Investigations underway following suspicious fire – DeniliquinInvestigations are underway following a suspicious fire in Deniliquin recently.About 4.30am on Friday 18 April 2025, emergency services were called to a store on Napier Street, Deniliquin, following reports of a fire.NSW Fire and Rescue officers extinguished the blaze a short time later; however, the store was significantly damaged.Police have received no reports of injury.A crime scene has been established and an investigation by officers from Murray River Police District into the circumstances of the fire are underway.Any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to contact local police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers online or 1800 333 000.Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

A feedback session regarding the revised Wilcannia Weir Project recently took place, drawing approximately 30 attendees and lasting around 2.5 hours. Roy Butler recently expressed his gratitude to everyone who participated in the session.During the meeting, numerous issues were brought up. Notably, some of these concerns, such as the location of the weir, fell outside the purview of the independent review.Despite this, Roy Butler assured participants that all feedback would be communicated to Minister Rose Jackson.The next step in the process involves the finalization of the report. There is hope that with the new information gathered during the feedback session, Minister Jackson will support the original design of the Wilcannia Weir Project.Following the update from Roy Butler, local resident Jillian McNamara highlighted on social media the critical need for more regular flows down the Darling-Baaka River to ensure the river's health at Wilcannia at all times. She also commented on the project's timeline, suggesting that the original design, which had consensus, could have been completed by now. In December 2024, the Minister for Water, Rose Jackson commenced a review of the proposed design for the replacement of Wilcannia Weir. The Minister made the decision to undertake a review following a visit to Wilcannia to meet with the community in June 2024, and has since formed an Independent Review Panel.

Griffith is poised to significantly bolster its support for women and families escaping violence with the upcoming construction of a new refuge named in honor of Yvonne Wilson, a dedicated advocate for the homeless. The facility, aptly named ‘Yvonne’s Place’, will be built on Kokoora Street by the social service provider Linking Communities Network, where Ms. Wilson currently serves as CEO. This development will effectively double the capacity of the existing refuge located next door, which will continue its vital operations.The driving force behind Linking Communities Network is a powerful vision, to ensure all individuals have access to safe and secure housing, freedom from violence, and the opportunity to reach their full potential, as stated by Ms. Wilson. Her commitment to the sector spans over four decades, and she is widely recognized for her exceptional dedication to assisting those in need. While Ms. Wilson was celebrating a well-deserved holiday and unable to attend the sod turning event on Wednesday, April 9, the significance of this project speaks volumes about her enduring impact.The construction of this crucial refuge is made possible through a substantial $6.4 million investment from the NSW Government. The thoughtful building design comes from Troy Patten and his business, Miestudio. A particularly noteworthy feature of Yvonne’s Place is its pet-friendly policy, acknowledging the strong bonds women have with their animals and removing a significant barrier that often prevents them from seeking safety.Housing Minister Rose Jackson emphasized the critical need for such facilities, stating that women fleeing violent situations often face extremely limited housing options, especially if they have children or pets. Tragically, many women become homeless or are forced to return to dangerous environments due to the lack of suitable alternative accommodation. The “core and cluster” model adopted for Yvonne’s Place in Griffith is designed to promote independent living by providing self-contained accommodation units (‘clusters’) alongside a central ‘core’ offering vital support services. These services will include access to counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support. Murray MP Helen Dalton expressed her delight that this will be the first core and cluster refuge completed in Griffith, highlighting the amazing increase in capacity it will bring.Madeline Rossiter, the facility manager, underscored the refuge’s accessibility, noting that their doors are always open to women and families in need. They accept self-referrals via phone call or in person, operating 24 hours a day, every day of the year. However, Ms. Rossiter also highlighted a significant challenge: securing permanent accommodation for these women in Griffith, where the rental vacancy rate is less than one per cent. The severe rental crisis means that finding affordable private rentals is exceedingly difficult, forcing the refuge to navigate a landscape with very few available options.Despite these challenges, the development of Yvonne’s Place represents a significant step forward in providing immediate safety and crucial support for vulnerable individuals in the Griffith community. Expected to be completed by 2026, this new refuge promises to be a beacon of hope, enabling more women and children in the community to rebuild their lives free from abuse and violence.

Statement from Michelle Milthorpe, Independent Candidate for Farrer"Over the next few days, I’ll be stepping back from campaign commitments to be with my dad at his bedside in Cootamundra. "Family has always come first for me. It’s what grounds us, and it’s what connects us to our communities. "My family is the reason I put my hand up to represent our region — and right now, this is where I need to be. "To my amazing team and the volunteers who continue to give their time and energy to this campaign — thank you. "Your support means our message continues to be heard: that regional voices matter and won’t be left behind. "I’m especially grateful to the palliative care team who’ve made it possible for Dad to be at home with us. "Your care has made a hard time a little bit easier, and we’re so thankful. "And to everyone who’s reached out or kept us in your thoughts and prayers — thank you. It really does mean the world."

For years, the determined footsteps of Marg Symes have echoed across the Far West of New South Wales, each stride a testament to her unwavering commitment to mental health and wellbeing. This year marks the culmination of her incredible efforts, as she embarks on her third and final charity walk.Looking back, two years ago, Marg undertook a tremendous solo walk from Tibooburra to Broken Hill. This arduous journey was her first dedicated effort to raise funds and awareness for the Royal Flying Doctor Service Wellbeing Place in Broken Hill. Her commitment shone brightly as she traversed the challenging outback terrain, setting the stage for future acts of incredible generosity.Now, Marg has once again laced up her boots.This year, Marg is replicating a similar journey, starting in White Cliffs and heading through Packsaddle on the way to Broken Hill, the current 360km journey is expected to take about a fortnight to complete. This walk, described as "an incredible 300 plus kilometre walk across the outback" and "walking over 300km this summer", continues Marg's mission to raise vital funds and awareness of rural mental health. The money raised this time will go directly back to the Broken Hill Wellbeing Place.Throughout her years of dedication, Marg has already raised over $51,000 for the RFDS and their wellbeing programs. This remarkable achievement underscores the impact of her selfless endeavors. Even in preparation for this final walk, Marg has been training hard, including completing strenuous hikes while in Phuket.The community has rallied around Marg and Alli, with opportunities to show support along the way. A fundraiser event was held at the Packsaddle Roadhouse on Saturday, December 2nd, featuring raffles and the drawing of a major prize raffle. Locals and supporters are also encouraged to follow their journey and donate online1.Marg's final Walk for Wellness is not just the end of a chapter, but a powerful testament to the enduring impact one person's dedication can have on the lives of many. As she takes her final steps for this cause, the Far West community will undoubtedly be cheering her on, celebrating the miles of meaning she has walked for their wellbeing.To support Marg on her journey you can donate using the link https://walking-for-wellness-2025.raiselysite.com/

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has contained and rendered safe a large chemical spill after a fatal truck crash on the Sturt Highway in Euston in the state's Murray Region.All emergency services responded to reports of a crash between two trucks around 5:30pm on Wednesday, April 9.One driver had self evacuated.Unfortunately, the other driver was killed in the crash.The crash caused a large spill of hazardous chemicals onto the roadway.On arrival, FRNSW firefighters established an exclusion zone and created bunding to contain the spillage.FRNSW firefighters, wearing chemical protective clothing, entered the hazard zone to identify the chemicals and size of the spill.In consultation with the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a hazardous material recovery plan was developed and implemented by FRNSW with the support of all other emergency services, including the Rural Fire Service (RFS), NSW Ambulance, NSW Police, Victoria's Country Fire Authority (CFA), and the EPA.FRNSW rendered the site safe of the hazardous chemicals just after 10 last night, almost 30 hours after the incident occurred.The site was handed over to Transport for NSW, which oversaw the salvage and recovery of the vehicles.FRNSW Superintendent, Adam Dewberry, stated incidents like this are extremely complex."Unfortunately, this incident was fatal, involving a large hazardous material spill and the recovery of two heavy vehicles in a remote location," Supt. Dewberry added."The recovery efforts are a credit to all attending emergency services, which worked efficiently and collaboratively throughout this incident."

The start of the year has been a whirlwind for Hay Shire Councillor Will Miller, with the first three months of 2025 marked by significant Council activity and community initiatives. “It’s certainly been a busy period,” Will reflected. “We’ve been focused on a number of key areas, including infrastructure development and community services.” He encouraged residents to stay informed about Council projects by visiting the Hay Shire website, where meeting papers and minutes are readily available. One of Cr. Miller’s key priorities this term is to encourage greater community participation in local government. He is eager to see more residents step forward to run for Council in the next term, ensuring fresh perspectives and a strong future for the Shire. “New members always bring new ideas, and that’s vital for progress,” he said. Despite his full schedule, Will is also playing a key role in organising the highly anticipated Rainbow on the Plains Festival 2025. In addition to his day job, Council work, and community engagement, Will and his husband, Brett, are making a generous commitment to give back to the Hay Shire. The couple has pledged to donate Will’s entire Council allowance—more than $10,000 per year—directly to local charities and not for-profit organisations. “We feel it’s important to give back to the community that has given us so much,” they said. “We’re particularly interested in supporting groups that need equipment or resources to continue their vital work.” Local charities and not-for-profits are encouraged to reach out and share their needs directly with Will and Brett, as this initiative is set to make a meaningful impact on the Hay Shire community.

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network is offering free face-to-face suicide prevention training across the Riverina, including at Hay Services Club on Thursday, May 15. The half-day course will help equip people and organisations with the skills and confidence to recognise and respond to people experiencing thoughts of suicide. The training aims to reduce stigma and provide people with the knowledge to save a life, take action, and offer help when it’s needed most. safeTALK is a four-hour session designed to help people become more alert to the signs that someone is considering suicide and better able to connect them with further help. MPHN Suicide Prevention Lead Emma Bromham said the training would give attendees the skills and confidence to recognise and respond to people experiencing thoughts of suicide. “Just as CPR and first aid training help you know how to act in a medical emergency, evidence-based suicide prevention training equips you with the knowledge of what to look out for, how to speak with someone who’s having thoughts of suicide, and how to keep them safe and get them to expert help,” Ms Bromham said. For more information, visit mphn.org.au/ suicide-prevention.

New polling shows the Liberal Party would increase its primary vote by 2.8 percentage points if it abandoned its nuclear energy policy, according to research commissioned by Liberals Against Nuclear. Andrew Gregson, spokesperson for Liberals Against Nuclear, said the polling demonstrates that the same political flexibility recently shown by Peter Dutton on the work-from-home policy should be applied to the Coalition's nuclear energy plan."Peter Dutton has shown he can make hard-headed decisions when they're needed to win government. Our polling shows dumping nuclear would deliver an immediate 2.8% boost to the Liberal primary vote in key seats – potentially the difference between winning and losing this election," Mr Gregson said.The uComms survey of 5,177 voters across 12 marginal electorates, including Liberal-held seats and those targeted for recovery from Labor and independents, found that 50.6% of undecided voters are less likely to vote for the Coalition because of its nuclear policy. "What we've discovered is crystal clear – the people who like nuclear are already voting for us, and the policy is driving undecided voters away," Mr Gregson said. "This follows the exact same pattern we saw with the work-from-home policy. When something is demonstrably unpopular with voters, there's no shame in changing course – in fact, it shows political maturity and a genuine commitment to winning government." The polling also revealed that the nuclear policy disproportionately hurts the Liberal vote among women, with only 36.8% of female voters saying the policy makes them more likely to vote Coalition, compared to 52.4% of men."Just as Mr Dutton recognised that the work-from-home policy was hurting his standing with women voters, our polling shows that dropping nuclear would increase the Liberal vote among women by four percentage points," Mr Gregson said."The Coalition's backdown on forcing public servants back to the office full-time shows Mr Dutton can listen to voters and change direction when necessary. We're simply asking for that same political flexibility to be applied to a fiscally irresponsible nuclear policy that's proving even more unpopular." Mr Gregson noted that 48% of respondents indicated they don't support nuclear power at all, with concerns about reducing investment in renewable energy (17.3%), nuclear waste management (14.6%), and high build costs (11.6%) topping the list of voter concerns."Our message to Liberal candidates is simple – even if you personally support nuclear energy, this polling shows dropping the policy gives you the best chance of winning your race. We're running out of time, but it's not too late to make this change and give the Coalition its best shot at forming government."

Laura Zambon (pictured) is a happy friendly face, and School Learning Support Officer at Hay Public School. She has recently competed in her second amateur lifting competition. Her trainer residing in Adelaide, Laura made the trip over to South Australia to compete in a powerlifting competition at a gym called 618 Barbell. “I figured I would just take a trip over, sign up and see how I went,” Laura said. Laura currently competes in the novice competitions, meaning they aren’t sanctioned and anyone can have a go. “Not everything went to plan,” Laura said, chuckling. “There had been gastro going around the school, and I wasn’t feeling the best the day of the competition, but I still had a go. “I was really pleased with how I went though; I attained a personal best on the last deadlift. “The deadlift is my favourite, and I really enjoy the competitions, the vibe. “Everyone gets right into it; they are really fun.” Laura is looking forward to going back later in the year, and is constantly looking to improve. Fitness has been an interest and enjoyment of Laura’s for many years. She will be heading back in September to have another go. There is a lot of gym training which goes into preparation for the competitions. Laura says she increases the weight and strenuosity of her workouts as the competition draws closer. “It gives you an idea of what you want to do on the day, and you go from low to high, giving it the most effort on the last try,” she said. In any competition, there are three tries of each different category; squats, bench press, and Laura’s favourite the deadlift. It is Laura’s second competition, only having entered her first competition last year. There aren’t a lot of preparations to do diet wise, if anything she increases the amount of protein she consumes daily. She gets her protein from whole foods wherever possible, including a lot of chicken, meats and cheeses. Laura doesn’t mind protein water, and prefers certain flavours including Diamond Labs Peach. She also has a lot of risottos. When she was younger, Laura was an avid netball player, but after injuring her shoulder she then turned to the gym and never looked back. The gym can be a place which puts many off and makes them feel intimidated, but Laura says it is a friendly place. “Everyone is welcoming and helpful, and it is a good place to be,” she said. “The hardest thing is getting there, once you are there it is good. “Just have a crack and get into it, waiting for motivation means you might be waiting a while. “Making a routine out of it, deciding what you are going to do and why you are going to do it. “That is what has worked for me.”

$2.19m promised for Central Darling ShireLocal councils across the Parkes Electorate will be able to set their own priorities to deliver more community infrastructure and better roads, as part of a $1 billion funding commitment from a Dutton Littleproud-led Coalition Government, according to Nationals Candidate Jamie Chaffey.  “The Coalition is committed to getting Australia back on track and re-establishing a genuine partnership with local government by revamping a successful program, which was cut by the Albanese Government.”The announcement includes a $2,192,247 commitment to Central Darling Shire, for roads and community infrastructure.“As the previous Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Council, and immediate past Chair of the NSW Country Mayor’s Association, I am proud that The Nationals, in a Coalition Government are backing our councils by providing this funding to deliver on our community's aspirations and critical infrastructure,” Mr Chaffey said. “I have seen just how successful this program has been in the past to deliver thousands of projects and improve our road networks that simply could not have happened without the Coalitions past commitments. “When Labor cut the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, they increased the financial strain that our Councils are already under, depriving them of the vital support they needed to improve infrastructure and keep their roads up to scratch,” Mr Chaffey said.   “Our revitalised program will continue the essential work of supporting local councils, creating jobs, and strengthening the resilience of our communities and I’m excited that more than 23% of this funding for regional, rural and remote NSW, has been allocated to the Parkes electorate. Mr Chaffey said the revitalised Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program will strengthen communities, enhance resilience, and improve local roads. The coalition says it will be delivered through two dedicated funding streams, each worth $500 million: Resilience and Community Infrastructure Stream – open to all councils, this stream will help strengthen communities against natural disasters and fund essential infrastructure to support local growth. Roads Stream – targeted to regional councils to fix potholes, maintain and improve local roads. “This program will make a huge impact to address the backlog in road maintenance, contributing to safer local roads.  “Only the Coalition is willing to partner with local government to achieve the best outcomes for the Parkes electorate while keeping costs down for ratepayers and getting Australia back on track”. 

The major parties are making announcements but experts have five ideas that they say could workBy Rachel Ong ViforJ, Andrew Beer, Emma Baker via The ConversationAs the election campaign rolls on, housing has been, unsurprisingly, a major campaign focus. We’ve seen a series of housing policy announcements from across the political spectrum, including duelling announcements from the major parties in recent days.Labor will expand access to their Help to Buy and Home Guarantee schemes by either raising or removing income limits and price caps.The Liberals will allow first homebuyers to access their super for housing and deduct mortgage repayments from their income tax, while lowering the mortgage serviceability buffer.While the politicians make big promises, it’s worth thinking about what evidence shows would actually make a meaningful difference. We have five ideas.But first, the extent of the problemIt’s old news that we have a significant housing affordability problem in Australia.The public housing waitlist is around 170,000 households, and the number of homeless persons rose from 95,000 to 122,000 in the two decades to 2021.Policies of the past decade have not worked, and in some cases they’ve made it worse. So what would help?1. It’s a cluster problem that needs a cluster solutionWhen we talk of the affordability crisis, what we’re really talking about is a complicated cluster of interrelated problems that make housing unaffordable to buy, build and rent.Unaffordable housing comes from the interaction between the global economy, interest rates, inefficiencies in our construction and planning systems, as well as the outcomes of poor government policies. We should be wary of hitching our wagon to any of these alone.Reform of the planning system, for example, is held up by some as the simple solution. While the planning system needs to be improved, it does not make up the entirety of the housing production pipeline – and it’s definitely not a magical solution.Equal attention needs to be given to workforce shortages, productivity concerns in the construction industry, development financial risk and developer behaviour. These are all arguably as important as planning in delivering new supply.2. It’s not about supply versus demand. It’s bothMany major housing policy announcements are either supply-focused or demand-focused. What Australia needs are coherent and integrated policy packages addressing both sides of the problem at the same time.During this election campaign, both major parties have made a series of demand-boosting policy announcements in rapid succession, designed to put more cash into the hands of first homebuyers.All these measures will further fuel increases in house prices at a pace that income growth cannot match.It is true both parties have proposed supply measures, such as Labor’s plan to build 100,000 new homes exclusively for first homebuyers.However, supply lags mean these houses will not be delivered in time to offset any rise in demand (and price) from the expansion of the demand-boosting schemes.3. Think beyond new supplyThe shortfall of dwellings in Australia is certainly a problem, but even an ambitious construction target is likely to add only about 2% to our existing stock each year.We need to look to the homes already built and how they can better meet demand. This might include measures to promote granny flats, or enable additional subdivision.4. Aim before shootingToo many housing programs are poorly targeted. We need to zero in on those in housing need. We shouldn’t be providing assistance to those who don’t need it.Policymakers need to confront the targeting errors that afflict their proposed plans.Currently, 11% of aspiring first homebuyers are able to meet deposit and repayment requirements to purchase a home.Labor’s plan to lift the income limits and caps on available places will open up the scheme to many homebuyers who don’t need government-funded assistance for a home purchase.The Liberals’ super for housing plan will also benefit higher-income and older groups.5. Design policies through an intergenerational lensAs we live longer, policymakers must embrace the challenge of meeting the housing needs of multiple generations. This co-existence in society is the new normal.For instance, economists have consistently called for the abolition of stamp duties in home purchases, favouring instead a broad-based land tax. This removes a major upfront sum that would otherwise be paid by both young people looking to buy their first home and older “empty nesters” looking to downsize.Stamp duty is a major revenue source for state and territory governments. This reform needs Australian government financial support as we move to a more affordable future. Australia’s reliance on stamp duty is second only to South Korea among OECD countries.But even if stamp duties are not abolished, we could better use this revenue to meet housing needs, including building additional social housing, bolstering homelessness services and constructing new housing infrastructure.The elephant in the housing policy roomAt the end of the day, it’s worth remembering that housing isn’t all about supply, buildings, investment and construction. Our housing is also where we live, sleep and grow old.Our population aren’t just passive players in the housing system, they actively shape it, in their choices to buy housing, to rent, seek out major cities and renovate.By demonstrating, de-risking, and promoting a broader range of housing options (such as making rental an attractive lifetime tenure, expanding shared equity options, or championing advances in modular and prefabricated construction), governments can shape demand towards more affordable homes.

Central Darling Shire Council has endorsed its draft Drought Management Plan4 . The council will now consult with key government agencies as outlined in the plan's communications section . However, concerns remain regarding water restrictions in Wilcannia. While water restrictions were recently lifted in Wilcannia, the operations manager cautioned that if the lack of rainfall persists in the coming month, the council may need to consider reinstating them . The council resolved to receive and note the water and sewer update.Central Darling Shire Council has awarded tenders for the supply and delivery of water meters and for the Wilcannia water treatment plant. Following a confidential session, it was resolved that the tenderers representing the best value would be awarded the water meter contract as panel source suppliers for the period of April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2027, with a potential 12-month extension based on satisfactory performance. The tender for the Wilcannia water treatment plant was awarded to SNG Engineering Pty Ltd. The General Manager has been delegated the authority to execute the necessary contract administration documents that do not require the Common Seal of Council.

 Petrus Van Der Steen is standing for election in the seat of Parkes Back Country Bulletin contacted candidates in the electorate of Parkes, and offered them the opportunity to introduce themselves to our BCB audience.Petrus Van Der Steen is a professional musician with a diverse background in security and the tech industry, and is the Trumpet of Patriots candidate for the NSW electorate of Parkes at the upcoming Federal Election.Mr Van Der Steen says he brings a strong voice for everyday Australians, calling for commonsense policies and a return to practical governance.“Australians are crying out for leadership that understands real life—not the career politics of the Canberra bubble,” Mr Van Der Steen said.“Trumpet of Patriots is the real alternative to the ‘uni-party’ of Labor and the Coalition, who’ve become indistinguishable in their failure to address the core issues hurting our communities.”With firsthand experience across creative, technical, and security sectors, Mr Van Der Steen says he will bring a no-nonsense, solutions-focused approach to Parliament.“I’m standing for the third time for the people of Parkes who feel forgotten, who want their country back, and who deserve a representative who’ll speak plainly, act boldly, and always put Australia first,” he said.Issues for ParkesMr Van Der Steen said the most pressing issues for the Parkes Electorate are:Cost of livingFamilies are feeling the pinch, and heading into winter more and more people will be forced to choose between paying the rent, their mortgage or turning on the heater. What can be done to provide immediate hip-pocket relief for people being smashed at the bowser, the check-out and bills in Parkes?“In regards to mortgages we will cap interest rates at 3% max. As for rent we will put a moratorium on rent hikes and take off the red tape and remove bureaucratic hurdles from home development as to stimulate the faster building of new homes.“For fuel we will drastically cut in half excise/fuel tax to a set amount per litre instead of a percentage so fuel price fluctuations will not apply to the tax involved.“We will audit and hold to account the big supermarket chains in regards to pricing of their products. This will include more than just fines for bad behaviour....“Prices will come down as a result if energy prices drop and transport/storage costs drop due to our energy policies, which include thorium based nuclear power generation.“This will be bridged by using our existing coal power plants until nuclear comes online in full. We can achieve this in the very short term as these facilities are readily available.“Again, common sense...” Mr Van Der SteenPM supportAlbanese or Dutton - who’s your preferred prime minister?“Neither, one has failed to deliver and the other is untested.“Both are beholden to lobby groups, unions, think tanks and illustrious relations and lobbying firms such as Barton Deakin (Coalition) and Hawker Britton (Labor) which really are piggybanks for have-been former politicians and government officials. “We will bar those kinds of influences out of politics as they blur the lines in ethical behaviour and dark money.”EnergyAre you for or against nuclear power? There are major renewables projects flagged for parts of Parkes, with the Central West Orana REZ landing in parts of the electorate, all of which are facing large opposition from farmers/communities in the region. Are you in favour of renewables? And if so, what’s the best way to manage large-scale solar and wind farms in our backyard? “We are keen supporters of thorium-based nuclear technology as it has been tested extensively overseas and found to be clean, safe, reliable and extremely low cost for the average household. True net zero, plus we have the biggest reserves for the fuel.“Renewables have their place in a smaller scale deployment with households, like roof solar and as such in remote areas with no access to the grid. Also, it's useful when going camping. But that is all it can do so far.“Large scale renewables are expensive to build, maintain and are not viable in the long run, create unrecyclable waste at the end of lifespan, cause spikes on the grid (ask any sparky), kill our native birds (wind farms), cause health problems with people who live in their vicinity and take up very valuable farmland, better suited for agricultural purposes (not solar farms). All in all, not reliable, too expensive to run and underperforming. Not suitable for total reliance. “So, I will vote against it, full stop,” Mr Van Der Steen.HealthThe Albanese government has announced urgent care clinics across the country. However, there’s none in Parkes or the majority of regional NSW. With ED wait times still an issue across the electorate and more and more people battling to see a GP, what’s the most important fix health-wise needed in Parkes?“My daughter is a registered nurse so I do know a bit about what the problem is.“As medical staff can make substantial more money in states like Queensland it will be hard to find medicos willing to work in the NSW bush. We will support more pay and benefits to our much-appreciated doctors and nurses in NSW by making their pay the same all over Australia on a national level so there is an incentive to work anywhere in the country. “(We will) Provide incentives for doctors, like tax benefits, better facilities/clinics to work in the bush so access to healthcare will improve. (We will) Also, revamp/finance our Flying Doctor services who have served us well in the past, so they can continue to do so in the future. Again, common sense...”HousingHouse prices have risen across regional NSW in the last decade. How do we keep the Australian dream of home ownership alive in Parkes? And what type of housing are we in need of most?“We will cap home loans/mortgages at 3%, create new infrastructure like high-speed railways to the outer suburbs, cut bureaucratic red tape on building permits and land releases. This will speed up the building and will bring down cost of land and homes. Also, as a result of more availability, rents will come down significantly.“As we need low-cost housing the most, we will prioritise building low-cost housing for low-income families, who are the most at risk of homelessness due to being priced out of the current market. We will also have to manage our immigration a lot better and stricter to take the pressure off and limit or even stop foreign ownership. “Currently we need to put a stop on immigration for the time being and vet what we already have here.”Domestic violenceRates of DV across Parkes continue to rise, as reported last month. What needs to be done to end the rates of domestic violence?“Due to current financial pressure on families, mortgage stress, uncertainty about the future, media fear campaigns and many other factors, such as substance abuse and mental welfare the cases of domestic violence have risen dramatically all over the country. If we can come together more as a community, we can minimise the damage on the ground by supporting and protecting victims of DV, women, children and men, because let's face it, it also happens to men. We will actively improve funding for safe houses, specialist staffing and security personnel, education on the matter and harsher punishment for serial offenders.“On the other hand, we need to make sure there is proper monitoring on AVOs (Apprehended Violence Orders) and enforcement, so no one slips through the cracks.“We can do more with a stronger community spirit. “As a political party we can make a difference by implementing better policies to take away the root causes of mortgage stress, uncertainty and improve mental health support and support to help stop substance abuse in our society.”RoadsName five roads across the Parkes electorate that are in need of funding for repairs - and what work would you like to see completed?“Unfortunately, there are more than just five roads that need serious upgrading & subsequent maintenance, especially where heavy truck traffic is prominent. Access roads to remote communities, such as Broken Hill and Wilcannia plus all other communities along those roads, are vital lifelines for transporting provisions, building materials, mining equipment and many other necessities.” “We will work with local communities to identify priorities and start there. We will also liaise with the big mining and other companies that benefit from better infrastructure to contribute to the cost as is already happening in some areas. This will make our roads safer and better.”Water securityMayors across the electorate are urging residents to be more water wise as dam levels dip to lows not seen in years. What’s the best way to ensure Parkes’ water security moving toward the next drought?“Being waterwise is a good start but as I have been advocating for the past two elections, we need more dams spread out and a national approach to proper management of the Murray-Darling river basin.“Also, more dams create new ecosystems and a refuge for flora and fauna, strengthening the survival of certain native species that are under threat by drought & other environmental influences.“We have plans ready to be implemented for all round improvement of the water situation all along the Murray-Darling from spring to ocean on a federal level across all states involved.”ConnectivityThe news media have reported on a number of instances where people have been left stranded on the side of the road with no mobile reception. It’s not good enough that in 2025 people aren’t able to make a phone call from the side of the road, or work from home with a reliable internet connection. What needs to be done to ensure connectivity for all of Parkes?“Let Starlink compete with the other telcos and bring down cost of internet, phone and other vital communication systems we need in the bush. “It is already in the making and we will see enormous improvement over the next few years, especially in notorious black spots. Satellite-based communication will take care of that.” CrimeThe youth crime crisis continues to escalate. What diversionary and preventative programs are required in Parkes to ensure young kids in the region have enough support and engagement to avoid being caught up in the juvenile justice system?“Our youth has a great future if we all come together as a community. The old saying 'It takes a whole village to raise our kids' is definitely applicable here. If we are able to improve access to proper education and gainful employment in the bush, a lot will improve on that matter. For the harder cases and real criminals, we will enforce the law a lot stricter and harsher. Adult crime does warrant adult time.“Stricter bail laws and consistency in enforcement needs to be addressed here.”Mining excises are the way forward, according to Mr Van Der Steen“If you ask me where our funding comes from, the answer is clear: Excise 15% on all our mining exports, especially our iron ore,” Mr Van Der Steen told Back Country Bulletin.“That will pay off our national debt in no time, provide funding for new industries like manufacturing, R&D, new technologies and our social programs like better education and social cohesiveness. “We need to become self-sufficient and self-reliant again, not depending on the outside world for essentials and we need to create a merit-based society with a heart and help for our less fortunate members of society so they can function as worthy members of that society. “Approach problems with a common-sense solution based on what works, not beholden by narrative, dogma or party politics. We need to reform our judiciary to weed out corruption, nepotism and gravy train riding all across the board in our society. “Sunlight is the best disinfectant for the darker side of our society, so bring back accountability and transparency, expose wrongdoings and fix the cause of all that is stopping us from what we are supposed to be: free and independent.“Let's take the leash off Australia and let it become the best it can be! Make Australia Great Again!”Editor’s note:All candidates in the seat of Parkes were offered the opportunity to be featured on BCB, and were posed the following questions:What are the most pressing opportunities and challenges facing our electorate today, and what role do you see yourself playing in addressing them?Can you give an example of how you have helped others, in the past?What is your top priority – the job you will tackle first - if elected?Describe your own personality and why it would make you the ideal person to form Government?Mr Van Der Steen chose to supply his own questions and answers. 

Covering approximately a third of New South Wales, a new figure has emerged, offering a beacon of support to those living and working on the land. Meet Noel Williams, the recently appointed Frontier Services Bush Chaplain, whose life experiences have uniquely prepared him for this vital role. I recently met Noel at the ICPA NSW conference in Euston. The dynamic organisers of the conference invited Noel form Frontier Services, as part of the many different services present at the event, so people could engage and become aware of what is out there. Noel's journey to becoming a Bush Chaplain is a tapestry woven with diverse threads. For 40 years, he served as a chaplain in the Air Force. Prior to that, he gained practical skills as a radio technician, starting his career with the RAAF in 1969. Adding another layer to his understanding of rural life, Noel also has a farming background and currently runs a commercial sheep property with his wife Kayleen. This intimate knowledge of the challenges faced by primary producers, including floods, bushfires, and competitive markets, makes him a chaplain who truly understands the struggles of the land. Retirement, for most, signals a time to slow down, but for Noel, who celebrated his 70th birthday just a day after his compulsory retirement from the armed forces, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. “My identity is tied up with what I do and I still felt I had a lot to give,” Noel said earnestly. The Frontier Services' motto, ‘Standing with people in the bush,’ resonated deeply with his lifelong commitment to supporting others. The role of a Bush Chaplain for Noel is not just a job; it's an extension of who he is and what he does. His territory spans a significant area, stretching from Narrabri to Cobar and surrounding regions. In his first few months since his appointment in July, he has already driven over 12,500 kilometres, dedicating his time to getting to know his new ‘flock’. This involves connecting with communities across western NSW, talking to counsellors, Government agencies, and rural advisers – anyone who can guide him to where his skills are most needed. Noel's approach to connecting with people is built on absolute care and support, with no hidden agenda. He had heard that people in the bush might be reluctant to open up, but his experience has been quite the opposite. He finds that both men and women are willing to talk when they sense genuine care and no ulterior motives. Interestingly, Noel has found unique, practical ways to connect with and support the people in his care. His vehicle carries a welding helmet and an auto-electrical toolbox, symbolising his willingness to chip in and help wherever and whenever people are in need. He sees these tools as symbolic of his role, representing not just physical help but also the inner strength – emotional, mental, and spiritual – that he aims to build in people. Having grown up in rural NSW, Noel is attuned to the issues facing these communities. In his initial months, he has observed trends common in asset rich-cash poor rural areas, such as a lack of succession planning, children leaving communities, dysfunction within family units, a level of domestic abuse, and the constant challenges of climate. He has also connected with an Aboriginal Elder, learning about the similar struggles faced by Aboriginal People, including the loss of children to electronic devices and the drift away from their cultural homeland. Loneliness and isolation are other significant issues Noel has identified. He recognises the profound impact of this emptiness within on self-worth and self respect. For Noel, a core part of his role is bringing new perspectives to people in terms of life and well-being. He understands that when people are dealing with hardship, sometimes all hope just goes out the door. His mission is to help them find that inner strength again, whether through a practical act of welding, a listening ear, or a conversation that offers a fresh outlook. Noel's own spiritual journey began after the premature death of his father, prompting him to question life's bigger questions. His extensive experience as a defence force chaplain, guiding personnel through incredibly challenging events such as the Bali bombings and the Banda Aceh tsunami, has equipped him with a deep understanding of human resilience and the importance of support in times of crisis. Noel Williams, with his rich and varied background, embodies the essence of Frontier Services – standing alongside people in the bush, offering practical help, emotional support, and a connection that reminds them they are not alone. His commitment to his new role demonstrates that even after decades of service, there are still ways to give back and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Frontier Services and Noel are here to help everyone in Balranald and the region. You can contact by phoning 1300 787 247or emailing [email protected]

The Moulamein water tower is nearing completion and marks the fourth installation on the River Country Art Trail, which will eventually have five attractions.It is a self-contained art trail of large-scale public artworks, put in place by the Murray River Council with the aim of attracting visitors to the area boosting local communities as well as celebrate the region’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.Murray River Council was able to access some $1.7 million in grants, and already there has been a noticeable uptake in tourist numbers in Moama, Mathoura and Barham that already have their water towers completed.The last installation will be a sculpture, located in Tooleybuc, due for commencement in September or October.Recently the site was visited by the Moulamein Public School students to view the progress and talk to the artist Heesco, asking many questions from how much paint he uses to does he get scared on the cherry picker.Murray River Council grants officer, Tiana Christie, said the idea of creating the art trail initiated in Barham with the Barham Water Tower Group who were very keen to have their tower painted and needed funds to do it so, it is an expensive undertaking.“Some funding opportunities came up that we put in for Barham as a stand-alone art piece and then there was also another one to do a larger scale tourism initiative, so that is where the River Country Art Trail originated,” Ms Christie said.“We looked to include as many towns across our footprint as we could, and we were lucky enough to get both those grants at the time.“It is designed to encourage people into visiting our towns and we are already starting to see that happening, just the amount of caravans and the amount of traction it has got on social media, people love it and it is something that is for all ages, art is for everyone so it is really exciting that we have something like this.“It is one of only a few full standalone art trails in the country that then make up the greater Australian art trail, so it’s unique and really good for our council.“We hope that it encourages people not to just pull up and stop on the side, but to also go and check out the cafés, the pubs and maybe stay a night.”Heesco is no stranger to painting silos and water towers, with this being his third water tower and having completed a further five silos previously. He came to Australia to study art from his childhood home of Mongolia and has set up home in Melbourne with a family and a reputation as one of the finest muralists in the country.

Organisation assisting over 90 people to achieve permanent residency.In the heart of Griffith, Scalabrini Communities, a distinguished not-for-profit aged care organisation, stands as a testament to compassion and unwavering commitment. Recently, a heartwarming chapter unfolded within its walls as the organisation hosted a special tea party, a vibrant celebration honouring a significant milestone for its dedicated migrant staff, their achievement of permanent residency in Australia.This momentous occasion was made possible through Scalabrini’s steadfast dedication to the Labour Agreement programme, an initiative that has proven instrumental in sponsoring over 90 devoted aged care workers and registered nurses, empowering them to forge secure and enduring futures in their adopted homeland. These individuals are the backbone of Scalabrini’s mission, delivering compassionate and high-quality care to residents across their communities. Scalabrini’s profound commitment to this programme reflects its core values of dignity, community, and belonging, underpinned by a deep-seated belief in the strength of a diverse and skilled workforce. To date, 150 staff members have been employed through the Labour Agreement, with an impressive 70 already achieving permanent residency status. This commitment is further solidified by the organisation’s significant investment of $750,000 in the programme for the 2024/2025 financial year.Scalabrini’s remarkable efforts have garnered well-deserved recognition, including the prestigious Best Workplace Award and the Change Champion Award. These accolades, bestowed by The Voice Project in affiliation with Macquarie University, underscore the strong employee and client feedback in crucial areas such as leadership, engagement, and service quality. Achieving scores exceeding 80 per cent on every survey question, Scalabrini has demonstrated its commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace.The significance of this achievement resonates deeply with individuals like Manjit, a dedicated Scalabrini employee in Griffith. Her journey to Australia began 15 years ago, fuelled by dreams of a brighter future. However, her path was fraught with challenges, as she navigated complex visa conditions and transitioned between various careers, from accounting to nursing, all in pursuit of permanent residency. It was within the nurturing environment of Scalabrini, working as a cook, that Manjit found a role that not only met a critical need but also, with the advent of the Labour Agreement, provided a tangible pathway to apply for residency as a carer. Despite the hurdles, her unwavering determination, coupled with Scalabrini’s steadfast support, ultimately led to her success.Similarly, Ramila’s story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of Scalabrini’s support. Arriving from Nepal to support her husband, a highly qualified accounting professional, Ramila initially planned to pursue nursing studies. However, unexpected circumstances arose with her pregnancy, derailing her academic aspirations and leaving her family facing uncertain prospects for remaining in Australia. Scalabrini extended a lifeline by offering her a sponsored position as a carer. This act of compassion not only provided Ramila with a fulfilling role at The Village by Scalabrini in Drummoyne, where she has worked since 2018, but also allowed her and her family to finally build their life in Australia.The celebratory tea party was a heartwarming gathering attended by 13 staff members, their families and friends, alongside Scalabrini’s CEO, Richard De Haast, and esteemed members of the Board. In a touching gesture, each staff member was presented with a Belong diary, symbolizing the beginning of their new chapter as Australian citizens.This celebratory event serves as an affirmation of Scalabrini’s mission to provide supportive and inclusive workplaces where staff can thrive both personally and professionally.He further commended the staff, acknowledging that their stories of resilience and achievement are an inspiration to the entire Scalabrini community.Scalabrini’s commitment extends beyond its staff to the very essence of its care model, Belong, an innovative person-centred approach designed to revolutionise aged care in Australia. Anchored in seven key pillars—My Journey, My Voice, My Interests, My Food, My Dignity, My Purpose, and My Beliefs—Belong ensures that every resident feels valued, heard, and truly at home.As an organisation deeply dedicated to supporting older migrants and their families, alongside migrant workers and carers, Scalabrini Communities shines as a beacon of hope. The Labour Agreement programme transcends its function as a staffing solution; it embodies a shared commitment to empathy, inclusion, and the profound belief that aged care, at its most meaningful, should mirror the richness and diversity of the broader Australian community. The stories celebrated at the tea party are not just tales of professional achievement, but heartwarming narratives of resilience, belonging, and the transformative power of a community that truly cares.

“Do they think that if they ignore us, we will just go away? Not likely!” Mayor Rick Firman OAM, Chairman of the NSW Country Mayors Association (CMAMayor Rick Firman OAM, Chairman of the NSW Country Mayors Association (CMA) has bemoaned the major parties’ lack of commitment to Local Government and their failure to address funding shortfalls that were clearly identified in the Interim Report into Local Government Sustainability.“Despite on-going calls from all Local Government peak bodies and from individual councils for the annual Commonwealth Financial Assistance Grants to increase one per cent of taxation revenue, not a single party has addressed the issue,” Mayor Firman said. “Do they think that if they ignore us, we will just go away? Not likely!”The Local Government sector has identified falling revenue as the major contributing factor to the financial sustainability challenges that many councils in NSW currently face. Mayor Firman said, “declining Commonwealth contributions, coupled with rate pegging in NSW and increasing operating costs are making it extremely difficult for councils and particularly country councils to continue to deliver services and infrastructure at the levels their communities need and deserve.”“Local Government expects that the unique role that councils perform in delivering on-ground services to the people living in every corner of Australia will be recognised and funded appropriately by the Commonwealth. The Federal Election provides a platform for all parties and the Independents to make that commitment.” Mayor Firman said. “Country-based councils across NSW face unique cost pressures with many Local Government Areas the size of small European countries. Councils are required to deliver public services like administration, recreational facilities, pools, libraries and waste facilities in multiple locations in order to ensure equity of access, which increases the cost of council operations.“The Interim Report identified that Local Government is being increasingly relied upon to deliver services and infrastructure which were traditionally under the purview of the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, and yet Commonwealth grants have decreased not increased” Mayor Firman said. “We believe it is completely unacceptable that we should wear the responsibility without adequate funding.”In addition, CMA research has shown that apportioning the Grants based on population does not see funds go to where they are most needed. In smaller country councils in NSW the Grant can constitute over 70 percent of revenue, while income from rates and Council fees is essentially stagnant and prospects for growing these income sources is extremely limited.Deputy Chair Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick stated that the report from the Auditor-General of March 31 confirms that 16 Councils have insufficient cash to meet three months of expenses, 40 per cent of Councils did not meet operating performance benchmarks, and 35 Councils met none or just one of the three key financial sustainability benchmarks.Revenue growth lags expenditure growth after adjusting for inflation resulting in negative growth.“We all know that Australia is a big country, there is no getting away from the fact that local councils take on the lion’s share of the responsibility for delivering services and infrastructure into our rural, regional and remote communities. It is about time that this was recognised with appropriate levels of Commonwealth funding.“A recent Zoom meeting with Shadow Minister Darren Chester did not provide any indication that the Coalition was prepared to provide any leadership on the issue. While the CMA appreciated the time the Shadow Minister took to meet with us, we seem to be on very different wavelengths.“Local Government is constantly expected to step in to fill the service and infrastructure gaps left by the Commonwealth and yet they seem to be ignoring the very real financial constraints that most councils are working under. “Enough is enough! Something has to give, the status quo simply cannot continue.”

Heads up folks! Double demerits start today! Double demerits are in place in NSW and ACT for five consecutive days from Thursday until Monday over the 2025 Easter long weekend and then four consecutive days from Thursday April 24 to Sunday April 27 over the ANZAC Day long weekend.  Easter: April 17 to April 21 2025, and then over the ANZAC Day long weekend - April 24 to April 27 2025Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends and are enforced by police. They apply throughout the whole of the start date, and end at midnight on the finish date shown in the table above.Please drive safely and take extra care on the roads to protect yourself, your loved ones and all road users.During double demerit periods, double demerit points apply for speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seat belt and riding without a motorcycle helmet.Keep in mind that Mobile Phone Detection Cameras are active in NSW and the ACT and drivers caught using their phones during a double demerit period will be hit with a $410 fine ($544 in a school zone) and 10 demerits. Certain driving and parking offences attract an additional demerit point if committed in an operating school zone. Remember to always drive with care and attention through school zones. Be aware that failing to do so can come with heavy penalties heavy penalties.According to the NSW government, demerit points stay active for a three-year-period, starting from the date of the offence.All licence holders start with zero demerit points. As a licence holder commits an offence that has a demerit point penalty, the points are then added to their driving record.While the fines may be hefty, only the points are doubled during double demerit periods.