Tuesday, March 19, 2024

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Topics to watch

Weather

Damage bills mounting: Cape York NRM

Just 16 km north of Wujal Wujal, the historic Mount Louis Station is one of the most fertile and picturesque cattle stations in Far North Queensland,  fattening some of the country's finest Brahman and Brangus steers. But the severe pounding it received from the flooding that followed Cyclone Jasper, has caused a damage bill, estimated by an agronomist recently, of more than $300,000...

Innovation

The future is nearly here with biohub expected to be built by 2025

In years to come Casino could be known not only for its beef industry but for its innovation and sustainability. Visitors may still come to tour the Casino Food Co-op abattoir and packaging centre but there is likely to be great interest in seeing the workings of the biohub next door that creates energy from the nutrient-rich waste at the Co-op site.

Innovation

Respiratory viruses fall victim to tea tree oil’s virucidal vigour: AgriFutures Australia

Deeper understanding of the anti-viral activity of tea tree oil opens doors to animal and human health applications. While tea tree oil is relatively well-known for its ability to treat a range of bacterial and fungal infections, new research has confirmed the homegrown essential oil could also be a valuable tool in the fight against respiratory viruses in livestock and humans.

Aged care

‘Game changer’: Industry welcomes return of critical health course to TAFE NSW Cootamundra

The CEO of a Cootamundra aged care facility has welcomed a move by TAFE NSW Cootamundra to reintroduce a critical healthcare course amid a deepening skills shortage in the industry. For the first time in almost a decade, a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance will be offered at TAFE NSW Cootamundra ...

Renewables - NSW

Going solar suits some but those living near proposed Richmond Valley Solar Farm are not happy

Let’s go solar. Across the world, in Australia and NSW, there is a push for alternative energy including wind and solar power ... IndyNR.com spoke to a resident ... She is opposed to the Richmond Valley Solar Farm. She has many reasons for her opposition including the fire risk of the proposed large BESS.

Gold - Vic

Maldon’s golden secret

Mark Blythe. Everybody has probably driven past that imposing front entrance along the Maldon- Bendigo Road at some stage, and wondered what goes on in there. Last week, the [Tarrangower] Times got to poke around inside and have a long chat with Dylan Morgan, the Processing Manager at the Kaiser Reef gold treatment plant on the edge of town.

Gold - WA

Reborn mine reinforces WA’s golden heritage: Michael

The Cook Government has congratulated Bellevue Gold for officially opening its $252 million Bellevue Gold Project, which sees the mine reopen after sitting dormant for more than 20 years ... The company expects to produce more than 1.8 million ounces of gold over an initial 10-year mine life.

Mining - NT

Biggest ever Legacy Mines contract a boost to Tennant economy

The largest contract ever awarded by the NT Government’s Legacy Mines Unit will see six months’ worth of work undertaken in the Tennant Creek region to address safety risks from historical mining activities. The $4 million contract represents a major boost to the local Tennant Creek economy and Territory jobs.

Mining - SA

Mining exports soar: Koutsantonis

South Australian mineral and petroleum exports increased by a remarkable 14.3 per cent to more than $5 billion in 2023, according to new Australian Bureau of Statistics figures. Of our $17.9 billion export record in 2023 reported by the ABS, the resources sector contributed $5 billion, according to ABS data.

Renewables - Vic

Renewables fast-track steam rolls farmers: VFF

The VFF says the Victorian Government’s fast-tracking of renewable energy projects by accelerating planning approvals is a slap in the face after years of sham consultation with farming communities. VFF President Emma Germano said the green-lighting of major renewable projects adds to a poor-track record of consulting landholders set to be impacted and risks further alienating already frustrated farmers across Victoria.

Election - Tas

TasFarmers releases new election policy report

Tasmania’s peak industry body for farmers ... released its 'Election Policy Priority Report' after positive responses to its election package from across the political spectrum. Seeking feedback form the state’s political parties and candidates TasFarmers outlines in its election package six key priorities areas...

Regional health - SA

Bureaucrats on notice – working groups to form

Health bureaucracies that slashed rural nursing services for the sick and elderly have been put on notice by Member for MacKillop Nick McBride and Health Minister Chris Picton ... Without consultation, on January 22 the green rubber rings of two Local Health Networks squeezed out rural nursing services at Lucindale, Tintinara and Coonalpyn. People with cancer, MS, heart conditions and the elderly were told to drive round trips of 80kms or more for many nursing services. Most have no ability to drive. There is no public transport.

Remote housing - NT

Aboriginal homes across the Barkly set for upgrades after NT and Federal governments announce $4 billion deal

The Territory and Federal Labor governments announced a landmark $4 billion investment this week to improve Aboriginal housing in remote communities across the Territory. The investment will see 2,700 homes built across the Territory’s remote communities in the next 10 years, with 270 homes built each year.

Mansions for bush communities, courtesy governments?

Over the next 10 years 2700 mansions, at a cost to the taxpayer of $1.5m each, will be spread across Aboriginal communities in the NT outback ... It's simple: $4,000,000,000 divided by 2700 houses equals $1,481,481 per house ... we have asked Mr Albanese and Ms Lawler for a break-up of what the $4 billion will be spent on.

Emergency services

Newstead Brigade unveils Field Command Vehicle

Kerry Cain. Last Saturday, the Newstead Fire Brigade impressed attendees at the Newstead Pool Party by showcasing its latest addition, the Field Command Vehicle (FCV). With this specially equipped vehicle, the brigade can now respond more effectively and decisively to emergencies of all kinds and direct and deploy its appliances and personnel, as well as those of other services, as required.

Firefighting

Lake helps firefighters

A Black Hawk aerial firebombing chopper and the Naracoorte Swimming Lake were valuable resources during a major firefighting operation near Repeater Station, outside of town last week. It took 21 fire trucks, 120 firefighters, and seven firefighting aircraft almost 20 hours to contain the bushfire...

Racing

Girl power carried the day

Last Friday was International Women’s Day and the spirit of the event carried over to the Towong race meeting the next day when two female jockeys and a trainer made their mark while two sisters and their cousin celebrated a home-town victory in the Cup. After finishing second last year, classy seven-year-old mare Euphemia made amends with a 3 1/2 length victory in a course record ...

Pickleball

Getting pickled has never been so much fun

If I asked you to play pickleball, what picture would you have? ... Being pickled and chasing a yellow fluffy ball—no, that sounds like tennis! ... The game is a racket or paddle sport in which two players or four players hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball with paddles over a 34-inch-high net until one side is unable to return the ball or commits a rule infraction. 

Fishing

Fun in the sun with record catches at Moulamein fishing comp

393 fish were caught during the Moulamein Football Netball Club’s annual fishing competition. ... This year's event saw entrants become citizen scientists, forming a partnership with Dr Nathan Miles from NSW Fisheries at Narrandera to record vital fish data to monitor fish numbers between the Balpool Bridge and 19-mile reserve on the Edward River at Moulamein.

Murray-Darling

Government hasn’t given up on Basin plan says Minister

"I’ve been very clear that my government does not support buybacks. This is not an empty promise – I have already demonstrated that I am taking action by releasing the NSW Alternatives to Buybacks Plan in February that clearly shows how we plan to minimise the exposure of regional communities to water buybacks": NSW Minister for Water, Rose Jackson.

Litigation

NSW Nature Conservation Council v NSW Water and Environment Ministers discontinued

In relation to the discontinuation of the case brought by the Nature Conservation Council (NCC) of New South Wales (NSW) against the NSW Water Minister and NSW Environment Minister in 2021 to challenge the validity of the Border Rivers Water Sharing Plan, media releases have been issued by the Ministers and the NCC.

Retail

Mayor recognises local award win

Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald dropped into the IGA Local Grocer at Westbrook last week to congratulate the store on wins at a recent IGA conference ... The achievement is significant given that there are 65 stores judged in the various categories and the Westbrook shop has been operating for only two-and-a-half years.

Education

Regional agribusiness partnering with schools on new program

In a first for the Riverina and most probably in New South Wales, a close association has developed between agribusiness in the Riverina and secondary schools teaching agriculture ... The Riverina Compendium provided a vehicle to build on the past experiences, to attract a suitably qualified workforce, to provide a greater number and diversity of jobs within the Region...

Community

Church closing its doors

After 117 years of worship, Cambooya Uniting Church will be holding its final service on Good Friday, 29 March 2024.The service begins at 3pm and combines the Good Friday service with a special service to mark the closure of the congregation.

Tourism

Having a “Winne” good time in Iluka’s

Winnebago owners from four states converged on the Anchorage Holiday Park at Iluka last week, united by social media the group collectively travelled tens of thousands of kilometres to enjoy their motorhomes in the town the models were named after – Iluka ... last year’s inaugural Winnebago Iluka pilgrimage saw 21 motorhome owners from around Australia visit Iluka for an annual event that continues to grow.

Fabulous festival

Quill and Alyssa. Esoteric Festival shook the ground at Gil Gil to Donald’s north over the Labour Day weekend, attracting an incredible number of like-minded patrons to the popular dance corroboree. The ground trembled under those assembled; thousands of feet dancing to the heavy beat of music, provided by globally renowned DJs, with arms collectively raised to the open sky, intent on ascension into the Esoverse. 

Community

Turn your cans into cash for Kaniva

The Kaniva & District Progress Association is inviting residents to turn their cans into cash to support KDPA community projects. "This is a great way for residents to contribute to further lighting for our town," said KDPA Chair Marlene Carter.

Women

Hay Landcare hosts popular Women of the Riverina forum

Women from across the Riverina region gathered at Hay Services Club last week, for Hay Plains Landcare’s highly successful Women of the Riverina Forum. The two-day event was organised by local Landcare powerhouses Jade Auldist and Jenny Dwyer in recognition of NSW Women’s Week, and brought together inspirational guest speakers on a variety of topics.

Firefighting - Vic

More support for CFA needed

Despite claims of support for the thousands of CFA volunteers ahead of this month’s second catastrophic fire day, numbers of fire ready volunteers continues to decline. Last week in State Parliament, Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes was still unable to confirm when the 48 heavy tankers promised to regional CFA brigades would be delivered.

Energy security

Day of the outages

Sarah Herrmann. Several Wool Bay residents were frustrated by more than 30 momentary power outages ... which reportedly damaged appliances, adding to a steady stream of blackouts for the small township over multiple years ... "The biggest worry we’ve got is that we rely on CPAP machines at night time; medically, we’ve got to have it otherwise we could not wake up": Dave Norton, Wool Bay resident.

Opinion

Time to address the shortage of ag mechanics

Seems the old saying "all roads lead to the city" applies as much to country kids as it does to new migrants who have just arrived. Can you believe that Australia has imported 8.15 million people since 2000? ... The National Skills Commission report has found that 45 per cent of employers struggle to fill apprenticeship positions and even then 53 per cent of starters fail to complete their qualification. Australian kids just don't want to get their hands dirty, while the skilled migrant workforce who are trade-qualified prefer the big cities to the bush.

Opals

National campaign launches to protect Australia’s opal industry

‘Protect Our Opals Australia’ is supported by Walgett Shire Council and key opal and gemstone industry organisations, including the Australian Opal Centre, Glengarry Grawin Sheepyard Miners Association, International Coloured Gemstone Association, Lightning Ridge Miners’ Association, Lightning Ridge Area Opal Reserve, Opal Association of Australia, and White Cliffs Miners’ Association.

Indigenous

Landmark $4 billion investment for remote housing in the Northern Territory: Lawler, Uibo

The Federal and NT Governments have announced a landmark joint $4 billion dollar investment for housing in remote communities across the NT to help close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians ... The 10-year commitment to improve remote housing will see up to 270 homes built each year ... Labor Government is investing a further $120 million over three years to match the NT Government’s yearly investment ... in addition to the NT Government’s existing $40 million per annum investment in homelands housing and essential infrastructure upgrades.

Opinion

Equality and diversity fatigue

Last month at the GRDC Crop Update I put my name down to attend the GIWA breakfast expecting to hear all about how growers' 1 per cent of farm gate returns is being spent on grains R&D, only to find that I had signed up for the Ag Sector Diversity and Inclusivity Breakfast ... Now, don’t think I'm not into equality and diversity; I’m a big supporter of equality of opportunity with the goal of the best person getting the job, and I’m an even bigger supporter of diversity of opinion, as groupthink or lack of thinking is the beginning of the end for most organisations or even whole countries.

Hospitality & tourism

All aboard for Victoria’s live music event like no other: Brooks

More music lovers from across Victoria are on track to experience local music gigs like no other, with the epic live music and tourism extravaganza SOUND TRACKS set to transform Shepparton, Rochester and Echuca next month ... The event, presented by OK Motels, brings together live music and regional hospitality – boosting local jobs, businesses and attracting more visitors to regional Victoria.

Milk

Australian milk production firing on all cylinders: Rabobank report

More than halfway into the current dairy season, Australian milk production is firing on all cylinders, Rabobank says, with widespread growth in milk supply across all dairying regions due to favourable seasonal conditions and good farmgate margins. In its recently-released Q1 Global Dairy Quarterly report … Australian milk production reached 5.35 billion litres from the period July 2023 to January 2024…

Supermarkets

Supermarkets gouge growers millions in rebates alone: NFF

The Senate Select Committee on Supermarket Prices continues its hearings in Melbourne ... having heard repeated incidences of poor - if not unconscionable - behaviour by supermarkets from consumers and growers alike in Hobart and yesterday in Orange. Chair of the NFF Horticulture Council Jolyon Burnett said evidence and testimony from growers and industry representatives had already painted a bleak picture of the unbalanced trading relationship between major supermarkets and fresh produce suppliers.

Cotton

Picking underway for Australian cotton with above average crops expected: Cotton Australia

Australia’s 1500 cotton growers, 90 per cent of them family farmers, are either starting to pick their 2024 crop or are planning to start in the coming weeks as they contemplate another above average season. This season, close to 480,000 green hectares of cotton has been planted predominantly in New South Wales and Queensland, with the Northern Territory and Western Australia also growing cotton crops.

Meat

Guess who entered “butcher wars” at Meatstock?

Yes, our very own Aaron and Claire from Allora Butchery took on other Butchers and their Apprentice from around the region at the Meatstock Festival held over the weekend at the Toowoomba Showgrounds. The competition was based on speed and accuracy. They each had to bone a chicken, tie 5 kilos of sausages and roll five rissoles.

Hospitality & tourism

Best experiences for mature-age travellers unveiled

Forty-one tourism experiences have been named as the best in Australia for mature-age visitors, with Queensland dominating ... The Grey Nomad Awards is a niche national tourism program that shines a light on the best places for older travellers to stay and play around the country. The Award announcements reflect achievements throughout 2023.

Meat

Meat dynasty Alice born and bred

Morgan Richards. The swarm of sales people in the Gillen shop of Milner Meats on Saturday mornings couldn’t make it clearer: The Alice is still a great place for a family business.

Benambra

Tilley will see out term

The Member for Benambra, Bill Tilley, says an ongoing cancer battle has forced his decision to quit politics when his current parliamentary term expires in 2026, for what will be 20 years of service to the electorate. Mr Tilley was diagnosed with leukemia late last year and he continues to be treated for the cancer that, while incurable, can be managed with specialist medical care.

Regional banking

Urgent action needed to address bank closures in regional Australia

In a public hearing ... President Smith, representing the Shire of Ashburton, has ignited a call to action to halt the ongoing regional services inequality and curb the accelerating closures of banks across regional Australia. President Smith emphasised the urgent need to shed light on the insidious impact these closures are having on towns and communities...

Council

Councillors to decide wording of referendum question on electing a mayor

Do you want to vote for the mayor? Would it be better if there were only two wards rather than three in Kyogle LGA? Residents will be able to give their views on these questions at a referendum at the council elections in September.

Banking

Bankwest invited to appear at Senate Inquiry: Canavan, Rennick, Colbeck, Brockman

Following the announcement of the closure of all Bankwest branches, the Regional and Rural Affairs and Transport Committee have invited Bankwest to appear at hearings in the Pilbara ... Senators Matthew Canavan, Gerard Rennick, Richard Colbeck and Slade Brockman have expressed their disappointment in the closure of Bankwest’s 45 branches despite commitments to not close branches during the ongoing Senate Inquiry into Regional Bank Closures.

Crime

It’s time to get real on regional crime: Singh

The Coffs Coast community is urged to come forward and share their experiences about how they’ve been affected by crime, said Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh. Mr Singh said it was clear regional NSW was in the midst of a crime crisis.

Youth crime

Police operation marks one year

Police have charged 740 people with around 1,323 offences across the Darling Downs district since Operation Whiskey Unison began in March last year. The high visibility policing operation focuses on preventing, disrupting, and investigating youth crime through community engagement and patrols at intelligence-driven hotspot locations.

Hospitals - SA

Wallaroo Hospital security extended, under review

Sarah Herrmann. Wallaroo Hospital’s full-time security measures have been extended until May while an external review to determine future protocol is completed. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation campaigned for better security at the site after a man smashed through two sets of entry doors and attacked the back of an ambulance at the hospital in February 2023.

Youth crime

Police tackling Clarence youth crime

News of an escalation in youth crime in the Clarence Valley has gone right to the top of the Coffs Clarence Police District, with the Commander, Superintendent Joanne Schultz involved in implementing prevention and intervention strategies to prevent re-offending. Superintendent Schultz told the CV Independent the police district has deployed resources locally to tackle the problem of youth crime.

Floodplains

Rowing around Carrs Drive, Yamba, in a punt

The grandson of Albert "Ernie" Carr, whose family formerly owned five farms around the Carrs Drive area at West Yamba, has expressed concern that areas he knew as swampland when growing up are being overdeveloped.

Council

Mayoral matters

Cr Brett Ireland, Mayor. Congratulations to the community groups and businesses who received grant funding at our last council meeting through our Business Assistance Grants and Community Action Grants. We hope this money enhances or completes a variety of projects within our shire. We met with community members from Dimboola regarding the future of the senior citizens building in their town.

Fire

Letter to the Alice Springs News Editor – Still no NT Government action on buffel

Alex Vaughan. Why is Central Australia almost the only region nationally at an increased wildfire risk across autumn? The National Council for Fire and Emergency Services unequivocally links this risk to buffel grass invasion and buffel grass regrowth and curing, enabling fire conditions to overcome the longstanding norm for fire regimes across arid and semi-arid lands where “wildfire frequency is typically once a decade”.

Council

Welcome everyone!

“Welcome everyone” is the decision of Naracoorte Lucindale Council which has ditched its prayer and modernised its acknowledgement of country ... replaced with two simple lines: “We acknowledge and respect our complex history. We welcome everyone to build our future together.”

Indigenous

NT Traditional Owners fear Qld gas pipeline fire could repeat in Beetaloo

The Chair of a Territory Aboriginal Corporation has highlighted Traditional Owners’ concerns about a major blaze from Jemena’s gas pipeline in Queensland, cutting gas to Gladstone. Chair of Nurrdalinji Native Title Aboriginal Corporation, Djingili Elder Samuel Sandy, a former resident of Elliott, said if an event like that happened in the NT it would be a catastrophe, given the major bushfires across the region last September.

Council

Councillors condemned

The decision of the Naracoorte-Lucindale Council to dump the prayer and “change” the acknowledgement from its council meeting procedures has been condemned and labelled as one that does not reflect the views of people in and outside the region. Reconciliation South Australia says the decision of the six elected councillors who voted for this change reflects their “poor judgement” and a “lack of understanding”.

Disaster resilience

Coping strategies through storytelling

Efforts to improve natural disaster preparedness education among young learners has been given a significant boost these past weeks, as Buloke Shire Council’s Community Recovery team commenced the distribution of specialised educational books to local libraries and reading to Supported Playgroup participants across the shire.

Family violence

Shining light on “The Shadow That Follows”

Member for Mildura, Jade Benham recently had the privilege to visit local schools to deliver Conor Pall’s debut book, “The Shadow that Follows” ... “It was one of the most meaningful days I’ve had in this role yet, it took a bit of planning, but I had the opportunity to spend the day with the brilliant Conor Pall."

Wildlife

Wombats on the move

Wombats are on the move around Hay, with continued sightings of the regionally rare marsupial exciting local enthusiasts. These marsupials are typically native to southeastern Australia, and their presence in Hay has left many curious about their relatively sudden appearance. 

Wildlife

Wildlife surveys show green shoots of recovery from devastating storms 

As Scenic Rim residents continue to repair and rebuild following the devastating Christmas-New Year storms, native animals are re-establishing their homes as green shoots of recovery appear in bushland areas … a survey over three nights of a Council natural area at Tamborine aimed to assess the damage to habitat and its impacts on koalas and greater gliders to assist Scenic Rim Regional Council's efforts in protecting these endangered species.

Clean up

Volunteers give channel precinct an overdue polish

Serena Kirby. More than a dozen happy helpers have given Prawn Rock Channel a much-needed clean up organised by marine wildlife conservation group, Sea Shepherd. Sea Shepherd’s regional coordinator Rhedyn Dekker said she was always amazed at the quantity and diversity of objects they found.

Birds

A decade of rainbows – 10 years of the Aussie Bird Count: BirdLife Australia

BirdLife Australia, leaders for bird conservation in Australia ... announces the official and certified results of the 10th annual Aussie Bird Count, Australia’s largest citizen science initiative. From last October, 60,598 Australians across the nation turned their eyes to the sky to tally an astonishing 3,608,545 birds, with the colourful Rainbow Lorikeet continuing to hold the crown.

Solar

Grong Grong solar farm developers delighted with progress – almost ready for commissioning

Construction of the Grong Grong Solar Farm near Narrandera is almost completed with new poles installed by HV contractors in preparation for grid connection this month. This will be an intense period of work for the consultants and contractors, who will ensure everything is in place to complete the solar farm and be ready for connection and commissioning.

Pumped hydro

Snowy project reaches new landmark

The Snowy 2.0 Cooma precast manufacturing facility has hit another significant milestone and completed production of 100,000 of the 130,000 concrete segments needed to line 27 kilometres of tunnels for the pumped-hydro megaproject.

Energy infrastructure

VNI West under scrutiny again

The political dream of net zero requires a complete reversal of Australia’s power grid ... The process for delivering the new power line capacity has been debated, with prominent energy experts calling for the Australian Energy Market Operator and the Victorian Government to scrap plans to build the controversial VNI West transmission line and Western Renewables Link (WRL).

Murray-Darling

One man, a tinnie and the mighty Murray

There’s a magic that comes from the tranquil flowing waters of the mighty Murray. As the river snakes from the mountains across the floodplains and finishes in the estuary, Dennis Miles of Yarrawonga has been observing the beauty, the challenges and the love expressed by people on the river.

Murray-Darling

The power and accountability in the Murray Darling Basin: Agribusiness Australia

Restoring our Rivers Bill debated at Agribusiness Australia event. The profound implications of the Commonwealth’s Restoring Our Rivers Bill was unpacked in a wide-ranging discussion about the Murray Darling Basin Plan at an Agribusiness Australia event in Melbourne last week in front of nearly 150 guests.

Energy infrastructure

Amid widespread transmission line confusion … “VNI West must return to the drawing board”

“Victorian Labor’s attempt to again reboot consultation on transmission lines is an admission consultation has failed abysmally on VNI-West,” Member for Mallee, Dr. Anne Webster, says. The State Government has introduced a Bill to establish VicGrid, claiming the new brand will “modernise the way new energy infrastructure is planned and developed in Victoria while giving communities a voice in the process”.

Fire

Aerial checks start this week

A Transgrid helicopter will take to the skies across the Riverina-Murray, Sunraysia and Far West regions from this week to inspect high-voltage electricity transmission lines for the network’s annual bushfire prevention program.

Paramedics

Gym access a “game changer”

Cohuna’s visiting paramedics and Ambulance Community Officers (ACO) now have access to a gym to keep their bodies and minds healthy and active. Thanks to an initiative of ACO Travis Hore and the generosity of Bree from Evolve Fitness and Performance, our visiting ambos can keep as fit as they want when they want and still be ready at a moment’s notice to jump in the ambulance.

Regional banking

Bankwest branch closures: Love

Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Nationals WA Shane Love ... noted Bankwest’s announcement of a transition to a wholly online servicing model and closure of their branch network across the State. Bankwest, which is owned by CBA (Commonwealth Bank of Australia), has stated 15 regional branches of Bankwest will be converted to CBA branches.

Regional health

Rural doctor says change needed to overcome doctor shortage in regions

We've got a GP shortage problem across the board that requires numbers," according to Dr Paul Mara AM, a general practitioner (GP) who has served as a rural doctor for 40 years and inspired the single employer model (SEM) being trialled across the country ... After watching his practice struggle to retain staff for years, Dr Mara cleverly used government funding to develop a unique training model that better coordinated a pathway for GPs to work in rural communities.

Vice Regal

Our needs and wants

The “needs and wants” of the district were discussed with the Governor of South Australia during her recent Vice Regal Tour ... Governor Frances Adamson held informal discussions with Naracoorte-Lucindale mayor Patrick Ross, deputy mayor Monique Crossling, and CEO Trevor Smart in Naracoorte ... The itinerary finished at the Naracoorte Library ...

Regional health

Government tells sick and elderly to drive 80km

Without consulting three rural communities, the SA Government has abruptly slashed nursing services to people with cancer, heart conditions and multiple sclerosis. Sick, infirm, and elderly people at Lucindale, Tintinara and Coonalpyn have been told to go to larger towns...

Infrastructure - Qld

Roadworks, roadworks, roadworks

Local roads have been all Hi-Vis, traffic cone and red light, green light lately as crews work on numerous Council and state roads. Toowoomba Karara Road from Drayton through to Felton has been rife with works ... Much of the work around the district has been financed with the help of flood recovery funds.

Infrastructure - WA

Second bridge study traffic data flawed

Patricia Gill. A Shire of Denmark-commissioned traffic and evacuation management study used flawed data to determine that a second bridge was not necessary to evacuate the town in an emergency. The Shire’s 2011 Local Planning Strategy had demonstrated the need for the second bridge but the matter was dropped in 2018 after the Shire commissioned consultants GHD to report on the matter. In 2019 the Shire gave away $4.291 million in Royalties for Regions to build a second bridge and got back $2.5 million to upgrade Greens Pool.

Dingoes - Vic

Striking the balance to save threatened dingo population: Dimopoulos

Effective from 14 March, the dingo unprotection order will conclude in north west Victoria - this decision follows new research, strong advice and the effectiveness of non-lethal dingo control methods to protect livestock. Farmers in this area will be supported by a $550,000 investment to adopt alternate non-lethal control methods via a pilot of measures ...

Opinion

The Riverine Grazier editorial: Don’t let our story end – Why Facebook’s decision matters to Hay

A decision by a large, faceless US based company miles away in their corporate offices may not seem to have much impact, here, out in Hay, or in Balranald or Ivanhoe. Our local newspaper – YOUR newspaper – surely feels no impact from Facebook or Instagram. Or does it? ... The decision by Meta to stop paying for the news it allows to be shared across Facebook and Instagram will have a direct impact on our newspaper and the support we can offer our readers and communities.

Buloke Times Editorial: Facebook versus local newspapers

One of our pet hates is the phrase: "Yeah, I read about that on Facebook". Gets the hackles up every time. Yes, the person may have read a news report while on the social media platform, but it is almost certain that information was generated elsewhere. Facebook doesn’t employ journalists to engage with local communities and report information relevant to readers. We do.

Media

What Facebook’s decision to quit news means for local followers

Facebook's announcement it will no longer support news on its platform means that members of community pages where Yanchep News Online now posts will instead need to follow the local publisher’s Facebook page to be able to access that content. But Yanchep News Online, who has never been part of a deal with Facebook is also concerned that if the Australian Government and Facebook get into a stoush over the social media platform’s decision to stop supporting news in Australia it could result in another news ban.

Meta puts news at risk

Andrew Schreyer, Country Press Australia President. Australia's largest organisation of newspaper publishers has attacked the announcement by Meta it will no longer negotiate deals with publishers once current agreements expire ... Meta’s actions undermine our democracy in the way the company displays such disdain for the work of the news industry ... The most popular Facebook pages in most regional and rural communities are those of the local news publishing company, yet Meta says people don’t go to Facebook for news or political content.

Field day

Major Cotton Field Day set to explore carbon baseline setting: Cotton Australia

One of the most topical but arguably most misunderstood developments in sustainable agriculture, carbon baseline setting will be a focus in two weeks at the largest cotton field-day to be staged in Southeast Queensland this year. The 2023 Bayer Cotton Growers of the year, Johannes and Scarlett Roellgen from Tyunga Farms … are hosting the Bayer Cotton Grower of the Year Field Day...

Workshop

Trade roadshow opening passage to India

Local businesses interested in exporting to India will be able to learn more at a free two-hour workshop being held in Toowoomba next Thursday, 14 March. India is one of the world’s fastest growing economies, and Queensland businesses have a golden opportunity to learn from some of Queensland’s most experienced exporters who have successfully entered the market.

Food & beverage

Showcasing local talent and produce

The Harcourt Applefest, set for Saturday 9 March and organised by the local community, is a day-long festival in the Harcourt Valley that highlights the region's cultural heritage and produce. The event, renowned for its engaging activities and showcasing of local talent, will feature a diverse range of attractions suitable for all ages.

Tourism

Town wide garage sales

Mark Blythe. Everybody the [Tarrangower] Times spoke to was very complimentary about last weekend’s town wide garage sale, and were quick to label it a great success. The final wash up was 203 maps sold at two dollars each and 71 houses on the map including the 10 at the Maldon Neighbourhood Centre at $10 each...

Youth

First 5 Forever Storytime online!

Keep your little ones entertained with First 5 Forever Storytime online sessions. Central Highlands Regional Council’s libraries have you covered with programs designed to keep kids engaged and occupied.

Family history

Aboriginal History WA and Storylines take off on regional road trip: Buti

Team members from Aboriginal History Western Australia (AHWA) and the State Library of Western Australia's Storylines will be hitting the road this March to jointly hold free family history sessions in the Great Southern and Wheatbelt. Usually located in Perth, the teams will be visiting Narrogin, Katanning, Kojonup, Gnowangerup and Albany...

Theatre

Understory – A magical outdoor theatre show for kids in Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens

Have you heard fungi talk? Have you felt the forest hum? Understory is a magical, interactive theatre adventure created for children by Roundabout Theatre, springing to life in the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens this April school holidays...

Forests

Eco-acoustics – Understanding the forest through listening: DBCA

A scientific survey is being carried out in the Perth Hills, near Mundaring. Scientists are seeking to better understand the health of the forest through the simple art of listening. Using the emerging science of eco-acoustics, researchers are monitoring forest soundscapes to better understand and benchmark ecosystem health.

Leadership & You

Coaching a behaviour change issue requires a planned approach – not a lecture!

Of all the things that challenges a leader’s energy and stress levels is the need to constantly coach the right mindsets and behaviours into others. Doing this effectively requires a patient, deliberate and an ongoing approach, rather than angry outbursts. It is important for a leader to start any behavioural coaching conversation by assuming best intentions, whether this is the case or not. A coaching conversation that begins with both parties being emotionally charged or angry never leads anywhere constructive.

Home care

Local home care service launched

Serena Kirby. Denmark's senior residents now have access to a new locally-based home care service ... Long-time local and founder of ACare WA Maria Redman said she had started the initiative after seeing how difficult and convoluted the existing system was when her father-in-law needed in-home support.

Recycling

McLean Oval recycled wastewater irrigation project up and running

From this month, Denmark’s McLean Oval will be kept green thanks to a new recycled wastewater irrigation system that will see up to 30 million litres of water diverted from a nearby treatment plant. The project, delivered in partnership with Water Corporation, represents another goal achieved under the Shire’s Sustainability Strategy in line with community expectations. 

Supermarkets

Food security at stake in supermarket inquiry: NSW Farmers Association

Australia will be unable to feed itself and farmers will be driven out of business unless radical action is taken to reform the supermarket retail sector, NSW Farmers has told a Senate Inquiry ... NSW Farmers Vice President Rebecca Reardon said ultimately Australia’s food security was at stake, continuing calls for meaningful competition reform until fair prices for farmers and families were achieved.

Public transport

On board for free bus travel trial in Coffs Harbour

City of Coffs Harbour is rolling ahead with a free bus travel plan to bolster community connection and to shine a light on the ease and benefits of public transport ... Council resolved to back an initiative by Mayor Paul Amos for a four-month trial of free bus travel on weekends in Coffs Harbour, stretching out to Bellingen and as far south as Macksville. 

Leadership & You

Listen to understand, rather than listen to reply

Last week I attended a Business Leaders Round Table Lunch. I wanted to use the afternoon to observe how leaders go about active listening. After the initial pleasantries and introductions were made, the lunch moderator posed some topical business questions for each table to explore and discuss. I was on a table of eight, and soon four people emerged who loved the sound of their own voices ...

Letters from Home

Letters from Home: Always read the labels

You learn this as you go. When there’s a man in your life you quickly learn to grab the printed directions and stash them for future reference as men do not read labels or follow directions ... What I have especially learned by trial and error over too long a period is to keep the labels from plants bought for the garden ...

Heavy Horses

Show a spectacle of flying feathers and jingling harness

The Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Show held at Werribee Park each year is an absolute spectacle. People have a deep love for the past and the great horse that made Australia, so to see them on display as they parade on the green grass is something really special.

Allora welcomes Heavy Horse Festival

Step back in time to a world of yesteryear when draught horses ploughed the fields and pulled the wagons. This weekend the Allora Showgrounds comes alive with the third annual Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival – a celebration of our agricultural history and the pioneers who built this great nation.

Public art

Best street art experiences for 2024 revealed

Thirty-four public art experiences have been recognised as the best in the country for art-loving visitors at the Australian Street Art Awards. Designed by lead artist Peter Ryan and brought to life at night with the aid of Illuminart, the silo art was announced as the Best of the Best after taking out the Gold Award in the Mega Mural category and also the Best Street Art Experience in NSW gong.

Surprise for the Birchip Festival

From the Australian Street Art Awards – an Australia-wide organisation established in 2018 – comes the following message: "We have a surprise! Making good on our promise that size really does matter, we are announcing three extra awards this evening – for Best Small Town Street Art Festival or Event.

Public art

Wool Bay a national winner

The Wool Bay water tank and shed mural was announced the best rural art in the country at the 2023 Australian Street Art Awards ... "This incredible mural is a testament to the creativity and talent of our local artists, and it has truly transformed our community," Yorke Peninsula Council mayor Darren Braund said.

Spirit of the Land wins silver medal at Small Town Street Art Festival

The Spirit of the Land Lockhart Festival has been awarded a Silver Medal for the Best Small Town Street Art Festival or Event by the 2023 Australian Street Art Awards ... The Spirit of the Land Lockhart Festival is held annually on the second weekend of October and is renowned for its farm art sculpture exhibitions, fine arts and photography exhibitions...

Theatre

Local theatre group brings you love, lust and greed with Fanny’s Knickers

Ten people have got together to bring you Fanny’s Knickers. Most of the 10 have never acted before yet decided to join the Village Players to perform the slapstick, period melodrama three times at Club Evans.

Letters from Home

Letters from Home: One special rose

I have lots of roses. They are always rewarding with their different shapes colours and perfumes and are often admired by visitors. But there’s one in the garden, that’s a bit shabby and out of shape, and is the one most loved and cherished by all the family. She’s had an interesting history.

Exhibition

Horsham Regional Art Gallery celebrates women artists in nationally renowned touring exhibition

Horsham Regional Art Gallery (HRAG) is proud to announce our first major exhibition of 2024, in collaboration with the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). Know My Name: Australian Women Artists tells a new story of Australian art.

Escape to Paris this weekend

Bendigo Art Gallery’s latest blockbuster exhibition, Paris: Impressions of Life 1880-1925, will open this Saturday ... Journey through the streets of historic Paris, brought to life in more than 170 works of art and artisanal objects from the renowned collection of the Musée Carnavalet – History of Paris.

Music

“What about Nollsy?”

Going behind the scenes of River Daze on Saturday afternoon, I was fortunate to be able to have a quick chat with headline act, Shannon Noll, just before sound check ... For Noll, who was born and bred in the country NSW town of Condobolin, it was his first time in Barham and being a country boy, he was prepared for an enthusiastic crowd.

Festival - Small Halls

Festival of Small Halls heading to Baringhup

In a much-anticipated event, Baringhup Hall is set to resonate with the melodies of folk music ... welcoming an international lineup featuring Icelandic folk singer Svavar Knútur, Australian folk duo The Maes, and Tarrengower’s own Grim Fawkner. The doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm start, marking a first for Mount Alexander Shire under the auspices of the Festival of Small Halls...

Quiz #8

Quiz #8

Mural

Allora’s new mural completed

Congratulations and thanks to artists Jordan and Steve who designed and painted this beautiful mural for Allora. It has become another special attraction for the Best little Town on the Downs.

Reprint

WalkOn, RideOn, Maldon

After the MaldON WalkON booklet was launched mid last year, all printed copies ran out the door. Friends of Maldon Historic Reserve Group Spokesperson Lee Mead said, “Due to the booklet’s popularity and value to Maldon, we have been successful in gaining a community grant from Mount Alexander Shire Council to reprint lots more copies.”

Tribute

Obituary: Vice Admiral Ian Knox AC RAN Retired

Peter Jones and Guy Knox. Vice Admiral Ian Knox died in Sydney on 14 January after a long illness. Ian Warren Knox was born in Wilcannia on the Darling River in western NSW on 9 February 1933 ... He was promoted Vice Admiral in July 1987 and became Vice Chief of the Defence Force ... He regularly returned to Wilcannia during his retirement and in 2016 attended its annual Field Fun Day, as one of its famous sons.

Aviation

Our women with wings

Nancy-Bird Walton AO, OBE was known as "The Angel of the Outback" and was the founder, patron and was elected first chair of the AWPA (Australian Women Pilot's Association) ... Several pilots from the AWPA will be doing a ‘fly past’ at the Nhill Airshow.

History & heritage

The RAN in WWI – Part 3

So in the last two articles we’ve covered the role the Royal Australian Navy had played around the periphery of the war, the action in Rabaul right at the start of things, escorting the first convoy, involvement in the Gallipoli campaign and the patrolling undertaken by the HMAS Psyche. But, just as it was on the land, the only real chance of bringing the war to a successful conclusion was to directly target the German forces in Europe.

Quiz

Quiz #7

Ekka

Gourd almighty! Pumpkin prodigies pummel Ekka record with giant win

In a battle of supersized proportions, Toowoomba’s Downlands College smashed the longstanding Ekka record by over 100 kilograms to take out top honours at the Royal Queensland Show’s iconic Giant Pumpkin Competition at the Brisbane Showgrounds on Saturday. The secondary school students also set a Queensland record with its ginormous 368.5-kilogram entry which beat the Ekka record for heaviest pumpkin of 261.5kg set back in 2015.

VASA

Forecast not enough to put off determined showies at VASA

“Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail shall keep the postmen from their appointed rounds.” According to Wikipedia, the original saying was spoken about 2500 years ago by the Greek historian Herodotus but it could have been applied to the hardy showies who competed on the second day of the Victorian Agricultural Shows Annual Championships at Bendigo.

Fishing

Ovens River Challenge 2024: Australian Trout Foundation

The Ovens River Challenge at Myrtleford Victoria is again on for young and old ... Widely renowned wildlife artist and fly fisher, Trevor Hawkins, will be present to show some of his fantastic works of fish and bird art ... we are researching the abundance of the endangered Macquarie Perch and Trout Cod.

More than 80 barra now worth a million dollars: Potter

More $10,000 tagged barra have been changed to be worth a million dollars each, taking the grand total of Barramundi worth a million dollars to more than 80. There are still $10k fish waiting to be reeled in, but from today the chances of hooking a red tagged barra worth a million dollars are through the roof.

Coming up

Racing

Ready to race

The Towong Turf Club is expecting a record crowd and full fields for its Cup meeting on Saturday after receiving 268 nominations for the seven-race card. The 2023 $30,000 Costello Rural-Life Plan Strategic Solutions Towong Cup is shaping up to be a hotly contested event with 2022 Mischinka aiming for a second victory.

Carriage driving

Carriage drivers cut a dash at Battle of the Borders

Carriage drivers from all around Australia, plus volunteers and visitors from as far away as Canada, made the Level 2 “Battle of the Borders” CDE at Carbery Estate, Mullengandra NSW, an outstanding event.

Tennis

Donald’s long weekend of tennis

Over the long weekend, the Donald Lawn Tennis Club held its 70th Labour Day Tournament in some of the hottest weather conditions the tournament has experienced for many years. In what was a cool summer in the Mallee, heat wave was timed to perfection for the three-day weekend! Thankfully the pool was open at the end of day’s play for everyone to cool off.

Endurance

Snake Valley event attracts big field of endurance riders

Victorian Renee Henry and Kollage MI have taken out the Snake Valley Dash Endurance ride’s perpetual line honours trophy ... There were 80 horse and rider combinations competing across four distance levels - 20km, 40km and 80km distances as well as a 5km course to accommodate younger riders and newcomers to the sport.

Cricket

Donald-Jeffcott beats the heat

The decision by former long-standing cricket clubs, Donald and Jeffcott, to amalgamate at the start of the 2023-24 season reaped the ultimate reward when Donald-Jeffcott won both “A” and “B” grade Wimmera Mallee Association premierships on Saturday.

Boxing

Drop Bear strikes again

Kimberly Grabham. Locally grown MMA champion, Danielle ‘Drop Bear’ Curtis, daughter of Linda Wright and Les Curtis, has done it again! The fierce, independent Drop Bear fought in the Co Main Event of Pallas Athena Women's Fighting Championship INC in Canada.

Boxing

‘Drop Bear’ off to Calgary

Kimberly Grabham. Home grown MMA Champion Danielle ‘Drop Bear’ Curtis is jet-setting abroad once again, to fight ... Danielle is stepping up a weight division on short notice ... This is so she can fight at bantamweight in the Co-Main Event of the show ... the Pallas Athena Women's Fighting Championship ... in Calgary Canada ...

Powerboats

Racing to rave reviews on the Clarence River

Seeking an extra splash of excitement, hundreds of spectators lined up along the banks of the Clarence River at Corcoran Park in Grafton … as the Northern Rivers Aquatic Club hosted a high-powered day of racing ... "It’s great for the local community that this event was able to go ahead because it brings tourists to Grafton, and it also helps to support the Northern Rivers Aquatic Club": Ricky Howard.

Motorsport

Tennant speedway drivers represent at Arunga Park

Karen Jones. Local speedway racer Jamie Jones showcased his skills against eight other Top Stars Junior Sedans in the Centralian title at Arunga Park Speedway last weekend, delivering a commendable performance. Joining him from Tennant Creek in the Street Stocks was Jayden Giezedanner who also made his mark in the competition.

Pikleball

Introducing pickleball

Pickleball: it’s one of the fastest growing sports in Australia and it’s now coming to Clifton. The best way to describe this new sport is to say it’s similar in some ways to tennis but played on a smaller court using a paddle instead of a racquet and using a ball that is more user friendly than a difficult, bouncing tennis ball.

Fishing

Tintaldra whopper landed

A leisurely fishing trip with some mates from Jeremal Bridge to Tintaldra on Saturday became very memorable when Josh Boers landed this 93cm Murray cod, much to the envy of his fellow anglers.

Wilcannia News, March 2024

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