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Saturday, April 27, 2024

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for and about people living outside Australia’s capital cities

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Topics to watch

Murray Darling Basin Plan, biosecurity,
 transmission line, housing, fire

Infrastructure - NT

Arts

Tender awarded for $7.1m Nyinkka Nyunyu upgrade

Tash Adams, Tennant & District Times -
Plans to upgrade Tennant Creek’s Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre (NNACC) have progressed, with the awarding of a $7.1 million construction tender to a joint venture between Territory companies ANT Galactic and M&J Builders ... the new-look site will include multi-sensory exhibitions featuring the Nyinkka (spiny-tailed goanna), and a truth-telling exhibition that shares Warumungu perspectives and personal accounts of Australia’s past.

Mossman

Agriculture

Queenslanders call on government to give Mossman time: Canegrowers

Thousands of Queenslanders have come out in support of the small far north community of Mossman, calling on the State Government to keep the local sugar mill operating to help underpin investment in the community ... The single biggest employer in the region, Mossman Mill went into liquidation last month, casting a pall over the local sugar industry and the community it has supported for over a century ... the e-petition closes on Sunday ...

Opinion

Farming

Expected impacts of the new WA firearms legislation: Conservation Australia

For those who have been following the rewrite of the Firearms Act 1973 (WA), the headlines suggest that farmers have come out well with a provision for Primary Producer Licence holders to possess up to 10 firearms while recreational shooters/hunters are limited to possessing five firearms. As is often the case, the devil is in the detail and the provisions of the proposed Act and the intent of this Government’s Minister warrant further study.

Wildlife

Land & environment

Management plan for saltwater crocodiles released: Worden

The Northern Territory Government’s Saltwater Crocodile Management Program 2024-2034 will allow for the targeted culling of crocodiles in specified areas to ensure the safety of swimmers. The new Program provides a clear direction for the management of the NT’s saltwater crocodile population for the next 10 years.

Pasture

Agriculture

Pasture dieback spreading in Southern Qld

Mim Rogers, Allora Advertiser -
Graziers are urged to keep an eye out for pasture dieback, which is continuing to spread to new areas of Queensland including in the state’s south. According to the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), newly affected regions in southern Queensland are as close as Warwick and Millmerran and include Inglewood, Goondiwindi, Charleville, Chinchilla, Injune, Roma and St. George.

Cropping

Agriculture

Timely message from BCG seeder day: “Understand the fundamentals”

The Buloke Times -
Operating an 80 tyne-double chute bar, machinery expert Brett Asphar always keeps 160 buckets in his ute during sowing to check whether the seeder is distributing seed evenly. Asphar was a keynote speaker at BCG’s Seeder Demonstration Day at Murra Warra, where he explained to the 80 plus attendees why he is so dedicated to even seed distribution.  

Mice

Agriculture

High mouse activity reported in several regions vigilance advised: GRDC

GRDC and CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, are urging growers and advisers to be vigilant due to reports of moderate to high mouse activity in several regions across Australia … the areas with moderate to high mouse activity include parts of the north Adelaide Plains, Victorian Mallee and Wimmera, pockets of Queensland's Darling Downs, and the Central Eastern Wheatbelt of Western Australia.

Cattle

Agriculture

Prime bulls are ready to deliver

Mark Collins, Corryong Courier -
Commercial producers chasing growth, eye muscle area and positive fats pushed prices to $20,000 at the recent Reiland Angus autumn bull sale. Interfaced with AuctionsPlus, the sale was hosted by the Lucas family at Killimicat Station, Tumut and drew 33 registered buyers.

Communications

Community urged to speak up on phone services

Mark Collins, Corryong Courier -
Independent Member for Indi, Helen Haines, is encouraging individuals and community groups to take part in a federal government review examining the existing and future telecommunication needs of regional communities ... "Regional communities are held back by unreliable NBN coverage, mobile phone blackspots and slow internet speeds during peak holiday periods," Dr Haines said.

Biosecurity

Agriculture

Fire ants now a bit close for comfort

Ted Rogers, On Our Selection News -
The discovery of fire ants near Oakey has set off alarm bells across the eastern Darling Downs with authorities taking action to treat and maintain monitoring of the activity. A member of the public reported the nests on Tuesday 16 April, with initial surveillance and treatment conducted by the program the next day.

Water - NSW

Council

Goldenfields Water updates member councils on latest projects

Narrandera Argus -
Goldenfields Water County Council hosted General Managers and Mayors from their seven constituent councils to discuss each of their priority areas and to present an update on the recent, current and future projects being undertaken by Goldenfields Water. As a county council, Goldenfields Water is a unique organisation made up of seven LGA’s including Bland Shire, Temora Shire, Coolamon Shire, Junee Shire, Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council, Narrandera Shire and Hilltops Council.

Health - SA

Council

Phones ring in new beginning

Chris Oldfield, Naracoorte Community News -
Phone lines to the Lucindale Health Centre have been reconnected during times local nurses are rostered on duty. From Reedy Creek, Keilira and Woolumbool to Spence, Callendale, Furner, Biscuit Flat, Greenways and everywhere in between - the Lucindale community can once again ring the local health centre they built themselves.

Flood resilience

Council

Flood meeting gets flood education

Rodney Stevens, Clarence Valley Independent -
It was standing room only at Yamba Golf and Country Club on Sunday as more than 250 Clarence Valley residents proactively engaged in a flood awareness and resilience meeting, leaving with vital knowledge to help them survive and conquer the next stormwater and Clarence River flood event.

Live exports

What’s Watt got to say now?

Trevor Whittington, CEO WAFarmers -
Minister Watt, it's time to face up to the reality and accept the consequences of the government’s policy to ban live exports ... Your policies have contributed to driving away buyers and the boats that are essential for alleviating the pressure on the sheep market ... The fact that the live export report you commissioned remains concealed speaks volumes about the economic motivations behind the political decision. The report reportedly confirms what every farmer knows, that the local processing industry cannot replicate the competitive dynamics provided by exporters in the market.

GKNP

Federal politics

NSW Koala Strategy – Extinguish native forestry

Vic Jurskis -
The government’s own research on the north coast has confirmed that forestry does not affect koala numbers ... New data from field surveys of 1000 sites, trumpeted by the incoming Environment Minister and commenced a year ago, will not be released in time to stimulate or inform public submissions on the Koala Strategy ... The result is preordained.

Trade

Agriculture

WA farmers looking to the sky and Canberra

Trevor Whittington, CEO WAFarmers -
... the water reserves in WA farmers' dams are now running dangerously low and farmers are being forced to quit stock at rates that are competitive with the price of a bullet ... What's the trade got to do with the weather? For our farmers, the link is so obvious they remain dumbfounded that the Government has not joined the dots.

Health - WA

Council

New Tom Price Hospital campaign launched by Shire of Ashburton – Council and residents fed up with broken promises

“Bandages won’t fix broken promises”, is a grassroots campaign led by the Shire of Ashburton, following community demand to get the Minister for Health, Amber-Jade Sanderson, to follow through on her election promise to build the new Tom Price Hospital. The Tom Price community was promised a new hospital on 26 February 2021 as part of the 2021 State Election.

Infrastructure - Vic

Now boarding from Bendigo Airport’s new terminal: Allan, King, Tierney, Edwards, Chesters, Metcalf

Bendigo Airport's new terminal and business park officially opens today, providing an economic boost to the region ... The terminal-which is approximately four times larger than the previous building-includes new check-in facilities and departure lounge, upgraded restrooms, provision for future security screening, and an indoor arrival area and baggage collection.

Employment - Vic

Employment

Creating more new jobs for regional Victorians: Pallas

The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) regional labour force data, released yesterday, shows that another 6,700 people in regional Victoria found jobs in the past month ... According to the ABS data, unemployment remains low in many areas of Victoria, including Warrnambool and the South West (2.2 per cent), Hume (2.9 per cent), Bendigo (3.1 per cent) and Geelong (3.5 per cent).

Wind farm

Energy

Geelong’s regional airport under threat: McArthur

Concerned residents protesting a controversial new windfarm recently met at Lethbridge Airport to oppose a proposal which will see sixty 270 metre high wind towers of skyscraper proportions placed in an area northwest of Geelong. Local residents, farmers and the communities of Bannockburn, Lethbridge, Teesdale, Meredith and Shelford are being left in the dark as to the exact location and impact of this vast renewables project.

Nuclear

How feasible is nuclear power for Australia?

Tertia Butcher, The Riverine Grazier -
Nuclear remains a topical and contentious issue for Australia, with Labor firmly opposed to this form of energy while the Coalition wants to build nuclear power stations on the sites of  existing coal fire stations. Alan Finkel, former Chief Scientist of Australia believes it is worth removing the legislated ban on nuclear power. “Nuclear power is a credible source of abundant zero-emissions electricity, but it would take 20 years to commence operations from a standing start in Australia,” Dr Finkel said.

Transmission lines

Agriculture

In-depth discussions with TCV specialists: Communities “drop-in”

The Buloke Times -
More than 120 landholders and community members “dropped in” to Transmission Company Victoria’s (TCV) community information sessions last week for one-on-one discussions on all aspects of the VNI West project. Held in Kerang, Charlton and Stawell, the informal five-hour sessions were a direct response to community feedback...
Agriculture

“Farmers grow food – not power lines”

Contributor, The Buloke Times -
Jenny Pollard. The message was clear as farmers from around the Charlton district greeted representatives from the Transmission Company Victoria (TCV) with farm machinery bearing signs of dissatisfaction, as last Wednesday’s meeting about the Victoria to NSW Interconnector West (VNI West) at the Charlton Shire Hall opened to the public. 

Road rules

Council

Push to streamline EV charging zones

Yorke Peninsula Country Times -
Cracking down on people parking in designated electric vehicle charging station spaces is one focus of a range of new road rule changes. Two new offences have been brought in to stop non-electric cars from parking in EV parking areas, and stop EVs parking in a charging area when not being charged.

Flood response

Council

Interim report of inquiry into 2022 flood event highlights need for more support and quicker response

Greater Shepparton City Council says the interim report into the 2022 flood event in Victoria, tabled at the regional sitting of the Victorian Parliament in Echuca last week, highlights the need for a more efficient support system for community members and a faster transition to recovery following a major emergency.

Cars

Business

What car is Australia driving?

Krista Schade, The Riverine Grazier -
According to vehicle marketplace Car Sales, 1,216,780 vehicles were purchased in Australia in 2023, breaking the previous record of 1,189,116, set in 2017. But what is the most popular?

Council

No money left in Council’s charity bucket

Tertia Butcher, The Riverine Grazier -
Two requests for financial assistance by waiving fees and charges have met with a firm no from Council, and community and sporting organisations and groups can expect this to continue, at least for the current financial year. Council’s budget allocation for assistance of $13,000 has already been fully expended after it was increased in February. “We do not have any money left in the budget,” General Manager, David Webb said.

Roads

Council

Addressing the Sturt Highway road toll

Tertia Butcher, The Riverine Grazier -
A Sturt Highway Taskforce has been formed in response to the rising road toll on the Sturt Highway. The initiation came from Murrumbidgee Council, with the first meeting held earlier this month.

Biosecurity levy

Agriculture

GrainGrowers calls for immediate action on biosecurity protection levy

Industry body GrainGrowers has called on the Federal Government to take immediate action to resolve a range of outstanding issues related to the introduction of the Biosecurity Protection Levy. In its submission to the Senate inquiry examining the issue, GrainGrowers detailed its position, calling for the government to address the following matters in relation to the creation of the biosecurity protection levy...
Agriculture

Scrap the biosecurity bill: NSW Farmers Association

NSW Farmers has fronted a Senate Inquiry to call for the proposed biosecurity tax on farmers to be scrapped, with farmers already paying their fair share of biosecurity dues. NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said despite a last-minute redesign, farm leaders remained opposed to the biosecurity levy bill and would continue to urge parliamentarians to vote against the levy’s introduction over the coming weeks.

Tourism

Event

Parrtjima pulls near record crowds to Alice Springs: Potter

Parrtjima – A festival in light has wrapped up for 2024 after once again lighting up Alice Springs in all its glory. The iconic Territory tourism drawcard delivered unforgettable experiences and attracted extraordinary crowds, marking its second-biggest opening weekend ever with over 8000 attendances ... including the unforgettable theatrical experience of Arelhe Urrperle...

Festival

Ord Valley Muster, 17-25 May 2024

The Boab Metals Ord Valley Muster, the Iconic Kimberley Festival, has a packed program of events across nine days ... in Kununurra ... From big concerts to station luncheons, laugh-out-loud comedy, Indigenous culture, arts, fashion and family-friendly festivities, the Boab Metals Ord Valley Muster kicks off the East Kimberley’s tourism season.

Gas - NT

Business

Beetaloo gas to ‘change NT forever’

Erwin Chlanda, Alice Springs News -
The Territory’s $40 billon economy by 2030 “won’t happen without the growth of this sector” said NT Minister Mark Monaghan, addressing more than 300 members of the extractive industry ... Mr Monaghan said gas from Beetaloo is “on the cusp of changing the Territory forever” as Empire Energy and Tamboran Resources are expected to make their final investment decision on pilot production activities this year.

Wind - Qld

Business

Atherton Tablelands community triumphs against international big business: Knuth

State Member for Hill Shane Knuth welcomed the news that South Korean-owned Ark Energy has withdrawn its proposal to add another wind farm near the small tablelands community of Ravenshoe. Mr Knuth said the company had embarked on an intense campaign last year, including renaming the project from Chalumbin to Wooroora Station Windfarm and reducing the project from 200 to 86, then to 42 turbines.

Webinar

Education & training

Hazardous webinar: Students in fire research showcase

In this webinar, you will hear about three PhD research projects covering bushfire smoke and eye health, remote sensing and machine learning to predict forest fire spread, and collaborative and adaptive fire risk-reduction.

Law & order

Energy

Power pole may be linked to transmission tower incident

Contributor, Yanchep News Online -
A forward command vehicle will be near the intersection of Wandoo and Neaves roads in Pinjar this morning as police seek information about a transmission tower that was tampered with in April last year, which may be linked to another incident in the same location at the time.

Infrastructure

Business

Build it and they will come – World class equestrian centre opens

Susanna Freymark, indyNR.com -
Fourteen million dollars later, Casino has a world class equestrian centre with an undercover arena and shaded seating for 2500 people to watch events at the Casino Showground. At the official opening ... the speeches took place on the arena floor as horses and riders wound their way around the huge space.

Innovation

Agriculture

Banana waste tech offers ‘golden’ opportunity for Australian distilling industry: AgriFutures Australia

UK biotech startup, LyteGro’s solution converts the pulp of waste bananas into a proprietary liquid supplement to turbocharge metabolic processes offering high-value for Australia’s distilling industry. An exciting joint venture opportunity now exists for Australian investors, banana growers and authorities to scale production plants.

Cattle

Agriculture

Influx of cattle onto market taking a toll on prices

Susanna Freymark, indyNR.com -
Doug Robson. The influx of cattle coming onto the market is taking a toll on prices for all classes of cattle. There were 1934 head yarded at the NRLX on Wednesday, April 17 with the main increase being in the young cattle section.

Wool

Agriculture

Wool industry leads metrics for environmental reporting

With consumer demand for “nature-positive” wool outstripping supply, a new project is underway to provide consistency and certainty for woolgrowers around measuring and reporting on environmental performance ... the Natural Capital and Environmental Performance Measures for Australian Wool Growers project aims to support woolgrowers with on-farm decision making and reporting to their customers, using consistent, science-based, practical metrics.

Tax planning

Agriculture

Farm Management Deposits front of mind as EOFY approaches: NAB

NAB is encouraging primary producers to mark 28 June as a critical date if they’re considering or already utilising Farm Management Deposits (FMDs) as part of their tax planning this financial year. The FMD Scheme is designed to enable primary producers to set aside pre-tax income when they’re experiencing prosperous years and use it as a cashflow management tool for financially challenging years.

Advocate

Award for providing a voice to people living with MS in the Queensland community: MS Australia

Charity
MS Australia has today announced Ms Rachel Kerr as the recipient of the 2023 John Studdy Award in recognition of her commitment, dedication and service to people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) ... Since her diagnosis, Rachel has contributed tirelessly to the Queensland community, advocating for the rights and wellbeing of regional people living with MS.

Environment

Climate

Dunes on the move

Yorke Peninsula Country Times -
Shaun Hollis. A ground-breaking study into the movement of coastal sand dunes paints a picture of what will likely happen to Yorke Peninsula’s extensive dune systems across coming decades, according to a leading global coastal studies expert. Flinders University Professor Patrick Hesp said, as rising sea levels and less rainfall impact coastlines, dunes will increasingly migrate back from beaches and encroach on properties behind them.

Youth

Media

Turning on the microphone during Youth Week in Grafton

Emma Pritchard, Clarence Valley Independent -
There have been some new voices going live on air at local radio station 2GF recently as the business opened its doors and handed over the microphones to a couple of enthusiastic teenagers during Youth Week 2024 ... Among them was Paisley Padayachee, the 14-year-old daughter of popular breakfast announcer Misty Fisher...

Weather radar

New BoM radar improves accuracy

Ted Rogers, On Our Selection News -
Images from the new Toowoomba weather radar are now live on the Bureau of Meteorology’s (BoM) website and app. The radar is located in an elevated position between Goombungee and Crows Nest. BoM Senior Responsible Officer for Queensland, Dr Peter Stone, said that the new radar will add coverage to current radar gaps to the west and south-west of Toowoomba.

ANZAC Day

History & heritage

Upholding the Anzac spirit

Ted Rogers, On Our Selection News -
Today millions of Australians will attend Anzac Day services locally in places such as Greenmount and Westbrook, across the country and overseas at important sites including Villers-Bretonneux and Gallipoli ... A resident of Tranter Street in Top Camp has crafted this touching tribute to Australia’s military past at their property.

History & heritage

Step back in time – State Governor visits Narrandera for ANZAC Day

Narrandera Argus -
Liz Lawrence. His Excellency the Governor of New South Wales, Lieutenant-General John Northcott, visited Narrandera in April 1949 for its ANZAC Day observances as part of his tour of the south-west and portion of the western districts of the State ... His Excellency said he was very pleased to come to this part of the State through the 'Door of the Great South West' ...

Research

College art inspires pride in heroes

Mark Collins, Corryong Courier -
Towong Shire libraries in Corryong and Tallangatta are showcasing a collection of local war heroes assembled by Year 6 students in the region, as part of an Anzac Day research project. Using digitised service records from the National Archives of Australia, students created informative posters ...

Research

Lest we forget

Viv Markham, Tarrangower Times -
Marching in Maldon’s 2024 Anzac Day parade, wearing his great-grandfather’s medals, was William Govier. William’s step great-grandfather was Richard (Dick) Cox, who served with great bravery in the army in New Guinea in World War II.

Commemoration

Tennant pays tribute to service men and women

Tash Adams, Tennant & District Times -
The RSL committee’s hard work in the weeks leading up to ANZAC Day has resulted in a meaningful and impressive event in Tennant Creek. The RSL served as a focal point for the community, starting with the Kapyong Korean War remembrance on Wednesday.

Commemoration

Flag Project launched at Nhill Cemetery

Emily Gladdis, Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times -
Last Sunday, between 100 and 150 people gathered at the Nhill Cemetery for the official opening of its Flag Project, followed by a Remembrance service and a march through the cemetery by the Light Horse reenactment committee. The project aims to honour veterans by placing flags on their graves.

War memorial

A sight worth seeing – “The Nhill War Memorial”

Emily Gladdis, Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times -
John Williams. Lowan Councillor Alfred Dahlenburg said at the dedication of the NHILL War Memorial on the 13th of September 1921, that the project had been beautifully thought out and that it was "a sight worth seeing".

History & heritage

ANZAC Day walk

Contributor, Tarrangower Times -
Lee Mead. Interested in Maldon's history? Friends of Maldon Historic Reserve are hosting a stroll in the Maldon Historic Reserve in the afternoon on ANZAC Day. Learn about the history of ANZAC Hill and discover some of our unique gold-mining landscapes.

Public art

Soldiers remembered in stunning new mural

Yorke Peninsula Country Times -
Sarah Herrmann. A moving new mural commemorating those lost in battle has been unveiled in Kadina just in time for Anzac Day. The piece, by local artist Glen Gearing, features realistic poppy motifs and the silhouette of soldiers on a battlefield.

Leadership & You

ANZAC qualities: lessons for leaders

David Stewart, RYP International -
Courage, egalitarianism, mateship, resilience, sacrifice, adaptability, camaraderie ... The ANZAC spirit is ageless. By embodying these ANZAC-inspired qualities, leaders can create a positive and emotionally safe team culture to help inspire resilience and excellence into their teams, especially as we navigate through times of uncertainty and adversity.

Bioenergy

Energy

Radial Timber taking on power

Philip Hopkins -
Radial Timber in Yarram, with a strategy already in place for its mainstream timber operation, has embarked on a new approach to using its wood waste that takes the company deeper into the heart of the sustainable, circular economy. Radial has installed a pilot plant that uses pyrolysis technology; organic material, in this case wood residues, is burnt at high temperatures without oxygen to produce biochar, a stable solid that is rich in carbon and can fertilise and endure in soil for thousands of years.

Farming

Agriculture

An opportunity for young farmers

The Buloke Times -
With BCG’s Young Farmer Network rapidly expanding, Senior Manager of Extension and Communications, Grace Hosking, is encouraging more young farmers to register now. "In our role as the Vic Hub’s North West Broadacre Node, BCG has brought together hundreds of young farmers from across the region in recent weeks to build knowledge, create networks and support each other through our BCG Young Farmer Network events...."

Meat

Education & training

Meat IGA’s newest butcher graduate

Tash Adams, Tennant & District Times -
Last Friday, after six long years and several challenges, Neville Holt received his Certificate III in Meat Processing and Meat Retail. His certificate was presented by William Angliss trainer Trevor Edon, with IGA Store Manager Angus Harrison in attendance, along with some of Neville’s apprenticeship supporters.

Doctors

Health

Welcome Dr. Maryna

Contributor, The Buloke Times -
It is with immense pleasure that we at the Donald Family Clinic would like to welcome a long anticipated new addition to our medical team. Dr. Maryna Aliakseyeva has officially joined us and her books will be open as of Monday, April 22, 2024. 

Food & beverages

Charity

Falcons ginger beer launch

Mike Smythe, Tarrangower Times -
On Thursday last week the Mount Alexander Falcons Women’s Sports Club launched a ginger beer made in collaboration with Shedshaker Brewing as a fundraiser to support the club and their community programs, which includes the outreach program at Tarrengower prison.

Infrastructure

Council

It’s dam important – Cressbrook Dam an utmost priority

Ted Rogers, On Our Selection News -
Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald and Deputy Mayor Cr Rebecca Vonhoff last week stepped up the call for external funding for the $270 million Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement Project ... Without grant funding, Council’s submission to the State Government said the full cost of the dam wall upgrade will be transferred to ratepayers through increased water charges.

Governance

MIL vote outcome

Lloyd Polkinghorne, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
The proposed resolutions to remove the two current MIL non-member directors, Trisha Gorman and Robert Burbury, from the Murray Irrigation Board failed to garner the necessary votes last week ... The infighting at the board level has seen division spill over into the community, with the company, certain directors and influential farmers taking a leaf out of the MDBA book and hosting closed-door meetings for invite-only attendees.

Council procedure

Wrong and rushed

Nasik Swami, Naracoorte Community News -
Wrong, rushed, and transactional. That’s how councillors Abigail Goodman and Damien Ross of the Naracoorte-Lucindale Council described the council’s recent decision to drop the prayer and replace the Acknowledgement of Country with a shorter and more “inclusive” two-line statement. During the council’s March meeting, a motion for a revised code of practice for council and committee meeting procedures, which includes the new welcome statement, was put up for endorsement.

Council - flags

Council

Council’s rainbow flag seeks feedback

Lloyd Polkinghorne, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
Northern District Community Health is leading a charge to have a rainbow flag flown on Gannawarra Shire Council’s buildings annually. The shire attempted to pass the change without community consultation at last week's council meeting by including it in the proposed Council Policy No. 148—Flags Review.

Regional air

Council

Flight reductions under watch

Narrandera Argus -
Narrandera and Leeton Shire Councils will be keeping their eyes open and continuing dialogue with Regional Express executives in relation to flight reductions and timing of flight schedules being resumed at the Narrandera Airport. An overview of the continued Regional Express flight reductions through until at least the end of October 2024 was considered by the joint airport management committee.

Regional banking

Another NAB branch bites the dust

Ted Rogers, On Our Selection News -
Local readers who may have been used to ducking across to Pittsworth to use the services of NAB will have to change their ways from today (Thursday). The Pittsworth branch of NAB has closed permanently. The closure comes despite a strongly supported petition organised by the Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton as well as a personal letter from Mr Hamilton to the CEO of the Bank.

Try telling this to people in Pittsworth and Clifton…

Ted Rogers, On Our Selection News -
The new Group Chief Executive Officer for the NAB has made contact with the bank’s customers explaining how the bank is continuing to support its customers. Andrew Irvine has been appointed NAB Group Chief Executive Officer, replacing Ross McEwan ... "During more than 20 years in banking I’ve learned that delivering the best experience for customers should be at the heart of why we come to work each day," Mr Irvine said.

Banking - Tennant Creek

Banking

ANZ celebrates opening of its new, improved branch office

Tash Adams, Tennant & District Times -
The ANZ branch in Tennant Creek has celebrated the opening of its new location after serving customers at its Paterson Street premises for decades. The new branch is still located on the main street, but now boasts a modern interior that’s bright and welcoming, showcasing ANZ’s unwavering commitment to the local community.

Banking - Maldon

Your bank turns 25!!

Viv Markham, Tarrangower Times -
The Community Bank Maldon & District is now 25 years old, and you’re invited to the celebration at Bank Corner ... It all began with a determined group of local residents who banded together to see what they could do about the fact that the Commonwealth Bank and the National Bank had deserted the town.

Mining

Business

BHP Operational Review for the nine months ended 31 March 2024

We have released our BHP Operational Review for the nine months ended 31 March 2024. “We remain on track to meet copper, iron ore and energy coal production for the year...": BHP Chief Executive Officer, Mike Henry.

Education & training

Education & training

TAFE staff member not all business!

Narrandera Argus -
Brenda Poole of Narrandera serves as the vibrant and dedicated Aboriginal Education and Engagement Coordinator at TAFE NSW. With over 20 years of experience, Brenda is a force to be reckoned with, especially her infectious energy and passion for her work.

Indigenous

Federal politics

NIAA opens doors to its new office location

Tash Adams, Tennant & District Times -
The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) has established its new home in the former Westpac Bank building in Tennant Creek ... The agency works in partnership with First Nations communities to enable their self-determination and aspirations, ensuring they have a say in the decisions that affect them.

Youth - NT

Labor Govt has failed Barkly youth: Edgo

Federal politics Tash Adams, Tennant & District Times -
The Member for Barkly has called out Labor for its dereliction to support regional young people at risk after he highlighted the shocking cases of two Tennant Creek children who he says was failed by the NT Government. Mr Edgington, also the Shadow Attorney-General, says the children had a history of neglect and abuse and were allowed to escalate into violent offenders despite 67 child welfare notifications.

International

Family

Stein follows in mum’s footsteps

The Buloke Times -
In September 1995 a shy young Norwegian girl, Ingvill Backman, came to work on the Campbell farm, “Springbank” at Corack. For eight months she helped Trevor and Adam with all types of agricultural activities ... Now, almost twenty-nine years later her elder son, Stein Sira, has paid a visit to the Campbells.

Biosecurity

Agriculture

Fire ant inquiry shows Labor failing and too slow to act: Littleproud

“The frightening thing is that if fire ants get up above the Great Dividing Range, it could potentially get into the Murray Darling Basin and that could effectively see the fire ants go right down to Adelaide. It would impact the whole country and have devastating consequences. Labor now needs to urgently respond to the inquiry and eradication must continue to be the focus”: David Littleproud.

Gas

Economic confidence in the Beetaloo Basin grows: Lawler, Monaghan

Today, announced on the ASX, Empire Energy has successfully raised over $46 million enabling them to progress drilling in the Beetaloo Sub-Basin for natural gas. The drilling will comprise of a pilot development well for pre-production testing. Empire Energy is anticipating commencement of commercial production by 2025 with the first supply of natural gas going into the Northern Territory Market.

Regional health

Doctor struggles to get Yamba GP appointment

Rodney Stevens, Clarence Valley Independent -
A General Practitioner who retired from clinical practice to live in Yamba and took five months to secure an appointment with a local doctor whose books were open, says a large percentage of GPs don’t have their own doctor ... Dr M has offered some solutions to the health crisis in the region, which could ease the pressure on local GPs and enable doctors to access consultations with colleagues.

Wind farm

Energy

People power wins

Mim Rogers, Allora Advertiser -
The company which had been looking into the possible creation of a wind farm in the Goomburra district, east of Allora, has abandoned further action on the matter. Wind Prospect Pty Ltd’s Regional Development Manager, Michael Sale, told The Clifton Courier this week of the decision.

Renewable energy

Business

AGL Energy and Someva Renewables announce community funding as part of Pottinger Energy Park near Hay

Tertia Butcher, The Riverine Grazier -
AGL Energy and Someva Renewables have announced tens of millions in funding for the Hay Shire and Edward River Councils regions if the proposed Pottinger Energy Park proceeds ... The bulk of the funding will be delivered via two voluntary planning agreements between Someva, AGL Energy and the two councils.

Transmission lines

Agriculture

Shire meets with farmers

Contributor, The Buloke Times -
Carey Brennan. On Thursday, April 11, approximately 80 farmers filled the Donald Memorial Hall supper room to hear from the Buloke Shire and several speakers, to find out exactly what the Victorian NSW Interconnector (VNI) West Transmission Lines project means for this district.

Health - SA

YP health services risk ‘collapse’ – union

Employment Yorke Peninsula Country Times -
Yorke Peninsula hospitals are on the brink of a collapse of services, according to the nurses and midwives’ union, which is calling on residents to support its statewide campaign to counteract staff shortages in regional hospitals.

Health - SA

“GP tax” burden

Chris Oldfield, Naracoorte Community News -
A trip to the doctor is expected to soar by an extra $12 per visit under a State Government bid to claw payroll tax out of independent GP clinics. Following a brief amnesty, the extra $12 charges for GP visits will go straight into State Government coffers.

Energy

Energy

Coal cancellation

Philip Hopkins -
A drive to establish new industry and jobs using Latrobe Valley's brown coal in non-energy ways is effectively dead after the state government stopped funding research into the work, a decision denounced as "folly" and "ideological madness" by local leaders. Australian Carbon Innovation at Federation University, which since 2011 has been researching the non-energy use of brown coal that does not produce greenhouse gas emissions, will close on June 30 after the government pulled the plug on funding.

Health - SA

Minister awaits report

Chris Oldfield, Naracoorte Community News -
As The [Naracoorte Community] News deadline loomed last week, the Limestone Coast Local Health Network (LCLHN) was still working on reconnecting telephone services to the Lucindale Health Centre. And Health Minister Chris Picton expects to hear from a working group regarding nursing services at Lucindale “by the end of this month”.

Biosecurity

Agriculture

Biosecurity tax still fails fairness and equity tests: GPA

Under the Federal Government’s new Biosecurity Tax, Australian grain producers are being forced to pay 10 times more than the existing biosecurity levies that they already contribute towards emergency responses and other proactive initiatives, investments and partnerships. These levies are established by growers themselves and hypothecated for specific purposes.

Flood recovery

Building & Construction

Resilient Lismore receives full ‘repair to return’ funding

Dunoon and District Gazette -
“After nearly two years of our home repair work being privately funded by local organisations and philanthropists we are very grateful that the NSW Reconstruction Authority is providing this additional funding so that we can continue to help people return to safe and secure homes”: Resilient Lismore Executive Director Elly Bird.

Flood recovery

Council

Flood-affected land to be regenerated, turned into koala habitat: LVRC

Hundreds of native seedlings are set to be planted on flood-affected land, helping to bolster native habitat and reduce future flood damage. The project area, adjacent to and including Lions Park, Lower Tenthill, consists of two recently acquired lots which were bought back under the Voluntary Home Buy-Back (VHBB) program.

Flood management

Council

Donald to enhance flood management with Victorian Government funding

Buloke Shire Council is set to bolster its flood management capabilities with the support of Victorian Government funding. The Donald Flood Protection Demountable Levee Project ... will play a pivotal role in safeguarding residents from flooding and optimising the deployment of Council resources during emergency situations.

Agriculture - Indigenous

Roundtables seek agreement for defining Indigenous agricultural products: NFF

The National Farmers’ Federation will host a series of roundtables across April and May to confirm support for the broad characteristics and principles that must be used in defining Indigenous agricultural products ... NFF President David Jochinke said it was essential the widest range of voices were heard at this stage to ensure project’s objectives are achieved, including delivering ongoing prosperity to Indigenous peoples and business by being able to demonstrate authenticity and verifying claims about their products. 

Environment - NT

Fire

Only biological control can eradicate buffel

Erwin Chlanda, Alice Springs News -
The green that surrounds you is buffel, as far as the eye can see, a malicious plant predator that has overwhelmed much of The Centre, and is continuing its relentless advance. Renowned Central Australian botanist Peter Latz, who has studied the introduced plant for decades, likens the magnitude of impact on the country of buffel with the megafauna’s extinction.

Environment - NSW

Inland waterways

Advance Our Nature Fair

Lloyd Polkinghorne, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
A free family event was held at the Federation Botanic Reserve on Sunday. Sixteen sites were set amongst the regenerated ground, which was a bare paddock not long ago … Attendees stood among 130 native species of ground cover, shrubs and trees that have thrived on the site and had the opportunity to listen, sharing the opportunities and experiences of people connecting with their natural environment. 

Forest - WA

Agriculture

Forests facing collapse

Denmark Bulletin -
Patricia Gill. Forests and reserves around Denmark have been hit by a ‘forest collapse’ event as the region struggles through a dry six months and feed for farms is depleting. Murdoch University fire and plant ecologist Dr Joe Fontaine says Denmark and South Coast regions may not be having the driest spell on record but the ecology was suffering due to an unusually long summer.

Environment- WA

New ‘fish hotels’ to boost climate resilience in Harvey River: McGurk, Whitby

Nine 'fish hotels' will form prime real estate through a 500-metre section of the river near Riverdale Road - an area that was historically de-snagged to increase drainage. The fish hotels, looking like small wooden pyramids, will sit on the riverbed and serve as a perfect location to attract and retain aquatic wildlife ... The purpose built 'hotels' have been constructed by Waroona Men's Shed and students from the Western Australian College of Agriculture in Harvey using locally sourced timber.

Murray-Darling

Federal politics

Water leaders convene at summit on future challenges for the Basin: MDBA

More than 100 senior leaders will meet under one roof today for a 2-day summit hosted by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) to collaborate, listen and share the diverse points of view on current and future management of the Basin ... the summit continues the conversation with First Nations people, industry, environmental, science and community leaders collaborating on the future of the Basin. 
Agriculture

Commonwealth backs down on Basin Plan blackmail: VFF

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is relieved the Commonwealth Government has finally stopped blackmailing Victoria and agreed to fund environmental projects that will ensure floodplains are watered. VFF President Emma Germano said it’s pleasing to see that Victoria will no longer be short-changed for key Basin Plan projects.

Environment

Business

Environment and business to benefit from Nature Positive Plan: Plibersek

Key updates are: Australia’s first national independent Environment Protection Agency with strong new powers and penalties to better protect nature. More accountability and transparency with a new body called Environment Information Australia ... Faster environmental approval decisions on projects ...

Infrastructure

Fishing

What phase 2 upgrades to the Two Rocks marina will include

Contributor, Yanchep News Online -
Betheney A’Vard. The Department of Transport provides an update on the upgrades to the Two Rocks marina, including those due to be undertaken in phase two. Reporter Betheney A’Vard spoke to Cameron Smith from the Department of Transport’s maritime section who said the marina mainly catered to the fishing and boat servicing industries but also the charter industry and recreational boating.

Public transport

Council

All aboard for a free ticket to ride

City of Coffs Harbour’s bold free bus travel initiative aims to help all members of the community, including people who don’t drive. The free bus travel trial starts on Friday 19 April, and Mayor Paul Amos said it would particularly support older people who no longer drive and unlicensed teenagers...

Land - NSW

Council

State Government exposed by tale of two cities

If it’s good enough for the NSW South Coast then it should be good enough for the NSW North Coast – as City of Coffs Harbour fights to keep the prized public land at the Jetty Foreshores in the hands of the community. Mayor Cr Paul Amos has won support for a Mayoral Minute which detailed inconsistencies in the NSW Government’s approach to public holdings. 

Research

Agriculture

World Vegetable Map 2024 – Turbulent times for the global vegetable sector: Rabobank

Global vegetable trade value rose amid cost increases; production down in some major markets. The value of the global vegetable trade rose in line with rising prices, reaching 3 per cent average annual growth from 2017 to 2022, according to Rabobank’s recently-published World Vegetable Map.

Communications

Telstra’s 5G and 4G upgrades promise enhanced connectivity for Nhill

Emily Gladdis, Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times -
Telstra has announced significant upgrades to its mobile base station in Nhill, which will bring enhanced 4G services and introduce 5G coverage to the community. However, these improvements come with a temporary inconvenience—scheduled outages are expected from April 15 to April 19, during which there will be no 3G/4G coverage available from the site.

Regional news

How your community newspaper works for you: Oscar Tamsen

Contributor, Clarence Valley Independent -
Oscar Tamsen. As we all know only too well, inflation, the Web and the presence of TV advertising have collectively put paid to many community newspapers in various parts of Australia and elsewhere. Your ‘Clarence Valley Independent’ is, however, committed to continuing printing its weekly edition to carry the latest local news and timely shopping information to you, our many faithful readers. The 30-year-old philosophy of our editorial and management team has always been to serve our community by standing up for your individual rights when needed.

Farming

Agriculture

Around the paddock

Emily Gladdis, Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times -
Farmers across the district are gearing up for the cropping season which is fast approaching. Brett Jewell said, "We are busy preparing for sowing, with a few internal fences being removed, gypsum to spread, some seed still to clean, a couple of stubble to burn, and some maintenance to be done on the sprayer and airseeder.

Emerging industry

Agriculture

A superfood renaissance down under: AgriFutures Australia announces new research plan for the quinoa industry

Known for its ancient origins and impressive nutritional profile, quinoa has not only captured the attention of health-conscious consumers globally, but also some entrepreneurial Australian farmers. Quinoa fuelled ancient Andean civilisations in South America for more than 7,000 years … along with high protein levels and essential amino acids has earned it the “superfood” title.

Pharmaceuticals

Agriculture

Dechra welcomes Numnuts® into the Gold Standard for pain relief

In a significant stride towards elevating pain relief standards for farm animals, Dechra Pharmaceuticals proudly welcomes Numnuts® into its product offering. Numnuts®, a revolutionary solution for ring marking in lambs, will be distributed alongside Dechra’s flagship wound care, anaesthetic, and antiseptic product, Tri-Solfen®.

Research

Farming

Eagle slayer myth hard to kill off

Yorke Peninsula Country Times -
Shaun Hollis. A trio of majestic wedge-tailed eagles rises out of the paddock stubble as our farm ute approaches ... Honiton farmer Matt Smith said he likes the huge birds living in the scrub beyond the bottom paddock because they help clean up the remains of any lambs which have become too weak to survive on their own. He said he has never seen an eagle kill a healthy lamb on his farm.

Wine

Business

South Australian Shiraz on show in Bordeaux: Scriven

South Australia’s world-class shiraz is currently being showcased on the global stage as part of the ‘Via Sensoria’ exhibition, running until November at the iconic world wine museum, La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux, France. This partnership ensures South Australian wines can be showcased to thousands of visitors to the centre each year, as well creating a platform for producers to conduct wine tastings...

Cotton

Agriculture

Cotton industry releases fourth independent environmental assessment: Cotton Australia

The results of a new comprehensive independent assessment of the environmental performance of Australia’s cotton industry have been released revealing significant gains, and areas for improvement.

Craft beer

Business

Fun, Star Wars pun-inspired event for annual craft beer showcase

May the fourth beer with you! The Cairns Craft Beer Festival is back in 2024, with a frothing good lineup of ales from six of North Queensland’s craft breweries, delicious pub grub, lively entertainment, and competitions from noon until late...

Meat

Education & training

‘We meat again’: unique program helping ‘Gong butchers snag new staff

TAFE NSW Wollongong West will partner with a meat industry peak body to host a unique program this month offering local jobseekers a “taster” of the butchery trade and helping address a worsening skills gap. The three-day Introduction to the Retail Butchery Industry course ...

Property

Business

RSM Club buys the Clydesdale Steakhouse as part of its future plans

Susanna Freymark, indyNR.com -
The Casino RSM Club announced its plans to refurbish the Royal Hotel and to buy the Clydesdale Motel and Steakhouse and the former Sil Gava commercial site on Walker Street. The club’s expansion plans were shared with club members at a recent forum.

Hospitality

History & heritage

It’s time to say goodbye – historic pub for sale

Susanna Freymark, indyNR.com -
Lisa Stewart first saw the pub at Rappville when it was surrounded by ash and burnt ground. Despite the devastation in Rappville from the 2019 fires, Lisa saw the beauty of the historic Commercial Hotel rising from the ashes.

Governance

Agriculture

APVMA review a welcome opportunity: GrainGrowers

The government’s response to the Matthews Review into the governance of the AVPMA is a welcome opportunity to ensure the regulator can operate in the best interests of Australian agriculture. GrainGrowers CEO, Shona Gawel said the report was an important step in maintaining our strong, independent, evidence-based regulatory system.

Review

Agriculture

NFF backs the government’s response to the APVMA review

The National Farmers’ Federation welcomes the Federal Government’s well-considered response to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) review. NFF Chief Executive Officer Tony Mahar said it was imperative to the farm sector the APVMA gets back on track and empowering Ken Matthews AO’s review into the Authority’s future structure and governance was a step in the right direction. 

Firefighting

News

Volunteer firefighters needed

Nasik Swami, Naracoorte Community News -
The region needs more volunteer firefighters. That’s the call from SA Volunteers Firefighters Museum (SAVFFM) chairman Alan Hall ... Mr Hall highlighted this as the SAVFFM held its ninth memorial service ... to honour those who have given their lives protecting homes and lives from fires across the state.

Community

Education & training

Be part of the ‘next generation’ at Newstead Men’s Shed

Barry Robinson, Tarrangower Times -
Volunteering rates Australia-wide are yet to fully recover to their pre-Covid levels, according to new research. Newstead Men’s Shed is no exception when it comes to attracting volunteers.

Birchip

Business

Why move to Birchip?

The Buloke Times -
Local Buloke Shire Young Citizen of the year (2024), Blake Lee, and Birchip P-12 teacher, Marian Haddrick, have created an advertisement for the township of Birchip to encourage a swell in population to take up the available employment opportunities in the region.  

Cattle

Agriculture

Top breeding, top honour

Kirstin Nicholson, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
Seeing your name in gold print on an honour roll is something special, but something not many of us achieve. For Greg and Kris Goulding from Johville Park Aussie Reds at Leitchville, it’s their outstanding genetics that have helped them reach that status. The Gouldings were inducted to the Genetics Australia Breeder Honour Roll...

Emergency services

Fire

Dunoon Rural Fire Service

Dunoon and District Gazette -
Mike Berry. It is with sadness that members of Dunoon RFS acknowledge the recent passing of past member Neville Watts age 98 ... In 2023, the brigade introduced a new annual training award posthumously named in honour of past member, Aline Feebrey. ... Our inaugural winner is Alison Wilson.

Leadership & You

Business

Symbolism, the secret sauce to a leader’s credibility

David Stewart, RYP International -
Symbolism is what a leader does and does not do. What a leader recognises and responds to is just as important as what a leader ignores. Do actions reflect words? Symbolism is the single biggest determinant of a leader’s credibility.

Air show

Event

What a show!

Emily Gladdis, Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times -
A great day was had by all who came from near and far to the Nhill Airshow 2024. Planes had been flying all week but on the morning of the show they were coming in from every direction, including the Gooney Bird up from Melbourne and a number of private planes, many of which formed part of the aircraft ground display.

Exhibition

Arts About – Imagination

Contributor, Tarrangower Times -
Nancy Whittaker. Imagine the possibilities when four creative artists let their imagination have its way. And the imaginative approach of world-renowned children’s author, Jen Storer ... Kareen Anchen Cascade Art Gallery Director wrote that in "The Power of Imagination": Einstein famously stated, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

Music

Musical performance at Homestead

Mim Rogers, Allora Advertiser -
On Monday guests at The Homestead in Allora were treated to an unexpected performance by two accomplished musicians who were visiting the town. It all started just outside Allora when the caravanning couple from South Australia had car trouble ... While this is unfortunate for the visitors it has been a bonus for Allora.

Quiz

Quiz #13

Tom Trifonoff -
Leave off shouting answers at the TV, try this quiz instead.

Letters from Home

Letters from Home: Pill popping

Fran Cleland, ARR.News -
Well, the pill popping has started. To misquote John Travolta - I've got PILLS they're multiplying, and I'm losing control ... Sitting at a horse show last year with my husband, his mate of similar age turned and said to him, "how many pills do you have to take?"

Gallery

Grand opening of Gallery 85 – showcasing “Mine Over Dark Matter” exhibition by Alasdair Niven

Gallery 85 extends a heartfelt invitation to art enthusiasts, collectors, and curious minds alike to help celebrate its grand opening ... This significant occasion introduces a vibrant new venue to the art landscape of Stawell and the Northern Grampians, offering a fresh hub for contemporary art exhibitions and creative events.

Circus

Spaghetti Circus Open Day, 27 April 2024

In celebration of World Circus Day, Spaghetti Circus is throwing open the doors and welcoming everyone in for a day of circus fun! The Spaghetti Circus Open Day ... is jam packed with free 'taster' classes for kids and adults from 9am-12:30pm, followed by a community picnic.

Exhibition

State Library’s Cameleers exhibition explores forgotten histories: Templeman

A new exhibition at the State Library of Western Australia follows the trail of cameleers who left a significant cultural and economic legacy in Western Australia. Camels and those who cared for them were a familiar sight along the tracks connecting Australia's outback to the coast 150 years ago.

Debutantes - Vic

Debutantes sparkle at Charlton Ball

Contributor, The Buloke Times -
Jenny Pollard. A sparkling array of white tulle, classic dresses, debonair partners and two adorable attendants were the highlights of the 2024 Charlton Deb Ball held last Friday night as nine couples were formally presented against a striking Art Deco-inspired setting at the Charlton Hall.

Biography

Fletcher Griffin biography receives top award

Mim Rogers, Allora Advertiser -
Fletcher, who is a student at the Allora P-10 State School completed a biography on Aunty Flo Watson (OAM) in the "Yarning with our Elders" competition ... Over the 2023 Christmas holidays, QATSIF and their partners at the Australian Catholic University invited Queensland’s First Nation secondary students to have a yarn with an Elder and Fletcher selected Aunty Flo ... Fletcher’s biography was awarded first place ...

Play

Write time and pace for local playwright

Emma Pritchard, Clarence Valley Independent -
Steve North said it was fate after a play he wrote a couple of years ago was recently announced as one of eight winners in the nationwide Sage Age Playwriting Competition. Entitled The Last Rehearsal, Mr North’s play is based on a theatre group who are preparing to rehearse ahead of an upcoming performance, but unbeknownst to their director ...

Dance - NT

Duprada Dance Company 40th Anniversary Gala

The 40th Anniversary performance of Duprada Dance Company at the Araluen Arts Centre will be a spectacular event showcasing the best of the best inspired from the past 40 years. Music that Moves is a story of movement, migration and music.

Circus - NSW

NORPA to take audiences on a wild ride to Lismore Showgrounds with Wildskin: 12-28 September 2024

Dunoon and District Gazette -
NORPA is taking audiences on an adventure outside the theatre once again, announcing it will stage its original work Wildskin in a warehouse space at the Lismore Showgrounds. A sensory, destination-theatre experience, Wildskin inhabits an outrageous and unpredictable world that’s part bush-thriller, part road-trip and a whole lot of NORPA’s signature theatrical style.

Review

Book review – Crawling Through the Darkness

Contributor, The Riverine Grazier -
Kimberly Grabham. Linda Goldspink Lord is a name many would know and remember. Linda and her family used to live in Hay, and left the town when Linda was a teenager ... She wrote a book, Crawling Through the Darkness. 

New release

You called an ambulance for what?

Contributor, The Riverine Grazier -
Kimberly Grabham. Tim Booth is the son of Lyn and Ken Booth, formerly of Hay. Tim has written a book, titled, You Called an Ambulance for What? ... details the crazy and curious reasons for people calling emergency services, and are situations he experienced while working as a paramedic in Sydney. 

Interview

Author interview – Jill Griffiths

Serena Kirby, ARR.News -
Author Jill Griffiths describes her debut book, 'What's For Dinner?' as “an exploration of the food on the table and the farming that puts it there and what it all means for people who grow food and those who eat it”. Australian Regional & Rural News reporter, Serena Kirby, spoke with Jill recently to learn more about her background, how the book came about and some of the fascinating things she discovered in the process.

History

Mount Lindesay quest uncovers local link

Denmark Bulletin -
Alasdair Millar. Naval surgeon Dr T.B. Wilson explored the Denmark area in 1829 and named several landmarks. These included the Denmark River, after Alexander Denmark, another naval surgeon, and the brooding hill to our north, after Sir Patrick Lindesay (1778-1839) ‘in compliment to the officers of the 39th regiment’.

Festival

Visual displays inspired visitors

Mark Collins, Corryong Courier -
Honor Auchinleck. The opening of the MFSR Bush Festival’s Art and Photography Exhibition last Thursday evening was memorable for the opening speech of Dr Jonathan King OAM. Dr King organised the first modern bush festival in 1995 ... talented local artists and photographers set a high standard and impressed the exhibition patrons.

Quiz

Quiz #12

Tom Trifonoff -

Letters from Home

Letters from Home: So many ifs

Fran Cleland, ARR.News -
Easter used to be fun in our family, but not any more. It's the hardest time of year for our family, it's when our darling granddaughter took her life. When we lost our Jessica to suicide the police knew just where to look: her phone and laptop.

Coming up

Wimmera

Agriculture

New leaders emerge to support our ag shows

Emily Gladdis, Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times -
New leaders emerged at the Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association’s Annual General Meeting on Sunday, April 15. Former Secretary and new Treasurer, Andrea Cross representing the Horsham Agricultural Society, said the two new leaders bring wisdom and innovation to the team.

Coming up

Equestrian

Equestrian

Fun, games as northern riders vie for spot on state team

Fran Cleland, The Regional -
While the big, elite events like Dressage and Jumping with the Stars and the Sydney Royal Easter Show were in full swing, the youngsters who could possibly feature in those events in the future were planning an assault on the Victorian State Mounted Games Championships.

Rugby league

News

Yenda Blueheelers trounce Hay Magpies in tough day at Hay Park

Krista Schade, The Riverine Grazier -
Yenda Blueheelers first grade side ran away in the second half to cap off a tough day for Hay Magpies at Hay Park on Sunday. The visitors defeated Hay in all four grades.

Athletics

Athletics

National record for Matthew

Mim Rogers, Allora Advertiser -
Matthew Denny thrilled the crowds at the Australian Athletics Championships held in Adelaide over the weekend. Producing his best effort, Matthew threw a huge 69.35 metres which added over one metre to his previous top throw and creating a National Record.

Martial arts

International

Maclean “karate kids” off to World Champs

Rodney Stevens, Clarence Valley Independent -
Two karate prodigies from "The Dojo" Maclean are hard at work practicing techniques and perfecting new moves in preparation for the World Martial Arts Championships in Portugal ... Mr Wilks said 16-year-old Ruby Martini, who he has been training on and off for 10 years, and 10-year-old Joe Bougen, enjoyed success at three regional championships which continued to the national titles.

Sydney Royal

Equestrian

Best of the breeds put on right royal display at Sydney

Fran Cleland, The Regional -
The Sydney Royal Easter Show’s breed classes have again provided a highlight for spectators as the best of the best go under the judges’ eyes.

Pony racing

Equestrian

Naracoorte High School student racing at Royal Randwick

Contributor, Naracoorte Community News -
Nicki Barnet. Three of South Australia’s up and coming riders and their ponies have set off on the journey of a lifetime to the National Pony Racing Series Finals, which takes place at Royal Randwick in Sydney on All Aged Stakes Day on April 20. Supported by Racing SA, Cheyenne Crane and her pony Phoenix will represent SA in the large pony category...

Mountain biking

Cycling

It’s all downhill in Denmark for WA’s top riders

Denmark Bulletin -
Denmark Mountain Bike Club hosted two rounds of the WA State Downhill Series attracting more than 150 riders over two days. Among the top riders was a big contingent of Denmark and Albany riders who battled rough terrain, rock drops and gap jumps to be the fastest down the hill.

Equestrian

Equestrian

Webb wins

Mark Collins, Corryong Courier -
The 2024 Man From Snowy River Bush Festival attracted record crowds on Friday and Saturday night in a celebration of Australian bush heritage ... The live concert on Friday night drew an estimated crowd of 8000 while the Wrangler Xtreme Broncs Australia rodeo on Saturday night was attended by a record 10,000 people.

AFL

AFL

Bulls blitz Royal Blues

The Buloke Times -
After an even and entertaining first half with little between Birchip-Watchem and Donald, the Bulls simply overpowered the Royal Blues in a second half blitz dishing out a comprehensive 11 goal belting, led by an 8 goal haul from gun forward Ben Edwards, his second bag in as many weeks. It was far from a one-man show, though, the Bulls’ new big man Hamish Hosking paving a way ...

Cycling

Business

Murray to Moyne keeps pedalling on

Kirstin Nicholson, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
The return of the Cohuna Murray to Moyne cycling team after a seven-year break was a positive and successful one, with 15 riders completing the 510km course over two days. From flat open roads to winding hills, from calm and sunny weather to wind and coastal rains, the Cohuna District Hospital’s Murray to Moyne cycle relay team had it all...

AFL

AFL

Blues chase back-to-back flags

Mark Collins, Corryong Courier -
Defending premiers Cudgewa will start as favourites when the 2024 Upper Murray season starts on Saturday. The Blues have retained the bulk of last year’s team that went undefeated through the 2023 season including a 94-point demolition of Bullioh in the grand final.

Fishing

Fishing

Big turnout for Ganmain vs Grong Grong anglers competition

Narrandera Argus -
It was an amazing turnout for the Ganmain versus Grong Grong anglers competition. Between the two clubs there were 15 boats on the water and about 50 people, with 64 Cod, four trout cod, one yellow belly, one silver perch and only four carp caught for the day.

Fishing

Aquaculture & fishing

10 million reasons to love fishing in Victoria

The Buloke Times -
The State Government’s record-breaking fish stocking program has again hit a high-water mark with 10 million fish stocked this year, so more recreational fishers can wet a line close to home across the state. Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos, last week stocked more brown trout at Lake Wendouree in Ballarat and announced the major milestone for Victorians.

Pony racing

Equestrian

Exciting finale set for 2023 National Pony Racing Series at Royal Randwick Racecourse: Pony Club Australia

Pony Club Australia -
The 2023/24 National Pony Racing Series reaches its peak with a thrilling final at Sydney’s Royal Randwick Racecourse ... Young riders, aged 9 to 15 years, representing Pony Clubs nationwide, will vie for victory ...

Masters

News

Games hat trick ends on a high

Yorke Peninsula Country Times -
Michelle Daw. The third Masters Games in a row held on the Copper Coast has wrapped, with plaudits from organisers and the more than 1000 competitors who took part. The Copper Coast 2024 Masters Games, held from Thursday to Sunday ... attracted 1043 registered competitors.

Skateboarding

Council

Youth week skates in

Lloyd Polkinghorne, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
Murray River Council has supported skate clinics in Barham and Mathoura to celebrate Youth Week. The workshops were run by The Totem Collective, which was formed in 2010 and has worked to bring about positive change in the lives of young people through skating, creating and empowering.

Target shooting

International

Peter on target

Kirstin Nicholson, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper -
It’s a good thing Englishman Peter Shuttleworth loves chatting to strangers when he’s holidaying. If he hadn’t struck up a conversation with the also holidaying John and Glenda Cleave back in 2013, he would never have discovered Cohuna ... once he heard there was a clay target club down the road, he came back for the club’s annual Anzac Day Shoot the following year – and kept coming.

Leeton

Event

Volunteers honoured in day of fun, fashion and memories at Leeton Races 80th anniversary

Narrandera Argus -
Kim Woods. Two community stalwarts, John Gavel and Sarina Saffioti, were honoured with life memberships at the Leeton Jockey Club’s 80th anniversary celebrations on Saturday ... Canberra Indonesian teacher and fashionista Sally Martin made it back-to-back wins in the Most Fashionable Lady in the competitive Fashions on the Field Competition.

Shooting

News

Clifton Benchrest Shooters report

Mim Rogers, Allora Advertiser -
The Clifton Benchrest Shooting Club Inc. Shotgun was held on Sunday 14th. One of the best days for shooting so far this year for shotgun. Again, some good scores were achieved.

Hunting

Land & environment

Duck hunting season, 2024

Contributor, The Buloke Times -
The 2024 Victorian duck season has been nothing short of a success, marked by outstanding hunter compliance and an exhilarating experience for participants. As the season progresses, it is clear that responsible hunting is a positive force, not just for those involved, but for conservation and the environment. 

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Denmark Bulletin, 4 April 2024

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