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Applications Open for Australia Post’s 2025 Community Grant Program
Applications Open for Australia Post’s 2025 Community Grant Program

19 June 2025, 2:00 AM

Grants of up to $10,000 available for community organisations in New South Wales dedicated to fostering connections and improving mental wellbeing.Applications are now open for Australia Post’s 2025 Community Grants program, which funds community-led, local projects across Australia. Eligible not-for-profit groups from New South Wales can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects which have the primary purpose of improving connection and mental wellbeing in their local communities. An additional allocation of up to $250,000 is available to support initiatives in disaster-impacted regions.Since 2020, Australia Post has awarded more than 350 grants to community groups across Australia. Last year, the program awarded 71 projects across the country, contributing more than $500,000 in funding. More than half of successful applications were in regional areas.This year, Australia Post has announced a significant expansion of its Community Grants program for 2025.There is an additional allocation of up to $250,000 allocated to support grassroots initiatives that enhance mental wellbeing, foster connection, and build resilience in disaster-impacted communities. “In times of disaster, it’s local organisations that are best placed to support the recovery process,” Australia Post General Manager, Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said. “They understand their communities, know what’s needed, and are there for the long haul.” One of the successful New South Wales projects that benefited from the 2024 Community Grants Program was the 2024 recipient, Hockey Tweed in Murwillumbah, New South Wales.The 'Are you Okay' hockey round they have implemented will bring the community together, to share stories and educate on recognising mental ill health, being open to support and improving access to resources.  “At Hockey Tweed, we’re more than just a sports association, we’re a place where people come to connect and support each other,” Hockey Tweed Incorporated Immediate Past President Margie Coleman said.“After years of hardship, from COVID border closures to the 2022 floods, we wanted to place a focus on mental health and community connection. “Thanks to this implementation, we have been able to do this.“If you’ve got an idea that could lift your community, don’t hesitate. This grant could be the spark that brings it to life.”Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the Community Grant guidelines carefully to check eligibility requirements.Eligible organisations are able to apply until 11.59pm on Monday, 7 July 7.To check eligibility, visit: auspost.com.au/grants. Successful applicants will be notified in September 2025.  The Community Grants program illustrates Australia Post’s commitment to mental health, which includes a partnership with Beyond Blue that to date has delivered mental health resources to more than sixteen million letterboxes across Australia. Australia Post is also a founding member of Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, which supports mental health and wellbeing in the transport and logistics industries.  

New Policy Paper Reveals Extent of Elder Abuse, Calls for Action
New Policy Paper Reveals Extent of Elder Abuse, Calls for Action

18 June 2025, 2:00 AM

Sunday 15 June marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.We need to let this serve as a poignant reminder of the seriousness of this issue.  Some 15 per cent of older people in Australia aged 65 and over are abused.Even worse, if it could get any worse, one in two perpetrators will be a family member.A new policy paper has raised on a blunt lack of support services for them.Relationships Australia NSW (RANSW) has released a policy paper detailing 29 recommendations to drive abuse down and increase services to older people who suffer from it.RANSW CEO Elisabeth Shaw said the current system is insufficient to protect older people and the NSW Government needs a strong response to the scale of the problem."Older people deserve dignity and safety, not abuse and neglect," Ms Shaw said."NSW has an ageing population and an increase in the incidence of psychological, financial, physical and other forms of harm to older people. "We need the abuse to stop, and we need to increase the accessibility of services for thousands of older people in this state who have found themselves in this situation.Ms Shaw said it is known that the situation is dire, and experience together with statistics show the situation will likely get worse. “It is incredibly hard for older people to disclose harm at the hands of a family member,” she said.Currently, the service system suffers from funding insecurity that creates a postcode lottery - meaning where you live greatly influences your chances of accessing support. Our own state funding ends in August 2025."That's why we have drafted a position paper which puts forward a set of 29 practical recommendations for the NSW Government to implement between now and 2030."The policy paper was drafted with the input of nine organisations that work in the sector.Some of the recommendations include that the NSW Government should maintain and expand regional and place-based approaches, such as through regional hubs, to address postcode injustice.Introduce a module on identification and response to the abuse of older people into the NSW Police Academy training program.Re-fund the Aged Crime Prevention Officer roles in the NSW Police, or identify alternative routes to ensure violence-informed and age-informed approaches at the first point of contact for the criminal legal system. Harmonise Enduring Power of Attorney laws and create a NSW Register of appointments.Legislate mandatory training and funding to support Attorneys or Guardians appointed under an Appointment of Power of Attorney / Enduring Power of Attorney or Appointment of Enduring Guardian.Explore the potential to mandate Elder Mediation for ageing-related family conflicts, in line with existing mandated mediation requirements for separating parents.At the review date of the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Coercive Control) Act 2022 in July 2026, consider the opportunity to criminalise coercive and controlling behaviour by family members other than an intimate partner.Fund services for periods of at least five years, to improve providers' ability to attract, develop and retain experienced employees in critical front-line roles.

Family Violence Intervention Order reforms a step forward for young people
Family Violence Intervention Order reforms a step forward for young people

17 June 2025, 11:00 PM

Victoria Moves to Close Family Violence Order Loopholes for Young PeopleYoung people in Victoria may soon find it easier to stay protected under Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs), thanks to a set of reforms welcomed by the Mallee Accommodation and Support Program (MASP).The changes, announced by Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny, aim to stop young people from “ageing out” of FVIOs just because they turn 18. Conor Pall, Deputy Chair of the Victim Survivors’ Advisory Council (and a Mildura local), first raised the issue in 2022, arguing that fear and risk don’t magically disappear on a birthday.Dani Edwards, MASP’s Manager of Family Safety, called the reforms overdue. “A young person doesn’t age out of fear or risk. They shouldn’t have to jump through hoops for protection just because they’re now legally an adult,” Edwards said. “This change means fewer young victim-survivors will have to relive trauma by reapplying for protection.”The legislation will also target loopholes that let alleged perpetrators avoid being served with an FVIO—even if they’re already in custody. Plus, Victoria will be able to issue orders for violence that happened interstate, a big win for people in border towns like Mildura and Swan Hill or those who’ve moved to escape abuse.To top it off, Victoria will introduce a standard two-year FVIO length, bringing the state in line with the ACT, New South Wales, and Western Australia.For those interested in the ongoing conversation, Conor Pall will be speaking at MASP’s Lunch For Change on September 5. Details and tickets: https://masp.org.au/change/ ↗

Scalabrini Communities wins Best Workplace Award for third consecutive year
Scalabrini Communities wins Best Workplace Award for third consecutive year

17 June 2025, 8:00 PM

Scalabrini Communities is honoured once again to be the recipient of the Xref Engages Best Workplace Award for 2025, reflecting its exceptional leadership practices and deeply engaged workforce.  The Best Workplace Awards celebrate organisations that have achieved exceptional levels of employee engagement and satisfaction as well as demonstrating effective leadership practices and positive workplace cultures. Specifically, they acknowledge organisations that give their people a voice, achieve outstanding employee engagement and use feedback to make positive organisational change. Scalabrini’s achievement of three consecutive Best Workplace Awards since 2023, along with an outstanding employee satisfaction score of 84.2 per cent—well above the 80 per cent benchmark—reflects its unwavering commitment to cultivating a positive and engaging workplace culture.This recognition further underscores the organisation’s ability to sustain high employee morale and deliver strong, effective leadership, firmly establishing Scalabrini as a leader in workplace excellence and staff retention.  Commenting on the accolade CEO Richard de Haast said, “We are thrilled to be recognised in this way three years running. This is an outstanding achievement and recognises how the team continuously explore new ways to help our team members feel connected and that they belong in our Scalabrini Communities. "This resonates deeply with the team as shown by our nine per cent labour turnover compared to the 30 to 40 per cent in the aged care sector.”

When early recognition changes everything
When early recognition changes everything

17 June 2025, 5:00 AM

Autism Awareness Australia has teamed up with TAFE NSW to launch a new online course specifically designed for early childhood professionals who want to better support autistic children in their services. The microskill course, "Autism Awareness for Early Childhood Professionals," can be completed in just two hours and is completely free for NSW educators.Nicole Rogerson, CEO of Autism Awareness Australia, is refreshingly direct about what this course isn't. "This isn't just another box-ticking training module," she said. "We're challenging autism myths, building confidence, and getting to the heart of what inclusive education looks like for our youngest learners."The numbers tell a compelling story. Children identified with autism before the age of six are far more likely to access early intervention, leading to significantly improved developmental outcomes. And here's the thing that makes early childhood educators so crucial in this picture: they're often the first people outside the family to notice the early signs."Recognising the early signs of autism isn't just helpful, it's lifechanging," Rogerson explained. "ECEC professionals are often in that vital position to spot what families might not yet see."The course covers ground that many educators have been asking for: how to recognise early signs in babies, toddlers and preschoolers; understanding how autism can present differently in boys and girls; and learning practical strategies to support children's sensory, emotional and communication needs.But perhaps most importantly, it tackles the myths that continue to harm both practice and children.The five interactive modules don't just throw theory at busy educators. They provide downloadable resources and practical strategies that can be implemented immediately in early childhood settings."When educators can respond with empathy and understanding, they change lives," Rogerson said, "and they're far less likely to burn out while doing it."It's worth noting that this course was developed with input from the people who matter most: early childhood leaders and families of autistic children, alongside subject matter experts and TAFE NSW teachers.This autism awareness course is just one offering in the broader Early Childhood Education and Care Professional Learning Program, a partnership between the NSW Department of Education and TAFE NSW that launched late last year. More than 1,600 NSW early childhood professionals are already registered and accessing professional development opportunities designed to strengthen their knowledge and skills.Rogerson sees the urgent need for this kind of targeted professional development. "We're delivering high-impact, digestible learning designed to lift the quality of inclusive practice across the sector, reduce burnout, and help tackle Australia's deepening skills shortage in early childhood education and care."For NSW early childhood professionals ready to strengthen their autism awareness and inclusive practice skills, the course is available now through the ECEC Professional Learning Program. Two hours of learning that could make all the difference to the children in their care.Because sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is simply know what to look for, and how to respond with understanding when they find it.NSW early childhood professionals can access the free course through the Early Childhood Education and Care Professional Learning Program. For more information about autism awareness and support, visit Autism Awareness Australia.

Central Darling Shire's Triple Recognition at State Awards
Central Darling Shire's Triple Recognition at State Awards

16 June 2025, 2:00 AM

The glass trophy sits proudly on the shelf, a tangible reminder of something much bigger than an award ceremony. For Central Darling Shire Council, their win in the First Nations Community Partnership category at the 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards represents years of genuine collaboration and respect built around the Baaka Cultural Centre.But it wasn't just one success story that caught the judges' attention. The small council found itself recognised as finalists in three separate categories—a remarkable achievement for any local government, let alone one serving some of NSW's most remote communities.Innovation Born from NecessityThe council's "Properties for Sale in Central Darling Shire" Facebook page might sound like a simple idea, but it represents the kind of practical innovation that rural councils excel at. When traditional property marketing doesn't quite fit your community's needs, you create something that does.The page earned finalist status in its category, recognition for turning social media into a genuine community service. It's the sort of grassroots approach that makes perfect sense once you see it in action—using the platforms people actually check to share information about available properties in the shire.When the Lights Went OutThe third finalist recognition came for something no council wants to be good at: emergency response. The Local Emergency Management Committee's handling of the 2024 power outage demonstrated what happens when preparation meets crisis, and community partnerships prove their worth.The submission recognised "the combined efforts of Council and all the various government, business and volunteer emergency response agencies in helping residents during the power outage." It's a modest description for what was likely days or weeks of coordinated effort to keep people safe and informed when the power grid failed.In remote areas like Central Darling Shire, a power outage isn't just an inconvenience—it can be a genuine emergency. Communication systems fail, essential services stop working, and vulnerable residents can find themselves cut off from help. The response that earned finalist recognition was built on relationships and planning that happened long before the crisis hit.The Cultural Centre AchievementThe Baaka Cultural Centre represents something deeper than a building or a program. Its recognition in the First Nations Community Partnership category reflects genuine collaboration between council and Aboriginal communities—the kind of partnership that takes time to build and trust to maintain.The glass trophy they brought home isn't just recognition for the council; it represents acknowledgment of the cultural centre's role in preserving and sharing Aboriginal heritage while strengthening community connections. These partnerships can't be created overnight or ticked off a compliance checklist—they require ongoing commitment and mutual respect.Small Council, Big ImpactFor Central Darling Shire Council, these three recognitions highlight the unique position of rural local government. With smaller populations and tighter budgets, rural councils often have to be more creative, more collaborative, and more connected to their communities than their urban counterparts.The Facebook property page, the emergency response coordination, and the cultural centre partnership all reflect this reality. They're solutions born from understanding exactly what their communities need and finding practical ways to deliver it.The 2025 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards drew entries from councils across the state, making Central Darling Shire's triple recognition even more significant. It's validation that innovation and excellence aren't measured by population size or budget—they're measured by how well you serve your community.That glass trophy on the shelf tells a story about partnership and respect, but the two finalist recognitions tell an equally important story about innovation, preparation, and genuine community service. Together, they paint a picture of a council that understands its role and executes it with both creativity and heart.

Rural Communities Defend Hunting Rights Against Green Opposition
Rural Communities Defend Hunting Rights Against Green Opposition

15 June 2025, 11:00 PM

Warren Brown adjusts his hearing aids as he speaks, a quiet reminder of decades spent around firearms. As president of the Griffith Sporting Shooters Association, he's seen firsthand what years of shooting without proper hearing protection can do."I've lost most of my hearing. That's why I'm wearing these," he says, tapping the small devices. It's this personal experience that fuels his support for sound suppressors—what Hollywood calls silencers but what Brown knows are simply tools to protect what's left of his hearing.The debate over hunting rights has reached fever pitch in NSW Parliament, where the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party has introduced their "right to hunt" bill. The legislation would establish a new hunting authority with power to issue licences allowing recreational shooters to use sound suppressors and night vision equipment.For Brown and others in rural communities, it's about practical solutions to real problems. "They're not silencers—that's a Hollywood concoction," he explains patiently. "They're sound moderators or sound suppressors. There's benefits to neighbours who are nearby where shooting might be happening. It stops them from being alarmed about it."But the Greens see something far more sinister. MP Sue Higginson's words paint a different picture entirely: "The proposed law seeks to enshrine a 'right to hunt' and allow hunters to shoot in the darkness of night, in the forests of NSW, with night vision equipment and silencers. It's literally a horror movie nightmare unfolding before us."The gulf between these perspectives runs deep, splitting along familiar urban-rural lines that define so much of Australian politics.Life on the LandHelen Dalton knows both sides of this divide intimately. The independent MP for Murray, formerly with the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party, is also a farmer and firearm user. She's lived the reality that many urban politicians can only imagine."The Greens, they're not living the environment that we've got out where I am," Dalton says with characteristic directness."Obviously, they're not impacted by these feral animals as much as what we are. Because if they understood, Sue Higginson wouldn't be making some of these complaints, because we're losing the battle."That battle isn't metaphorical. Dalton has hit a goat while driving; others in her community have struck pigs. The financial cost runs deeper than vehicle repairs. "Animals like pigs and goats, if you've got sheep that are lambing, they will take the lamb," she explains. "Foxes work in pairs and will sometimes take the lamb's kidneys or tongues so they can't suck. It's a big financial cost, but you know, just the whole issue of seeing your livestock basically being eaten alive."The imagery is stark, but it's the daily reality for farmers across rural NSW. For them, feral animal control isn't about sport—it's about survival.Strict Standards RemainBoth Brown and Dalton are quick to emphasise that their support for expanded hunting rights doesn't mean loosening Australia's strict gun laws. The framework established after the Port Arthur massacre remains fundamental to their thinking."Australia has very strict firearms laws, and there's no suggestion that they should be changed or watered down," Brown says firmly. "This proposal is about opening up public land and private land, providing the landholder is in agreement, to opportunities for people to hunt, particularly feral animals."Dalton knows the licensing process intimately, having navigated it herself. "To get a shooting licence, you had to apply about five times because they don't want just anyone to have a licence," she recalls. "It's quite rigorous. We've had the gun laws coming in after the Port Arthur massacre. It's been very much tightened up."The safety measures are comprehensive: guns locked in one safe, ammunition in another. "I haven't got a problem with all of that, and I certainly don't want US-style gun laws," Dalton emphasises. "Society will not accept that sort of thing, but what we will accept are some clever shooters coming in and giving us a hand to control feral pests."The Real CostThe Nature Conservation Council's CEO Jacqui Mumford argues the bill would weaken firearm laws and raise serious public safety concerns. For urban environmentalists, the focus remains on potential risks rather than current realities.But for farmers like Dalton, the cost of inaction is measured in dead livestock and damaged vehicles. "If you hit them in a vehicle, they're going to do a lot of damage," she says simply. It's not just about money—though the financial impact is real—it's about watching animals you've raised and cared for being "basically eaten alive."The divide seems unbridgeable at times. City-based Greens see "horror movie nightmares" where rural communities see practical solutions to pressing problems. Environmental groups worry about public safety where farmers see an opportunity to protect their livelihoods and their hearing.What both sides share is a genuine concern for safety and wellbeing. The question is whether they can find common ground in the space between Hollywood stereotypes and rural realities, between environmental protection and practical pest control.For now, the debate continues in Parliament, with each side certain they're protecting what matters most. Warren Brown will keep adjusting his hearing aids, Helen Dalton will keep dealing with feral animals, and somewhere in the middle, NSW will need to find a way forward that acknowledges both the genuine concerns of environmentalists and the daily realities of life on the land.

When the Bills Don't Get Paid: Council Faces Difficult Property Auction
When the Bills Don't Get Paid: Council Faces Difficult Property Auction

15 June 2025, 8:00 PM

Ruth McRae OAM has been in local government long enough to know that some decisions weigh heavier than others. As Mayor of Murrumbidgee Council, she's had to make plenty of tough calls, but few sit as uncomfortably as the one announced this week.Come 16 September, the council will hold a public auction at their Jerilderie office, selling off properties whose owners haven't paid their rates and charges. It's the kind of decision that keeps mayors awake at night, but one that McRae says the council simply can't avoid any longer."We strongly encourage anyone affected to settle their outstanding balances before the auction date to avoid the sale of their property," she said, her words carrying the weight of someone who understands what losing your land means in rural communities.The numbers tell their own story. Around $350,000 in unpaid rates had been hanging over the council's books. Since word of the auction got out, about $80,000 has come in from property owners who suddenly found ways to settle their accounts. But $270,000 still remains outstanding, and the council has reached the end of its patience—and its legal obligations to other ratepayers.The Legal RealityUnder the Local Government Act 1993, councils have the right to sell land when rates remain unpaid for more than a year on vacant blocks, or more than five years on other properties. It's not a power councils exercise lightly, but it's one they're legally entitled to use when other options have been exhausted.McRae describes it as "a difficult decision," but emphasises it's one the council must make. "Unpaid rates and charges are a heavy burden on the council and all ratepayers," she explains. It's the kind of practical reality that defines local government—when some don't pay, everyone else carries the load.The auction will be held at 11am on 16 September at the council's Jerilderie office on Jerilderie Street. It's a modest venue for what could be life-changing transactions, but it reflects the straightforward nature of the process.No Frills, No PreviewsDon't expect glossy brochures or weekend open homes. This isn't your typical real estate auction. The council has been clear: no photographs, no descriptions, no additional information about the properties will be available. Prospective buyers won't even get to inspect what they're bidding on before the hammer falls."All properties will be sold sight unseen and prospective buyers must carry out their own due diligence," the council states matter-of-factly. It's buyer beware in the most literal sense—a reflection of the auction's purpose as debt recovery rather than property marketing.The approach might seem harsh, but it's designed to be. These aren't investment opportunities being marketed to eager buyers; they're assets being sold to recover money owed to the community.Community NotificationThe council hasn't hidden the process away. Letters have gone out to anyone with an interest in the affected properties. Notices will be placed on-site at each property. The auction details will appear in local newspapers, the NSW Government Gazette, and across all the council's communication channels—website, digital platforms, and social media pages.It's the kind of comprehensive notification process that ensures nobody can claim they didn't know what was coming. For the property owners involved, those letters and notices represent final warnings—last chances to sort things out before losing their land entirely.The Human CostBehind the legal framework and bureaucratic processes are real people facing the prospect of losing their property. In rural communities like those across the Murrumbidgee, land often represents more than just an asset—it's heritage, livelihood, and identity rolled into one.The $80,000 that's already come in since the auction was announced suggests some property owners were perhaps hoping the problem would go away, or that the council wouldn't follow through. Now they know better.For those who still haven't paid, time is running out. September 16 isn't far away, and once that auction starts, the opportunity to settle directly with the council ends. Properties will go to whoever bids highest, regardless of their original value or what they mean to their current owners.It's a reminder that in local government, as in life, bills eventually come due. And when they don't get paid, the consequences can be more serious than anyone wants to contemplate.The auction details are available on the Murrumbidgee Council website for anyone who needs them—whether they're property owners scrambling to settle their debts, or potential buyers interested in what might be on offer come September.

Mayor Louie Zaffina discusses shire  developments and regional challenges
Mayor Louie Zaffina discusses shire developments and regional challenges

15 June 2025, 2:00 AM

This article presents Mayor Louie Zaffina's views and updates on Balranald Shire developments. The opinions expressed regarding climate policy, water buybacks, and other political matters are those of Mayor Zaffina personally and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of Balranald Shire Council or other councillors. If you have a question for Mayor Zaffina please get in touch with us at The Riverine Grazier. Wind farm transport route could bring infrastructure benefits A potential new transport route for wind turbine components through Balranald could possibly result in significant infrastructure improvements for the region. Mayor Louie Zaffina revealed that wind farm companies are considering three possible routes for transporting turbines to approved wind farm sites. "One option is through the Port of Newcastle, where they bring them in from overseas, but then they've got to truck them down the Hume Highway and then across to where these wind farms have been approved," Zaffina explained. "Another option was through Melbourne and then truck them up north of Melbourne, but the preferred option is Adelaide. “The preferred Adelaide route would see turbines transported across through Pinnaroo, Lameroo, over the Robinvale Euston Bridge, and then along the Sturt Highway between Euston and Balranald, through Balranald." This route was discussed at a recent Sturt Highway Task Force meeting, with representatives from Transport for NSW in attendance. Significantly, if the route proceeds through Balranald, the wind farm companies would have to pay for overtaking lanes on the Sturt Highway. When Zaffina asked about extending these improvements between Euston and Mildura, officials indicated this wouldn't be covered by the wind farm companies. However, he sees this as an opportunity. "We could lobby the government saying, 'Well look, you've got overtaking lanes proposed between Euston and Balranald, and the other side of Balranald towards you guys, so something good can come out of this,” Louie said. The possibility of a temporary bypass around Balranald was briefly discussed, though Mayor Zaffina notes this would require extensive community consultation. "It's only a temporary bypass, but who's going to spend a lot of money just to make it temporary, and then what's to say that it's not going to be continued?" he questioned. Water supply takeover proposal raises concerns The NSW Government's proposal to take over water supply and sewage services for rural towns has generated concern among local councils. Mayor Zaffina expressed personal reservations about the plan, though he clarified these were his own views rather than formal council policy. "I'm a little bit concerned that if that was to happen, would they just raise the price of everything?" he said. "I think we're against it, but you know, we don't want to see the prices go sky high." The council's General Manager was attending a meeting in Griffith to discuss the proposal, with more details expected to emerge from those discussions. Push for increased FAGs funding The shire is actively lobbying for an increase in Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) funding from the current 0.5 per cent to two per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue. Mayor Zaffina noted strong support from the NSW Government for this increase. "I think it used to be two per cent once upon a time," he said. "That'll be great if that could happen, and I think governments need to start understanding that we need extra funding out here in the rural areas and stop looking after the city and chasing votes." He emphasised the importance of regional development. "It's about time they started recognising the needs that we have out here. If they're talking about not enough housing, there are parts of the region where houses are available at a good price. How many people can they fit in the city? How many more tunnels can they build and freeways? It's about time they started looking at regional areas,” he said. Climate policy and regional impact Mayor Zaffina shared strong views on current climate policy, particularly the net zero emissions target and its impact on regional communities. He stressed these were his personal opinions rather than council policy. "I believe that the net-zero target is just not common sense and it's not happening all over the world. New Zealand's walked away from it, and I think governments need to reconsider and stop putting so much pressure on communities with the prices of electricity," he said. While not opposed to renewable energy in principle, Zaffina criticised the pace of implementation. "I'm not against renewables, but I'm for common sense. We still have to put food on the table, we still have to survive, we still have to have an economy,” he said. “We can't, on the basis of an ideology of this target that's just killing our regions with the prices of electricity." He questioned the urgency of Australia's approach. "There's no scientist in the world that's going to say that Australia hitting the net zero target by a certain date is somehow going to change the climate,” he said. “You've got New Zealand that have walked away from the net-zero target, America has, China has not committed to it yet. Why are they going so hard on us in Australia?" Mayor Zaffina advocated for a more gradual approach. "I think it's common sense just to do things at a gradual pace and head in the right direction, but do it comfortably where we can make the transition comfortably." Major developments in Euston Several significant projects are underway or planned for Euston, demonstrating the shire's commitment to improving facilities and attracting visitors. Proposed Medical Facility The council is seeking grant funding to build doctor's rooms in Euston on council land at the recreational ground. "We're applying for a grant. It's already been resolved at a council meeting, but we haven't got the funding for it yet," Mayor Zaffina explained. He acknowledged the challenges of securing medical services in rural areas. "I know there's always a chance that there might be a time when we don't have a doctor, but that's happening everywhere,” he said. “You can't say, 'Well, we're not going to build something because we're never going to get a doctor.' If you do get a doctor, you have to have somewhere for them to practise." The facility would provide flexibility for council operations as well. "Worst case scenario, if we have trouble getting a doctor, at least we have rooms that are council-owned, and we can then at least maybe do something else with it,” he said. “We could have it as shire office rooms where people that may not want to travel to Balranald to work at the council might want to work out of these rooms in Euston. Heritage and Tourism Projects The council has secured funding to renovate the old courthouse in Euston, with plans to develop it as a tourist attraction. "We have been successful in some funding to do up the old courthouse. It needs some revamp, and there's problems with dampness and moisture coming up," Zaffina said. The vision includes creating a museum or attraction where we create foot traffic for tourism. Infrastructure Improvements Several infrastructure projects are planned or underway: There has been $250,000 secured from flood grants to revitalise the Euston to Robinvale walkway, including additional seating. Upgrades to Lake Benanee facilities with improved toilets and seating to accommodate the increasing number of caravans using the free camping area. A proposed footpath from the township to the recreational ground along the highway. Plans for a toilet block at Anderson Park, where the children's playground currently lacks facilities "What happens when parents have got four kids running around and it's just them on their own? They have to get all their kids because one of them wants to go to the toilet, they have to put them all in the car or walk across the street," Zaffina noted, highlighting the practical need for the facilities. Water and emergency services The council is awaiting results from an Integrated Water Management Strategy for the Euston water treatment plant to assess whether augmentation is needed as the town grows. Additionally, they're considering relocating the fire station. "The brigade is right next to the water treatment plant, and there isn’t a lot of room for either, so we're thinking maybe if we can find another allocation for the fire station, we could then get more room for the treatment plant." Staff Restructuring and Recruitment The shire has undergone significant staff restructuring, with Director of Governance Glenn Carroll departing the council. "Mr Carroll has now left. I want to wish him all the best for the future, and thank him for his time at the council,” Mayor Zaffina said. Addressing Vandalism Concerns The issue of vandalism in public areas has been a concern for the council, particularly given efforts to attract tourism to the region. Zaffina acknowledged the challenges while emphasising the need for a multi-faceted approach. "We've spoken with the police, and I know the police suggested that we put a ban on children being in those areas after a certain time, but council are a little bit reluctant with that," he said. “By and large, we have a great community, it's disappointing this small element have no respect for public property." "We've had some concerns raised from the tourist industry about that. I know it happens everywhere, but we are looking at ways to help. There is no singular or single fix; it has to be a combination of a lot of things." Water buyback scheme opposition Mayor Zaffina expressed strong opposition to government water buyback schemes, providing detailed insights into the historical context and potential consequences for rural communities. Historical context "I completely don't agree with it. I think the government started all this when they separated water from land," Zaffina explained. "In our father’s time, if you had 50 acres of land, they would allocate 200 megalitres of water on it, and you could only use that water on that parcel of land. If you didn't use all that water, what you didn't use stayed in the river." He described how the separation of water rights from land created new problems. “They separated water from land, created another title, so therefore what you don't use, you can lease it out to big companies. “This is what allowed big companies to buy water. They separated water from land rather than big companies buying the land; they bought the water," he said. Current Consequences The mayor argued that the buyback scheme would have uneven regional impacts. "What's going to happen is it's going to make certain areas go backwards,” he said. “There will be some areas going well and they're actually buying water, and then you will have other areas where the water has been taken away." He cited specific examples. "A lot of water got taken from the Echuca area to the Robinvale area because they plant almonds. I understand the government are trying to fix a problem, but they actually created it." Alternative Solutions Rather than buybacks, Mayor Zaffina advocated for increasing water supply. "The other way of fixing the problem is increasing the flow – in other words, capturing more water in the catchment areas. Rather than buyback water, why don't they spend the money on harvesting more water?" He pointed to historical precedents. "They built Dartmouth, Snowy Hydro, they built all these great things, but they haven't done anything for decades. “There are things governments can do on the Darling River, up in the Darling catchment. There are projects they can implement to increase the flow, but there are plans that have been sitting in filing cabinets for decades." Double Standards "Why is it that they're not doing water buybacks in the city? Why aren't they shutting down suburbs because there's not enough water? You know what they do in the city when they run out of water? They source more water. "The same principle doesn't apply in the city. In the city, they're not telling the suburbs to knock down all your houses because there's no more water for you. But yet, in the country, they want you to reduce what you're doing, and they don't want to source extra water." Long-term Concerns Zaffina expressed concern about the consolidation of farming. "How does the average young person ever get into farming? How are they ever going to buy a bit of land and start farming? “All I can see out of all this is that big companies are going to own all the farms and all the water, and they're making it attractive for the little farms to sell their water and get out." He believes this is part of a broader trend. "They want big companies to own everything,” he said. “It's easier for the unions to control 20 big companies than 5,000 little growers. Small businesses are getting pushed out, and water is how they did it." Property Valuations Increase The NSW Valuer General has increased property valuations in Balranald by approximately 29 per cent, though Mayor Zaffina noted this doesn't directly translate to rate increases due to the formula used in rate calculations. "The NSW Valuer General did put up the values in Balranald by 29 per cent. There is a formula – it doesn't mean that your rates are going to go up by 29 per cent," he explained. “The valuation is approximately 12 months old, and while some see it as positive, others have concerns about the implications.” Community Consultation on Water Issues The shire has been facilitating community meetings to gather feedback on the impact of water buyback schemes. Meetings were scheduled for both Balranald and Euston to ensure broad community input on this critical issue affecting local farming communities.

Housing forum needs your ideas
Housing forum needs your ideas

14 June 2025, 2:00 AM

A forum focusing on the future of housing in Hay will be facilitated by Hay Shire Council on Monday, June 16. It will be held at NSW TAFE in Pine Street between 5.30pm and 8pm. Housing Hay’s Future was identified as a key action from the Regional Drought Resilience Plan. As part of the next stage of theHay Economic Transition Roadmap, Hay Shire Council, together with the local community and regional stakeholders, is exploring strategies to support appropriate housing development across the region. This work will inform regional planning and foster strategic partnerships to manage housing growth, respond to emerging demand, and ensure the long-term needs of our community are met. Council’s goal is to maintain Hay as a desirable and affordable place to live and work. The forum will explore key factors including housing supply and demand, housing diversity and types, land use and development opportunities, transitional worker accommodation, investment and development models, as well as other potential challenges and barriers. The aim is to ensure new housing complements Hay’s unique character and enhances its liveability. Council believes Housing Hay’s Future is a shared challenge — and a shared responsibility. It requires collaboration and commitment from all sectors, including Local, State and Federal Governments, developers, the community housing sector, industry, private homeowners, and investors. Hay Shire Council said it is committed to facilitating and advocating for practical housing solutions that meet both current and future needs. You are invited to this important conversation to share your insights at the forum alongside community members, local businesses, and regional stakeholders. For more information, contact Council’s Executive Manager – Economic Development and Tourism, Alison McLean

Rural romance Author Maya Linnell brings stories  of love and second chances to Hay library
Rural romance Author Maya Linnell brings stories of love and second chances to Hay library

12 June 2025, 11:00 PM

Rural romance author Maya Linnell will be visiting Hay library on June 26, for a special 'in conversation' author talk, celebrating the upcoming release of her new novel Cockatoo Cove. The free event will include an intimate discussion with Maya and library staff, followed by morning tea with books available for purchase and signing. Maya's journey to becoming a published author began after taking a break from her journalism career to raise her children. “When it was time to go back to work, I thought do I go back to newspapers or do I do something completely different?” Maya reflects. “I thought I'd love to try writing a book.” Her background as a journalist, including cadet training through Country Press Australia and Deakin University, provided the perfect foundation for novel writing. “Being a journalist is such a great background to becoming an author because you've got that love of words, that built-in ability to sit in the chair and write," she explains. “And that willingness to be edited as well - working in newspapers, you've always got someone with a red pen who will say you need to do better.” Maya's passion for the romance genre began early, with Mills & Boon novels from her local library serving as her gateway into adult fiction. “The world just needs a bit more love and tenderness and stories of redemption and second chances,” she says. “It's really nice to spend your days working with characters that grow throughout the process of the story.” Her rural settings aren't just backdrop - they're integral to connecting with her audience. “A lot of the rural communities can really relate so well to the storylines because the stories are about rural issues and social issues that are quite typical for small towns. “The audiences can see themselves reflected back on that page.” Maya is passionate about defending her genre against critics who dismiss romance as lightweight literature. “Easy reading is not necessarily easy writing. People put a lot of effort into making a book easy to read and enjoyable,” she emphasises. She's particularly proud of how modern romance has evolved to include important conversations about consent and respectful relationships. “Today's books have the advantage of talking about consent and respectful relationships. “I'd rather young people pick up stories that are talking about female pleasure and how relationships can be mutually beneficial.” Maya's visit to our library exemplifies her commitment to connecting with readers in rural communities. After moving from Victoria to Queensland via South Australia, she makes it a point to stop at libraries during her travels. “I find it really hard to just drive past. I want to stop and have a look at the library, meet the librarian, see if they've got any of my books on the shelves.” When she offered to do an event at our library, the response was immediate enthusiasm. “You could just see the enthusiasm at the library for the style of writing that I do, and it's really nice to be able to reward that behaviour,” Maya notes. The author is eager to share her knowledge with aspiring writers, having overcome the daunting transition from short newspaper articles to full-length novels. “I thought, with my journalist training, I can write 250 words, I can write 2000-word features, but how the hell am I going to hold 90,000-100,000 words together in my head? “It was doing courses that helped me - 'Write Your First Draft in 12 Months.'” “I knew I could write, I knew I could put a nice sentence together, but it's holding several plot lines and characters and making sure everything is tied up at the end of the story.” Make sure you put it in your diary – come to the event, 'In Conversation' with rural romance author Maya Linnell, June 26 at Hay Library. Cost is free, and includes author discussion, morning tea, book sales and signing. The event is perfect for both romance readers and aspiring writers looking for tips and inspiration. Maya encourages questions from the audience and promises to share insights about the writing process, from developing characters to managing complex storylines. Don't miss this opportunity to meet a talented local author who's bringing heart, humour, and hope to the rural romance genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of romance novels or simply curious about the writing life, Maya's warmth and passion for storytelling promise an engaging and inspiring morning. Books will be available for purchase and signing. For more information, contact the library at (02) 6993 4492

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