Where tourism is heading, and what it means for Lord Howe Island
Chelsea Holden. Last month the Lord Howe Island Tourism Association attended Destination Australia, a national conference examining the state and direction of Australian tourism. The conversations covered consumer behaviour, content strategy, international markets, and the long-term future of aviation.
A dream becomes reality with totem poles at entrance to hospital
The six totem poles that line the driveway to the Casino & District Memorial Hospital were officially unveiled ... Hand painted by residents at Balund-a, each totem pole design represents elements of the natural world, including animals, bush foods, and water.
Being up in the air
I went to Adelaide yesterday. This is very naughty given that NT Tourism Minister Marie-Clare Boothby had just announced a strategy aiming at making more money for our travel industry ... My booking with Qantas triggered an avalanche of texts and emails...
Ag Discovery Day returns to Toowoomba Royal Show
More than 640 students and teachers are taking part in Ag Discovery Day at the Toowoomba Royal Showgrounds today, giving young people a hands-on opportunity to explore the exciting world of agriculture ... Ag Discovery will welcome participants from seven primary schools for an immersive day of learning about food, fibre, farming and the many career opportunities within the agriculture sector.
Unanimous vote shows what matters
When a loved one goes missing, often suddenly and without explanation, the emotional and traumatic impact their disappearance has on their friends and family can be profound ... In Australia, police receive more than 50000 reports of missing persons each year ... The Green Seat Project has gained the support of tens of thousands of people across the country ...
Harmony in action at Castlemaine State Festival
Resonant Heart, a performance at Castlemaine Town Hall ... Featuring two artists from Iran as well as Indian, Balkan, Sudanese and Sephardic Jewish influences, the all-female Resonant Heart ... provided an antidote in music, poetry, dance and puppetry ... Later ... a rousing and enjoyable set to a receptive crowd at Maldon’s Holy Trinity Church...
Laughter really is the best medicine
The expression ‘laughter is the best medicine’ is no joke. Countless studies confirm the healing properties and mental health benefits of a good giggle ... “I was given three years to live and that was 20-plus years ago so I’ve survived way past my expiry date,” says Laughter Yoga facilitator, Kim O'Meara, laughing.
The regional Australia advantage
For many regional Australians, 30 minutes in nature isn’t therapy — it’s simply part of everyday life, and that may be our greatest wellbeing advantage.
Birchip silo art reaches finish post
A defining moment in Birchip's history now stands proudly above the town, with the remarkable story of Ray Neville and Rimfire brought to life on the Birchip silos. The project, driven by Birchip Community Forum, was first initiated by the late Joan Glen in 2023 and has been passionately carried forward by her husband Rod.
Agforce leader talks on food security
The General President of AgForce, Shane McCarthy has highlighted the issues creating big problems for primary producers as a result of current unrest at an international level ... "One big lesson we've learned from this latest chain of events is that fuel plus fertiliser equals food," Mr McCarthy said. "It's surprising how quickly our food security can be put at risk without even one of those crucial ingredients.
Fuelling cost for communities
"We've lost so much business. People haven't even been coming here for drinks really," said Vijay at Barham Metro fuel station ... Vijay, like many rural communities, is currently being squeezed by Australia's current fuel situation; one sensible people have warned about for decades ... It's not just fuel stations feeling the pinch ...
Classic recipe for a long life
"Moderation in everything," Mary Cartwright says is the key to living 100 years, a milestone she will reach on May 28. "I've never driven a car so walk everywhere and keep my mind active – knitting, crocheting and reading," she says.
Library is a true asset
After an extensive internal renovation, the Corryong Elyne Mitchell Library was officially re-opened at a community event on Saturday. Towong Shire Council mayor, Cr Peter Tolsher, was joined by Colin Morrison (representing the Victorian Department of Government Services) and Honor Auchinleck, the daughter of Elyne Mitchell.
Bank closure a serious setback to bushfire recovery
Murrindindi Shire Council has expressed deep concern about the decision to close the Community Bank Kinglake branch, warning it risks undermining bushfire recovery and will leave the community without a critical local service. The branch will close on Friday 5 June 2026, forcing residents to travel around 25 kilometres to access the nearest full-service bank in Hurstbridge.
I am not a Harvard graduate – One Nation candidate David Farley
Kimberly Grabham and Tertia Butcher. One Nation's candidate for Farrer, David Farley, firmly denied he falsely claimed to have a degree from prestigious Harvard University. In response to a question from The Riverine Grazier during his visit to Hay last week, Mr Farley said he attended Harvard University three times to deliver a course, not as a student.
“I am sorry” – McBride ends political career
Nick McBride has apologised to his MacKillop voters and confirmed his political career is over, as a surge toward One Nation reshapes the race. As of midday March 23, with about 70 per cent of votes counted, Mount Gambier councillor, One Nation’s Jason Virgo was leading on provisional first preference votes, with Liberal candidate Rebekah Rosser close behind.
Cancer fundraising ride a family affair
Ivona Rose. On Monday, March 16, Terrigal prostate cancer advocate Steve Keil took to the saddle with his daughter, Courtney Keil, for a five-day fundraising and awareness horse ride, tracing the trail of The Man From Snowy River across Victoria’s high country.
An Australian approach to AI – Expectations for data centres that deliver for Australians: Ayres, Bowen, Charlton
Global investment in data centres is accelerating – and Australia is well-placed to lead – but this must happen on terms that benefit the community and deliver for the national interest. The Albanese Government’s National AI Plan, released in December 2025, sets out our ambition: to harness the benefits of AI while ensuring all Australian’s shares the benefits.
A story of courage and determination
At this year's Heavy Horse Festival, an equestrian division for those with disabilities was held for the first time. Katy Driver was the driving force behind the inclusion of the event which was well received by the competitors and the crowd. Here is Katy's story.
Sparkling moment as new Assistant Bishop consecrated
Reflecting on her recent consecration as the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Grafton, the Right Reverand Tiffany Sparks said while her heart is bursting with joy, she feels incredibly humbled and blessed to work within the ministry while sharing inspiring and uplifting messages of love, friendship and faith, with communities within the Diocese of Grafton, which stretches between the state border and Port Macquarie.
Bluesfest in liquidation, 2026 cancelled
Thousands of music fans have had their Easter plans thrown into chaos after Australia’s most awarded music festival Bluesfest announced the 2026 event at the Byron Events Farm at Tyagarah won’t go ahead, just three weeks out from its scheduled start.
Stunning three days of River Daze
Now in its ninth year, River Daze has demonstrated what an inspired community with great leadership can achieve. The 2026 extended River Daze included FriDAZE and SunDAZE to offer free entertainment, shopping, and food experiences across our stunning twin towns ... "The main aim of extending to the three days was, while we've got everyone in town, let's give them something more."
