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.”

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 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

The NSW SES says that the Darling River at Tilpa is likely to reach the minor flood level towards the end of April.The SES says based on predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, the following areas may be impacted by dangerous floodwaters:Bourke – Wilcannia Road may close between Louth and Tilpa.Low-lying roads, bridges and causeways along the river and creeks.Unsealed roads in the area may closeLocals say the water is about 1.3 meters over the Paroo Crossing on the SR3 Tilpa Tongo Road.Central Darling Shire is keeping residents updated and you can stay up to date with the latest flood advice and warnings on the SES website.

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.”

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.

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."

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

“Why do we have a shed policy?” The question was asked by Cr John Perry at last month’s Hay Shire Council meeting when he objected to a Development Application for a shed outside of the policy guidelines. “We’re opening a Pandora’s Box,” he said. The proposed shed on Lang Street is contrary to Council’s shed policy by 700mm to the eave and less than 500mm at the peak. There were no objections from the neighbours when the DA was advertised by Council. A motion by Cr Perry to defer discussion so the applicant could re-visit her plans in order to comply with Council’s policy was lost when there was no seconder to the amendment. Cr Lionel Garner suggested a visit to the shed to check it out, but was reminded it had not been built yet. “There’s no shed, this is a Development Application,” General Manager David Webb said. Council resolved to adopt a recommendation from staff to approve the application, with conditions. At a recommendation by Cr Geoff Chapman, Council also resolved to review the shed policy.

Incher and Hulk take out Open title at Shear Outback’s 14th annual championshipBY ALIX MCFARLANDAdaminaby trialler Dean Incher has continued his success on the plains taking out top honours at the 14th annual Shear Outback Hay Championship Yard Dog Trial on Saturday with Hulk.While Dean was placed in the Open event with Hulk in the past, his previous first place wins in 2019, 2022 and 2023 were with another of his top dogs Raffa, with whom he placed second this year.Last year's open winner Dale Thompson took out third place with Giles Creek Clay.A capacity 60 Open/Improver entries and 90 Novice/Beginner entries travelled from as far as South Australia to be tested by TA Field Wyvern Station wethers.Handlers and their dogs were met by a cool start and warmer, blustery conditions as the day progressed.Trialling started the minute adequate daylight was available and presentations were made just prior to sunset.Thank you to all of our competitors and congratulations to all of our winners.A big thank you to judges Matt Sherwood (Open/Improver) and Ben Wade (Novice/Beginner) who were impressed by both the standard of handling and sportsmanship.An exciting evolution saw live streaming and electronic scoring introduced this year. Thank you to Danny Ruben for bringing your expertise to us and to those who commentated.A big thank you also goes out to valuable sponsors, loyal supporters and hard working volunteers for contributing to another successful trial, and to the Hay Rodeo Club team for their yard work and delicious catering.Full Results:OPEN 1st - Dean Incher & Hulk - 185 2nd - Dean Incher & Raffa - 184 3rd - Dale Thompson & Giles Creek Clay - 183 4th - Sarah Lee & The Lee's Rock - 180 (Fastest time 5m 49s) 5th - Neale Taylor & Pat - 144IMPROVER 1st - Neale Taylor & Pat - 90 2nd - David Lee & The Lee's Zeus - 88 3rd - Herb Cooper & Axle - 87 Fastest time - Peter Fisk & Spider - 6m 6sNOVICE 1st - David Lees & The Lee's Zeus - 191 2nd - Sam Yates & Trump - 189 3rd - Fred Rains & Nina - 188 4th - Denis Mitchell & Jimmy - 178 5th - Kahlee O'Leary & Dude - 170 Fastest time - Peter Fisk & Spider - 3m 48sBEGINNER 1st - Audrey Martin & Rehea - 69 (Fastest time 5m 37s) 2nd - Grace Harrison & Shadow - 58 3rd - Grace Harrison & Rose - 442025 Hay Working Dog Trials winners circleBeginner winners Audrey Martin (right) with second and third place winner Grace Harrison.Opens category judges and place getters (from left) Jake Varena (6th), Dale Thompson (3rd), judge Matt Sherwood, winner and runner-up Dean Incher, Neale Taylor (5th) and Sarah Lees (4th and fastest time).Judge Matt Sherwood with Improver winners Neale Taylor (1st), David Lees (2nd), Herb Cooper (3rd) and Peter Fisk (fastest time).Novice/Beginner judge Ben Wade with Beginner event winner Audrey Martin. Audrey also achieved fastest time in the Beginner section.

Pauline Hanson's One Nation candidate for Farrer Emma Hicks responds to BCB News' big questions, ahead of the May 5 election.What are the most pressing opportunities and challenges facing our electorate today, and what role do you see yourself playing in addressing them?Water is the biggest issue for farmers in our electorate. Across the board, the cost of living and health are also key priorities.One Nation will move to reverse changes made to the Water Act 2007 and the Basin Plan by:  - Restoring the 1500 GL/year cap on buybacks;  - Restoring the 320 GL/year recovery target in the northern Basin; and  - Reinstating the original socio-economic test for the 450 GL/year ‘Water for the Environment Special Account’.We believe all other forms of water recovery should be exhausted before buybacks, including:  - Investment in water-efficient distribution infrastructure;  - Research into precision irrigation and improving soil water-holding capacity; and  - Utilising other sources such as the South-East Drainage Scheme in SA.We will also reform water trading by:  - Restricting foreign ownership of water and water assets;  - Introducing transparency with a public registry of water ownership and transactions.Cost of Living and HealthElectricity:  - Change NEM rules to support cheaper coal and gas-fired baseload power, while planning for nuclear in the medium term.  - Aim to reduce power bills by 20% immediately.Fuel:  - Halve the fuel excise to 26 cents/L for 3 years, with a review after 12 months.Tax Relief:  - Allow aged and veteran pensioners to earn more without penalty.  - Support income splitting and joint tax returns for couples with dependent children.  - Raise the tax-free threshold to $35,000 for self-funded retirees.Beer Tax:  - Remove the excise on beer and spirits in venues.Healthcare:  - Increase Medicare rebates to support bulk billing.  - Crack down on Medicare fraud, estimated to cost $3 billion/year.  - Offer three-year contracts for new medical professionals in exchange for full HECS-HELP repayment.Can you give an example of how you have helped others, in the past?As much as I don’t like to publicise this, I want to answer honestly. I have covered people’s grocery bills when they could not afford it. I’m not saying I could afford it myself, but I had a job I could rely on for income, whereas these people, for the most part, did not. It’s important to help people when they need it and not turn a blind eye when they are down on their luck.What is your top priority – the job you will tackle first - if elected?My top priority is securing water access for our farmers. I’m also committed to securing the funding for a greenfield hospital in Albury — a critical health hub for the wider region.Describe your own personality and why it would make you the ideal person to form Government.I am honest and direct. I cannot be bought. I have integrity and a genuine passion to help improve living conditions in Farrer.

US investor group withdraws from deal to purchase iconic NSW farmland aggregationParties are remaining tight-lipped following reports of the $780 million deal to sell some of the Riverina's most well-known properties.In September 2023, Australian Food & Agriculture Co (AFA) advertised the sale of 13 farms, covering more than 225,405 hectares.The sale consists of three major freehold title land aggregations within the Deniliquin, Hay and Coonamble districts including Boonoke, Burrabogie, Wanganella and Wingadee stations.AFA agreed to terms last year with Agriculture and Natural Solutions Acquisition Corporation (ANSAC) with a sales price believed to be $780 million.ANSAC is a group of investors, including Bert Glover, founder of the Australian and US-owned specialist agricultural investment and development firm Impact Ag Partners, which has offices in Armidale in NSW and Montana in the US.In a document released to the US Securities and Exchange Commission on April 11, ANSAC announced the "termination" of the agreement by "mutual consent".In its own company report, released in March, ANSAC made reference to issues plaguing the deal."The parties are currently discussing the best path forward for the business combination in light of the increasingly volatile equity market conditions, including potentially mutually terminating the business combination agreement," the report said.The document also hinted at tariffs and trade barriers, and the potential of further deterioration of trade relations between Australia and the US, despite the Australian Government giving approval to the foreign sale in late 2024.It is thought AFA will again seek a buyer for the aggregation as a whole, rather than consider listing properties for sale separately.

MASP calls for adaptable BTR housing solutions to meet regional affordability crisisThe Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP) is calling on the Federal Government and property developers to adapt the Build-To-Rent (BTR) initiative for regional communities, in an effort to address the growing housing crisis outside metropolitan areas.MASP CEO Charmaine Calis believes the BTR model—where developers maintain ownership of properties while leasing them to tenants—could be modified to better suit the needs of country towns and regional centers."Incentives to provide housing solutions fit-for-purpose for regional living, not necessarily those larger scale apartment settings typically seen in metro areas, could go a long way to entice developers to look at affordable solutions in places like the Mallee," Mrs. Calis said.The Federal Government passed legislation in late 2024 requiring at least 10 percent of BTR developments to be dedicated to affordable housing.[MASP supports Built-To-Rent, calls for wider application] Additional regulations finalised in early April include a minimum tenancy of five years, with affordable tenancies defined as being available to people on moderate and low incomes.The regulations also specify that at least 20 percent of the affordable tenancies will be available to low-income earners where rents are capped below 74.9 percent of the market value or 30 percent of household income, whichever is lower.[REIA Build-to-Rent Report 2024 (PDF)]While BTR developments have proven successful overseas, they're relatively new to Australia and typically feature large-scale apartment complexes in urban settings—a model that may not translate directly to regional needs.The housing shortage in the region has reached critical levels. According to MASP, the Victorian Housing Register recorded over 500 applicants on the Priority Access List for the Mildura District alone as of December, with nearly 450 more on the Register of Interest."This would help alleviate the incredible stress on the system," Mrs. Calis said. "Something must be done."MASP has previously advocated for diverse housing solutions through its submission to the Victorian Legislative Assembly's inquiry into regional housing supply.[MASP Submission to the Inquiry into the Supply of Homes in Regional Victoria (PDF)] The organisation emphasised the importance of accommodating various living arrangements for different individuals and families seeking social and affordable housing."We welcome any measures that would help increase housing supply and cater for the most vulnerable in our community," Mrs. Calis added.As regional communities continue to grapple with housing affordability and availability, MASP's call for adaptable BTR models represents one potential pathway to addressing these persistent challenges.[Rent.com.au Regional Rental Market Snapshot]

Eleven knives were seized and a tomahawk during a proactive rural crime-related operation in the state’s south - Infringements issued near Deniliquin and Booligal.Investigators attached to the Rural Crime Prevention Team (RCPT), established Operation Brushwood to target rural crime-related offences throughout Southern Region.The three-day operation was conducted in the Murray River Police District between Friday 18 April 2025 and Monday 21 April 2025 involving officers attached to the Rural Crime Prevention Team with assistance from the Murray River Police District, patrolling National Parks and state forests, stock reserves and public roads.Notable incidents include;About 11.30am on Sunday 20 April 2025, police stopped a utility with Victorian number plates on the Cobb Highway, approximately 5 kilometres north of Deniliquin. Police seized five knives from the vehicle, which weren’t secured.Two hunting dogs were also searched and were compliant.The 35-year-old man was issued with an infringement notice for possess knife in a public place.About 11.45pm on Friday 18 April 2025, police were patrolling Cobb Highway, Booligal, about 1km north of Merungle Road, when police pulled over a utility on the Cobb Highway with Victorian number plates. Police seized a throwing axe and four knives within the vehicle. Officers also checked four hunting dogs with the men, with one dog allegedly suffering four puncture wounds to its neck allegedly as a result of hunting several days earlier. The dog had not been taken to a vet for treatment. The 20-year old man was issued with an infringement for possess knife in a public place. The 17-year-old owner of the dog was issued with an infringement notice being in charge of an animal fail to provide vet treatment and a caution for animal cruelty and possess knife in a public place.The following results were achieved;16 vehicle stops and 2 vehicle searches11 hunting style knives and one Tomahawk/ throwing axe were seized16 Firearm Safe Storage Inspection - 3 failed and 20 firearms and ammunition seized2 people issued with Firearms Suspension Notices issued33 infringements issued for traffic offences18 hunting dogs inspected under the Animal Companion Act1 Apiary Inspection1 Travel Stock Statement Inspection1 Macropod Harvester Inspection3 licensed premises inspectionsOperation Brushwood continues.Images: NSW Police

Need to catch up? The recent Better Boarder Health Forum is now online.The Better Border Health Albury Wodonga group held a health forum for Farrer candidates last week, and has published the forum on YouTube for those who were unable to attend.“Thanks to the following Farrer and Indi candidates who turned up to the candidates forum on the 16th April,” the group posted on social media.In attendance were candidates Emma Hicks (One Nation for Farrer), Richard Hendrie (Greens for Farrer), Michelle Milthorpe (Independent for Farrer), Michael White (Family First for Indi), Tim Quilty (Libertarian Party for Indi) and Helen Haines (current member and Independent for Indi)Better Border Health Albury Wodonga say apologies for the event were received from Glen Hyde (Labor for Farrer), Peter Sinclair (Shooters, Fishers and Farmers for Farrer), Alysia Regan (Greens for Indi), Athol Thomas (One Nation for Indi) and Mark McFarlane (Independent for Indi).Member for Farrer Sussan Ley was a notable absence, according to those who attended.You can watch the forum online at Better Border Health Candidate Forum - Indi and Farrer - 16 April 2025 - YouTube

The race day was well supportedSix-year old Eamonn’s Memory won the 2025 Rivcott Carrathool Cup, att his years annual race day. The New Zealand gelding took home the $22,000 race winnings after the feature race. The winner was trained by Wangaratta’s Andrew Dale and ridden to victory by jockey Amy O’Driscoll, ahead of six-year-old mare Controversial Miss. In her first showing at Carrathool, O’Driscoll rode four of the six winners past the post. Full results: Race 1 (category one handicap) - First Minesite, second Soo Kiss Me. Race 2 (handicap) First Rockbarton Shout, second Crimosa. Race 3 (maiden handicap) First Hisako Lady, second Mollyullah Miss. Race 4 (handicap) First Trustthesheriff, second Noci Di Corro. Race 5 (open handicap) First Eamonn’s Memory, second Controversial Miss. Race 6 (class 2 handicap) First Calm Buckle, second Jackie Moon.Carrathool Cup presentation: (from left) Jockey Club president Hamish Armstrong, RivCott’s Emmy Robertson, jockey Amy O’Driscoll, Carrathool Jockey Club life member Bill Ryan and winning trainer and part-owner Andrew Dale. Eamonn’s Memory and jockey Amy O’Driscoll (far left) stuck to the rail to take out the 2025 Carrathool Cup.Pictured at the 2025 event are (from left) Ian and Emily Barber, Sandra and Matt Ireson, and Rob and Markeeta Gibson. Max Hillman, Drew Cameron, Pippa, Michelle, Rose, and Brent Millthorpe.Lottie Ryan with grandmotherMary Ryan.Top Harvey and Edwina Bright.Keeping up the family connection with the races (from left) Hedley Burns, Vicky Burns, David Burns and Brandon Burns.Carrathool Jockey Club life member Bill Ryan.Images: The Riverine Grazier 23 April 2025 /Margie McClelland.

South West Renewable Energy Zone powers upFour wind, solar and battery projects have been granted the right to connect to new power lines in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).The projects are Origin Energy’s Yanco Delta wind farm, Spark Renewables Dinawan Energy Hub, Someva’s Pottinger Energy Park and BayWA’s Bullawah Wind Farm:The developments will be located near Hay, Darlington Point and Jerilderie.EnergyCo has granted access rights to wind, solar and large-scale battery projects with a combined generation capacity of 3.56 gigawatts. The NSW Government said that’s enough to power more than 1.6 million homes a year.This follows a competitive access rights tender process by AEMO Services Limited. The strong level of interest and competition between developers is a testament to the high quality of the renewable energy resources in the South West REZ.The grant of access rights provides more certainty to communities in the south west of NSW about the renewable energy projects that will be developed in the region over coming years. The access fees paid by these projects will fund community benefits programs that will deliver legacy benefits informed by community priorities.“The South West Renewable Energy Zone is expected to drive more than $17 billion in private investment in solar, wind and energy storage projects, and this landmark tender shows the high interest in investing in NSW," Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpesaid.“These projects will help ensure NSW has enough renewable energy generation and storage when coal-fired power stations retire. They also give certainty to host-communities, who will directly benefit from the fees paid by these companies to connect to the REZ.”“We had strong interest from industry in the South West Renewable Energy Zone access rights tender," EnergyCo chief executive, Hannah McCaughey said. "The access scheme will also ensure we make the best use of new power lines, to put downward pressure on energy bills for everyone in NSW.“The first projects are expected to come online from 2027 to 2030, which will help keep the lights on and secure our energy future.”What is a Renewable Energy Zone?REZs will group new wind and solar power generation and batteries into locations where it can be efficiently stored and transmitted across NSW.Five zones have been identified and will keep NSW electricity reliable as coal-fired power stations retire, delivering large amounts of new energy to power our regions and cities.REZs will help deliver lower wholesale electricity costs and place downward pressure on customer bills through increased competition and efficient use of the network, while supporting local jobs and business opportunities during construction and operation.Where is the South West Renewable Energy Zone?The South West REZ is centred around Hay and takes in towns including Balranald and Buronga.The location was chosen due to an abundance of high-quality wind and solar resources, proximity to existing and planned high voltage transmission including Project EnergyConnect, relative land-use compatibility and a strong pipeline of proposed projects.At its peak, this REZ is expected to support over 2,000 construction jobs in the region.

Recent shooting incidents have raised concerns after two separate rural firearms incidentsRecent incidents involving guns in the region have raised concerns over firearm safety.A man is in a critical condition after being shot during a hunting trip near Oberon over Easter.On Easter Friday morning (18 April 2025), emergency services responded to reports of a man being shot on a rural property along Campbells River Road, Black Springs, approximately 20 kilometres south of Oberon.NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the 70-year-old man for a gunshot wound to the right shoulder. He was airlifted to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition.Officers from Chifley Police District have been informed that the man and his 47-year-old son were securing their firearms on the back of a utility when a round discharged from the younger man’s weapon. Both men had been shooting game on the property.A crime scene has been established and an investigation into the incident has commenced.This follows the death of a nine-year-old boy, who died after being accidentally shot at a property near Goulburn earlier this month.About 11.20am on Sunday 13 April 2025, emergency services were called to a property on Fernleigh Close, Windellama, following reports of a shooting.On arrival, officers attached to The Hume Police District arrived were told a 9-year-old boy had been injured after the accidental discharge of a firearm.The boy was treated for serious neck injuries by NSW Ambulance paramedics; however, he died at the scene.Since then, a man and a teenage boy have been charged over the accidental discharging of a firearm.The man was charged with allowing an unauthorised person to possess a firearm and not keep a firearm safely.He was given a court attendance notice and is expected to appear in Goulburn Local Court on May 14, according to NSW Police.The teenage boy was charged with possessing an unauthorised firearm.He was given conditional bail and is expected to appear before a children's court on May 16.Nina Dillon, the mayor of Goulburn Mulwaree Council, told ABC the incident reminded the community to take gun security seriously."The community takes gun safety very seriously, and for a young child to lose his life in such tragic circumstances is just terrible," she said."Nobody wants to have to live through a tragedy like this."Most rural properties have a gun, at the end of the day … they really need to be very careful as far as security," Cr Dillon said.

Richard Hendries says he will push for a living wage in FarrerGreens candidate Richard Hendrie responded to our calls for details of Farrer electorate issues.“The Farrer electorate is vast, diverse, and deeply resilient—but our communities face urgent challenges that demand immediate, sustained action,” Mr Hendrie said. “Access to timely, equitable healthcare—especially mental health and primary care—is increasingly out of reach. The NDIS remains inconsistent and unfair. “Climate change continues to impact farming, water security, and biodiversity. And the rising cost of living is placing unbearable pressure on families, pensioners, small businesses, and young people trying to get ahead.“These issues are interconnected. Without a coordinated, human-centred response that invests in people and communities, too many in our region will continue to fall through the cracks.As a state award-winning mental health and disability advocate and 2025 Albury Citizen of the Year, I bring lived experience and professional expertise. Mr Hendrie recently attended the Better Border Health candidate forum in Albury“I’ve developed free, inclusive mental health forums and served on state and national boards, advocating for systems that are trauma-informed, rights-based, and fit for purpose. “I speak not only as a professional but as someone with lived experience of mental ill health and as a carer for elderly parents living with Parkinson’s, dementia, multiple sclerosis, and an autoimmune condition. “I understand the stress of navigating complex systems in under-resourced areas—and I’ve spent my life working to make them fairer and more accessible.“One initiative I’m particularly proud of is Talk on Tap, a grassroots program I founded that brings clinicians and people with lived experience together in a safe, honest forum. “These events tackle difficult conversations—suicide, grief, recovery, mental health—with humanity, openness, and care. They’re free, accessible, and built on the principle that no one should have to struggle alone.“If elected, my first priority will be tackling the cost-of-living crisis. This cuts across every aspect of life—from skyrocketing rents and mortgage stress to unaffordable groceries, fuel, and healthcare. Every policy should be tested against this question: does it ease the burden on everyday people?”Mr Hendrie said he will push for:Stronger price regulation on banks, energy companies, and major supermarkets;A Living Wage and expanded income supports;Public investment in regional housing and transport; andUniversal access to bulk-billed GPs, primary care clinics, and integrated mental health care.“I will fight for long-term investment in preventive, community-based health care—because reactive, crisis-driven systems cost more and helpless. “The Greens are the only party calling for full dental and mental health care under Medicare, and I will be a fierce advocate for that vision. “I will also demand that the NDIS be fully funded, transparent, and genuinely co-designed with people with disability—not dictated by bureaucrats or outsourced to profit-driven providers.“I’m not in this for photo ops or headlines. I’m here for real, structural change. I’m collaborative, compassionate, strategic, and driven by positive outcomes. “I’ve worked across political lines, government departments, and community sectors—always keeping people at the centre of the process.”