Clash of Laws: AVOs vs. Family Law OrdersA recent question posed to the Attorney General by local MP Helen Dalton has shed light on a critical and often confusing issue for families in the Murray electorate: the conflict between Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) and federal family law parenting orders.Ms Dalton is the independent member for the Murray electorate.The inquiry, directed at the state’s top legal advisor, raised concerns about what happens when a federal court's decision on child contact clashes with an AVO issued by a local court. This is a question that directly affects the safety of families, particularly children and other vulnerable people, across our communities.Parenting Orders PrevailThe Attorney General’s response was clear: it is government policy that federal family law parenting orders can override AVOs when their conditions are inconsistent. This is not a matter of choice but a legal principle enshrined in the Family Law Act 1975 and the Australian Constitution. Under these laws, a federal law always takes precedence over a state law where there is a conflict.This means that if a family law order permits a parent to have contact with their child, that contact is allowed even if an AVO says the parent must not go near the child or the child's other parent.Safeguards and the 'Best Interests of the Child'Mrs. Dalton's question also addressed the crucial issue of safety. The Attorney General’s office explained that despite this legal hierarchy, there are important safeguards in place.Courts Must Consider Safety: When a Family Court makes a parenting order, it is legally required to ensure the order is consistent with any existing AVOs and, most importantly, does not expose a person to an unacceptable risk of family violence. The child’s best interests are the paramount consideration in all decisions.Clear Explanations Required: If a court does issue a parenting order that is inconsistent with an AVO, it must provide a detailed explanation of how the contact is to take place. This is designed to minimise confusion and ensure that everyone understands the specific arrangements.Courts Can Vary Orders: Crucially, a local court issuing an AVO has the power to vary or suspend a pre-existing parenting order to ensure the safety of the individuals involved. This means the court can work to resolve inconsistencies and protect people from harm.

Aussie kids - are we looking after them?The question of whether we are adequately protecting Australia's children is a critical one, and recent reports from two key organisations, International Justice Mission (IJM) Australia and Barnardos Australia, suggest that the answer is a resounding "no." The data highlights a distressing reality, both in the digital world and on the streets, that requires immediate and decisive action from our government and communities.In the digital realm, the figures on online child sexual exploitation (OCSE) are a stark wake-up call. The Australian Federal Police (AFP)-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) has reported a shocking 41% increase in OCSE reports for the 2024/2025 financial year. The ACCCE received 82,764 reports during this period, a significant jump from 58,503 the previous year. IJM Australia CEO David Braga said the figures are a poignant reminder of the need for stronger online safety laws that better protect children.“These figures are truly shocking and show we need stronger action to protect children,” Mr Braga said.“We are living in the digital age, which makes children more exposed and vulnerable to online sexual abuse. It is crucial that our laws are fit-for-purpose and cater for existing and emerging threats and challenges.“We need to remember that every one of these reports is a potential crime. Many of these reports represent real children who have experienced the most egregious forms of sexual exploitation and abuse. These figures, and especially the ongoing escalation year-on-year show that the tech giants have a responsibility to ensure their platforms aren’t being misused for these illegal purposes.” Meanwhile, in our communities, children are facing a different, but equally devastating, crisis: homelessness. Barnardos Australia's analysis of Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data reveals that in June 2025, 28,279 children sought help from specialist homelessness services. A significant portion of these children were under the age of ten, with 30% being under five and another 27% between five and nine years old. Even more concerning is the number of unaccompanied children seeking help without a parent or guardian. In 2023–24, 13,300 unaccompanied children accessed these services, with girls making up 63% of this group. A Barnardos frontline worker emphasied that children are not just "bystanders" to crises like homelessness and family violence; they are "victim-survivors" who need targeted support. The primary reasons unaccompanied children sought help were interpersonal relationship issues, particularly family and domestic violence and relationship breakdown.These two reports, while addressing different issues, paint a similar picture of a system that is struugling to protect Australian children. Whether it's online or in the physical world, children are being exposed to harm at an alarming rate. It is not enough to simply react to these crises; we must be proactive in our efforts to protect children. IJM Australia is urging the government to legislate a "digital duty of care" to hold tech companies accountable. Similarly, Barnardos Australia is calling for governments to recognize children as equal victims of domestic and family violence in legislation and policy, and to increase investment in social and affordable housing and child-focused support programs.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP has rising in NSW Parliament to give a Private Members Statement on road safety and social media.Mr Butler shared details of a tragic accident, where bystanders filmed the scene, and later attempted to profit from the footage."When a relative or friend dies in a traffic accident it is a traumatic experience," Mr Butler stated. "For most people the information about the passing of a loved one is relayed to them by a police officer who knocks on their door."Even though police are given training in how to break such terrible news to people, it can still come as quite a shock. "Recently we heard of an example where friends and relatives of a person who had died in an accident saw footage of the scene uploaded or streamed by someone to social media. "Some of the friends of the deceased only found out about the accident by seeing it online. "If the death of a young person, full of potential and loved within his community, was not bad enough, the fact that it was filmed by a bystander who did not offer any assistance to the injured and who also tried to monetise the footage, only served to increase the trauma and greatly exacerbated the grief."I had a discussion with the parent of a young teenage boy who was killed in a car accident. "Images and videos of the son was posted on social media. The trauma that he and his family experienced was exacerbated by seeing the injuries that the teenage boy had sustained. "We need to find a pathway to make sure that people are deterred from capturing those sorts of images and posting them on social media.""This sort of behaviour is not illegal," Mr Butler said.The official media policy of the NSW Police Force states: Members of the public have the right to take photographs of or film Police Officers, and incidents involving Police Officers, which are observable from a public space, or from a privately owned property with the consent of the owner/occupier.It says that police do not have the power to prevent people filming or taking photos, confiscate equipment, delete recordings or images, or even request that a person delete them. The policy also says that if Police Officers try to confiscate equipment or interfere with members of the public to delete images or recordings, the officers may be liable for prosecution for assault or trespass to the person concerned.According to section 60 of the Crimes Act 1900 it is an offence to hinder a police officer in the execution of their duty. The only way someone filming at an accident can be arrested is if they are getting in the way of the police or other emergency service workers. ROY BUTLER MP PRIVATE MEMBERS STATEMENT - WATCH THE VIDEO HERE"But there is wide agreement that filming a dying person at the scene of a traffic accident is offensive behaviour" Mr Butler said. "It might be seen to contravene section 4 of the Summary Offences Act 1988, which states 'A person must not conduct himself or herself in an offensive manner in or near, or within view or hearing from, a public place or a school.' ""I will look into whether the Act can be amended to make it possible to prosecute a person who shows offensive behaviour of the kind demonstrated by people who film dead or dying people at an accident scene."Mr Buter went on to agree that journalists play a part in recording unfolding news."Their job is to document the news to inform the public about matters of interest or importance. "While there is no doubt some journalists overstep the line between collecting material for news and invading privacy, the majority have ethical guidelines that they are trained to follow and they know from experience what is seen as unacceptable in terms of invading privacy. "However, if we make it illegal to film, photograph or otherwise record the dead or dying at the scene of a traffic accident, we need to make exceptions for people who are from accredited media organisations or who have demonstrated that they have a need and are bound by standards. "There also needs to be an exception for people who inadvertently capture a scene on dash cams."

Parkes MP encourages nbn applicationsFederal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey is urging businesses across the Parkes electorate to consider applying for the 2025 Innovate with nbn Grants Program.The program, delivered in partnership with the Regional Australia Institute, is celebrating its sixth year of supporting regional businesses that are using the nbn network to drive innovation, improve productivity, and deliver meaningful social outcomes in their community.“Businesses in the Parkes electorate are no strangers to overcoming the challenges of connecting and communicating that come with living and doing business in a regional area,” Mr Chaffey said.“The region has many innovative businesses that have found ways to make the nbn work not only for them, but to build a better community.“I urge businesses that are using the nbn network to help regional Australians live an even better life to consider applying for one of these grants.”There are seven categories: agriculture, arts and tourism, education, health, Indigenous business, sport and recreation, and women in regional business. Each category winner will receive $15,000, with an additional $20,000 awarded to the overall winner.The closing date for applications is midnight Sunday, 12 October 2025. For more information and to apply, visit nbnco.com.au/innovatewithnbn .

Young people in the Balranald Shire region have a valuable opportunity to kickstart their careers, with the Country Education Foundation of Balranald announcing its annual grants programme for 2025.The foundation is calling for applications from residents aged 16 to 25 years who are transitioning from school into their chosen career path. The grants are designed to provide crucial financial support for young people who need assistance in meeting their career goals, whether they're moving directly from school, taking a gap year, or have spent a few years in the workforce.Who Can ApplyThe programme is open to all young people living within the Balranald Shire area, including residents of Euston, Balranald, and surrounding communities. Applicants must be aged between 16 and 25 years and demonstrate a need for financial support to advance their career aspirations.How to ApplyInterested candidates should visit the Country Education Foundation Australia website at https://cef.org.au/apply-for-a-grant/ to begin the application process. Applicants will need to create a 'Student Registration' and select Balranald as their local foundation when completing the online application form.For those requiring assistance or who have questions about the application process, Rachael Williams is available to help. She can be contacted on 0416 201 643 or via email at [email protected] DatesApplications must be completed online and submitted by Friday, 31st October 2025. The foundation has emphasised that late applications will not be accepted, so early submission is encouraged.Successful applicants will be invited for interviews, which are scheduled to take place by mid-November 2025.Community SupportThe grants programme is made possible through the generous support of several key local sponsors and organisations, including:Balranald Shire CouncilBalranald Inc.Balranald ICPABalranald Ex-Services Memorial ClubWindLabTransGrid's Community Partnerships ProgrammeYoung people interested in applying are encouraged to start their applications early and reach out for support if needed to ensure they don't miss this valuable opportunity.

A Broken Hill man accused of stealing from ATMs and committing other fraud worth nearly $1 million has had stricter bail conditions imposed upon him.NSW Police charged 32-year-old Lyndon Jake Pace last month after $700,000 went missing from ATMs in Broken Hill. Police allege he accessed $375,000 of the money through his employment and deposited it into various accounts.Police are still investigating the whereabouts of the remaining allegedly missing money.The matter was listed in Broken Hill Local Court on Tuesday, where the court heard Mr Pace was also facing two other fraud-related charges under the name Lyndon Jake Rogers. The three charges amount to alleged fraud totalling nearly $1 million.It remains unclear which banks have been affected.Mr Pace's defence lawyer applied for an easing of bail conditions to allow him to attend specialist medical appointments interstate in Adelaide. Magistrate Jillian Kiely rejected the application because no medical evidence was presented and instead imposed stricter bail conditions on the accused."I have regard to the fact that there are three very serious sets of charges before the court which contain very serious allegations of fraud," she said."These are very serious offences... close to $1 million in fraud. The location of money has not been frozen in the accused's bank account. There is a real risk of flight."The court heard Mr Pace had recently attempted to board a flight to Adelaide and was removed by police, but was then allowed to board the aircraft with a return ticket to Broken Hill."He tried to go interstate by way of flight, which provides links to a South Australian airport which has the capacity for international flights," Ms Kiely said.Mr Pace must report daily to Broken Hill Police Station, must not leave NSW, must surrender his passport, must not go near international departure points, and must not contact any prosecution witness or anyone who owes him money.The court heard Mr Pace was currently in Victoria for work. His defence applied for the bail conditions to commence tomorrow to allow Mr Pace to return to Broken Hill.All three matters have been adjourned until 23 September.

The Murray-Darling Basin Authority held its regular meeting in Canberra on September 4, tackling a range of pressing water management issues across Australia's largest river system.Authority members spent considerable time with NSW Government representatives discussing funding challenges for ageing infrastructure in joint programmes. The meeting also covered current determinations by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal and progress on various water limit adjustment projects under the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism.Progress on reconnecting river country initiatives for the Murrumbidgee River featured prominently in discussions, with members receiving updates on next steps for the Menindee water limit adjustment project. However, the Authority learned that some environmental water deliveries have been temporarily paused while new metering and measurement equipment is installed. The NSW Government is also working on urgent regulatory amendments during this period.The ongoing Basin Plan Review received significant attention, with members hearing about outcomes from a workshop involving senior officials from states and the Commonwealth. Key policy positions were considered during these discussions, and the Authority also received updates from meetings with staff from the Inspector General of Water Compliance.In a major development, members endorsed a new framework for assessing sustainable water extraction limits and approved initial assessments of 17 groundwater areas. These assessments will be included in a discussion paper that will be available for public consultation in early 2026, giving communities and stakeholders a chance to have their say on water management decisions.The Authority heard directly from the Sustainable Rivers Audit First Nations Leadership Group, highlighting the important role of Aboriginal communities in river management. Rachel Kelly, Chair of the Basin Community Committee, also provided an update on community perspectives and concerns.River modernisation efforts received strong support from Authority members, who expressed enthusiasm for the Joint Programmes Menindee Review. This support was reinforced by ongoing backing from the Basin Officials Committee, demonstrating broad institutional support for the modernisation efforts.Several administrative decisions were finalised during the meeting. The Authority approved amendments to the water limit adjustment register, which will be updated on the MDBA website. Members also agreed to water accounting assessments for incomplete recovery adjustments for the 2024-25 period.Current river conditions present a mixed picture across the basin. The Murray River system continues to experience dry conditions, and while water storage levels rose during winter, they remain slightly below the long-term average for this time of year. This contrasts sharply with the Northern Basin, which has received above-average rainfall. As a result, between 400 and 600 billion litres are expected to flow into Menindee Lakes by the end of October.The meeting was chaired by Daryl Quinlivan, with Chief Executive Andrew McConville and Authority members Professor Stuart Bunn, Dr Jane Doolan, Belinda Duarte AM, Roseanne Healy, Allison Mudford, and Rene Woods in attendance.

BOM issues warning for the Back CountryBureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury has issued a warning for the corner country of outback NSW, South Australia and Queensland."In that area, we may see high end severe thunderstorms with locally destructive winds and giant-sized hail potentially exceeding 5 cm in diameter."With the potential for flash flooding and damaging winds and hail, make sure you're prepared: ✅ Secure loose outdoor items. ✅ Charge your devices. ✅ Stay informed with official warnings.

Dental health is something which slips so easily through the cracks, in the midst of all the other things we deal with in day to day life.BUT......Did you know that free dental care is available to all children under the age of 18 years who live within the Far West Local Health District, and have a Medicare card? The Broken Hill Dental Clinic has Dental Therapists and Oral Health Therapists who specialise in the care of children and adolescent dental needs.Staff combine clinical expertise with a gentle reassuring approach that helps patients feel at ease. To make an appointment, or to find out more about our children's services, phone the Public Dental Service on 1800 679 336. Please have your Medicare card ready.Good dental health is vital for children's physical and mental wellbeing, supporting proper eating, speech, and development, and setting the foundation for lifelong oral health. Key reasons for prioritising dental care include preventing pain and infection, maintaining space for permanent adult teeth, ensuring proper jaw and facial development, and avoiding long-term health issues. Establishing healthy habits early through good hygiene, diet, and regular dental visits is crucial for preventing decay and ensuring a child grows into a healthy adult.  How it impacts development and function:Eating and Nutrition: Strong teeth are essential for chewing and grinding food, which is necessary for good nutrition and growth. Speech Development: Teeth play a crucial role in forming sounds and speaking clearly. Jaw and Facial Structure: Baby teeth help shape the jaw and face, and their early loss can impact this development. Preventing long-term issuesSpace for Adult Teeth:Baby teeth hold the space for adult teeth to emerge in the correct position. Early loss of baby teeth can lead to adult teeth becoming crowded or misaligned. Lifelong Habits:The habits children learn early in life, such as regular brushing and a healthy diet, often last a lifetime, fostering good oral health into adulthood. Systemic Health:Untreated dental decay can lead to pain, swelling, and infection that can spread, affecting a child's overall health and even their growth. Key actions for good oral healthRegular Brushing:Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a small, soft toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Healthy Diet:Limit sugary foods and drinks like sweets, juice, and flavored milk. Plain tap water and plain milk are the best drinks. Fluoride:Water containing fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and prevents decay. Early Dental Visits:Schedule the first dental visit by the time the first tooth appears or by age one, and continue with regular check-ups. 

Do you know a first year apprentice who could use help? The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships (the scholarships) support NSW apprentices who are experiencing financial hardship They are looking for apprentices who demonstrate a capability for vocational education and training and a positive attitude and commitment to both workplace and formal training.The scholarships aim to assist eligible apprentices in successfully completing their trade training. Applications are welcome from apprentices in both metropolitan and regional areas, including school-based apprentices. This program is administered by Eligible applicants must:be a first-year apprentice in an approved apprenticeship in NSWbe employed by an employer based in NSWbe experiencing financial hardship at the time of applicationbe an Australian citizen or permanent residentSchool-based apprentices are eligible to apply.Who can’t applyApplicants are ineligible if they are one or more of the following:are a second-year or third-year apprenticean apprentice outside NSWnot an Australian citizen or permanent resident Applications close September 19, with anticipated assessment outcome date November 2025.For more information, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/bert-evans-apprentice-scholarship-2025#:~:text=19%20September%202025-,Program%20objective,both%20workplace%20and%20formal%20training.

Police have charged a 46 year old man with several offences following a police pursuit and crash that occurred in Broken Hill on August 26.At 2:00am Tuesday August 26, police tried to stop a red Holden Commodore on Depot Road, Broken Hill. The driver of the commodore failed to stop, engaging police in a pursuit throughout local streets before it collided with two parked vehicles and a residential garden on Cummins Street, Broken Hill.The driver exited the crashed vehicle, ran from the scene and was unable to be detained by pursuing police.Following investigations, yesterday (Thursday 4 September) police stoped a vehicle travelling on Menindee Road, Broken Hill arresting a 46 year old man who is alleged to have been the driver during the pursuit and crash on 26 August.The man who was currently on bail similar pursuit and driving offences was taken to Broken Hill police station where he was charged with 8 offences; police pursuit - drive dangerously, two counts of drive whilst disqualified, drive unregistered vehicle, not give particulars to owner of damaged property, refuse to submit to oral fluid test, not disclose identity of driver as required, and possess drug.He appeared before court yesterday and was bail refused to re-appear at Broken Hill Local Court on Tuesday September 9.

A 24-year-old Narrandera woman is facing over $3,000 in penalties and court proceedings following a serious traffic incident that occurred during school zone hours in the small town of Matong.The incident unfolded at 8:28 AM on Wednesday, 27 August, when Narrandera Highway Patrol officers conducting routine speed enforcement detected a gold Holden Commodore sedan travelling at more than double the posted speed limit.Police radar detected the vehicle travelling at 82 km/h through the designated 40 km/h school zone - a breach of more than 40 kilometres an hour over the limit during the critical morning school period when children are most vulnerable.The vehicle was intercepted a short distance from the detection point, leading to the discovery of multiple serious offences.When stopped, the driver was unable to produce a valid licence. Subsequent checks revealed she was operating the vehicle with a Class C learner's licence that had been disqualified. Further investigation uncovered that the vehicle was both unregistered and uninsured.The situation escalated when roadside drug testing allegedly returned a positive result for methamphetamine, adding drug driving charges to the mounting list of offences.The woman received immediate infringement notices totalling $3,117:$1,429 for exceeding the speed limit by more than 30 km/h in a school zone, accompanied by the loss of six demerit points$844 for operating an unregistered motor vehicle on public roads$844 for using an uninsured vehicleBeyond the immediate financial penalties, the woman was issued with a court attendance notice for the more serious charges of driving whilst disqualified and drug possession. These matters will be heard before Narrandera Local Court in October, where additional penalties including potential licence disqualification periods and further fines may be imposed..

An unlicensed driver driving an unregistered vehicle has escaped serious injury, on the Mid Western Highway, between Hay and Goolgowi.The driver, a 29-year-old man left Hay and drove in a northeasterly direction along the highway, in a vehicle with expired ACT registration.He allegedly fell asleep 85 kilometres from Hay, veered off the road before awakening and over-correcting. The front wheel buckled and the vehicle flipped and rolled.Passing traffic saw the dust from the incident and stopped to give assistance.The sole occupant crawled from the vehicle, and attempted to stand, as emergency service were called.Police attended and spoke to the driver to obtain their version of events and conducted a breath test for alcohol, which returned a negative result.The driver was issued infringements for driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle, and driving without a licence.

Hay Seniors 10.18 (78) defeated Ultima Seniors 9.10 (64)The Hay Senior Lions earned a fitting end to their Golden Rivers Football League campaign, securing an emotional 14-point victory over Ultima at Macorna on the weekend in a thrilling contest that had supporters on the edge of their seats.It was déjà vu all over again as the Hay Lions made the trek to Macorna to repeat their 2024 Grand Final encounter against Ultima. The atmosphere was electric."That was next level really," said Mick Cattanach, reflecting on the contest. "We played them a lot and we know them really well."The Lions started strongly, controlling the tempo in the opening quarter, but struggled to convert their dominance into scoreboard pressure."I think he started really well and sort of dominated. We had the ball a lot during the first quarter and probably stayed in the game a little bit because we didn't kick that accurately," Cattanach explained. "We were the dominant team but probably didn't show on the scoreboard as much."The first quarter set the tone for what would become a recurring theme - Hay's superior field position and ball control being undermined by poor goal-kicking accuracy that kept Ultima within striking distance.The second quarter saw a momentum shift as Ultima capitalised on Hay's missed opportunities to fight back into the contest.“The second quarter started to get back in the game, we made some mistakes. Once again, we didn't take our opportunities and they came right back in it and got a one-point lead in that second quarter," Cattanach said.However, the Lions showed their resilience when it mattered. “The boys sort of adjusted, got the game going again and then we kicked two or three goals which were really important," he noted, crediting the half-back line's improved performance in getting the ball moving forward.The third quarter continued the see-sawing nature of the contest, with both teams trading blows in what became an increasingly physical encounter.Image: The victorious players and coaches; Jason Aylett (co-coach), co-captains Brad Pocock and Jack Cattanach, Lion's icon Robert 'Buck' Howard (back), and co-coach James Moran. Image: Steph Cattanach."The third quarter was a bit the same sort of back-and-forth," Cattanach observed. "We were probably got a bit sore and a few injuries, but once again we just kept them at bay and still maintained that lead."Despite being the better team for much of the final quarter, Hay couldn't shake their determined opponents, with goal-kicking accuracy again proving costly."The last quarter probably we were a better team but we didn't put them away and in the end our goal kicking accuracy again kept them in the game," Cattanach said.The defining moment came when Ultima mounted a late challenge, but Hay's defensive pressure proved decisive. Key players Brad Pocock, Pat Jubb, and others stood tall when it mattered most."They were getting quite close to us in the last quarter and Pat Jubb did a really great defensive play, Brad Pocock was really big in that last quarter and we managed to rebound the ball," Cattanach explained."I think when it came to pressure around the footy, our contest at the footy, we were just really tough for the contest and our tackling was just a little bit better."Halfback/midfielder Josh Dwyer was awarded the best-on-ground medal for his outstanding performance throughout the contest.Several other players distinguished themselves in the hard-fought victory: Fergus Cattanach, Dylan Collis, Jack Cattanach, Jack Headon, Jacob Watson, Declan Watson (crucial final quarter goal), Brad Pocock, and Kenneth Jubb.When the final siren rang across the field, the cheers erupted like fireworks from the Hay crowd. Emotional scenes unfolded as supporters embraced their Lions - sons, brothers, and partners all sharing in the triumph. Tears of joy flowed freely as emotions ran high.The victory provides the perfect conclusion to the Golden Rivers Football League season for the Hay Lions, delivering another memorable chapter in their ongoing rivalry with Ultima.

A groundbreaking fish passage technology that has already helped over 7,500 native fish navigate the Lake Wetherell outlet regulator is set to enter its second year of trials, with the NSW Government hosting a community celebration to mark this significant milestone in river restoration.On Saturday, 20 September 2025, the NSW Government will host a free community day at the Lake Wetherell Outlet Regulator on Main Weir Road from 10am to 3pm. The event will feature a free BBQ, behind-the-scenes demonstrations of the Fishheart control system, information stands about the project and the health of the Barka (Darling River), and a community art installation where visitors can help paint the pipes.The celebration marks the launch of Year 2 of the temporary tube fishway trial, a pioneering project that represents the first time this technology has been tested under Australian conditions on native inland freshwater fish at this scale.The fishway trial emerged from one of Australia's most devastating environmental disasters. In three separate events between December 2018 and January 2019, millions of fish—including endangered Murray Cod—died en masse along a 40-kilometre stretch of the Darling River near Menindee.An independent panel concluded that over a million fish may have died in these events, caused by a combination of drought, algal blooms, and sudden temperature drops that mixed low-oxygen water. Menindee fish deaths | Murray–Darling Basin AuthorityFurther tragedy struck in 2023, when millions more fish died in similar circumstances, highlighting the ongoing crisis facing Australia's longest river system.The Darling River is known as "Baaka" to the Barkindji people, with "Barkindji" literally meaning "people of the Baaka." These Aboriginal people have lived along the river for at least 45,000 years, with the waterway providing not only cultural foundations but also sustaining life through food supply from the waterways and surrounding areas. The fish deaths have particular significance for Indigenous communities, as these species hold high cultural value and are central to traditional life along the river.The Fishheart fishway system is an advanced, floating hydraulic technology that utilises artificial intelligence to detect fish and regulate water flow, ensuring efficient and safe passage. Unlike traditional fishways, the system is adjustable, allowing researchers to fine-tune operations based on real-time environmental conditions. Over 7,500 fish used the new temporary fishway at Lake Wetherell during its first 2.5 months of operation to find new homes, more food, and spawn and recruit, with the vast majority being native species dominated by bony herring.The first fishway in NSW was constructed at Audley Weir on the Hacking River near Sydney, but early designs were based on northern hemisphere species like salmon and trout, making them largely ineffective for Australian native fish. Unlike northern hemisphere species, most Australian native fish cannot swim up and over the artificial drops that weirs and dams create in waterways, leading to fish becoming stranded at the base of barriers. Fishways - NSW Department of Primary IndustriesThe trial forms part of the $25 million Restoring the Darling-Baaka River Program, which includes 26 actions addressing recommendations from the Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer. The program has already used better data from enhanced monitoring and modelling to strategically release water to avoid conditions that lead to fish deaths on at least nine occasions over the last 18 months. Currently in the Lower Darling-Baaka, fish can only migrate upstream as far as Lake Wetherell and Menindee Main Weir, with regulators and weirs blocking fish passage and contributing to significant increases in fish biomass, especially in the Menindee town weir pool. Menindee Lower Darling-Baaka The trial represents an exciting opportunity to test innovative fishway technology while DPIRD Fisheries develops a business case with partner agencies to find effective and permanent fish passage solutions. Due to the complexity of the existing weirs and regulators that allow flow management throughout the Menindee Lakes system, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to restore fish passage. The trial serves as an experimental approach to gauge the feasibility of temporary passage methods while working towards long-term solutions.The community day represents more than just a celebration—it's an opportunity for residents to engage with cutting-edge conservation technology that could reshape how Australia manages fish migration around artificial barriers. With the success of the first year demonstrating the technology's potential, the second year of trials will provide crucial data for scaling up these solutions across the Murray-Darling Basin.For the Barkindji people and other communities along the Baaka, the fishway trial offers hope that their river—the lifeblood of their culture and survival—can be restored to health for future generations.The community day runs from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, 20 September 2025, at Lake Wetherell Outlet Regulator, Main Weir Road, Menindee.

The Central Darling Shire Council election is scheduled for September 20, 2025, with mobile voting available across multiple locations to ensure accessibility for all residents.Mobile voting schedule:Ivanhoe Community Hall: 18 September (8:30am-5:30pm), 19 September (8:30am-6:00pm)Menindee Civic Hall: 18 September (8:30am-3:30pm), 17 September (8:30am-6:00pm)Tilpa Community Hall: 16 September (12:00pm-2:00pm)White Cliffs Community Hall: 17 September (12:00pm-3:00pm)Wilcannia Community Hall: 15-16 September (8:30am-5:30pm), 19 September (8:30am-6:00pm)Key candidates include:Ward A: Owen Whyman, Monica Kerwin, Rhonda Hynch, Peter SullivanWard B: Max Bradley, Robert Vagg, Fay Johnson-Stone, Rachelle Crawford, PeterResidents living in Ward C are not required to vote, as Daniel Fuel has been elected unopposed.The September Ordinary Council Meeting has been moved to Wednesday, 17 September 2025 from the originally scheduled 24 September date. This change accommodates the 20 September Council Election timeline, ensuring the meeting occurs before polling day rather than after.Family Day Care Service Expansion to IvanhoeCouncil has resolved to support the establishment of a Family Day Care service in Ivanhoe. The council will write to both the State Member for Barwon and Federal Member for Parkes seeking support and assistance in securing funding for this community initiative, following advocacy and consultation with local residents.In response to community feedback, Council is implementing changes to the Wilcannia Council Chambers to create a more culturally inclusive and welcoming environment for all community members. The changes include:Relocating portraits of former Council presidents and mayorsInstalling an Honour Board to respectfully display their names and terms of serviceThis initiative reflects the council's commitment to acknowledging the diverse community it serves.Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Community Service Awards, recognising individuals, volunteers, and events that have made meaningful and positive differences across the shire.Award categories include:Citizen of the YearYoung Citizen of the YearVolunteer of the YearService to the CommunityOutstanding Local Event of 2025Nomination deadline: 4pm on Tuesday, 30 September 2025Nomination forms are available on Council's website or can be collected from Council offices as printed forms.Administrator Bob Stewart provided an update on the transition process, noting that while the election campaign is underway, he wishes all nominated candidates success. Stewart highlighted several achievements during the administration period, including successful grant applications and community projects reaching completion.He particularly noted the Baaka Cultural Centre's success in winning its category in the recent LGNSW awards, congratulating all those who contributed to this achievement.The Administrator confirmed that detailed progress reports have been prepared for the incoming elected council, ensuring continuity of governance and acknowledging the residents' patience during the administration period.The council has provided QR codes linking to elections.nsw.gov.au for residents to easily find more information about their voting options and stay informed about the election process.For more information about any of these matters, contact Central Darling Shire Council at PO Box 165 Wilcannia NSW 2836, Phone: 08 8083 8900

A groundbreaking 26-megawatt hybrid renewable energy system has begun full operations at a New South Wales mine site, marking the first time an off-grid solar and battery system has powered a mining operation in the state.The pioneering project at Tronox's Atlas–Campaspe mineral sands mine near Hatfield represents a significant milestone in Australia's mining industry transition towards cleaner energy, delivering up to 40 per cent renewable power whilst dramatically reducing diesel dependency.The innovative system has replaced 41 distributed diesel generators that previously powered the mine, reducing annual carbon emissions by around 13,000 tonnes and displacing nearly five million litres of diesel each year.The comprehensive hybrid power solution combines multiple technologies:11-megawatt solar farm providing clean daytime power3MW/6MWh battery energy storage system for power stability and storage12MW of diesel generation for backup power13 kilometres of high-voltage powerlines connecting the componentsThe system has the potential to operate in "hydrocarbons-off mode" most days, meaning the mine could run entirely on renewable energy during optimal conditions. This capability represents a significant advancement in mining industry sustainability, demonstrating that large-scale industrial operations can successfully integrate substantial renewable energy components.Western Australia-based Pacific Energy announced the project's completion on Monday, describing it as an "important step" in the off-grid power system specialist's expansion to Australia's east coast.The company has extensive experience in weaning remote mine sites off diesel and other fossil fuels, with the vast majority of their pioneering work conducted in Western Australia, including one of Australia's biggest off-grid hybrid renewable energy projects at Gold Fields' St Ives mine south of Kalgoorlie."The Atlas-Campaspe system is the first we've delivered in NSW and marks an important step in our operational expansion on Australia's east coast," Pacific Energy stated in their announcement.The project team and client achieved full operational status on Friday, July 18 after safely and successfully testing the system's functionality on the mine site's operating processing plant.The successful testing phase demonstrates the reliability and integration capabilities of hybrid renewable systems in demanding industrial environments, particularly important for continuous mining operations that require stable, uninterrupted power supply.This NSW milestone follows a growing trend across Australia's mining sector towards renewable energy adoption, driven by both environmental commitments and economic benefits. The substantial diesel displacement – nearly five million litres annually – represents significant cost savings alongside the environmental benefits.The project's success could accelerate similar deployments across NSW and other states, as mining companies seek to reduce operational costs and meet increasingly stringent environmental targets.The 13-kilometre high-voltage powerline network represents sophisticated infrastructure planning, enabling the integration of distributed renewable generation with existing mine operations. The battery storage component provides crucial grid stability services, smoothing out solar intermittency and ensuring consistent power delivery to critical mining equipment.The system's design allows for flexible operation modes, from full renewable generation during optimal solar conditions to hybrid operation when weather or operational demands require additional power from diesel generators.This achievement positions NSW as an emerging leader in mining sector renewable energy integration, potentially attracting further investment in clean technology solutions for resource industries across the state.The Atlas–Campaspe mine is located near Hatfield in NSW and operates as a mineral sands extraction facility under Tronox's ownership.

The August meeting of Carrathool Shire Council began with heated debate over the council's 2025-2026 Community Grants Scheme. Councillor MS Armstrong initially moved that late and ineligible applications should not be accepted, but the motion lapsed due to lack of support.Councillor NJ Smith successfully countered with a motion to accept all applications, including those submitted late or deemed ineligible, which passed by four votes to three after being seconded by Councillor GR Peters.The council ultimately approved $23,957.98 in community grants across the shire, with funding distributed among:Goolgowi: $4,348 for projects including vacuum cleaner, defibrillator, and Christmas treeHillston: $13,276 for various community projects including hospital equipment, sports facilities, and arts council fixturesRankins Springs: $4,833.98 for golf club refrigeration, recreation ground upgrades, and school equipmentCarrathool: $1,500 for campdraft yard improvementsDuring closed council sessions, several significant infrastructure projects received approval:Bringagee Road Upgrade: Council approved a major rehabilitation project costing $1,169,000 to provide a 7-metre wide seal over 12.67 kilometres. The project will utilise $378,000 from Roads to Recovery funding and $790,000 from the local road reserve.Hillston Water Tower Issues: Following problems with the water tower's 2022 relining, council resolved to pursue warranty claims, take the tower offline temporarily, and review operations in early 2026 whilst considering additional storage options.Goolgowi West Water Supply: A community meeting will be arranged to discuss water supply options with residents.The council approved substantial plant and equipment replacements totalling over $800,000 in changeover costs:Mini Excavator: Trading a Hitachi 1.7 for a new Kubota 1.7S with accessories ($36,050 changeover)Water Tanker: Replacing an Isuzu with a new UD 6x4 bogie drive system ($261,027.45 changeover)Prime Mover: Trading a Kenworth 409 for a new Kenworth T909 with sleeper cab ($353,821.45 changeover)Padfoot Roller: Replacing a 20-tonne Multipac roller ($159,000 changeover)The council approved several smaller funding commitments:$1,000 donation to Hillston Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser$90 refund for Active Farmers' Hillston Hall hire$80 fee waiver for South West Arts event at Carrathool HallGeneral Manager Review: A performance review for General Manager Rick Warren was scheduled for September 2025, to be conducted by the full council following the ordinary meeting in Hillston.Transport Issues: Council agreed to lobby through local member Helen Dalton for a bus stop and 80km/h speed limit in Tabbita, and seek input into road works on the Kidman Way.The council noted its statement of bank balances as at 31 July 2025, confirming payments totalling $3,449,458.25. Budget revotes of $203,000 and $1,201,841 were approved for the 2025/26 financial year.

Griffith is set to benefit from a substantial $3 million investment from Federal and NSW Governments aimed at beautifying the Central Business District and enhancing local tourism facilities, representing a significant boost for the regional economy.Griffith is set to benefit from a $3 million investment from the Federal and NSW Governments to beautify the CBD and improve local tourism sites. The funding is part of the NSW Sustainable Communities Program, which is aimed at creating new jobs, supporting business innovation and strengthening communities. The funding comes with a commitment to inclusive community consultation. Griffith City Council's project will be considered by the Roads Parks and Pathways Enhancement Committee, which will make recommendations to Council to finalise the scope of works. The process will also include opportunities for the community to contribute ideas through workshops, walkshops and other engagement activities. This approach ensures that residents and businesses will have direct input into how the substantial funding is allocated, creating a genuinely community-driven transformation of the city centre.Mayor Doug Curran emphasised the collaborative approach to the project."This investment provides us with an exciting opportunity to further enhance our city centre and tourism attractions. It's important that our community has a voice in shaping this project. Through workshops and other activities, we'll be inviting people to share their ideas so the end result reflects what matters most to Griffith."The NSW Government's Sustainable Communities Program is designed to help minimise the social and economic impacts of water recovery measures on Basin communities under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. This $3 million allocation to Griffith comes from the Program's Early Investment Round, the first round of funding targeted to nine Southern Basin local government areas identified as most vulnerable to water recovery measures. This funding represents recognition of Griffith's strategic importance in the Murray-Darling Basin and the government's commitment to supporting regional communities facing challenges from water policy changes.The Council says it will continue to work with the community to ensure the project delivers the best possible outcomes for residents and visitors.The implementation timeline and specific projects will be determined through the community consultation process, ensuring maximum benefit for both local residents and the growing tourism sector that contributes significantly to Griffith's economy.