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

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

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

An investigation is underway after the body of a man was found on a roadside in Griffith this morning.Emergency services were called to Watkins Avenue shortly after 4.20am (Monday 28 April 2025) and found a man suffering multiple injuries. He died at the scene.A crime scene has been established with officers attached to Murrumbidgee Police District commencing inquiries.Police are investigating the possibility the man may have been struck by a vehicle.A canvass of the area is now underway to confirm identity, and Police say they estimate the man to be in his 20s or 30s.Police expect Watkins Avenue to be closed for the rest of today (Monday) as investigations continue at the scene.Anyone with information is urged to contact Griffith Police or Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1800 333 000.Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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