Wendy Free. Allora, the best little town on the Downs will make history again - be a part of the 125th anniversary of Banjo Paterson's visit to our town. Yes, Banjo Paterson was indeed in our town presenting a political speech on March 16th 1901 in the Protestant Hall.

Roger Underwood. A Bold Endeavour – a history of our work in the Western Australian rangelands is a terrific book. I read it from cover to cover and then went back and read some parts again ... if the political will for action ever arises, best-practice land management systems for the WA rangelands are now known and understood, and could be implemented across the rangelands tomorrow.  This situation can be attributed to the work of that small band of tough, dedicated scientists of the Rangeland Management Branch during its short, but dramatic history. 

Ian Hutton. Throughout 2025, the Lord Howe Historical Society has been working on a project to enhance the Island cultural history – a Place Names Map. Since the Island's discovery in 1788, a few place names have remained constant whilst others have changed depending on the era.

Glenda Guy. The topic of Wildflowers was undertaken with enthusiasm by the Allora Photography Group with minds racing as to where would be the best spot to find some interesting and unique specimens.

The Upper Murray Historical Society has celebrated a landmark year, capped by the recent installation of a new memorial board for Jack Riley at the Corryong Cemetery - a tribute that reflects both the region's rich history and the dedication of the volunteers who preserve it. Much of the year's activity was sparked by Corryong's 150th anniversary celebrations in July, prompting extensive research and renewed exploration...

Ivona Rose. When Donné Restom's writing mentor gave her the prompt "these are the things I know about death", the exercise set the Umina Beach singer on a cathartic personal and professional journey. Grief and resilience evolved into the one-woman dark comedy show Everyone in My Family Is Dead or About to Be, set for Gosford's Fun Haus Factory ...

This edition we offer you a look at the stunning art work submitted by graduate Tahlarah Lawson for her HSC Art folio. Tahlarah’s art appeared in the Broken Hill Art Gallery’s 2025 HSC Art Show held at the Albert Kersten Mining and Mineral Museum (Geo Centre) in Broken Hill.

Darlington Point’s War Memorial Swimming Pool has been given a stunning new look, with a vibrant mural completed just in time for Christmas. The eye-catching artwork celebrates the area’s unique landscape and biodiversity, bringing native birds, bees and local flora to life.

Practically at our back door are these exquisite murals painted in Griffith. Located in Banna Lane, and with over 30 large-scale murals, the Griffith art trail is constantly evolving, making it the perfect weekend adventure for locals and visitors alike.

Allora’s Wikner Ford Special is on the highway heading south to Maroubra – not to surf but to be a headline act at huge celebrations ... The Vintage Car Club of Australia is celebrating the Centenary of the opening event at the infamous Maroubra Olympic Speedway in 1925. Of that initial event only one racing car remains as it raced that day, Doug’s Wikner Ford Special.