to introduce these reforms is a critical step towards ensuring that people’s superannuation is protected and not used as a financial reward for perpetrators.”“Perpetrators should not profit from their crimes. Closing this legal loophole will protect victims of family violence and financial abuse.”“We call on all political parties and independent candidates to pledge their support for these reforms, to protect those who have been wronged and not those that have caused harm.”Australia’s leading accounting body, CPA Australia agrees. CPA Australia’s Regulations and Standards Lead, Belinda Zohrab-McConnell, said that financial abuse involved complex issues – especially in domestic relationships – economic vulnerability and systemic inadequacies. “Financial abuse can impose devastating financial and emotional burdens on victim-survivors,” Ms Zohrab-McConnell said. “CPA Australia supports the proposal to prevent perpetrators of domestic and family violence from receiving their victim's superannuation after death. By blocking access to victims' superannuation, we can avoid enriching perpetrators at the expense of innocent beneficiaries.“We also support holding perpetrators liable for social security debts incurred by victim-survivors of domestic and family violence as a crucial step towards justice and accountability.” Ms Zohrab-McConnell said victim-survivors can face significant barriers when seeking legal recourse or financial support, often due to a lack of awareness about their rights and resources. “The complexity of some of the issues involved can also deter them from seeking help, especially when they may be in a financially vulnerable state,” she said. “The policy should also include integrated support, including legal, financial and emotional assistance for victim-survivors.”

Centrespot Flowers to become Bidgee Blooms
Centrespot Flowers to become Bidgee Blooms

25 April 2025, 11:00 AM

Hay is set to welcome a new chapter for its local flower shop as Centrespot Flowers prepares to become Bidgee Blooms this August. Marg Bisset, (left) who has been at the helm for 20 years, is gladly handing over the reins of the business to Emma Laracy (right). "I am very glad to sell the business to Emma, and am really pleased she is going to keep flowers as an option in Hay," Marg said. "I am looking forward to August, and I wish Emma all the best". Marg's journey into the floral industry began somewhat unexpectedly when the Centrespot clothing business, where she was an employee, decided to branch out into flowers two decades ago. To prepare for this new venture, Marg travelled to Brisbane for a week’s training at The Flower School. The transition has been years in the making, as Emma approached Marg five years ago to express her interest in purchasing the business when Marg was ready to sell. Now, five years later, that opportunity has come to fruition. Despite always wanting to be a florist, Emma pursued a degree in Agri Business at CSU Wagga. After graduating, she was accepted into the prestigious NAB Agri business graduate program. Her career with NAB saw her undertake postings around New South Wales. Emma has also explored much of the world, including Asia, parts of Europe, America, including an iconic road trip, and Antarctica. She has always harboured the aspiration to be a florist, and someday return to her home town of Hay, where most of her family live. Being a florist is what Emma calls the ‘ultimate girl dream’. In preparation for taking over Bidgee Blooms, Emma is now embarking on a three-month journey to attain her Certificate III in Floristry, something she has always wanted to achieve. Following this training, she will return to Hay for a handover period with Marg, where she will greatly benefit from Marg’s extensive experience. Emma has a vision for the future of the flower shop and is looking forward to putting her own spin on the business, and transforming it into something which reflects her style and personality. She has a particular view into creating a cottage garden feel. With an entrepreneurial spirit, she envisions numerous possibilities for the business, saying, "There are many different things you could do with a business, so many opportunities for expansion and I will be looking forward to trying new things". She hopes to inspire people to appreciate flowers beyond special occasions, encouraging them to stop and smell the flowers because they deserve smelling. Emma acknowledges the challenges of starting a business but says the ball is rolling. Keep your eyes peeled for August, to not only congratulate Emma on her new venture, but to say a fond farewell to Marg and wish her a happy retirement.

Minns Expected to Support New Health District for Murray
Minns Expected to Support New Health District for Murray

25 April 2025, 5:00 AM

Helen Dalton urges Premier to honour pre-election promise for Western Riverina Local Health DistrictIndependent Member for Murray, Helen Dalton is urging Premier Chris Minns to keep his pre-election promise to her to create an independent Health District in the seat of Murray."Before he was Premier, Chris looked me in the eye, shook my hand and promised that if he became Premier, he would pilot a new health district in Murray, allowing us to break away from the Wagga-based Murrumbidgee Local Health District," Ms Dalton said."I took the Premier at his word then and I expect him to be true to his word now."Ms Dalton recently introduced the Health Services Amendment (Splitting of the Murrumbidgee Local Health District) Bill 2025 to Parliament.The Bill would give the people of Murray their own Local Health District called the Western Riverina Local Health District."Premier Minns can honour his word by simply supporting my Private Members Bill."If you live in Murray, the Murrumbidgee Local Health District isn't local at all, because it's effectively run from Wagga. It may as well be run from Melbourne."Ms Dalton said Murrumbidgee Local Health District failed to provide adequate care to the people of Murray, because it is run from so far away."We need, and deserve, locally based, locally-planned and locally-delivered health care services."We don't want to be an after-thought, once Wagga has been looked after, like we are now."Wagga Base Hospital is already at breaking point."The creation of the Western Riverina Local Health District will reduce this strain by decentralising health service provision."This will reduce wait times and enhance the quality of services."Murray must have 24/7 specialist services, like maternity care, orthopaedics and surgery as well as increased mental health services."So far, Premier Minns has not committed to the creation of the Western Riverine Local Health District."But I believe he is a man of his word, and I'm expecting an announcement from Chris any day now."

$210m spent on water buybacks - local entitlements sold to meet MDB targets
$210m spent on water buybacks - local entitlements sold to meet MDB targets

25 April 2025, 2:00 AM

Hazeldean, Budgewah and foreign-owned funds among latest Murray Darling Basin water sellersThe Australian Government has released figures pertaining to more than $89 million water purchasing contracts for the period March 1 to April 14.Total purchases over the past six week total $210 million.The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) Austender website lists only contract values awarded. No details have been released on the type and volume of water entitlements purchased.District water holders have taken advantage of the government buyback scheme, with local agricultural businesses Hazeldean, Budgewah Pastoral Co and M and T Mirabelli listed on the Austender website.Aqua Ceres Australis Water Fund is also listed as a business who has offloaded water entitlements in the latest round of buybacks, aimed as returning flows to rivers in the Murray Darling Basin.The Aqua Ceres Australia Water Offshore Fund LP is incorporated in the Cayman Islands and has directors in the US and Australia, including Wealthcheck director Sam Mitchell.In 2015 Mr Mitchell was the director of Rosella Sub TC, which received warning letters from the NSW Government after it ploughed up Aboriginal burial mounds and cleared native vegetation on Newmarket Station, west of Hay.Supplier Values (AUD):CW Anderson (Hazeldean) Pty Ltd $2,848,000.00CL Houston & Budgewah Pastoral Co Pty Ltd $1,649,713.00 amended (contract value $2,179,300.00)Budgewah Pastoral Co P/L & C Houston $641,052.00AQUA Ceres Australia Water Fund LP $630,300.00AQUA Ceres Australia Water Fund LP $455,000.00M & T Mirabelli $253,200.00CW Anderson (Hazeldean) Pty Ltd $172,700.00Source: Federal Austender contract database

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