The location of 2025 Koori Knockout was announced, with it set to take place in Tamworth in 2025.It’ll be the first time the city has hosted the prestigious tournament, where both current and future stars of the NRL will be on show.Taking place on October 3 - October 6 (long weekend) at Riverside Sporting Complex Tamworth, NSW, the honour of hosting the event was secured by WAC, who triumphed at the 2024 Koori Knockout in Bathurst.The Koori Knockout is a rugby league competition that brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teams from across New South Wales. Its significance extends beyond the playing field. The Koori Knockout is a powerful demonstration of pride, unity and resilience, offering a platform to showcase emerging talent, while also fostering connections among First Nations communities.The Koori Knockout has grown to be one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the world. In 2024, the tournament featured an extraordinary 138 teams, including current and former NRL and NRLW stars, showcasing the immense talent and passion within First Nations communities. The event attracted a live audience of 30,000 attendees and reached an impressive 500,000 viewers through television broadcasts, underlining its importance to the wider Australian public.

Toganmain Station boasts a massive wool shed located between Carrathool and Darlington Point. Built in 1875, in its heyday the property was that large that it had its own general store, carpentry and blacksmith workshops, wool scour, storage warehouse and medical centre. All of the workers from the out stations would come here to get their supplies. The main property was supplied mainly by stores in Hay and goods delivered by paddle steamer. Situated between Darlington Point and Carrathool, Toganmain Station boasted 13 miles (20 km) of river frontage and was established in 1867 by NSW’s Colonial Secretary Sir Alexander Macleay as one of the first grazing properties in the region. Thomas Robertson Senior bought the station’s original 167,000 acres (67,500 hectares) in blocks and it remained in the family until 1988. During the final years of the 19th century, Toganmain became a focal point of violent union uprisings over workers’ rights, leading to the birth of the modern labour movement. Disputes over pay rates erupted during the 1887 shearing season between unionists and non-unionists, and men who crossed the picket line were beaten and thrown in the river. In literature, Banjo Paterson immortalised the property in his 1905 poem Flash Jack from Gundagai, which opens with the line “I’ve shore at Burrabogie and I’ve shore at Toganmain”. Wool was taken from the station by paddle steamer to Echuca and then by train to Melbourne. In September 1876, a record was set in the shed for 202,292 sheep being shorn by 92 blade shearers, and more than seven million sheep have been shorn in Toganmain woolshed. The woolshed is one of the largest remaining in the Riverina. Now a long time since its hey day, it holds an iconic standing in Australian rural history. The shed has been out of action since the last shearing took place in 2001. It was declared non-compliant with NSW WorkCover work, health and safety guidelines. The Friends of Toganmain group is a band of determined and hardworking people of different origins, that want and have fought to try and restore this landmark. They have launched a GoFundMe campaign to start that process with a goal of at least $25,000 needed to cover the costs. The mini mum of $25,000 is for completion of the sub division, development applications, fencing, gateways, car parks and property admission, and essential work to stabilise the building, which has fallen into dire disrepair. The woolshed is part of Macquarie Bank's property group, Paraway Pastoral Company. Happily, in November 2022, Friends of Toganmain had managed to gain possession of the Toganmain Woolshed and shearers quarters. Christine Chirgwin, secretary of the Friends of Toganmain group, lives in Coleambally, and drives the considerable distance to Toganmain whenever she can. Like many, she has a love and passion for the building, and would be devastated to see it de cline any more than it already has. “Unfortunately, the shed has deteriorated significantly in the last two years,” Christine said. “What once could have been quite a reason able project has become quite an extensive one. It is heartbreaking. It has gotten to the point where the massive beams holding the roof up are cracking.” Although continued issues are still holding up the project to an extent, the group has an ambitious end goal. “The aim is to restore it so we can open it to the public, so they can enjoy and learn about its considerable history,” Christine said. “We want to, when the doors open to the public, have a button, where you press it and can hear the sounds of sheep shearing, an expert’s room where you can see sharpening of the blades, a wool classers table with wool classing going on, whether this is real life or videos and interactive displays. “At the moment, we are in preservation mode. We have to level the floor, re-roof, and tasks like re-roofing are to be done with old tin, to keep in line with the heritage look of the building. Meantime, Macquarie has allowed us to do some work, but we can’t do a lot.” Christine and the Friends of Toganmain are hopeful that other avenues of assistance will open up to preserve this piece of history. “We are hoping to attain sponsorship for the project down the line,” she said. “Us volunteers come from far and wide, many different places to come together and do what we can. “It is such a shame, at one time there were grants and things out there that we could have applied for, but the issues have gone on for so long now that those opportunities have dried up.”

Heads up guys – it is definitely time to start thinking and preparing to send your Christmas parcels and cards as soon as possible.The cut off times for Australia Post in News South Wales is if you are sending it within the state, it is December 20. If the package is going to WA, it is December 18, Tasmania December 19 and Northern Territory December 16.For more rural areas it would be wise to get in even earlier, to save disappointment.If you're sending a Christmas card within Australia, the postage cost is 65 cents during November and December.You can get this discount price provided the envelope is endorsed with "Card only", is no larger than 130mm x 240mm, no thicker than 5mm and no heavier than 250g.If you're sending a Christmas card overseas, the postage cost is $3 anywhere in the world.You can get this discount provided the envelope is endorsed with "Card only" and must be no larger than 260mm x 360mm, on thicker than 5mm and no heavier than 50g.Parcels up to 5kg are eligible for flat-rate postage options to anywhere within Australia.If you're using your own packaging, parcels are charged according to their actual weight or cubic weight equivalent, whichever is greater.Prices for parcels up to 5kg range from $10.95 for small Parcel Post, to $31.35 for extra-large Express Post.Australia Post does not typically deliver on weekends but they do offer weekend deliveries during the Christmas period.This was only introduced last month and is only available in some metro and regional areas, so best not to count on that service either.

Blue green algae is making the rounds lately. NSW Water have issued red alerts for the Darling River at Wilcannia and the Darling River at Caulpaulin.NSW Water has also issues amber alerts for the following areas: Darling River at Menindee Weir, Menindee Lakes at Lake Wetherell Site 4, Menindee Lakes - Cawndilla Outlet, Menindee Lake at Lake Wetherell Station 3, Darling River at Tolarno, Darling River at Trevallyn, Barwon River at Collarenebri, Yanga Lake at Regatta Beach, Murrumbidgee River at Maude weir Buoy.Alert DefinitionsRED ALERT These alert levels represent 'bloom' conditions. Water will appear green or discoloured and clumps or scums could be visible. It can also give off a strong musty or organic odour. Algae may be toxic to humans and animals. Contact with or use of water from red alert areas should be avoided due to the risk of eye and skin irritation. Drinking untreated or boiled water from these supplies can cause stomach upsets. Alternative water supplies should be sought or activated carbon treatment employed to remove toxins. People should not fish when an algal scum is present. Owners should keep dogs away from high alert areas and provide alternative watering points for stock. AMBER ALERT Blue-green algae may be multiplying, and the water may have a green tinge and musty or organic taste and odour. The water should be considered as unsuitable for potable use and alternative supplies or prior treatment of raw water for domestic purposes should be considered. The water may also be unsuitable for stock watering. Generally suitable for water sports, however people are advised to exercise caution in these areas, as blue-green algal concentrations can rise to red alert levels quickly under warm, calm weather conditions. GREEN ALERT Blue-green algae occur naturally at low numbers. At these concentrations, algae would not normally be visible, however some species may affect taste and odour of water even at low numbers and does not pose any problems for recreational, stock or household use.Alerts are declared where algal cell numbers exceed the triggers identified in the Guidelines for Managing Risk in Recreational Waters.NSW Health advises that any domestic use (including drinking) of surface water without appropriate treatment should be avoided at all times.For more information, visit NSW Water's website:https://www.waternsw.com.au/water-services/water-quality/algae-alerts#:~:text=The%20algal%20information%20line%20on,algae%20bloom%20please%20notify%20us.

At the November meeting of Balranald Shire Council, councillors moved to review the current Donations, Subsidies and Financial Assistance Policy.Written in 2017 and due for review in 2019, Cr Iain Lindasy-Field called the policy “antiquated and out of touch.”The discussions into the policy was prompted by three requests for support, tabled at the November meeting.Ian and Kate Weaver requested a $500 donation towards the fundraising efforts of Mildura Health Foundation to support the building and furnishing of the Dr Julie Zrna Centre. “The Dr Julie Zrna Centre will provide accommodation at little, to no cost for rural and remote patients receiving radiation treatment at the Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre,” The Weaver’s letter read.Robinvale Euston Rotary Club requested a donation of $500 towards their annual Christmas carnival and Balranald Pony Club asked for $1,059 garbage charges be waived. Under the current policy, Council was unable to approve any of the requests. At present the policy states donations can only be made in two rounds, closing in July and January, to a maximum of $500. The policy further states requests for financial support for organisation outside the Balranald Shire are not permitted.The Councillors unanimously agreed that support towards facilities such as the Mildura cancer treatment centre has a great benefit to local residents, despite being outside the shire.Cr Dwaine Scott suggested a donation from the Iluka Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) be used to support the Dr Julie Zrna Centre, which will be considered by Council at the December meeting.Cr Alison Linnett further suggested allocating an annual donation to the centre in Council’s budget.Discussions were held regarding the charging of garbage rates to Balranald Pony Club, which Deputy Mayor Dwaine Scott said was an unexpected expense to the volunteer organisation.“Can’t the fee be waived and credited back to them, to save that money coming out of the donations budget?” Cr Scott asked.“It’s got to come from somewhere,” Acting General Manager Glenn Carroll said.“We need to bring this (policy) up to date, to reflect the type of council we are, which is a progressive council,” Cr Lindsay-Field said.The policy will be reviewed at the December meeting.

Associate Professor Anthony Dowling grew up as ‘just another bush kid’. His family property, Merritop is 120 kilometres northwest of Hay, and 40 kilome tres north of Oxley. Their family connection on Merritop continues, with Anthony’s older brother Daniel and sister-in-law Natalie now running the property. Anthony’s father, Ted, was a soldier settler. Ted drew the block in a post-World War II ballot. Ted’s original one-room tin hut still stands on the family property. The other soldier settlers in the area were neighbours John McKeon at Kitcho, and Bill Goulding at Curragh.Anthony’s mother, Faye, came from Swan Hill where her father, Keith Dunoon owned the chemist. Faye studied pharmacy, and Merritop’s pan try was always stocked with interesting potions and ointments. Anthony’s childhood revolved around all things associated with an isolated Merino sheep property. His fondest memories include draining the airstrips after rain with the station hand Claude Woods (Gubba Woods’ great uncle), who worked with Ted for over 40 years.Once drains were dug, Claude walked around the house paddock to check the rams. Anthony and his siblings, Daniel and Sally would follow, looking at animal tracks, skid ding on clay pans, looking at the vegetation springing to life, and smelling the bush smells. Often, they would be covered in mud and Faye would hose them down before they were allowed inside. Fox whistling with Claude was another memorable childhood activity. “Claude would make fox whistles out of Log Cabin Tobacco tin lids and choose a hiding spot near a swamp or up a black box tree,” Anthony recalled. “It was always exciting watching the foxes run through the bushes before being shot.” Correspondence schooling started in a Merritop bedroom converted to a school room. “Mum found teaching two children hard enough, so when it came my turn to start school, the Tarwong Subsidised School was born,” Anthony said. “There, a governess schooled the Dowling and Schiller families. “The school was in the dining quarters of the Tarwong shearing shed, owned by the Schillers. “Claude and Mum would drive us children to school. "I was there for five years with my good friend and fellow classmate Louise Schiller (Hurst). “In grade four, I would drive the Datsun ute to and from school.” In 1977 the school closed, and Louise and Damien Shiller, and Anthony boarded at Claughton House for Year six to attend St Mary’s in Hay. Boarding at Ted’s old school, Assumption College, Kilmore, followed for the next six years. “Dad would often fly Daniel and I in the family Cessna to Moama to catch the bus back to Kilmore,” Anthony said. Mail runs were twice a week. “I still remember opening the old blue mail bag at Merritop to receive the offer to study medicine at the University of Melbourne,” he recalled. Notably, St Mary’s classmate John Johnston also started medicine the same year. Meanwhile, Sally was in Sydney studying Wool and Pastoral Sciences at the University of NSW, now working in Hay at Local Land Services as a Senior Land Services Officer. Six years later, Anthony graduated and commenced work as a doctor at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne. Over the next few years, he spent time working in Swan Hill, Shepparton and Warrnambool. After four years of hard work and passing his physician exams, he spent another three years of specialist training before becoming a Medical Oncologist; a physician specialising in the medical treatments of cancer. He married Karen Sims in 1994 and they moved to Toronto, Canada so Anthony could develop international experience. Whilst there he completed a Clinical Epidemiology qualification at the University of Toronto. Almost three happy years were spent in Toronto, which included the welcome births of Ruby and Angus. Clinical research was undertaken, and manuscripts published. The academic endeavours formed the foundation of his Doctor of Medical Sciences thesis. Anthony returned to St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne in 1999 as a Medical Oncologist and 26 years later remains there. For many years he was a visiting Medical Oncologist for Echuca and Shepparton and came across several Riverina families who required treatment. Anthony specialises in genitourinary cancers, particularly prostate cancer, and brain cancers. He is still actively involved in clinical research and teaches medical students, interns, and physician trainees. He is a Clinical Associate Professor from the University of Melbourne. Anthony enjoys returning to the Hay area to catch up with family and friends. Hiking, kayaking and photography, especially of birds, are favourite pastimes. He admires the prodigious photography talent of Margie McClelland and Alix McFarland and enjoys seeing what they post on social media. Anthony and Sally have kayaked many kilometres along the Murrumbidgee and Lachlan rivers along with lakes in the Hay, Booligal and Balranald areas. Sea kayaking in Tasmania, the Ningaloo reef at Exmouth and around Komodo Island in Indonesia have also been ticked off the bucket list. Getting out of the city and off the beaten track to trek in remote places is also a favourite pastime, with destinations including Madagascar, Mongolia, Borneo, Bhutan, New Zealand, Scotland and Kokoda. While in Australia trek highlights include Lara Pinta, the Bungle Bungles, Jatbula, Kakadu, Overland Track, and Victorian High Country, along with solo hikes such as the Great South West Walk near Portland and Wilson Promontory. And he has white water rafted some of Australia’s great rivers such as the Franklin, Snowy and Mitchell. Anthony’s message to readers is not to for get to look after your body and mind. “Just as a car needs a service, so does your body,” he said. “Women must find time to attend mammograms and PAP smears. “Likewise, regular skin checks are critical for everyone, as is doing the poo test (faecal occult blood (FOB)) that comes in the mail once you turn 50. “The chance of being cured of your cancer is very much dependent on it being detected as early as possible. “Don’t ignore early warning signs and do the screening tests. Equally important is dental hygiene and blood pressure checks along with maintaining a healthy diet, healthy weight, and exercising regularly. “Men must also have regular check-ups including blood pressure and the water works. If it’s taking you a long time to pass urine, it’s time to tell your doctor about it.” Additionally, Anthony encourages the kids of the area to dream big. “Just because you grow up in a remote area, doesn’t mean you can’t achieve,” he said. “Like most things in life, you need to work hard to achieve your goals. “You will likely need to leave the area to at tend university and to gain experience, but there is more flexibility these days due to online courses. “I wish all you bush kids all the very best.”

A MESSAGE FROM NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE COMMISSIONER, ROB ROGERS AFSMThe NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), which I have the privilege of leading, is the world’s largest volunteer firefighting organisation, with more than 70,000 dedicated members working tirelessly to protect lives and property across the State.When combined with the expertise of Fire and Rescue NSW, Forestry Corporation, and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the bush fire management resources available through the NSW Government form a robust and highly capable force.These resources are a vital line of defence, standing ready to assist communities during their time of need. However, no amount of preparation can substitute for individual and community vigilance.After several years of wetter-than-average conditions, it is critical that we do not allow complacency to take hold as we continue through the 2024/25 bush fire season.Every resident should take a moment to assess their personal risk. Ask yourself – am I, or is my property, at risk of bush or grass fires?The reality is simple – if you live, work or travel near bushland or grasslands, you are in a fire risk area.The next step is to determine your level of preparedness. Our research indicates that only 70pc of residents in bush fire-prone areas have a plan in place, and of those, only half have actively prepared their homes. This is a concerning statistic.The RFS strongly encourages all residents to develop a bush fire survival plan. Creating a plan is a straight-forward but crucial step in safeguarding your home, and loved ones. It can take as little as five minutes to start, yet the benefits can be life-saving.For those who already have a plan, it is equally important to review and update it regularly.Changes in family circumstances, property conditions, or the presence of pets and livestock can significantly impact your preparedness.Bush fire safety is not something to ‘set and forget.’Comprehensive resources and step-by-step guidance are available on the RFS website at rfs.nsw.gov.au. I strongly encourage every resident to use these tools to enhance their understanding of bush fire risks and improve their readiness.This bush fire season, my hope is that all communities across NSW will remain safe and well. However, preparedness is your greatest defence against the unpredictability of bush and grass fires.Let us work together to protect lives, property, and the communities we hold dear.Prepare your bush fire planCommissioner Rob Rogers has served the NSW Rural Fire Service for 45 years, beginning as a brigade volunteer in 1979. A holder of the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM), he has been Commissioner since July 2020.

The Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash has won Gold at the 2024 NSW Tourism Awards in the Festivals and Events category.Image: NSW Tourism Awards"This is a fantastic achievement and recognition for a festival which only commenced in 2022, having been created from scratch on the red dirt of the Mundi Mundi Plains 40km outside Broken Hill," Outback Music Festival Group founder and MD Greg Donovan said."It’s been a challenging but rewarding experience and everyone who played a part in bringing this spectacular festival to life should be very proud. This includes our dedicated and hard working crew and volunteers, all of the artists, vendors, sponsors and many other supporters, and not to forget all of our patrons who’ve travelled from far and wide to attend the Mundi Mundi Bash since the festival began."At the 2024 festival, 7,243 festival-goers donned in blue from head to toe gathered on the iconic Mundi Mundi Plains to create the largest human image of a country, shattering the previous record of 5,467 set by the Big Red Bash in Birdsville.Every ticket and blue headwear purchase contributed to the cause raising a remarkable $115,888 to support Beyond Blue’s mission to provide a safe and reliable space for those in need.The Mundi Mundi Bash is now an integral part of Australia’s outback festival circuit, driving the economy of the Back Country.Thousands of festival-goers each year pump millions of dollars into regional economies, ensuring the continued vitality of these communities.

There's an amazing new publication out on the hot dusty horizon, Rasp and Sturt. Rasp and Sturt is a creative oriented lifestyle magazine founded in Broken Hill. It is an amazing read with a clever, artistic twist. The publication creates compelling stories about the people of west and far west NSW. It covers the outback and the various aspects of life in Broken Hill and the Far West. Kimberly from Back Country Bulletin and The Riverine Grazier was lucky enough to have a talk with Steven Powell, Managing Director and Editor of Rasp and Sturt. Give us a bit of background, Steven. Where do you come from, what interests you? My initial background until my late 20s was the Australian Army (soldier). This also started my own travel experience seeing Australia for myself at the age of 18 ( I travelled early in my life with my Dad being a NSW Police officer for 36 years). I then ventured into the security industry finally owning my own company for eight years called The Colour Green back in Broken Hill before venturing into Juvenile Justice in Perth, WA. The security industry is where I became a little famous appearing on national television (60 Minutes, A Current Affair, Today Tonight, SBS Insight twice, The Sunday Program twice), and International TV Shows as a security expert with some of the high level jobs I did. From there I started my own professional photography business in 2010 and still have that business called The Nomad Company. I started Rasp & Sturt in January this year. What interests me is a good question - I own three businesses so I work 18 hours a day.I love music and have it on 24 hours a day (literally) so have that on whilst I work and my partner and I travel as much as we can - nationally and internationally. (The Nomad Company was called that for a reason haha).How long have you been a journalist? I am not a journalist but once I started photography in Perth, I learnt on the job to be a photojournalist with regional newspapers. I’ve just grown from there. Your photography is amazing - how long have you been a photographer, did you learn by doing or did you attain qualifications also?Thank you. I am self-taught; always had a camera as a kid and my time in the military so as mentioned above around 2010 I took it more seriously and have developed a style since then - always chasing that next great image that never seems to come. Your passion for delivering news in the area is evident, where did this originate?Always had an interest in helping people - hence the Army. I think this is just a different way to do that. Get news out, tell a story that may get lost in the noise etc. It allows the small people to have a genuine voice. What is your favourite method of delivering news, or perhaps a better way of putting it is - my favourite is feature articles do you have a preference? My preference is the same as yours. I like to have two feature articles in each of the issue I produce especially if I am the only news outlet or media producing that story. What do you hope to achieve with your amazing publication Rasp and Sturt? I hope to build a brand or small empire that brings to the people of the west and far west of NSW fresh, new, vibrant contemporary stories and images on an ancient land.  I have a saying I use In the magazine "new light through an old window". Do you find people in the area are communicative, do you have a good response to what you’re trying to achieve? It’s a very mixed response normally as you would know. So, I’ve found people are very keen to help but less keen to be involved themselves - a very Aussie, Outback way I feel. People are genuinely and generally interested in sure - but being busy as everyone is I struggle in the waiting process. Waiting to hear back or waiting on a return email... takes forever sometimes lol. I really admire where you are taking things, such as your request for travel stories on the Sturt. Thanks Kimberly. Yes, I think there are so many stories of things we just do. Things we have always done and just thought this is what we do like travel from Broken Hill to Adelaide for sport, holidays, medical appointments etc. But in those things, we do are thousands and thousands of variations and stories. Our next issue has a story about those who live along the Barrier Highway from Broken Hill to Adelaide and the locals who make that trip every day.Don't forget - issue three of Rasp and Sturt is due out February 1, 2025. Stockists include Tibooburra Food & Fuel, Cobar Newsagency, The Silly Goat Schinella's Friendly Grocer Giovanni & Co, Broken Hill Bernels Fish Shop, Fresh Pizza Broken Hill, Sunbeam Deli, Broken Hill Sturt Club, The Demo Club, The Broken Hill Pub, The Astra Broken Hill, Wanaaring Store and Caravan Park, Silverton Bakery & Cafe, Silverton Outback Camels, Broken Hill Distillery, Barrier Stationers Coco & May, The Deli Newsextra Coles Village, The Old Salt Bush Restaurant & Catering, and Cameron Corner Store.You can also visit the Rasp and Sturt website to order your copy mailed to you for $5 plus postage.https://www.raspsturt.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/p/Rasp-Sturt-61558848147454/https://www.instagram.com/raspandsturt/

Did you know Starting Over Dog Rescue are an organisation based in Melbourne?Our local animal ranger, Shaye Kennedy, works with them and that is where the majority of Hay’s animals in need of rescue are sent.Starting Over Dog Rescue currently take in one dog every 6.5 hours, every day.“They are one of the biggest rescue organisations in Melbourne and Victoria,” Shayne said. “They liaise with four other shelters in Melbourne, and most of the animals which need rescuing in Hay will be placed in a rescue thanks to Starting Over Dog Rescue.“Not only do they save animals but they help people with vet bills, dog food and so much more. “They are swamped and really need a helping hand, donate however little or much you can.”They are in need of help. It has gotten to the stage where they are accruing exorbitant vet bills, and are considering having to make the difficult call to close their doors to new intakes.“We’ve recently had an emergency committee meeting, and our vet bills are running at over $95,000 a month,” said Lynda, the founder of the organisation on social media.“To be honest, we are in real danger of having to close our rescue to new animals; with over 400 dogs in care, we are swamped, and that’s an understatement to be honest.”In November alone the rescue organisation had multiple dogs with broken legs, a dog needing a hip replacement, multiple dogs needing surgeries, ringworm outbreaks, emergency vet visits, giardia, coccidia, Parvo and more. The bottom line is Starting Over Dog Recue need to raise at least $65,000 to clear their vet bills and ensure they are prepared for what is going to be such a busy month. “Just $5 from each and every one of you would help us so much. "It’s the cost of your next cup of coffee but one that will help save a life,” Lynda said. “We really don’t want to close to new animals. It’s the last thing we would ever want to do but tonight we urgently need these funds.“Our team won’t stop. We will be working through the festive season,” Lynda continued.“There will be no Christmas lunch with family with the rescue phone off, no peaceful BBQ to look forward to on Boxing Day. "They will be out doing what they do best, looking after these precious puppies and dogs that need our help. “Answering phone calls, hundreds of kilometres of travel, staying up into the wee hours of the night bottle feeding. To make sure we give these animals the best chance.”For such a small cost to an individual, you can make such a big difference in the lives of animals who need a helping hand, and to be rescued.Visit this link to donate"https://starting-over-dog-rescue.mygiveeasy.com/urgent-help-to-clear-our-vet-bills/donatenow?fbclid=IwY2xjawG7Q0NleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHXzOA9ojrcGwOdh9sCW37Nvgc6UER5izv4Vv-pSjXXONiacBY73RMRTBqw_aem_5ZBprVysKMefvz3M9sAaxwYou can keep up to date with Starting Over Dog Rescue here: https://www.facebook.com/StartingOverDogRescue

Are you good with animals, and want to make a difference? Do you live 'out West?' Read on, Wires out West needs you!Wires out West are in need of passionate volunteers to join them in rescuing, saving, and caring for native wildlife. Whether you have experience or simply a love for animals, your help can make a real difference in protecting local fauna. Please share this with any town and community pages in the Far West region.Join them in this vital mission to ensure a safe and thriving environment for wildlife. If you're interested, please contact Wires out West on their Facebook page or visit the link below.Wires out West has replaced Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation in the Far West of NSW, which operated for 30 years.The Wires Facebook page is not the place for reporting a rescue. Always contact the WIRES number for further assistance.But you can always contact the Wires out West Facebook page in regards to the location of mobs (kangaroos) or a daddy emu and his brood finding its way into town during summer. Visit this link for more information about Wires:https://www.wires.org.au/?fbclid=IwY2xjawG7Tq1leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHYQzJafXFes-EN2hK7mq8UIT65CW39arMqV0ITeFtHv2wsziIl1tH5fi5A_aem_H5mtSUVFZ-P17T-uFYjjZw To engage with Wires out West and follow them on social media, visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569166407168To donate to Wires out West and give the new branch a kickstart:https://www.wires.org.au/branch/far-west?fbclid=IwY2xjawG7T0hleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVH28pbTBKxmvX5sp-EpfaU42Qm9Mn8lXwD9UadDcKGkN-9dpPRMEfLAcw_aem_gMaRRfWtHHPU1LNM_gI6_ATo register to be a Wires volunteer: https://www.wires.org.au/wildlifevolunteering

Not all of us out there can navigate the seemingly never ending world of internet connectivity and phone issues.So why not contact the Regional Tech Hub for free phone and internet support. The Regional Tech Hub can help people and businesses living or working in rural, regional or remote Australia who need help with phone or internet connectivity.They can help you understand your connectivity options and stay up-to-date with the latest technology.The Regional Tech Hub offers a free, independent Connectivity Report detailing all your phone and internet options tailored to your location and needs. Simply complete the form, and you will be provided in a couple of weeks with your personalised report.Call 1300081029 or visit the link below to find out more or book an appointment. There is a connectivity quiz checker you can fill in for further information, and even a podcast to listen to for those who absorb information better by listening.https://regionaltechhub.org.au/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpveavP71iQMV-6JmAh22QCiaEAAYASAAEgLYFvD_BwE&fbclid=IwY2xjawG7PuZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdaNdIM4WxP9ErrjlTEh_jAnGCumK6xruVI_1ZtnKB8aULzVC5Xoe0Iqmw_aem_6K_qmaWC-0JHU7Qu4wiZnw

As the renovations of the Hay Swimming Pool complex continue, we look back at how it all came about. How did Hay end up with one of the best free pools in the country? It took many years, an offer of a grant of land from the estate of Henry B Maclure and much work by the town’s citizen’s before construction finally began in 1966. “SWIMMING POOL CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED - Public Endorses Ambitious Project A PUBLIC meeting on Friday unanimously agreed to the formation of a special committee to undertake the provision of a swimming pool in Hay. Mrs. G. D. Butterworth announced that she would meet the cost of the cement required. Mr. W. Catlin, a well known contractor, told the "Grazier" that he would do the necessary excavation work. Following these two offers of assistance, Mr. Henry Hyde said that the erection of forms for the concrete work would be his responsibility. On the morning prior to the public meeting, Ald. Arthur Harris, acting for Mr. Wilcox, announced that Mr. Wilcox was prepared to supply the timber required for the forms.” The Riverine Grazier January 30, 1952. Several sites were considered; the river bend at the end of Moppett Street, the tennis courts site and Hay Park being the most popular suggestions at the time. The inaugural committee charged with raising the funds necessary and getting the project under way were Chairman, Mr. G. R. Blackley; vice-president, Mr. O. J. Smith; joint-secretaries, Messrs. M. Hawkins and J. Bruce; treasurer, Mr. Whitteron; committee; Messrs. W. Catlin, G. D. Butterworth, H. Hyde, J. Mitchell, F. Hawkins, J. P. Flood, G. Beckwith, G. Japp, A. Welsh, R. Richards and W. Schade. In 1952 the committee received word from NSW Public Works that “no Government funds were available” to help construct the pool, and in 1954 The Grazier reported the situation had not progressed. In fact swimming carnivals and lessons had ceased, and were no longer held in the river, and Hay Shire Aldermen stated publicly that young lives may be lost while Hay waited for Government assistance. Lobbying and fundraising continued, with sport days and community events held to boost the coffers. A new committee was formed in 1956, with more success than its predecessor. The funds for construction were eventually secured and plans were finalised in early 1966, before the pool opened in 1967. It was named in honour of John Houston, the President of the Hay Swimming Pool Committee for the entire decade the final Committee existed. Entry was initially via coin slot in the turnstile, but the entry fee system was abandoned many years later, and Hay became a welcome stop for many summer travellers, who broke up long, hot drives across the Hay Plains with a dip in the free pool. Read next: More Hay history, detailing the journey of the Hay Jockey Club.https://backcountrybulletin.app/NewsStory/history-of-hay-jockey-club/67354373aecbba05f07a0ca2#top

Eileen Beissel started life on a property 'Wilga Park' in the Gunbar District and started school there. The school was at Wilga Park and the teacher actually lived with the family. She has fond memories of living in the Gunbar District, the community gatherings especially at Christmas time. Life in Hillston was equally as carefree. Her mother was a strong Catholic, they lived across the road from the Catholic school and she attended St Joseph's, the local Catholic school. She enjoyed playing with the girls who boarded at the convent, and remembered the sisters scolding her for not wearing her stockings to school one day. Eileen was made to wrap brown paper on her legs for the rest of the day. Her father was absent from her life from the age of five when he enlisted in World War II. He left behind his wife and eight children and ended up being a prisoner of war in Changi. They would receive postcards from him, all beginning with him stating that he was being treated ‘well’, his physical condition when arriving home telling another tale. Eileen’s brother joined the Air Force, and was in Borneo at the time their father was released. He went to see his father in hospital and had to be shown by the nurse which bed he was in, he was unrecognisable, and many pounds lighter. She vividly remembers VP Day when WWII officially ended. There was dancing and singing in the street. They all sat in the back of a truck, driving around celebrating the end of the war. It was a party atmosphere and is one of her happiest memories. Eileen was a tomboy, revelling in undertaking the same pursuits as her brothers. There was not a thing that they did that she wouldn’t give it a go too. Eileen left school the day after her 15th birthday. She had taken the day off school as it was her birthday, and the nuns reprimanded her. Luckily for her, she had approached a store front on Friday, and they offered her a job straight away. Her mother told her that she could not leave school without a job, so she adeptly and assertively decided her own fate. Her talent for maths then continued to pave her career, as she spent her working life as a bookkeeper. She worked at Baxter’s for many years (a department store located where Betta Electrical is located now). Once Baxter’s closed, she relocated to Crighton’s Engineering until the early 2000s. “I was always lucky, I was never without a job,” she recalled. Eileen went to a function with a friend, and there was a band playing. One particular man stood out to Eileen, a young man by the name of Henry, and she mentioned this to her friend. Although she did not get a chance to meet him, her friend had a photo of him, and gave it to Eileen. The photo lived in the top drawer of her chest of drawers for a long time. One day, a group of young men walked into Baxter’s with equipment. They were there to perform repair work. A quirky twist of fate saw the same face that was in her top drawer on a photograph, walk in amongst them. “I was dusting around the shop, and was dusting a light fitting, and I got an electric shock, and got thrown against the wall,” Eileen recalled. “Ever the chivalrous man, Henry came to my rescue, and walked me home to make sure I got home safely. “From then on, we were inseparable.” Henry built his love a house, the house in which she still resides. The family lovingly call it the house that Henry built. Wed in 1955, Eileen gave birth to Ian in 1956, the year of Hay's big flood. They lived in a flat in Leonard St, right on the river bank and she recalls that it was a year where it never stopped raining. The levee bank was in her backyard and as the men patrolled the banks, they would often slip on the bank and grab onto Ian's nappies hanging on the line. Her once clean nappies all had to be re washed. Henry, would have to work a full day, come home for lunch and pump water out of the yard and then patrol the bank during shifts in the night. There was little time for sleep. Julie came next, and then the baby of the family, Carol. As the children grew up Henry and Eileen became involved in their activities. They were active in Hay Amateur Swimming Club as their children were all keen swimmers. They travelled widely attending carnivals. Mostly in the Riverina, but also at state level. Eileen remembers picking Ian up from school at lunchtimes to train him in the back stroke event at Alma Beach on the river. He had made it to the next level and she was dedicated to her training regime. When the pool opened in 1967, she handed the training over to the experts - Ted Kulhavey and Gwen Blondinau. An avid knitter and sewer, she would make all of her children’s clothes, proficiently and quickly. Carol and Julie would often source out the latest fashions, tossing them at their mother, and asking for it to be made right away. Eileen and Henry always enjoyed a happy social life, and they both played bowls. Eileen was treasurer of Hay Services Bowls Club for a time. The pair also played tennis and darts. Henry was an exceptional cricketer, representing Riverina District; a left arm off spinner. Their son Ian went on to have a successful career at University of New England in Armidale. Julie is the branch manager at Newcastle Permanent in Tamworth. Carol was Principal of Hay Public School for a time, and now is Mayor of Hay. After the children moved out and away, Henry and Eileen enjoyed travelling throughout New South Wales, exploring. One of her most favourite trips was a cruise down the Murray, her eyes lit up as she recalled the trip. In the twilight years, when they discovered Henry had cancer, Eileen faithfully and stoically cared for him, until he passed away in 2006. She was married to the love of her life, Henry, for 51 years. Although Eileen says he may not have known about the photo she kept of him in her drawer, she knows that he knew how very much he meant to her. The couple had six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, whom Eileen adores. Eileen has enjoyed good health throughout her life, a recent fall in April and the resulting broken leg slowing her down just a touch. Living a relaxed, con tent and laid-back life these days, she treasures the almost daily visits she gets from locals, and feels very blessed to have daughter Carol in town. She has audio books on her iPad, puzzles, and facetimes her grand children every week or so. The music of Slim Dusty, Vera Lynn and Mitch Miller are often heard through the rooms of the house. Eileen is thankful for all of the help she receives, and enjoys getting out and about for drives, and travels. When she travels away to see her other children, she is usually gone for months, and immensely enjoys this. You have touched the lives of all who know you, Eileen, the back bone of a family, and a lovely woman. https://backcountrybulletin.app/NewsStory/neville-eade-of-hay/6736a4bb665283002e9d2c61#top

WaterNSW has issued a number of blue-green algal alerts for an area of the Darling River upstream of the Menindee Lakes, which includes Wilcannia.Water NSW advises that although Wilcannia is fitted with dual-reticulated water supply and residents should be mindful that untreated water taps that source water directly from the river will also be affected.Social media commentators are keeping any eye on the river at Wilcannia, after locals endured catastrophic fish kill evenmts last year."Before cotton there was never any BG Algae at the Menindee area, even back when the river went into water holes when it stopped running," one said."It’s not right. Why do we have to put up with the foul water?" said another.The red alert warning applies only to untreated water and will remain in place until monitoring and test results confirm the risk is sufficiently diminished.Current Water NSW alertsRed AlertsDarling River at WilcanniaDarling River at CaulpaulinAmber AlertsBarwon River at CollarenebriDarling River at TrevallynGreen AlertsBarwon River at Brewarrina WeirBogan River at GongolgonDarling River at BourkeDarling River at LouthDarling River at TilpaHave information or images to share? Contact [email protected]

Alleged offender remains in custody following weekend Hillston assault.Reilson Mera was formally refused bail when he appeared by video link at a bail hearing in Wagga Wagga today.35-year-old Mr Mera has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, following an alleged assault which occurred in High Street, Hillston on Saturday evening (November 30, 2024).Police were called following reports of an assault on a 37-year-old.The older man was treated at the scene before he was taken to Hillston Hospital.He was later transported to Griffith Hospital in a critical condition.Mr Mera will next appear at Griffith Local Court on January 29, 2025.Read the original story

This article has been penned and contributed by Ian Wade. “I don’t think our kids know what an apron is. The principle use of Grandma’s apron was to protect her dress underneath, because she only had a few. It was also because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons used less material, but along with that, it served as a potholder for removing those hot pans from the oven. It also was wonderful for drying children’s tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning dirty faces. From the chicken coop, that apron was used for carrying in the eggs, fussy chickens and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven. When company arrived, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids, and when the weather was cold, Grandma wrapped it around our arms. Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, when she was bent over the hot wood stove cooking meals for the family. Kindling and wood were brought into the kitchen for that old stove, as well as from the garden, it carried in all sorts of vegetables and after cleaning the veggies, peeling the spuds, shelling the peas etc, that apron carried the scraps outside. It was even used to bring in the fruit that had fallen from the trees. When unexpected company came along or drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust off in a matter of minutes. When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, yelled out and waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner, and the kids from wherever they were playing. It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that “old-time apron” that served so many purposes. Remember, when Grandma used to set her hot baked pies on the window sill to cool…..now we put them on the window sill to thaw out. Today, we would go crazy trying to figure out how many germs were on that old apron, but no harm came to us at all. I think the only thing that I ever caught off that old apron was LOVE, and plenty of it.” From The Riverine Grazier, July 20, 1954 An apron on a woman about the home can be a symbol of crisp efficiency or a badge of drudgery. Nothing gives a woman more confidence than the knowledge that she looks attractive in her apron or that she can remove it at a moment's notice to step out of the kitchen to greet friends or visitors at the front door, dressed for the occasion. Aprons, says Miss Nancy Foskett, Women's Extension Officer of the Department of Agriculture, should com bine utility with wear-appeal. They are worn in the first instance to protect. They need to be large enough to do this. As aprons save frocks from soiling they need frequent laundering. For this reason alone, choose fabrics and colours that will stand up to repeated washings. Don't, however, work for your apron. See that they are easy to wash and iron, says Miss Foskett. Starching, for instance, not only improves the appearance of an apron, but will keep it clean longer and make it easier to wash. Stains and dirt don't soak in so much with the starched apron and will wash out easier. Select a style that is attractive, easy to get in and out of, and remember, while frills may add glamour they will take time to iron. Fast colours and flat trimmings will give attractiveness with utility. Make sure your apron fits comfortably and securely. Nothing is more irritating while you are working than a garment which keeps falling in front or slipping off the shoulders. Cross-over straps on the back will pre vent this or you may prefer to use a back strap to hold the shoulder straps in position. If the skirt is cut to wrap around, at least six inches past the side seam of the dress it will give a trimmer appearance, is more comfortable, and gives your clothes a better protection. Pockets should be large enough to be useful and placed so they cannot catch on projections as you work. For gardening or house cleaning an apron with two or three large pockets is frequently a great convenience. Stitch a nine-inch strip across the full width of the skirt at a position where your hand can reach to the bottom of it. Divide this off into two or three pockets for dusters, etc., or for labels, string and other things you may need while working in the garden. A towel apron worn when bathing baby is ideal as it absorbs so much moisture. Apron fun facts The word ‘apron’ it appears has come from two sources - the Indo-European word ‘mappa’ and the old French word ‘naperon’ both meaning napkin, cloth or towel. Men were actually the first to wear aprons, not grandmas and nannas, and mainly for hygienic protection. Different trades wore different coloured aprons, white - stonemasons, black - cobblers, blue - gardeners, green - butlers, black and white chequered - barbers and blue stripe - butchers. Women pictured in aprons in the 1940s-50s were often portrayed as a domestic goddess - synonymous with home, family, hospitality and generosity. Often these aprons had feminine detailing. At about this same time, special masculine aprons appeared for the man of the house, the master of the grill.Read next: The land speed record broken at Carrathool in 1957. https://backcountrybulletin.app/NewsStory/blast-from-the-past-land-speed-records-broken-at-carrathool/6736a51b5bd32f002df2c94f#top

Volunteer Grants 2024-25: Everything you need to knowThe Australian Government is now accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the Volunteer Grants 2024-25 program. Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will be available to support the efforts of volunteers. Applications follow a two-stage process. Applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to their Federal MP, after which selected organisations will be invited to complete a full application. Each Federal MP has $66,225 (ex GST) to allocate per electorate. To be eligible, organisations must have a minimum of 40% of volunteers working for the organisation. Key Program Details:Eligibility: Organizations must have at least 40% volunteer workforce.Grant Use: Funding can be used for:Category 1: Purchasing essential equipment for volunteers, such as communication devices, computers, software, and internet services.Category 2: Supporting volunteer-run activities that benefit children and their families.How to Apply:Submit an EOI: Submit your EOI to your local Federal MP.Full Application: If selected, you'll be invited to complete a full application.Key Dates:EOI Closing Dates: December 2024 - Mid-January 2025 (varies by electorate)EOI Results: By February 26, 2025Full Application Deadline: March 12, 2025Full Application Results: July 2025Project Commencement: July 2025For more information and to apply, please contact your local Federal MP's office.By supporting volunteers, we can strengthen our communities.IMPORTANT: This program is run by Federal electorate; not all electorates will open for EOIs at the same time and closing dates for EOIs will vary by electorate. If you are interested in applying, please contact your Federal MP’s electorate office ASAP to discuss your proposed project and obtain the process to submit an EOI. Once you have obtained these details, please contact the SLSA Grant Seeking Unit (details below) if you would like assistance with your EOI. If you wish to confirm the Federal Government electorate your Club/Branch is located in, visit electorate.aec.gov.au.Grant Opportunity Guidelines have been published on GrantConnect

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton is calling for the Labor Government to provide ongoing funding to Royal Far West to allow the service to continue its vital work supporting children in the bush.Mr Coulton moved a motion in Parliament this week urging the Government to continue funding the Royal Far West’s National Paediatric Telecare Service (NPTS) which is delivering crucial paediatric services to country children via schools.“In recent years, it’s become incredibly difficult to access paediatric services if you live in regional Australia,” Mr Coulton said.“I know many families in my electorate are being forced to wait years to get in to see a specialist or have to fork out thousands of dollars to travel to access much-needed support for their children.“In 2019, Royal Far West received $19.7 million in funding from the former Coalition Government to establish the NPTS, which is helping to fill this gap in services and enables country children to access the support they need without having to travel.“The service, which is being delivered in schools across rural and remote Australia, provides children with access to various clinicians including speech pathologists, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists and social workers via telehealth.“It’s currently being delivered in 143 schools and 56 early learning centres in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia, with 565 children receiving support each week. “Last year, the service supported more than 21,000 children – 20 per cent of which are Indigenous and 50 per cent under eight years old. We all know that the earlier a child can receive intervention, the less likely they are to fall behind in their development. It’s not only filling a gap but helping to Close the Gap.“While I understand that telecare is not a replacement for healthcare, this service is helping to reach a large number of children to ensure they can get the help they need before it’s too late.”Mr Coulton said Narromine Public School in the Parkes electorate is a great example of what can be achieved through this type of service. Royal Far West has been working with Narromine Public School for 10 years after the school had concerns about the development of some children starting school.“I’ve actually sat in on some of the lessons,” Mr Coulton said.“There is an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, or whoever working on screen. What the therapist has is replicated in the school. We’ve seen, after the initial assessment’s done of the child, significant improvements in student outcomes, behaviour, wellbeing and social skill development.”Funding for the NPTS runs out in June next year and there is currently no Federal funding bucket available for this type of program. Royal Far West has plans to expand the program into another 150 schools across the country but will be unable to continue it at all unless they secure funding.“I’ve had multiple meetings with Royal Far West over the past few months and they’re very concerned about how they’re going to continue funding this service without Government support,” Mr Coulton said.“We’ve got an election coming up so there’s uncertainty around that and whether there will be a Budget before then.“They need certainty from the Government.“Royal Far West does a wonderful job in supporting rural children in a practical and meaningful way and this is making a huge difference in communities throughout the country.“I strongly urge the Government to look at providing ongoing funding.”Next month, the Royal Far West will be celebrating 100 years of supporting the health and wellbeing of country kids, families and teachers.The charity was founded in 1924 by Cobar-based Reverend Stanley Gillick Drummond while he was recuperating on a beach in Manly and conceived the idea of bringing country kids to the coast for respite.“I can proudly say that its roots are firmly planted in the Parkes electorate,” Mr Coulton said.“The first lot of children that came in from the country came from places like Brewarrina, Bourke and Cobar.“Royal Far West has a long and proud history of delivering care to children from remote parts of Australia, largely New South Wales, but it has now expanded into other areas.”