Tim O'Halloran was recently celebrated and recognised for 30 years of service to the Homebush Recreation Reserve as a Crown Lands manager. An outstanding achievement, the committee thanked Tim for his long service, dedication and all he has givens to the grounds.“Thanks everyone, I didn’t do it all alone though,” Tim said.“There where others along the way, especially Marianne for her secretarial work for the club, and the trust and her work for writing applications for money, or doing important work to help run events.”Congratulations, Tim, what an achievement.

The Australian Taxation Office received 250,000 tip-offs from the community about tax avoidance and other dishonest behaviours since July 1, 2019. More than 47,000 tip-offs were reported in the 2023–24 financial year alone. ATO Assistant Commissioner Tony Goding said Australians are fed up with dodgy behaviours in the community and are stepping up to help level the playing field by tipping off the ATO about taxpayers not declaring income, demanding cash from customers, paying workers in cash to avoid paying tax and super, not reporting sales, and where someone’s lifestyle doesn’t appear to match their income. The ATO estimates there is around $16 billion in stolen taxes because of businesses doing things like cash jobs each year. Building and construction, cafes and restaurants and hairdressing and beauty services topped the list of industries the ATO was tipped off about in 2023–24. Ninety per cent of tip-offs analysed by the ATO in 2023 24 were deemed as being suitable for further investigation by a specialised teams and task forces within the ATO, including the cross agency Shadow Economy Taskforce.

What’s on after Halloween and before Christmas, and is a mainstay of love, togetherness and unity on the Hay and district Calendar? Rainbow on the Plains! It’s on this year from November 14 to 17, and the theme of this year’s event is reflection. This aims to prompt people to reflect on their own journey; we all have different experiences and we need to look at how we can share and support each other into the future. Reflection aims to inspire people to build those connections, and make people feel welcome and at home. There is so much to look forward to this year, including the biggest list of drags acts Justin Teliqure, Fembot XYZ, Victoria Bitter, Krayola, Max Drag Queen, Shelita Buffet and Angel Cupcakes. This is all supported but the talented DJ’s Pop Chops, and to see the amazing and charismatic Zain Mitchlan again. It all kicks off on Thursday evening at the South Hay Hotel, with ACON (NSW's leading LGBTQ health organisation) holding a sip and learn session. The iconic Shelita Buffet will be front and centre stage on Friday, belting out a Pricilla Queen of the Desert tribute at the Hay Services Club as part of Rainbow on the Greens. The amazing Joanne and Zoe Badwi will also be there, ready to reach the stars with their dance hits plus a lineup of wonderful performers. Saturday is the Lachlan Street Parade. The fun gets underway with the amazing Dykes in Bikes and the very special Gari (a giant rainbow serpent). Then it will be time to get down to Hay Park for the ENGIE fair day. The park will be jam packed with stalls, food and entertainment; a great opportunity to hang out and meet new friends, and you can also watch the Pride Cup. Once the sun goes down, it’s time for adult fun at the Hay Services Club after party. Starting with the amazing ZA!N leading the way for a night of drag entertainment with a special performance from Australia’s pop favourites Joanne and Zoe Badwi bring dance tunes together on the main stage. Watch this space to see what fun activities will be held on the Sunday. If you want more information or tickets, visit the Rainbow on the Plains website www.rainbowontheplains.com.au

What we’re watching – ABC mini-series ‘Plum’ is a sometimes tough watch, but highly recommendedBrenda Cowell is a familiar face on our screens, as one of Australia’s most popular male actors, but in the six-part miniseries ‘Plum’ Cowell wear many creative hats.The series is an adaptation of his novel of the same name, and Cowell is cited as the creator, producer and screenwriter, as well as the lead actor.Peter Lum (aka Plum) is a rugby league legend, well past his heydays. After reaching the peak of his footy career, we meet him with a failed marriage behind him, a burgeoning new relationship with an Argentine backpacker and a son on the cusp of his own blossoming sporting career.Plum played hard his entire career, but post-footy the drinking has not slowed, so in the beginning it is difficult to know if his blackouts and forgetfulness is hangover driven or part of something more sinister.The story is full of complicated characters who ultimately pull together in their shared concern of Plum’s condition – CTE or Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a consequence of concussion and head injuries suffered during his days on the field. Plum’s confusion is showed in a series of flashbacks and imaginary characters, as he tries desperately to ignore the worsening symptoms of his condition.Writer and actor Brendan Cowell in the lead role as Cronulla rugby league legend Peter Lum. Image: ABC.This mini-series is at times hard to watch. The characters often aren’t kind to each other, and at the centre of it all is Gavin, Plum’s son, who is ready to leap into his own professional rugby league career, despite the fears of his parents.Gavin is played by Vincent Miller, who portrays the 16-year-old’s struggles within a fractured family really well.The rest of the cast is filled with Australian movie and TV heavy hitters – Asher Keddie plays Plum highly-strung ex-wife, Matt Nable makes an appearance as a journalist determined to ignore the big story and even immortal league legend Andrew Johns pops in for a cameo.Plum is a complex damaged character, who finds himself dealing with a traumatic childhood, and splintered family, while facing a life-threatening illness his beloved sport community refuses to acknowledge.Despite his failings it is hard not to like Plum and wish for a fairytale ending, but Cowell carefully avoided this journey becoming cheesy. Instead, this story is thought provoking and much deeper than one may expect of a tale of a lock forward.All episodes of Plum are now streaming on ABC iView.

At the October meeting of Carrathool Shire Council, general Manager Rick Warren presented the new councillors with an update on infrastructure matters.Mossgiel RoadPhysical earthworks are completed on the next 2-kilometre upgrade of Mossgiel Road. The sealing over the recently widened Umbrella Creek Bridge and new road works will be completed in early November. The Springs Road Works have commenced on the upgrade of the next 2-kilometre section of the Hillston end of The Springs Road. The works include the widening of 2 culverts and the installation of a new culvert. Sealing of this section is scheduled for early November. Works on the 2-kilometre section at Rankins Springs end of the road are scheduled to commence prior to November. Hillston and Carrathool Boat Ramps Hillston and Carrathool Boat Ramp design and the Review of Environmental Factors are complete. This will be lodged with Council to begin the approval process. This is anticipated to be finalised within a month. IWCM Strategy The monthly October progress meeting was held with the Public Works Advisory, including other stakeholders. Public Works completed a typical residential bill (TRB) analysis and is expected to present financial modelling for all Scenarios for council officers to review in October. The final scenario will be adopted for a draft of the IWCM strategy, which is expected to be completed by the end of June 2025. This project is externally funded and has a completion deadline of 31 December 2025. Telemetry Replacement Aquamonix expects to undertake a first site visit in November 2024 for some hardware installation work, followed by a second visit in March 2025 to test and commission the new telemetry system. This project is internally funded and is scheduled to be completed by the end of April 2025. Hillston Water Mains Construction UGL issued a draft licence agreement for review and execution, this is currently with Council solicitors for review. Construction of the works are currently being planned with the under boring of the rail corridor likely to occur in February. This project is expected to be completed by June 2025. Bunda Water Mains Replacement and Vegetation Clearing The second phase of the remaining water mains replacement work commenced. Works may be completed prior to December 2024; however, this project is externally funded and has a completion deadline of June 2025. Molesworth Street Water Mains Replacement Proposed water mains replacement work commenced. Works may be completed prior to December 2024; however, this project is externally funded under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program Phase 4 and has a completion deadline of June 2025. Carrathool Pump Station Solar Panels Solar Mad is appointed to undertake the installation work. Works may be completed prior to December 2024; however, this project is externally funded and has a completion deadline of June 2025. Switchboard Aircon Upgrades (Various Locations) This work is now completed under the 2024-25 capital works program. Seven new switchboard air conditioning systems (Bunda, Yoolaroi, Rankins Springs Rural, Melbergen and Carrathool) have been installed to prevent pump tripping due to overheating, especially during the summer months. Generator (Y2)- McIntyre Hill Pump Station The generator and shed quotes have been received and approved, and the shed has been built. It is awaiting generator delivery, installation, and commissioning. Works may be completed prior to December 2024. Palmyra Channel Doppler Meter and Gate This work is completed. Council intends to measure flow at this location in line with the Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) flow meter and the Palmyra Pump Station to determine water losses in the earthen channel and Palmyra Swamp. Material Storage Shed (Goolgowi Dam) The quote was received and approved. Shed building work is underway and nearing completion. Rankins Springs's additional potable storage tanks Site clearing works have been completed. Tanks are delivered on-site, and pipes are manufactured in Griffith for the installation work, followed by connection to the existing reticulation system. This arrangement will help Rankins Springs Village secure a minimum water supply for a day in case of significant failure or compromise to the existing pump and treatment system. Melbergen Water Mains Replacement This work is completed. A total 1530 meters of new water mains were constructed and commissioned successfully on Redbank Road. Hillston Sewer Mains Relining Initial cleaning and inspection work completed, with further inspection and relining work to commence in the coming months.

Birrang brings Driver Licence Access Program to Balranald and WilcanniaBirrang Enterprise Development Company is bringing its Driver Licence Access Program (DLAP) to the back country, in the final outreach services for 2024.The program will be available in Wilcannia on November 7 and Balranald on November 14.The Driver Licensing Access Program (DLAP) is a FREE program providing support to people in NSW who face extra challenges in getting a licence.DLAP is available to Aboriginal communities, refugee and resettlement communities, communities who have limited access to transport options or who are geographically disadvantaged, vulnerable young people, and any other people experiencing social and economic hardship.The program can help you with getting a learner licence, getting on-road driving experience, progressing to a provisional licence or regaining a licence.“Birrang will give culturally appropriate support to get you on the road, driving safely,” a spokesperson said.“We will help you with understanding road rules and road safety improving reading, writing and computer skills to prepare you for licence tests meeting licence application requirements (like getting identification documents), communicating with Service NSW and other government organisations, accessing roadworthy vehicles or helping to manage fines and debts to allow you to get your licence.”Registration information is below, but spots fill quickly, so act now.

Central Darling Shire is planning for March 2025 electionThe 2024 September Council Elections has been conducted across NSW and polls have been declared by the NSW Electoral Office, allowing Councils to conduct their first meetings.Central Darling Shire has been under administration for many years, and so was not part of the recent elections, but is now planning for a March 20205 election.In his report to the October meeting of Central Darling Council Administration Bob Stewart said planning is underway."The necessary legislation has now passed both Houses of Parliament to create a Rural and Remote Council and we are planning for a March 2025 election," Mr Stewart said. "General Manager Greg Hill and I have been discussing the transition process to an elected body with the Office of Local Government and will meet with them to finalise details." Mr Stewart was appointed as Administrator in 2019 by the NSW Minister for Local Government.The Administrator performs all the functions of an elected Council and is supported by the General Manager and two Directors. Mr Stewart has more than 40 years’ local government experience and is a former senior local government manager who has practiced in the regional NSW councils of Singleton, Quirindi, Griffith, Cabonne and Liverpool Plains.He was General Manager at Tumut Shire from 2008 and was appointed Interim General Manager of the new Snowy Valleys Council following amalgamation and has acted as Interim General Manager at Balranald and Lachlan Shire Councils.

First towers appear as specialists flock to Far West to help restore powersAn enormous reconstruction effort is underway at Broken Hill where specialist crews are working around the clock to repair the 3.5km section of the storm-damaged transmission line and reinstate the Far West region’s primary power supply.More than 100 specialists, technicians and crew have been mobilised to support the reconstruction effort in Broken Hill, coming from all over Australia, including Victoria and South Australia, as well as Transgrid bases at Newcastle, Orange, Tamworth, Wagga Wagga, Western Sydney and Yass.The first of seven 60-metre-tall emergency response high-voltage transmission towers was safely lifted into place today using a crane.“I want to be clear, we cannot underestimate the size and scale of this operation and the need to ensure the safety and security of the Broken Hill community and our frontline workers at all times,” Head of Transgrid’s Far West Operations Response Sam Pickering said during the NSW Government’s Emergency Response Media Conference in Broken Hill today.“We acknowledge that periodic outages have been experienced since the catastrophic weather event, as our crews work through what is a highly complex and challenging technical and operational environment.“We sincerely apologise for the impacts you have borne following the storms.”While Broken Hill continues to be supplied power from Transgrid’s large-scale backup generator, specialist teams are also focused on securing additional backup generation to provide further supply certainty to the local community, including:Work is targeted to be completed over the next 48 hours on additional portable generation units which will remove reliance on the gas turbineTransgrid has worked to fast-track commissioning of a transmission microgrid, with AGL’s Broken Hill Battery Energy Storage System to provide additional backup generation to the regionTransgrid and Essential Energy are continuing to safely install and operate extra generators across the local network to provide additional backup capacity while repairs to the transmission line are completed.Meanwhile, Transgrid is fully cooperating with IPART on its investigation and is also working with the NSW Government and the various agencies involved in the response to the Broken Hill natural disaster.“I want to thank the community of Broken Hill for their patience and for our crews who are working around the clock to complete the works as quickly and as safely as they possibly can,” Mr Pickering said.

Councillors appointed to Carrathool committeesNewly formed Carrathool Shire Council met for the first time at the extra-ordinary meeting, held on October 15.Appointments to the various committees were made, by agreement among the councillors, however the annual review of the Genral Manager and the plant and roads committees will be undertaken by the entire council.2024 to 2028 appointments and delegations:Bushfire Management Committe - Cr Peters and SmithGoolgowi Hall Management Committee - Cr FurnerRankins Springs War Memorial Hall Management Committee - Cr ParsonsMerriwagga Public Hall Management Committee - Cr SmithRankins Springs Recreation Group Management Committee - Cr ParsonsWallanthry Hall Committee - Cr FensomCountry Libraries Association - Crs Lyall and FurnerMallee Bush Fire Prevention Scheme - Cr Peters and FensomMurray Darling Association - Crs Fensom and FurnerSouth West Arts Project - Cr LyallWestern Riverina Community Libraray - Crs Lyall and FurnerKidman Way Promotional Committee - Crs Lyall and PetersLachlan Floodplain and Rankins Springs Floodplain Management Committees - Cr Jardine, Peters and FensomOutback Regional Tourism Organisation - Cr LyallTraffic and Development Committee - Crs Armstrong and FensomPolice Accountability Community Team - Cr JardineRiverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO) - Crs Jardine and FurnerWestern Division Group of Councils - Crs Jardine and FurnerCountry Mayors Association - Cr Jardine

Carrathool Shire Council is undertaking road maintenance in coming weeks.Carrathool Shire is undertaking a two kilometre section of road construction on Lachlan River Road (floodway construction). Works commenced early in September 2024 and Council expects will reach completion late November 2024 (weather permitting).Council is also close to finishing temporary works on Tysons Road, Tabbita where two culverts have been installed on the roadway. In recent weeks Council has also sealed two kilometres of Mossgiel Road and undertaken roadside weed spraying along Lachlan River Road, Lachlan Valley Way (East), Lachlan Valley Way (West), Merungle Road, Mitchells Road, Mossgiel Road, Roto Road, Smiths Road and The Springs Road.During these periods drivers are asked to exercise caution, be considerate of works and follow on site traffic control.Should you have any queries with what has been outlined, please contact Carrathool Shire Council's Will Barr on (02) 6965 1900.

Panel members have now been appointed to lead the independent review into the Wilcannia Weir Replacement Project, marking a significant step forward in the review process. It comes following the NSW Government’s commitment to undertake a review of the Wilcannia proposed weir design. The panel will look into the environmental impacts, safety and operational concerns that led the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environmental and Water (DCCEEW) to put forward a new design as part of the environmental impact assessment for this project. The review will consider the community’s concerns about the change. The Independent Review Panel members include: • Panel Chair, Geoff Wise – Chairman of the Western Lands Advisory Council • James McTavish – former NSW Cross-Border Commissioner and Regional Town Water Supply Coordinator • Professor Stuart Khan – member of the NSW Independent Water Advisory Panel • A representative from the Murray Darling Basin Authority, as a panel observer Mr Wise and Mr McTavish have extensive experience in community engagement and are well known to the Wilcannia community. Professor Khan will provide technical advice and support, while a representative from the Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) will act in an observer role. The panel will focus on ensuring the review process is transparent and considers the views of key stakeholders, including the broader community. It comes after the Department revised the weir design in 2023 following feedback from agencies and stakeholders during the public exhibition of the Environmental Impact Statement in 2022. Widespread community concern over the change prompted NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson to pause work on the project and to establish an independent review into the reasons for the new design in June this year. With panel members now appointed, the review will commence in the coming weeks and is expected to take several months to complete. "“I have heard the community’s deeply held concerns and disappointment loud and clear. I know Wilcannia feels a promise has been broken, and that’s why I’m backing the pledge I made to support an independent review that will investigate the decisions behind the new proposed weir design," Minister Jackson said."I’m pleased to announce the panel members, who were carefully chosen following recommendations from the community and will help ensure the review has the right balance of expertise and people known and trusted by locals. “This is the safest way to guarantee the review findings are unbiased and the investigation is carried out transparently and in the best interest of the Wilcannia community, because at the end of the day, that’s what this project is all about – improving water security for Wilcannia.“It’s important the panel has the time to get the job done properly, but once the review is complete, we hope to find a way to progress the project and replace the current infrastructure that’s long been causing community frustration and exposing the town to water security issues.”The panel members plan to be in Wilcannia on 11 November and are keen to hear from the community.

Work stoppages to begin next week Grain handlers at GrainCorp sites across NSW have voted to stop work as part of protected industrial action, said the Australian Workers’ Union which represents the workers.The 200+ workers will commence their action with a month of random one hour stoppages at grain handling sites throughout the state beginning next Tuesday November 29.Grain handlers move and store wheat, canola, barley, oats and other grains.Freshly harvested grains are trucked from rural properties to bunker silos for storage before being loaded onto trains for transport to the coast and then shipped to market overseas. Harvesting of winter crops has already begun in parts of western NSW and will ramp up in coming weeks. The Fair Work Commission approved a ‘protected industrial action ballot’ for GrainCorp workers after negotiations with GrainCorp management broke down. A majority of AWU members employed by GrainCorp have voted to commence industrial action with the result of the ballot declared on Wednesday."If GrainCorp management don’t come to the table with a decent offer AWU members at GrainCorp will be left with no alternative other than to stop work, the protected industrial action could include stoppages of one hour, two hours, three hours, four hours, indefinite stoppages and bans on unloading and loading of trucks and trains" a spokesperson said."The workers have seen their pay go backwards in real terms over the last three years." The AWU says in 2021, 2022 and 2023 grain handlers received an annual increase of only 2% a year, despite inflation rising at a rate of 2.86%, 6.59% and 4.10% respectively. The AWU says this means real wages have declined by 7.5%. In 2021 the company made a profit of $139 million, in 2022 of $177 million and $250 million in 2023. “Grain handlers have voted in favour of taking industrial action to fight for a fair go,” said Australian Workers’ Union NSW Secretary Tony Callinan.“This situation has been bubbling away for months and GrainCorp have been avoiding the tough discussions.“Now it’s harvest time and the window for talk is fast closing, unless GrainCorp come to the party workers will send a strong message by simply stopping work while the trucks are lined down the road waiting to unload. “Our members’ have been working hard taking delivery of bumper harvests, delivering big profits, and GrainCorp just kicks them in the guts every time. “This year has been another good year in most areas across NSW and with the grain harvest beginning our members are prepared to do the hard yards and long hours to get the grain safely stored but they want a fair wage rise and they are prepared to fight for it. “Every extra dollar our members earn is spent in the local communities and country towns they live in, their real wages have gone backwards in the last 3 years and it's time GrainCorp shared some of their huge profits with their workforce and in turn the regional communities that provide the grain they profit from.“Our members in NSW do the same work as members in Queensland and only want to be paid the same, that’s the heart of this issue,” said Mr Callinan.

Restore a Piece of Ivanhoe's History and enjoy the ultimate tree changeFor Sale: Iconic Catholic Church on Raleigh StreetAre you looking for a unique property with endless possibilities? This historic Catholic Church, located in the charming town of Ivanhoe, presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.Nestled on a generous 2033 square meter block, this grand old building offers a blank canvas for your imagination. Whether you dream of preserving its spiritual purpose, transforming it into a luxurious bed and breakfast, or creating a private residence with character, the potential is limitless.The church itself is a solid timber structure with a corrugated roof, offering a solid foundation for restoration. Its prominent corner location and well-established shade trees provide a peaceful and private setting.Don't miss this chance to own a piece of Ivanhoe's history. Contact Tony Conway at Leo Conway Agency today to schedule a viewing and explore the endless possibilities this extraordinary property offers.LEO CONWAY AGENCIES34 Mayall Street, BALRANALD 2715.Ph: (03) 50201330 or 0429201639

Food Safety checklist following power outages Central Darling Shire is urging residents to make sure that their food is safe to eat. It follows the recent power outage caused by storms in the region, and expected continuation of planned power outages for the next few weeks until things return to normal when the power infrastructure is repaired. The NSW Government Food Authority has a range of useful information to help with food safety, which is on its’ webpage - Food safety in emergencies The advice includes making a note of the time the power failed as this will help determine whether the food is safe to eat. The Food Authority recommends: • Keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible. A closed refrigerator should keep food cold for four hours. • If food that is meant to be in the fridge is allowed to warm for two hours or more, avoid eating it. Freezers will usually not defrost and food will not spoil for at least 24 hours, provided the door has been kept shut. If frozen foods have thawed, they should not be refrozen but should be kept cold and eaten as soon as possible. • Keep it hot! Throw out food that was being cooked when the power failed if cooking cannot be completed properly within two hours. If food is already properly cooked, eat it within two hours or throw it out.

Teachers Federation broadcast on 28 October On Monday 28 October, the NSW Teachers Federation will be holding a special meeting for members to vote on a recommendation relating to a new Teachers Award. As a result of the meeting, Ivanhoe School will have minimal supervision arrangements in place until 10 am. While there will be minor disruption to the beginning of the school day, student attendance is expected as onsite teaching and learning will continue with modified supervision arrangements until 10 am. Thank you for your understanding and support. 

Recovery support for storm affected Far West communitiesThe Albanese and Minns Governments are supporting communities in Broken Hill and Central Darling Shire Local Government Areas (LGAs) as well as the Far West Unincorporated Area, following a severe storm that impacted properties across the region on Thursday 17 October. Through jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) support can be used by local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets. Assistance includes: • Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets. • Support to ensure access to essential power for homes and continuation of essential services such as schools, public hospitals and Council operations during this critical period.Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Jenny McAllister said more than 10,000 homes were impacted by the storm with power outages stretching from Wilcannia to the Queensland border. “The assistance being activated today will help councils clean up communities as quickly as possible, ensure public safety and reinstate critical assets,” Minister McAllister said. “The support measures both levels of government are activating today will help the impacted councils with the immediate costs from this disaster and help them keep their communities safe.” Minister Dib said constructing temporary towers to restore the transmission line was a priority for energy providers but could take several weeks. Energy providers Transgrid and Essential Energy are using backup generators to maintain power supply until the work is completed. “I want to thank volunteers and emergency responders who have moved quickly to supply generators and satellite communications where they are most needed, as well as providing support for community members to drop in and charge devices,” Minister Dib said. “We’ve activated an emergency response team across all emergency services to provide support for communities.” For information relating to financial assistance please contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit www.nsw.gov.au. Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from the Murrumbidgee area.David Green, aged 62, was last seen in the Darlington Point area on Wednesday 16 October 2024.When concerns were raised for his welfare, officers attached to Murrumbidgee Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.Police and family hold concerns for his welfare as his disappearance is out of character.David is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall with a medium build, fair complexion and brown hair.He is believed to be driving a white Holden Rodeo utility with NSW registration DL 77 DP.David is known to frequent the Darlington Point, Griffith and Bourke areas.Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to call Murrumbidgee police, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The community is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.David Green, aged 62, was last seen in the Darlington Point area on Wednesday 16 October 2024.David is believed to be driving a white Holden Rodeo utility with NSW registration DL 77 DP.

The $30 million Wentworth Health Service Redevelopment has reached an important milestone, with the structure of the building now complete. The ‘topping out’ of the building is the newest construction milestone and contains the installation of the wall framing and roof framing. The new Wentworth Health Service is being built adjacent to the existing 80-year-old facility and includes 19 inpatient unit beds, an Urgent Care Centre and Community Health Services. Other features of the hospital include a palliative care suite, which includes an inpatient room with a secluded terrace and an adjacent family lounge with views over the river, a dedicated space for families which opens to a central, shared courtyard, a gym with access to an outside patio, outdoor spaces and landscaping, with a yarning circle and native floras.The new hospital is being built above the current levee bank of the Darling River, enhancing natural light and providing water views from the Inpatient Unit. The project is also implementing initiatives that provide environmental benefits, such as the recycling of over 90 per cent of construction waste from the revitalization, significantly reducing landfill impact. With structural works completed, the project team will continue the internal fit-out, services installation and exterior works. Health services are continuing to function throughout construction, with the new hospital on track for achievement in mid-2025. The old hospital will then be destroyed, and a new ambulance bay built.

The April to June expenses figures for Australian politicians revealed vast sums being paid for travel and electorate offices in the local region.When the cost-of-living crisis is forcing families to tighten their belts, the amounts spent by elected officials has raised some eyebrows.Member for Farrer Sussan Ley spent $28,822 on interstate travel to tropical Queensland and Perth, and her team of nine staffers racked up more than $93,340 worth of travel in the three-month period.Of the $21,649 paid in travel allowance, Ms Ley reported just $3,591 was for business related to the seat of Farrer, with the remainder for Party or parliamentary business.Ms Ley’s Albury office reported the highest expenditure for office facilities and administration, compared to others in the region. Senator Perrin Davey’s Deniliquin based office reported a more modest $50,899 for the same expenditure item, while Member for Riverina Michael McCormick reported $203,808, and Member for Parkes Mark Coulton spent $110,781.As a comparison, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reported $163,387 for his office expenses in his Sydney base in Marrickville.Mr McCormack spent $6801 on travel, of which $1,050 was for electorate business, but under $500 on commercial travel. Mr Coulton spent more - over $69,000 – but he stayed within the electorate, or claimed trips to Canberra and one-third of his travel allowance was spent in his electorate.Senator Davey’s travel allowance of $17,438 reported just $394 was for electorate business, and Ms Davey also reported $7,438 for travel to New Zealand for five days in April. The Senator travelled as part of the Senate Select Committee on Australia’s Disaster Resilience delegation.Senator Davey was also the only regional politician to report family travel of $816 to the vastly different landscapes of Conargo and Canberra. Under the rules parliamentarians’ spouses, children or nominated persons can claim travel in some circumstances.Travel allowances are paid to parliamentarians for each night they stay away from home, within Australia.How the numbers stack upSussan Ley – Member for FarrerTotal quarterly expenditure April to June 2024 - $385,049.20Previous quarter total expenditure $330,285.64Travel allowance - $21,649 Commercial travel - $28,822 Office facilities and administration - $228,572 Domestic travel for nine employees - $93,340.33Michael McCormick – Member for RiverinaTotal quarterly expenditure April to June 2024 - $237,433.38Previous quarter total expenditure - $125,821.21Travel allowance - $6861 Commercial travel - $447Office facilities and admin - $203,808 Domestic travel for five employees – $16,125Mark Coulton - member for ParkesTotal quarterly expenditure April to June 2024 - $222,841.15Previous quarter total expenditure - $184,701.71Travel allowance - $9309 Commercial travel - $69,214 Office facilities and administration - $110,781Domestic travel for eight employees – $18,995 Senator Perrin DaveyTotal quarterly expenditure April to June 2024 - $109,471.08Previous quarter total expenditure - $61,189.28Travel allowance - $17,438 of which $394 was electorate bizInternational travel - $7320 Commercial travel - $4799 Family travel - $816 Office facilities and administration - $50,899 Domestic travel for five employees - $22570