G’day Folks, Parliament is back for the year; the first sitting week was in early February. That first week back was even busier than expected, there was a lot going on, plenty of meetings, visiting councillors and representatives from community groups and other organisations. There was also a lot happening in the chamber. I spent a fair bit of the time catching up with government ministers and the Premier to talk to them about a range of issues relevant to Barwon.After the sitting week was over, I took a trip to Victoria for an important discussion about a very exciting investment opportunity for Barwon. More on that shortly.This week I will be travelling to Wagga for Investment, Industry and Regional Development Committee hearings before heading back around the electorate. See you all soon. Royal Far West funding boostRoyal Far West is an organisation that does some great work to help overcome some of the disadvantages experienced by families in rural and remote areas, connecting them with assessment, health and disability services as well as arranging accommodation for those who need to travel to access such services.During the first sitting week of parliament for 2024 I went and met with some of the dedicated people from Royal Far West to discuss some of the things that could be done to improve health outcomes for people living in country areas. They need additional support to meet a growing demand for services. Several other MPs, including Michael Regan, Independent Member for Wakehurst, helped organise the meeting.Health Minister Ryan Park also attended the function and last week announced a funding boost for the organisation of $369,000. This is an important step; it will help Royal Far West move closer to their funding goals. I will continue to advocate for more funding so that they can continue their work. Butler and Barwon military traditionOn February 6 I spent a very proud morning seeing my son Gabe heading off to 1 Recruit Training Battalion (RTB) Kapooka. Bound for Infantry. Gabe is the latest generation of my family to enlist. I was in his shoes at 17 years of age back on February 28th, 1995. I went on to serve in 6RAR in Support Company in Reconnaissance, but thankfully I never went to war.My father, Royal Maurice Butler, joined the army in the 1950s and served in Korea, seeing action at the battle of Kapyong. He ended up TPI - totally and permanently incapacitated. He rarely spoke about his experiences and continued to battle his inner demons.His father Francis William Butler lied about his age to serve in World War I. He was briefly sent to the front before being sent home for being underaged. In World War II he was back, this time lowering his age slightly to join up. He was put into 2/2 HQ Guard Battalion, along with a lot of other older men - which is why the guard battalions were nicknamed the “olds and bolds”, or less charitably the “ruthless and toothless.” He signed up in October 1942 but was discharged in December 1943.I must admit that I had mixed feelings about saying goodbye to Gabe, but I know that after 3 months he will come back. He will be different, but with a head full of new knowledge and he’ll be very fit.But I also know that, given the unstable international situation at the moment, there is an outside chance that he will be sent overseas to serve in some conflict or as part of a peacekeeping force. I also know that is what military service is about. It is not only a family tradition but a strong tradition in towns across Barwon, people who signed up for service, writing a blank cheque for their country, knowing full well they could pay with their life.Many people in Barwon answered the call, in conflicts from at least the Boer War to the present day. The evidence is there right across Barwon, in the form of the many prominent memorials to people who served. These memorials are often the focal point of the town and are important gathering places. It shows the respect we have for people who have donned a uniform in the service of their country, and I would urge every young person to consider time in the forces as a career option or as a life changing experience. Power to the people… of BarwonRecently we heard the exciting news that Tibooburra, Ivanhoe, Packsaddle and Milparinka will soon have a more reliable power supply, as Essential Energy begins significant reviews of the electricity network and offers network-connected generators and alternative battery solutions for more reliable power supply.My team and Essential Energy have been working together to deliver a more resilient network, and I am pleased to announce the work is now underway.Phase one involves the installation of network-connected generators, which will operate during a network outage, rapidly restoring supply to customers in the township areas of Ivanhoe and Tibooburra.Later phases, due to be in place in June 2025, will include more long-term sustainable solutions for customers, such as the installation of batteries and opportunities for customers to increase the return on their investment in solar, which will work together with the generation, forming a microgrid network.Alternative battery solutions are currently being planned for Packsaddle and Milparinka.  A big thank you to Essential Energy for making this happen. Bogan Gate to Tottenham Rail Tottenham is a charming town in Barwon, a growing part of Australia’s wheatbelt. Every year after their grain is harvested, they are dependent on trucks to haul their produce. That adds considerably to freight costs for the farmers, and to councils for the upkeep of the roads that need to handle the full laden weight of the grain trucks. But the locals have a solution - an upgrade to the railway line Between Bogan Gate and Tottenham, which would be a boon to farmers in the area, giving them a cheaper alternative to transport grain and relieve some of the pressure on the road network.So, in the first sitting week, I facilitated a meeting between members of NSW Farmers, Tottenham Branch, and Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison to allow them to put their case for the upgrade. Tottenham locals George and Margaret (representing lots of local farmers) have been at this since 1986, and their success to date has come from being organised and well researched. This meeting was no different.There were some encouraging signs, and I will keep following up to see what we can do to make this happen. Sink or swim in ParliamentIn the first sitting week I delivered a notice of motion to highlight the disproportionate number of drownings that occur in remote or very remote places. While the most popular swimming spots along our coast are patrolled, our inland waterways are mostly not.I have been speaking about this to the Royal Life Saving Society Australia, an important organisation integral to educating communities about water safety and training people to assist in an emergency. The more people we have trained to swim and to act if there is an emergency, the more lives will be saved.The society has therefore organised to have some water rescue training delivered in Parliament this year, which will allow Members of Parliament to lead by example in getting skilled up in water safety and rescue.Yes - there is a pool in Parliament, although I have not used it since coming to office, so this will be a great first swim. I will keep you posted. New year REZ solutionsIt is widely known that the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) and the process of making it happen, has been fraught from the outset. It is impossible to stop the REZ, it has bipartisan political support, so our focus in Barwon has been on making sure that the implementation of the zone is fair, that the communities affected are consulted and that it brings some benefit to those communities.While I was in Parliament this month, I met with the Hon. Penny Sharpe, Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Heritage, to discuss the valid concerns locals have raised about how this project is being rolled out.Earlier this year I raised concerns about the disappointing, often disrespectful, consultation process for the REZ and expressed the need for local communities to have a more comprehensive say in how the $128 million Community and Employment Benefit Fund would be distributed. I discussed these issues with the Minister and am pleased to say that we agree.The Minister believes that the process, at a local level, has been flawed and is keen to work with me and my team to get better outcomes and real engagement for communities directly impacted by the REZ.While I was in Wagga last week, I also discussed the issue with fellow independent crossbencher Dr Joe McGirr. There is no doubt renewables will be a part of our energy future, but the process used to engage and consult with communities needs to be genuine, fair and transparent.Joe and I are concerned about how communities are being treated and will be looking to move legislation that requires the proponents of large-scale renewables to be accountable for how they deal with the public.We should not lose highly productive farmland to these projects, and if communities don’t see the benefit, they should be able to reject the proposal. Straight out of Parliament in the first weeks of February, I travelled to Regional Victoria talking to a business about relocating into Barwon - I can’t get into detail just yet, but I'm very excited about the prospect of that happening.I arrived in Melbourne on the Sunday after the sitting week ended and had several meetings last week. One was with Luca the Managing Director of Beretta Australia and the Operations Manager Clemente. Luca is also the chairman of SIFA - Shooting Industry Foundation of AustraliaLovely people who spent a couple of hours talking about their business and some of the matters we have been working on in NSW to assist the shooting industry, and law-abiding firearms owners.It was nice to finally meet in person. Small-scale Titles review submissionsThe independent review of the statutory framework for small-scale titles is looking to sort out some of the ways that the Mining Act 1992 can be improved for small-scale opal miners. It is important that those who will be affected be heard. I have been in discussions with Mining and Energy Minister Courtney Houssos about the review and she has accepted a recommendation for an extension of the deadline for submissions to March 31.This extension was requested to allow all stakeholders and representative groups more time to gather information and make better submissions.This will ensure the findings and recommendations of the independent review better inform the NSW Government of ways to improve the Act and make it better for everyone, including landholders, the mining industry and all those associated with the opal mining industry in NSW. To make a submission go to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/independent-review-of-small-scale-titles Housing The housing shortage across the state is holding back growth in Barwon.It is one of those choke points that gets in the way of economic prosperity and increasing population. We need the homes to house people who want to make a tree change or people wanting to take up jobs as teachers, doctors, nurses, agricultural workers or even miners in regional areas. Over the next few years there are mining, transport and energy projects that will bring thousands of jobs to Barwon, but without the housing to accommodate them things could be difficult for those workers and the projects on which they are working.That is why it is good to see the government taking steps in Bogan and Brewarrina Shire to work on the housing supply problem with an injection of over $200,000 in funding.It won’t immediately solve the housing problem, but it is an important first step. See more from Roy here: Roy Butler

Last week I was terribly disheartened to hear that there are currently no plans to continue work on the Inland Rail north of Parkes.Under questioning at Senate Estimates, Australian Rail Track Corporation executives conceded the Government hasn’t provided funding to deliver the Inland Rail north of Parkes and had been forced to break contracts entered into for sections of Inland Rail between Parkes and Brisbane. Officials confirmed the Labor Government has no plan for when construction will begin on the Narromine to Narrabri section, despite the recent environmental approval of the project.This is another set-back for communities along the route, but I will continue to advocate for this nation-building project to be delivered in full.Grants to strengthen our communitiesI’m pleased to welcome funding for several groups in the Parkes electorate under rounds 18 and 19 of the Australian Government and FRRR Strengthening Rural Communities program.These grants are awarded for projects that support small yet vital community needs, disaster resilience and COVID-19 recovery initiatives. Recipients include:·        Boggabri Women’s Shed - $1,900 for a sewing room·        Leaderlife Limited Dubbo - $10,000 to purchase an outdoor barbecue and meat smoker·        The Youth Impact Foundation Limited on behalf of The Catalytic Impact Institute - $10,000 to support engagement with young people in Moree·        Moree Cultural Art Foundation Limited - $10,000 to provide free art classes for people living with a disability or mental illness·        Isolated Children's Parents Association (ICPA) of NSW Incorporated on behalf of ICPA Walgett Branch - $20,000 for an ICPA Garden Day·        Anglican Community Services - $24,940 to distribute waterproof preparedness packs at workshops and recovery events across the Moree Plains Shire in 2024·        Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation Limited - $9,922 for the Miima Warribinya Skyfest 2024 astronomy festival in CondobolinMeanwhile, Round 20 applications close 26 February 2024. For more information and to apply, visit: https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/src-rebuilding-regional-communities/Drop in trainees and apprenticesNew data has revealed a nearly six per cent drop in the number of apprentices and trainees taking up a new trade or learning a new skill in the Parkes electorate.These figures come after just one year of Labor being in government and compare to a 20 per cent increase in the number of apprentices and trainees in the Parkes electorate during the final year of the Coalition Government.This is a blow to communities throughout my electorate which need more people, not less, upskilling to meet the ever-growing skills shortage in our rural areas. Labor promised they would skill more Australians, but their programs are not delivering and we are suffering the consequences.Number Apprenticeships and Trainees In-Training by electorate (QON:Department of Employment and Workplace Relations Question No. SQ24-1) Electorate- ParkesJune 2021- 2,850June 2022- 3,430June 2023- 3,225Party- LNPFinal Year of Coalition June 2021-22 (% change)- 20.35First Year of Labor June 2022-23 (% change)- -5.98  Family car tax to hit hip pockets of regional familiesAt a time when families and small businesses are already struggling, Labor's proposed Vehicle Efficiency Standard will add thousands of dollars to the cars that regional Australians love to drive – SUVs, utes and 4WDs. Under the proposed new standard, Labor will place penalties on new petrol and diesel vehicles over a certain emissions limit to subsidise electric vehicles and make them relatively more affordable.While it might be good for those who live in the city, this policy will particularly hit us in regional Australia. Many people in my electorate – like farmers and tradies - rely on utes and 4WDs to do their jobs, while others simply can't afford the cost of an EV - let alone the impracticality in the bush where we drive large distances, often hundreds of kilometres from a charging station. This is yet another example of a Labor Government that is out of touch with the needs of regional Australia.See more from Mark here:Mark Coulton

National Apprenticeship Week (February 12-18) shines a spotlight on the achievements of Australian apprentices, trainees, and the employers who support their development.According to VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell, the week is also the perfect opportunity to promote the real-life benefits of pursuing a Vocational Education and Training (VET) career.“National Apprenticeship Week is a great chance for current Year 11 and 12 students considering their futures, school leavers, job seekers or anyone looking for a new career, to understand the exciting and very achievable opportunities that lie in VET,” Mr Maxwell said.“Today, the VET sector fuels careers in Australia’s largest and fastest-growing industries, with studies showing that nine out of ten of the future’s most employment accessible occupations will require a VET qualification.“Apprentices and trainees are powering some of Australia's largest and fastest-growing industries such as healthcare and social assistance, with 31 per cent of workers in this industry holding VET qualifications.”While VET is often linked to traditional apprenticeship careers, such as building, carpentry, electrical and hairdressing, Mr Maxwell suggested school leavers and job seekers take a closer look at what’s on offer.“There are more than 500 apprenticeship and traineeship career options, and long gone are the days when it’s only males that undertake apprenticeships,” he said.“Not only can you earn while you learn during an apprenticeship or traineeship, the reality is that on average, VET graduates earn $2,000 more than university counterparts in their first year, benefitting from hands-on and real-life experience with no HECS debts, and brighter job prospects.“So building a VET career really is a great investment in your future.”National Apprenticeship Week 2024 will run from 12–18 February. More information can be found at https://www.nationalapprenticeshipweek.com.auWith more than 65 locations across NSW, VERTO can help you find a career that matches your skills and interests. Contact VERTO on 1300 483 786, [email protected] or visit www.verto.org.au.

Not-for-profit employment and training services provider, VERTO, has today announced the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ronald McDonald House Charities in Sydney, Northern NSW, and Central West.Under this partnership, VERTO pledges an annual contribution of $10,000 to each of the three chapters over the next three years, totalling $90,000 in support. In addition to financial backing, VERTO will offer its respected training and apprenticeship services to benefit the charities’ operations and community initiatives, and members of the community using the houses.“VERTO is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of the individuals and communities we serve,” VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell said.“This partnership signifies our continued support of Ronald McDonald House Charities. VERTO has proudly made more than $70,000 in contributions over the past three years that support their mission of providing comfort and care to families during extremely challenging times.”VERTO, as an award-winning not-for-profit organisation and a registered charity, builds upon its ongoing commitment to giving back to those in need, contributing to the betterment of local communities and developing meaningful skills for all Australians.“On behalf of RMHC Chapter’s in Northern NSW, Sydney and Central West, we are grateful for this partnership with VERTO,” CEO of RMHC Northern NSW Ross Bingham said.“Their generous donation will make a real difference for families with seriously ill children who need our support so they can focus on what’s important - their child’s recovery.“We are also extremely grateful to VERTO for providing access to training, apprenticeships and support for seriously ill or injured children and their families. This additional, professional support will continue to make a positive impact to families supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities beyond their stay with us.“As an organisation that relies heavily on the support of the community, we can’t thank VERTO enough for this support and this ongoing partnership. Together we can make a difference for seriously ill children and their families.”

With the 2023 HSC now in the rearview mirror, many school leavers (and their parents!) are left with the question ‘What next?’. With the rise in early university offers, there can be significant pressure on those who don’t have the future sewn up just yet. There’s considerable emphasis placed on university these days, but the reality is that it is not the most suitable path for every school leaver. If your child is not sure what’s next, I encourage you to take a look at vocational education and training (VET) pathways. There is a lingering misconception that VET is the ‘poor cousin’ to university, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Today, VET covers everything from aircraft engineering to hospitality and trades and is an excellent pathway to business ownership – and a lucrative career. Here’s why VET might be the right pathway for your HSC graduate. Opportunities aboundThe variety of VET courses is expansive, from Business and Entrepreneurship, Hospitality, Health and Community Support, Retail, and Employment Services to Supply Chain Operations and Trades. This diversity allows school leavers to choose a path they’re genuinely interested in and passionate about, driving a more focused and enjoyable learning experience and, ultimately, a more fulfilling career.And post-COVID, these are some of our most sought-after industries, offering a wealth of job opportunities across the country and even the globe. Real-time skills for a fast-moving world With the pace of change today, real-time learning is a significant advantage – precisely what VET offers. Balancing theory and learning on the job means students develop the skills to thrive in a live working environment. The earn-while-you-learn model also gives young people an important grounding in the social, emotional and communication skills needed to navigate a workplace and puts them in a great position to succeed from the outset. An increasing focus on STEM skills Many VET pathways that were traditionally about more manual labour have become about STEM skills. We only have to look at a trade like mechanics – cars have evolved to being driven by computers, and a whole host of new skills and abilities are required to thrive. The same can be said for most trades, from plumbing to electrical. Technology is changing the game. HSC graduates with an interest and skills in STEM areas are increasingly in demand. An excellent choice for budding entrepreneurs A VET pathway may be a great fit if your child learns best by doing and is ready to get out from behind a desk. VET courses are practical and prepare students directly for the workforce. This outcome-oriented approach gives them real hands-on experience and the opportunity to see what working in their chosen industry is like while they are still studying. With the ability to start work, earn a wage and build career experience earlier, VET pathways can be incredibly attractive.And for those who have that entrepreneurial flair, VET is an excellent entryway to business ownership. From tradespeople to chefs, many pathways are perfectly positioned for entrepreneurs to thrive. A foundation for further learningIt’s also important to note that choosing a VET pathway does not close the door to further education. Instead, it can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications or even a university degree in the future. This pathway approach allows school leavers to gain practical skills and work experience before deciding whether to invest in further study. Encouraging your child to consider a VET pathway is not about diverting them from university but about broadening their horizons and helping them understand that there are several paths to success. Ultimately, the most important thing is that they choose a path that suits their interests, goals and learning preferences.VERTO is here to support you and your child in making informed decisions about their future. Contact the team on 1300 483 786 or [email protected] to discuss how a VET pathway could be the perfect fit for your school leaver.

This October, VERTO is celebrating 40 years of supporting people in NSW through quality education, employment, apprenticeship and community services. According to VERTO CEO, Ron Maxwell, VERTO has grown from humble beginnings as a small evening college in Bathurst to a national organisation employing more than 500 staff and servicing thousands of clients every year.  “As we reflect on the journey so far, it is hard not to feel a sense of pride in the achievements of our organisation and our people, but most importantly, the positive difference VERTO has made in the lives of so many of our clients and local communities,” he said.  Founded in 1983 as the Central West Regional Evening College, the purpose of the organisation was to provide Bathurst and surrounds with practical, community-based, adult education services.  In 1990 the organisation became Central West Community College Inc (CWCC). During the 90s, CWCC expanded its operations to include both employment and training services. Throughout this period, CWCC was awarded a state contract to provide Tenancy Advice and Advocacy in the Southwest of NSW, a program VERTO still delivers today.  “The CWCC successfully secured a couple of key contracts in the 1990s and early 2000s which saw the organisation grow and expand into other areas of New South Wales, including the region’s largest Job Network contract as well as delivering apprenticeship services in the Western and Hunter/ North Coast regions,” Mr Maxwell said.  In 2012, Central West Community College was rebranded VERTO Limited – with VERTO being Latin for ‘transform’.  During 2021, The VERTO Group grew again with the acquisition of Riverina Community College in Wagga Wagga, followed by the strategic acquisition of not-for-profit employment and community services provider, Campbell Page earlier this year.  With the acquisition of Campbell Page, The VERTO Group has a truly national footprint with 135 locations and a workforce comprising more than 500 employees. “It’s a privilege to lead an organisation with a strong legacy of making a difference in local communities, and I know that the other members of our leadership team and our hard-working staff are delighted to be celebrating this milestone in 2023,” Mr Maxwell said. “I thank everyone who has supported the journey for the last four decades, and everyone who will help us continue our important work for many years into the future.”

To mark NSW Small Business Month (1-31 October), VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell is encouraging those considering starting a business, or wanting help transitioning an existing small business into a thriving one, to contact VERTO. “NSW is made up of a range of small businesses who continue to make a vital contribution to our economy and our local communities,” Mr Maxwell said. “Small Business Month is about recognising these fantastic operators and offering support and opportunities to grow their businesses and create stronger networks. “VERTO is in a unique position to offer support to small businesses through the Australian Government’s Self-Employment Assistance program, which we deliver in the Hunter, Mid-North Coast, Murray Riverina and Far West Orana regions of NSW. “The program allows you to choose the level of support that meets your needs and those of your business. Small Business Month is the perfect time to check in with one of our Self-Employment Assistance mentors and take your business to the next level,” he said.  The theme for Small Business Month 2023 is ‘My Small Business’ and is focused on providing assistance and tips on how small businesses can strengthen their business in seven key areas - branding and marketing, cyber security, business health, ecommerce, current market conditions, resilience and teams.  Small Business Month aims to help small businesses to share knowledge, learn from business leaders and attend local events aligned to their individual business interests.  For more information about Small Business Month, or to register for a local event, visit: https://www.smallbusinessmonth.nsw.gov.au/  For more information about VERTO’s Self-Employment Assistance program,  phone 1300 483 786 or visit: https://www.verto.org.au/our-services/self-employment-assistance.  About VERTOVERTO is a not-for-profit organisation delivering a range of apprenticeship, community support, employment and training services to assist individuals, employers and industries. We can be found in more than 65 locations across New South Wales. For more information, visit www.verto.org.au.

Skills shortages are an enduring issue in the Australian labour market today. Across many industries, such as technology, trades and healthcare, there is a significant gap between available skills and those required by employers. As a result, employers struggle to find suitable talent for their organisations, and this can have a flow-on effect, even limiting our economic growth potential. Australia will need to tackle these shortages from all sides. Building more links between high school and industry would contribute to a long-term solution. Learning from successful models overseasThere are already some successful models globally that Australia could adopt to bridge the skill gap. The vocational education and training (VET) model in Germany, Switzerland and Austria is one, as is this high school pathway being rolled out in Indiana, USA. It combines classroom-based education with on-the-job training, equipping students with the skills businesses need, and offering them a clear path to employment.We are seeing some steps in this direction here at home. For example, five Sydney high schools are trialling a program allowing students with an aptitude for tech to skip university and commence working in tech roles that may have otherwise required tertiary studies. Increasing work-integrated learning opportunities More work-integrated learning opportunities are a must. These programs give students a taste of life in different careers. Done at the right time, the programs would allow students to make subject choices that equip them for their chosen careers. Of course, we already have a fantastic one in NSW – School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs). The program enables students to begin working in and qualifying for their chosen career while finishing their HSC studies. And there are some great success stories across the country, such as Callaghan College in Newcastle, which had an impressive 102 students enrolled in SBATs in 2022, the most of any secondary school in the state. It's an excellent option for those who may have finished in Year 10 in the old days to continue their studies while building an employment pathway. It would be good to see more schools actively encouraging students to make use of it. Closer collaboration with industry The vocational education and training (VET) system collaborates closely with industry and employers. It works to keep VET relevant and ensure students have the skills employers need today and into the future. As we look for new ways of addressing skills shortages, I think there is a fantastic opportunity for industries, from trades to tech and the professions, to engage with high schools. This could be looking at specific curriculum streams targeted at students interested in a specific industry. Or, it could be industry bodies talking to our education departments about the skills needed in the workforce to ensure the curriculum is aligned, particularly when it comes to life and soft skills, from creativity to critical thinking. This way, academic learning and practical skills can be interwoven into a student's educational journey to create highly employable and career-ready future generations.  Benefits abound Alongside addressing skills shortages, a career-driven approach to education could increase student engagement, particularly during senior high school. By helping students build a bridge between academic learning and real-world application, learning can become more meaningful. In addition, we'll be equipping the next generation with the tools to thrive in the workforce. Australia's skills shortages won't be resolved by a single solution. It will take a multifaceted approach. However, integrating education systems and the world of work should certainly be in the mix. What could we achieve if we reimagine our approach to education, creating more pathways between the classroom and the workplace? We wouldn't just be tackling skills shortages but laying the foundations for more robust, enduring economic growth.

Ground-breaking Baaka Cultural CentreI was thrilled to be part of the Ground-Breaking ceremony for the Baaka Cultural Centre project last week in Wilcannia.After some setbacks, this $9.5 million project is finally underway and I can't wait to see the old Knox and Downs building in Wilcannia's main street transformed into a fabulous centre for Baakantji culture.This project has been made possible through funding from the previous Coalition Federal and State Governments and my hope is that it will be a great benefit to the people of Wilcannia as well as all those who visit this remarkable town.Speaking up for free speechIf, like me, you have concerns about Labor's proposed Misinformation Bill please sign the online petition to protect freedom of speech from this deeply flawed proposal.Labor’s misinformation law protects the Albanese Government but not every-day Australians. This is an unacceptable example of overreach from the Labor Government.The Coalition needs your help in the fight to stop this appalling Bill. Sign the petition at www.binthebill.auRecognising our local veteransOn Friday my wife Robyn and I attended events in Coolah to commemorate Veterans Day.On this day we paused to honour the 60,000 Australian troops who served in Vietnam; and remember the 523 who died, and the nearly 3,000 wounded. Each represented the values of our original ANZACs.We are proud of their service; and how they contributed to the safety of our country and our region. We also thanked the 63,740 Australians drafted for national service, our “Nashos”, who so ably enhanced our war effort.The 18th of August falls on Vietnam Veterans’ Day which marks the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. This was one of the heaviest Australian engagements of the war, when 108 soldiers ofheld off an enemy 2,000 strong; wounding 25 and taking the lives of 18 Australians including Paul Large of Coolah, who was just 21 years old.It was very moving to remember the sacrifices of our service personnel and their loved ones, especially as the family of Paul Large were part of the service held at Coolah, a tribute to his life and the lives of so many lost to war.

Sometimes the national news is hard to stomach. And sometimes it is illuminating.It's been a painful but insightful few weeks for readers, watchers and listeners looking for the facts that explain life as we're currently living it.In our federal administration there have been the latest revelations about the 'Robodebt' scandal; the gradual uncovering of the exploits of mega consultancy firms using inside information for their own wicked ends; and the exposure of multiple failures of our nation's regulators to, well, regulate cowboy construction companies going in and out of liquidation while accumulating massive fortunes and leaving an even more massive trail of human devastation in their wake.It's not often that you get to chat casually about these goings on but a recent catchup with a connection who happens to work in the federal treasury department has joined some dots and confirmed two things for me.First, that the ABC television series 'Utopia' really is much closer to a gritty reality show than an amusing satirical sitcom. I can never watch it. I've worked in local government and I find it strangely traumatising.Second, that we have allowed Entitlement and brazen Self-interest to infiltrate our society to the extent that politicians and public servants are now guided by those chilly lights and have all but abandoned the warm, fuzzy - and essential - tenets of the Common Good and Personal Integrity that we all actually pay them for.A cuppa and a chat with my Canberra connection revealed stories of public servants who smile, nod and rubberstamp ideas that are bad for the nation (and good for the bad guys) as they rise through the ranks.These people, who are meant to provide Frank, Fearless and Ethical advice to our decision-makers, have been turning blind eyes or actively enabling the mega-wrongs mentioned above and each one is rewarded with salary packages roughly equivalent to our shire's annual roads budget and a house in the suburbs worth way more than Gulargambone's hospital (not joking).Fortunately, no names were mentioned and my Canberra connection is no whistleblower, so no national expose is on the way for you Western Plains App reader.But the evidence is out there. Thanks to the media we all love to hate, we now know where unbridled Entitlement & Self-Interest takes us.What we do with the information we have is up to each of us.These people are no better than the local low-lifers who steal cars out of our carports, drive around our neighbourhoods trashing fences and put a match in the vehicle when they're done.The ‘top end of town’ version are still taking our hard-earned, driving it with reckless abandon, trashing our economy and then sticking a torch in the lives of ordinary Australians who are left to suck it up.We need to insist on better behaviour from top to bottom. We should be asking questions and calling out those who erode the public interest through their side hustles, secret dealings, rule-bending, bullying, and complicated contracts that do not serve the common good. When you see it, say it. Don't let the nosy reporters go it alone to do it for you. Use your words. Lodge a complaint. Write to a Minister. Call your local MP. Email the Editor. Go to a public meeting. Get in touch with the Ombudsman. It may sound airy-fairy but what good is having a democracy if we don't use it? And what good are all these laws, departments and institutions if we don't make them work for us? What good is the public service if it doesn't serve the public?It is a small sideways step from complacency to corruption.It is much easier for politicians and public servants to do the right thing when they know their citizens care - and when they know we're watching.

A special dinner will be held in Dubbo this month to celebrate 15 years since Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton first began representing the Parkes electorate.  Mr Coulton looks forward to marking this significant milestone at an anniversary dinner, with special guests expected to include Leader of the National Party Hon David Littleproud MP and Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price. “It’s been such an honour to serve the people of the Parkes electorate,” Mr Coulton said. “When I began this role it was quite daunting to come from a farming background in Warialda to represent an electorate which now borders two states and covers almost half of New South Wales, and I remain very grateful for the faith many people have placed in me.  “I’ve spent the past 15 years getting to know the strong and vibrant communities I represent - travelling thousands of kilometres - and I couldn’t be prouder to represent this electorate. “I want to thank all those who have been by my side, especially my amazing wife Robyn, whose support has been integral to my ability to do this job.“The opening of the Western Cancer Centre, greater support for Local Government, and the progression of the Inland Rail, were all priorities close to my heart when I began this journey, and there have been significant developments in all these areas during my time as Federal Member for Parkes. “I look forward to an opportunity to celebrate what has been achieved over the past 15 years for the people of the Parkes electorate.” Those wishing to attend the anniversary dinner on Friday 23 June in Dubbo are encouraged to register their interest via email at the following address: [email protected]

FREE Building Peace & Resilience Workshops in Cobar, Nyngan, Dubbo, EugowraThe Quest for Life Foundation has partnered with community organisations to deliver a series of free Building Peace & Resilience workshops for regional and rural communities in western NSW.These workshops are empowering, practical and non-confronting to help and support people living with the difficulties and challenges of rural and regional life. They provide life-enhancing, practical skills and strategies for living well in challenging circumstances."The resilience of people living in rural and regional communities is immense," said Quest for Life Foundation CEO Petrea King."People living in rural and regional communities – especially those experiencing exhaustion, emotional and financial strain, trauma, hardship or loss after floods, fires and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic – need support now more than ever.""They face challenges regularly and are constantly at the mercy of the elements. They eke out their resources – financially, materially, physically and emotionally – for so long, until they simply cannot any longer."Building Peace & Resilience workshops take place in June in Cobar (26 June), Nyngan (27 June), Dubbo (28 June), and Eugowra (29 June) and will help participants to improve their sleep, memory and focus, make better decisions, and feel more connected to ourself and other people.Workshops are open to people on the land and their extended families, indeed anyone residing or working in the communities listed. We understand there's always a flow-on effect that can engulf people in unexpected ways.Quest's Senior Facilitator Margie Braunstein - who will deliver the events - invites community members to attend what she describes as "non-confronting workshops" to learn practical self-care skills.Margie Braunstein"If you're feeling financially, mentally, or emotionally stretched, this workshop is for you," Margie said."You will take home skills and strategies that will help you in your life, in your community, in your family."DETAILSWorkshop Cost: FREEWorkshop time: 9.30am-3.00pmBOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: Reserve a spot in EventbriteMonday 26 June - COBAR, Cobar Bowling & Golf Club Tuesday 27 June - NYNGAN, Nyngan RSL Wednesday 28 June - DUBBO, Dubbo RSL  Thursday 29 June - EUGOWRA, Eugowra Bowling ClubThe Quest for Life Foundation is a charity that has helped more than 125,000 people over the last 34 years. Established in 1989 by Petrea King after a series of personal traumas, Quest provides educational self-help programs and community-based workshops that encourage, educate and empower people to improve their resilience and peace of mind during times of illness, depression, grief and trauma.Quest encompasses a holistic approach to physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing. We are committed to making a positive difference in our community.Margie Braunstein is a Senior Facilitator at the Quest for Life Foundation and a qualified counsellor/therapist. Margie's professional practice is based on contemporary neuroscience, positive psychology and a commitment to holistic approaches to health. Margie holds a Graduate Certificate in Adult Education and Diploma in Contemporary Somatic Psychotherapy.

Gulargambone's ANZAC ceremony this year featured an address by Stephen Bignall, a Presbyterian Minister and social worker, who took the opportunity to call attention to the work of the chaplains and padres who worked in all battlefields where Australians have fought.Mr Bignall's address is reproduced below:"In remembering this morning, by this memorial to the fallen, we respectfully acknowledge both the original ANZACs and those who followed the call, into a 2nd World War, Korea, the Malay emergency, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan; fighting to restrain tyranny and above all protect the freedom of others, and defend the Australia we all call ‘home’.I want to highlight for a few moments one small but ever-present group among defense personnel. They walked unarmed and under fire up the beaches from the boats at Gallipoli and were in the trenches; daily helped with the wounded, tended the dying and every night reverently buried the remains of the dead who could be recovered. Chaplains or padres were a unique bunch - they served as shepherds, walking alongside giving care, they were there at Gallipoli along “that far flung battle line”. They saw the cost of sacrifice and sought to sustain hope seeking the best outcomes possible in the worst of situations. Some were former military personnel who, though not judged fit to fight, nevertheless accompanied those who were. Where they showed care and courage the men grew to respect and appreciate them. They helped soldiers write home to mother and sweetheart, and to pray to “our father who art in heaven.” As they walked through the “valley of the shadow of death” the troops were reminded “the Lord is my shepherd”. Each week they gathered the servicemen in worship.One ANZAC writes: ‘On Sunday afternoons, a little after four, you would see the Padre coming down Shrapnel Valley, singing… and the lads coming out of the dugouts like rabbits out of burrows and following him. When he got them into a comparatively sheltered corner, he proceeded to lead them in a short Sunday afternoon service of worship.’ There is a memorial built on the shores at Gallipoli erected by the troops honouring one of these men, who fell there.Stephen Bignall makes his address at the Gulargambone cenotaph. IMAGE: Kirsty Fisher PhotographyI have a personal memory as a teenager of a WW2 veteran of my grandfather’s generation recalling a chaplain [a Salvo] who was in PNG with him on the Kokoda. “We all thought he was a ‘mad bugger’, he didn’t have to be there, but we grew used to having him around and he was always seeking to help. One morning we were having a quick warm brew, and talking with him seated there too and he stopped speaking, we saw he had fallen to a sniper’s bullet, the poor beggar, why was he there? But we missed him when he was gone with so many others”.I think these shepherds accompanied the troops because they recognised the sacrifice made on the battle line and supported those making it, and because they wanted to sustain hope – they were men of faith, servants of God. Today we recall countless service men and women who gave their lives, or who returned home bearing scars in body and mind, stretching from Gallipoli to all battlefields - spanning over 100 years up to this time. School children turned out in droves to Gulargambone's 2023 ANZAC Day commemorations. IMAGE: Kirsty Fisher PhotographyAt these occasions we often repeat the words of the greatest of all shepherds, Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this than that a man lay down his life for his friends” - words and actions repeated, again and again, by our Anzacs, our AIF and now our ADF; sometimes their chaplains have died alongside them.We have battles on the home front now, here in Gulargambone and in sister towns along the Castlereagh - young adults suddenly gone too early, children bereft of parents; parents burying their sons and daughters. Insecurity, anxiety and a shrinking or fracturing of the community in a darkening world. How do we cultivate hope, building on the sacrifices of the past to make peace last? Personally, I need more than imaginary heroes like Superman or even Wonder woman. IMAGE: Kirsty Fisher PhotographyWe need a shepherd to care and to guide; that’s why I am a follower of Jesus the Saviour; he’s the reason why our ADF chaplains both men and women still walk unarmed into battlefields to stand alongside those serving and caring – in war and peace they are there. Today we have pastoral care and wellbeing support in our school communities to promote aspirations and to help early in life, to positively encourage kids amidst so much uncertainty and strife; as well as in our hospitals, supporting our police, fire and ambulance service and also in correctional facilities; it’s about restoring or nurturing new hope and creatively encouraging the sacrifice that builds community and identity for an emerging generation. Lest we forget.

With Mother’s Day now just around the corner, it’s time to put on our thinking caps for when it comes to the perennial question “what on earth am I going to get her??” Over the years, we’ve no doubt all heard the line ‘ooh, there’s nothing I need’ when it comes to asking Mum (or a special female in our lives) what they might like for Mother’s Day. And it can leave the best of us scratching our heads up until the last panicked minute! So what exactly do you do when you have a hard-to-buy-for mum? The mum who does seem to have everything she needs, and is notoriously difficult to buy for? Don't worry; you're not alone, and there are ways to find a gift that will make her day. Firstly, it's essential to understand your mum's personality and interests. What does she enjoy doing in her free time? Is she a travel enthusiast, a foodie, or a gardener? Once you have identified her interests, it's far easier to choose a gift that will appeal to her. To give you a few unique starter ideas for this Mother’s Day, the team from the Innovations have curated a super affordable listing that will appeal to lovers of travel, food, garden and home.  The garden lover mumNow you might think your mum’s favourite, but if she’s a mad keen gardener, then her flowers or vegies really might come first on her love list. The Garden Bench and Kneeling Set features a padded cushion to protect her knees when kneeling while the handles help to get back on one’s feet. Any gardener knows that regardless of fitness levels, when kneeling for ages while weeding, getting up is a struggle. With a durable steel frame, this clever aid can also works as a comfortable stool. $39.95 The Hand Held Cordless Mini Chain Saw is truly the ultimate tool for the garden obsessed Mum! It’s incredibly compact and weighs barely more than a kilo, so it’s easy to use and control – yet it will slice through most branches up to 10 cm in diameter. Comes with a powerful, rechargeable battery, a hex key and screwdriver for adjustments. $89.00 The travel obsessed mumFor the mum that loves getting away for days or weeks at a time, or even longer if she’s taken on the grey nomad lifestyle, there are a number of travel items that will make her explorations far more comfortable.Our Mini Washing Machine is just perfect for washing small loads when out travelling in our wide open country. Lightweight, convenient and portable it uses very little power and water. Perfect for washing delicates, blouses and other small personal items. Ideal for camping or in a caravan. Just fill with laundry soap, water, close the lid and plug it in. $89.00 Winter is coming, and with it comes cold hands. The Comforting Hand Warmer with Power Bank is amazing for the mum that suffers from cold hands. This aluminium hand warmer could make all the difference to her comfort. Perfectly sized to fit in the pocket, it heats up quickly to 30, 37 or 50°C and stays warm for as long as 7 hours. Easy to charge using the USB cable provided, it can also recharge her smartphone, making it a perfect all round companion for outdoor walking or travel in colder months. $19.95 For the home/interiors mumThe options are endless when it comes to choosing gorgeous items for the home. Standouts favourites include organisers and unique décor pieces. Available in two styles, the Bamboo Desktop Organiser is the perfect item for the Mum who likes to keep everything in its place. The streamlined design helps organise her desktop clutter and ensures the monitor is at a comfortable height. Made from environmentally friendly bamboo, the 1 drawer option has a mobile phone holder, while the 2 drawer option has a recess for mugs. $49.00 to $79.00 With its sleek, wood-grain finish, the elegant Aroma Diffuser with Coloured Light is designed with relaxation in mind. Simply add water and a few drops of your own favourite essential oil (not included) to surround yourself with a soothing aroma. You can then choose a soft, steady light or a shifting rainbow of colours to set the mood. $39.95 For the kitchen/foodie mumIn the kitchen, organisation is key for many mums. But with the inundation of cooking shows and plethora of gorgeous imagery when it comes to all things food, presentation of food and products continues to prove popular for our audience. For the coffee loving Mum, she can create her own coffee station with these clever space-saving Coffee Capsule Drawer design. Compatible with Nespresso and other standard capsules, the tempered glass and carbon steel drawer stores 60 capsules and will hold a coffee maker on top. Coffee maker/cup/capsules not included. $49.00 This simple innovation design combines both organisation and presentation and makes a big difference in the kitchen. Instead of building up crumbs that spill over on to your work surface, this Crumb Catching Bread Board catches them in the removable base so you can simply empty them into the bin. It also has two bonus features – the base makes an excellent tray, and you also receive a bread knife which tucks away into its own integral holder. $39.95

Community groups in the Parkes electorate are being invited to apply for a share of $150,000 in funding under the latest round of the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Program (SCP).  Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton is now taking expressions of interest for Round 8 of the popular program, with grants of up to $20,000 available. “This funding will finance up to 20 small capital projects in the Parkes electorate, including small-scale infrastructure upgrades, fit-outs and equipment purchases,” Mr Coulton said. “Community groups are the heart of towns and villages right across the electorate and this type of funding is often vital to help them grow and prosper into the future." “Dozens of local community groups have benefitted from the Stronger Communities Program over the years and in the last round we saw some wonderful projects go ahead including a kitchen upgrade for the 3rd Broken Hill Sea Scouts, a shelter for Trangie Central School, new gym equipment for Orana Haven Aboriginal Corporation and the installation of solar panels at the Baradine Golf Club. “It’s projects like these that help to boost community participation and contribute to vibrant and viable communities, which is exactly why this program was established by the former Coalition Government.” Grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 are available to cover up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs, or up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs for local governing bodies. “This latest round aims to support communities recover from the widespread impacts of adverse weather events and current economic pressures, and I strongly encourage interested organisations to contact my office if they have a project important to them which will benefit the local community,” Mr Coulton said. Mr Coulton will play a key role in identifying the projects to be supported in his electorate, with the assistance of a committee that represents the local community.  Organisations shortlisted by the committee will then be invited to complete a formal online application, which must be submitted by 5pm AEST on Wednesday 10 May. Eligible organisations in the Parkes electorate can download an EOI form for submission to Mr Coulton’s office by 5pm AEDT Friday 10 March. Further information including grant guidelines, eligibility requirements and the application process are available here.  Important information: To put forward an application for consideration under the SCP, eligible organisations must: Complete an EOI form, which is available here: EOI form Submit the form to the Office of Mark Coulton MP via email to [email protected] by 5pm AEDT Friday 10 March. This form can also be submitted via mail to 69 Heber Street, Moree NSW 2400 

2023 is here - shiny and new - and we're happy to be sharing it with you!On behalf of the team from the Western Plains App I'd like to thank everyone who has checked in with us over the past year to see what's what around the western plains.We launched the WPApp in mid June 2021 and as 31 December drew to a close we had welcomed 13,400 or so app users - on their mobile phones, tablets or computers.Our team are excited to check the numbers in our weekly team meetings and it is always rewarding to see the number of downloads climb. We are still seeing an average of 200+ new users each week - not bad for a small team scattered around the small towns of western New South Wales.We don't know who you are (your privacy and security are assured) but we know you come to read the local news, check the weather or road conditions, find out what some of our innovative local businesses or local councils are up to, or to spend some downtime on the puzzle page.As we work to build our small start-up business, we truly appreciate the businesses, councils and other organisations who have taken the plunge and come on board to support this new local independent media platform.If you have a business or non-profit organisation that operates in the local government areas of Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Lachlan, Narromine, Walgett, Warren or Warrumbungle and would like to connect with our readers - please give us a call, we'd love to hear from you.Our hope is that the WPApp will come to be as trusted and valued as your local newspaper or your favourite local radio station, and that more of our region's residents will come to appreciate having another authentic source of news and information at their fingertips.2022 was a bit of a hard slog in many respects and delivering news 7 days a week can be a little exhausting. We could not have done it without the help of the many, many people who gave us tips, agreed to be interviewed, shared their stories and sent us photos.2022 was not an easy trip for many. I'm sure we can all sympathise with this situation! This shot taken near Coonabarabran.We were also fortunate to receive the support of Meta (Facebook) and the Walkley Foundation, who have contributed financially to the employment of our team of reporters.It has been quite an adventure trying to find people on the ground within the region to supply local content and we've been blessed to discover both up-and-coming young talent right through to experienced, highly accomplished and ever-curious reporters.Many of our staff are busy juggling multiple gigs and demanding family commitments but have embraced the WPApp with enthusiasm and squeeze in some time to put their stories together so share with you all.Unfortunately we don't always get to keep the gems we pick up.We welcomed and farewelled Gina in Cobar and Danny in Bourke, sent Oliver off from Coonamble to the ABC in Broken Hill and are soon to wave goodbye to Laura, who has now finished her journalism degree and is also going to test-drive a role with the national broadcaster, in Muswellbrook where we know they will be amazed by her talent and hard work.Coonamble-based team members - Lee, Maddison, Angie, Liam, Marnie, Sue (Coonamble Times volunteer proofreader), Annabel and Anne.Over summer we will be hearing more from Kristin and Luke, who joined us recently bringing with them decades of professional journalism experience.They will be supporting Lucy (Condobolin), Abigail (Nyngan), Audrey (Warren), Emma (Cobar), Urayne (Brewarrina), Angie (Nyngan), Liz (Baradine), Liam and Marnie (Coonamble) and myself as we all try to sneak some time off before 2023 warms right up.Behind the scenes Maddison (sales), Angie (graphic design) and Annabel (admin) are the fuel in the engine of the WPApp as well as making sure that the Coonamble Times continues to bring local stories to our local readers each week.I thank them all for their efforts and for their belief that the Western Plains App is an exciting and valuable way to connect and promote our western communities.Not all floods - news is everywhere! This grassfire on the highway just south of Walgett a couple of months ago.We wish all our readers and app users a wonderful 2023, perhaps with a little less drama than we've seen in recent years.For those in our region still soggy from last year's flooding rivers we hope you dry out soon and, if your home or livelihood has been damaged, that you have the strength and support you need to make a fast and full recovery.We hope you find a little more peace, stability and positivity in the months ahead, and enough excitement to remind you that we live in a rich, diverse and endlessly interesting part of the world.The Western Plains App is both a journey of discovery and a work in progress and I thank you all for your patience, interest and encouragement.Lee O'ConnorFounder/EditorWestern Plains App

Opposition to The VoiceLast week I joined my Federal Nationals colleagues to oppose the proposal to establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. We believe the Voice is just a symbolic form of legislation that will only further divide our communities along the lines of race, rather than uniting them. I know this decision will be disappointing for many people in my electorate, and I am open to hearing from both sides, however the respected Indigenous leaders and community members I have spoken to so far are concerned about The Voice and how their communities will be represented. I have been representing the Aboriginal communities of the Parkes electorate for the last 15 years and have built relationships with many people within these communities over time. I am passionate about improving the lives of Aboriginal people in practical ways.I do not see the proposal to introduce more bureaucracy into the mix as a way forward. What we have seen work for communities in the Parkes electorate are practical measures such as increasing employment for Indigenous people, supporting Aboriginal enterprise and getting behind organisations that are making a tangible difference at a grassroots level. These practical approaches are what I support and will continue to advocate for. I remain supportive of recognising Indigenous Australians in the Constitution; however the proposed Voice to Parliament as it stands has the potential to cause more problems than it solves, especially given the diversity and complexity of voices within Aboriginal communities. At this stage I am not convinced that Labor’s current proposal will deliver what it promises. In the meantime, I remain committed to listening to all of my constituents as this matter progresses.Visa delays causing great distressThe workforce shortage is the single biggest issue currently facing the Parkes electorate, so we must do everything we can to keep and attract workers.However, dozens of skilled migrants who are already living and working in our regions have been waiting as long as 24 months for their visas to be approved, because of a new Ministerial Direction which prioritises offshore permanent and provisional visa applications.Since this Ministerial Direction came into effect in October, I’ve noticed a significant rise in the number of 887 and 491 visa applicants contacting my office about the delays in processing times. These are people who are keen to stay and settle down in our beautiful part of the world but are unable to work in their chosen field or buy a house because they are living in limbo.This is causing a great deal of stress and uncertainty for these people, and some are even sadly leaving our areas because they simply can't get visas. This is just not good enough.I am calling on the Labor Government to prioritise onshore skilled regional visa applications, to provide certainty to local families and help keep skilled migrants in our regional areas.Industrial Relations laws to hurt small businessesLabor’s controversial industrial relations laws passed Parliament last week, but it’s our small and medium-sized businesses who will pay the price. It means that businesses with more than 20 staff will be able to be dragged onto multi-employer agreements with their much larger competitors, costing them tens of thousands of dollars.These changes will result in more strikes, put pressure on supply chains and could see an increase in the prices of everyday items.The Labor Government has said this legislation is all about increasing wages, and this will be the test. If we do not see a substantial increase in real wages over the coming years, these changes will have failed.Getting doctors and nurses back to the bushI was pleased that last week the House of Representatives passed a bill that will encourage doctors and nurse practitioners to relocate to remote, rural and regional Australia by providing a partial or full reduction to their HECS debt.This bill was introduced by the Coalition prior to the election and means that doctors and nurses who choose to move away from the cities for a specified period will have their HECS debt waived.This is good news and will hopefully attract more GPs to communities across the Parkes electorate. Incentivising doctors and nurse practitioners to live and work outside of metropolitan areas will help improve access to quality health care for regional, rural and remote communities.

Christmas Card Photo Competition winnerA stunning photograph of a bridge over floodwater near Walgett has been selected as the winner of my 2022 Christmas Card Photo Competition. The image from Walgett photographer George Williams, entitled ‘Bridge Over Troubled Waters’, captures the old Two Mile Creek Rail Bridge at sunset, with the colours of the sky reflected in the water below. I have been overwhelmed by the quality and quantity of entries to this competition, with so many incredible photos highlighting just how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of the world. Due to the high quality of the finalists, I have decided to make a collage on the inside of my Christmas card with each of these photos – they were all too good not to include somehow. My annual Christmas card and fridge magnet calendar will be delivered to every household in the Parkes electorate during the first week of December, so keep an eye out for it in your mailbox next month.‘Bridge Over Troubled Waters’ by George Williams from Walgett is the winner of the 2022 Christmas Card Photo Competition. Photo credit: George Williams, George Williams Landscape Photography Bulk billing for MRIs achieved in Broken HillIt was wonderful to catch up with Heather Pearce from Thrive Medical Centre in Broken Hill recently to celebrate the fact that bulk billing has been made available for MRI scans at the centre. Thrive Medical Centre purchased this state-of-the-art MRI machine last year, but up until now, had been unable to bulk bill for the service as they first needed to obtain a Medicare licence.I have been working closely with Heather to push for this licence to be fast-tracked and I am so pleased that we have been able to achieve this outcome for the community of Broken Hill and surrounding areas. A win for first respondersThe Coalition Government backed in our essential first responders by providing $10 million over two years to charity organisation Fortem Australia, for essential mental health and wellbeing support for those assisting during natural disasters. But in Labor’s first Budget they sought to rip $8 million in funding from the organisation, jeopardising a planned expansion of services in Dubbo in the Parkes electorate.I was very pleased that the Albanese Government reconsidered its position and decided to reinstate the full $10 million which will provide crucial support for the brave men and women who come to the aid of our communities during natural disasters.

By ROY BUTLERG’day Folks,Well here it is nearly the end of the year, with only one more sitting week (at time of writing, but there are rumours that the reserve week will be activated - it remains to be seen). It has been a busy couple of weeks, doing what I can to help people in flood affected areas, in between attending awards ceremonies in Sydney one night and Broken Hill the next, before a hectic week in Parliament. But that is the life of the MP for Barwon.Broken Hill Business AwardsI was honoured to be invited to present awards at the Regional Development Australia Far West NSW Excellence in Business Awards last weekend in Broken Hill. I shared the presentation honours with some of the local businesses that sponsored the awards and with the Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton MP. I was also asked to say a few words, so I talked about how business is booming in Broken Hill, but that there are some bottlenecks that need to be worked on - including housing, health, roads, education, childcare and other critical infrastructure - to make sure that business continues to thrive.Congratulations to all the winners including Lee Checchin and her business The Old SaltBush Restaurant & Catering, which took out several awards, including Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality. It was a great night, with a bit of entertainment from local Diva Shelita Buffet and a talk by Lifesaver Anthony Harries Carroll, star of reality series Bondi Rescue. It felt great just to be in a room with people who are passionate about this vibrant, growing outback community, especially after the event was forced to take a break during the worst of the pandemic. Congratulations to the organisers, Regional Development Australia Far West NSW for such a successful and enjoyable evening, recognising the achievements of local businesses. It is great to see such pride in the city and such a mood of optimism for, and confidence in, Broken Hill’s bright future.FloodsOn my way to Broken Hill last weekend I met a bunch of great people from the Northern Territory’s SES and from the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service. They were headed for Menindee to help out with flood preparations. They came a long way from home to help out, but it was good to see that Menindee was getting some extra boots on the ground to shore up local emergency service crews. I wished them all the best of luck in their efforts to save homes and make people safe. The continuing flood crisis across the state has seen crews coming from all over Australia to help out at places like Menindee and the government has even had offers of help from other countries, including New Zealand.Elsewhere, including Lightning Ridge, Bourke, Walgett and Coonamble the floodwaters have already hit, with more rain predicted. I have heard stories about people desperate for fuel, food and other essential supplies, and I have worked with the SES and the government to try to sort out some of the supply issues. I urge everyone to follow the NSW SES flood bulletins online or call 132 500 if they are having difficulties. Yarrie LakeThe newly appointed Yarrie Lake Flora & Fauna Trust are kicking goals with news last week that they have been approved for funding from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund for the supply, installation and upgrade of the electricity transformer and incoming mains power supply at Yarrie Lake Reserve. Yarrie Lake is an important recreational location for locals and tourists, popular for swimming and boating. It is thought to have been formed by a falling meteor many millennia ago.This upgrade will ensure the safe supply of power to Yarrie Lake visitors, bringing it up to date to meet Australian Standards.Police AwardsThe week before last I was invited to attend the Rotary Clubs of NSW Police Officer of the Year Awards 2022. This is a great event that recognises the brilliant work of some of the people in law enforcement across the state. I want to congratulate some of the winners including Detective Senior Constable Nathan Gabriel, who won Police Officer of the Year, primarily for the part he played in Strike Force Heighway, an investigation into the manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs. For ten years I worked with the NSW Police Force, Western Region, so it was great to catch up with friends and former colleagues on the night, to help them celebrate their achievements. Good on all of you for the work you do in keeping the community safe. RoadsOne of the biggest issues facing country areas coming up to the next election will be fixing the state's roads. I have been bringing the matter before Parliament, with a Notice of Motion and a Question Without Notice and raising it more directly with ministers and the Premier. The disruption of supply chains to people isolated by floods, the inability for primary producers to transport their produce, makes this a matter of national urgency. It is a huge task facing councils and they can’t do it alone. It requires a bipartisan response at all levels of government.I have written to the Federal Defence Minister to ask him if he can work with local councils to deploy defence forces with equipment such as graders, rollers and trucks to help keep roads open and in good repair. I have also asked the Federal Minister for Local Government to support this request and spoken to the relevant state minister’s team, urging her to make the request for military help. But the roads need more than repair, they need to be built to better withstand future floods and to keep supply chains open. Last week in parliament I also introduced a notice of motion about road repair, asking about getting help for councils, building more flood resistant roads and ensuring communities are not isolated and supply chains cut the way they have been. I also put a question to the Premier on the same issue. We need a plan, involving all levels of government, that involves getting the roads open as soon as possible, but that also looks at making our infrastructure more flood proof.Dining at NSW Parliament HouseBeing an MP often makes it hard to find time to grab a feed, fortunately there are some good dining options at Macquarie St. The NSW Parliament has a strong history of catering to the palates of both parliamentarians and guests. Anyone who knows me, knows that I love good food. I don't get in the kitchen often, but it's my happy place. I always take an interest in chefs and their menus anywhere. At parliament I have enjoyed talking food with Executive Chef Vanessa Harcourt who has become a friend over this parliamentary term.I was meant to meet Vanessa and her husband out at Louth Races this year - she has family ties to the area, but rain put a stop to that. Vanessa is also the 2022 NSW Chef of the Year (pretty lucky to be able to chat with her when I am there). Vanessa oversees the restaurants and catering at Parliament. Last night I was at the launch of her book “Dining at New South Wales Parliament House", which looks at the history of food at the house, up to the present day, with some recipes of some of the dishes that have been put before people at parliament. Although Vanessa is leaving parliament, her legacy of good food will live on through the book and the standards she set for food at Parliament.Grants RecipientsCongratulations to the following Barwon Community Organisations who were successful in receiving funding for their projects in the 2022 Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants,administered by the Office of Responsible Gambling.• Country Universities Centre Far West will receive $26,000 for the installation of new Solar Panels.• Tibooburra Village Committee will receive $38,000 for a new generator.• Walgett Aboriginal Medical Centre will receive $168,000 for the refurbishment of their Dental Clinic.• Broken Hill Branch of the Australian Stock Horse Society will receive $96,000 for the installation of new Solar Panels.If you had a submission that was unsuccessful and still require funding contact my team at [email protected] and we can add you to our Grants and Funding mailing list, to keep an eye out for any suitable funding for your projects in the future. Barry Knight Last week in parliament I honoured Cobar resident Barry Knight with a Community Recognition Statement. Barry’s family have been in Cobar for almost 150 years and Barry is a true local, an Iron Ringer. Barry has held positions on countless community committees and has dedicated hours of his time serving the community.One major achievement is the Cobar Miner’s Memorial, commemorating miners who have lost their lives in Cobar mines or from mining related illness. The project took over seven years to complete. It officially opened on June 19, 2021.Barry would say it would not have been possible without Virginia ‘Ginny’ Knight, his wife. Ginny was with him every step of the way and was an amazing community contributor in her own right. Ginny once saw a fence full of poppies honouring war veterans. She thought Cobar needed its own version. It officially opened on August 13 this year. Ginny Knight passed away in October 2021, but her legacy lives on with the Poppy Fence and her contribution to other projects. Barry is not done yet. He is assisting with the new War Memorial for Cobar, along with other projects. I commend and thank Barry and Ginny Knight on their tireless efforts for their community.First term wrap-upIn my final Private Members Statement for the year in Parliament (which will also be the last one of my first term) I reflected on my time in office, so far. It has been quite a term, beginning with the worst drought in the history of European settlement in Australia, followed by a mouse plague, a one in a hundred-year pandemic, and now floods. I have worked hard to secure for my electorate drought relief, reimbursement for their fight against the mouse plague, I was able to get the government to change health orders that were patently unsuited to regional areas and I have been working hard to get the government to take action for flood relief and fixing the flood damaged roads. I was also able to rattle off a list of other things I have done for my electorate, from securing a water supply for Emmdale Roadhouse, an extension for a consulting room at Wanaaring Health Centre, and working to have two prisons that closed at Ivanhoe and Brewarrina repurposed, the former as accommodation for workers from a mineral sand mine and the latter as a rehab/cultural centre. There is plenty more to do, including rebuilding roads, fixing the rural health system, improving telecommunications and getting more housing. I stand ready to continue to work hard for Barwon, should my constituents choose to re-elect me.School visitOne of the best parts of my job is meeting students from my electorate when they come for excursions to NSW Parliament at Macquarie St in Sydney. Today I met with students from Warren Central School, giving them a bit of an overview of what a local Member of Parliament does and how the work of a parliamentarian is mostly about building trust and relationships. I also sat in on the very entertaining and informative presentation given by parliamentary staff, which included a mock debate on a bill to extend school hours - which was, not surprisingly, voted down. It is great to see youngsters from Western New South Wales getting an idea of what goes on in Parliament. I hope some of them will be inspired to delve deeper into how Parliament works and become leaders in their own community.Travelling BarwonOne of the questions I was asked by the students from Warren was “Do you have a private plane?” The answer is no, partly because the parliamentary budget doesn’t stretch to that, but partly because I prefer to drive. Although there are times when I have to fly to get to places on time, I like to make sure that I get to all of the small places in between the bigger towns. But I am often asked what it takes to be the member for an electorate the size of mine. It can be quite an exercise in logistics, persistence and endurance. With an area of 356,292 square kilometres, Barwon covers 44 percent of the state, which encompasses 13 local government areas, with multiple schools and hospitals. Given that it can take over 11 hours to drive from one part of the electorate to another (From Silverton in the far west to Maules Creek in the east it takes 11 hrs and 40 minutes), some days I have no option but to drive or fly long distances and often have to go from one event to the next with little time to stop and rest in between. Just recently I had a day where I drove from my home in Mendooran to Sydney to catch a plane to fly with the Premier to flood affected areas, before flying back to Sydney just in time to change into a suit to attend police awards, which went until late in the night, before having to get up early the next morning to fly to Broken Hill for business awards, which went late into the night, before getting up the next morning to swim with a local swimming club before boarding a plane back to Sydney to be ready for parliament the next day. Any candidate who wants to try to win the seat needs to be prepared to spend most of their time away from home, a lot of it on the road. They need to be prepared to spend long hours fielding media enquiries, taking phone calls, being up to date with the latest computer platforms and communications systems to create a virtual mobile office so that some work can still be done while you are on the move.It is the most complex electorate in NSW, the job of representing Barwon is made harder by the long distances and long hours, long periods away from home. But it can be very rewarding when you know you are doing everything you can for the community.