There are cautious hopes for change for our region's most vulnerable children, after the New South Wales Government's 2025-26 budget set aside a landmark $1.2 billion for a Child Protection Package. Part of the package, will be a $191.5 million investment to recruit more than 200 new caseworkers and retain 2,126 caseworkers with higher pay and more specialised training, including 100 new leading caseworker roles.  In Western New South Wales, recruitment and retention of caseworkers is particularly difficult. Several towns in Western NSW face persistent understaffing issues, including Brewarrina, Nyngan, Coonamble and Bourke. There are 246 caseworkers in the Western NSW district, out of a total of 279 funded positions. This means 33 of these positions (or 12 per cent) are vacant. The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) advised that Walgett and Coonamble are both staffed with full-time caseworkers, however due to the nature of their work and the vastness of the region, they often have to travel and are not always present in the office. While the statewide caseworker vacancies have decreased by seven per cent, problems persist with retention. Members of the Public Service Association (PSA) union recently accepted a new caseworker award, looking to increase workers' pay by three per cent and give overtime provisions so that staff are no longer forfeiting hours. The next pay period after 1 July 2025, will see a salary transition for caseworkers. But will the increased pay be enough to attract caseworkers to Western NSW? Regional Organiser from the PSA Tom Hopper says while the pay increase will make the salary competitive, more support is needed to recruit workers to Western NSW. "The uplift for new workers has made the job competitive again in terms of salary however there needs to be incentives to entice people away from the city the same way that police and teachers do," he said. "Staff turnover is very high in Western NSW given there are very few supports in place for new caseworkers. "Community Services owns properties in a number of town in Western NSW but refuse to utilise them to make it more attractive for staff. "In Walgett the house they own has fallen into disrepair and cannot now be lived in without major renovations," he said.Tom Hopper. [IMAGE: The Daily Telegraph]While specific data on Western NSW isn't available, statewide the DCJ estimates 80 per cent of new caseworkers leave within two years of being on the job. Ultimately the staff shortage has an impact on vulnerable children. Between January and March 2025, in the Western, Far West, and Murrumbidgee areas of NSW, a total of 15, 787 children were considered at significant risk of harm, but only 2, 844 (or 18 per cent total) were seen by a caseworker. DCJ is actively trying to recruit staff in Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar, Condobolin, Coonabarabran, Coonamble, Nyngan and Walgett.

There's concern within Western Plains communities about how changes to the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025–26 will affect people with a disability living in rural, regional and remote areas. NDIS pricing changes from 1 July 2025 will include:Travel claims cut by 50 per centPhysiotherapy rates dropping by $10 an hour, from $193.99 to $183.99Podiatry and dietetics rates dropping by $5 an hour from $193.99 to $188.99Local providers say the reductions will make it harder to deliver services to the people who need them most. Rachel Kerin, physiotherapist and Director of Kerin Health, says the changes were made without any consultation to providers.Kerin Health is an overall provider based in Parkes which provides outreach in the form of physiotherapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy to places in Central West and Western NSW, including Narromine and Condobolin. Rachel said providers with Kerin health travel an average of two hours a day to see clients, and the 50 per cent reduction in claimable travel allowance is having a big impact. "We've already had occupational therapists and speech pathologists from Dubbo and Orange pull out of providing services," she said. "We have had therapists from Sydney who used to fly-in pull out."Rachel Kerin. [IMAGE: Kerin Health]. Already, the reduction has made things unviable for some businesses, but Rachel says Kerin Health will continue to service small rural and regional towns. Federal MP for Parkes Jamie Chaffey attended a roundtable hosted by Marathon Health, which included seven NDIS service providers from Western NSW, who all expressed concern about the changes to the transport arrangements. “It was distressing to hear the catastrophic impact these changes could mean for people who rely on these services to help them in their everyday lives,” said Mr Chaffey. "Providers told me this change could mean providing services to people in hard-to-reach places could simply be impossible. "People with health challenges in remote areas already face many more hurdles than those in metropolitan areas. This is yet another blow, and one that could mean the end to some in-home services. "We have called on the Minister for Disability and the NDIS for a three-month moratorium of these changes to allow consultation and planning." Rachel has advocated for a special rural travel allowance because of the affects the change has had on small towns in rural and remote areas, but the NDIS has implemented travel claims as a blanket rule. "If people can't access the support they need, it puts a further strain on the health system, on emergency departments, and on schools," said Rachel. "The Government will undoubtedly see the negative impact of this decision, and how it disproportionately affects rural NDIS participants and the provision of their healthcare."

Brodie Carmichael and the Aussie Freestyle Motocross team are coming to Warren to show off some of their epic tricks tomorrow, Tuesday 15 July. They'll be performing a full freestyle motocross demonstration with an Australian competition ramp, and talking to the crowd about the importance of mental health. Carmichael says the topic is one that is close to his heart and he likes to support activities that a promote health and wellbeing for country people. The visit is part of Guiding Rural Outback Wellbeing (GROW) program, hosted by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), which aims to reduce the gap between metropolitan healthcare versus rural and regional healthcare.Program Co-Ordinator and Community Engagement Officer Luke Braund, says the event is aimed at starting conversation around mental health, drug and alcohol education, and connecting services to communities. "Before GROW day started individual services were holding their own days, and RFDS came up with the idea for a collective day for all services to come out," he explained. "Now everyone can provide their services and chats."A previous GROW Day. [IMAGE: Royal Flying Doctor Service]. People within the community will be able to access to health and wellbeing advice, resources, and referrals at GROW. There'll be over 25 registered services on the day, including Marathon Health, Hear Our Heart ear bus project, Barnados, and NSW Health. Brodie Carmichael and the Aussie FMX team will be working with mental health professionals from the RFDS to discuss simple ways we can ensure our mental health and wellbeing.Brodie Carmichael signing autographs. [IMAGE: Aussie FMX]. Carmichael said he is passionate about educating young people and inspiring them to find follow their goals. "Young people are the future of the country. I want every kid in Australia to find their dream and passion, and go after it." Growing up on a farm near the small town of Drake in Northern NSW, Carmichael said he witnessed firsthand the effects of drug and alcohol abuse on young people. "I grew up in a small town, and I had a close group of friends, and some of them were really talented, but they went down the wrong path," he said "They weren't bad people. I think if they had the proper influences, they would have a different outcome." He says his passion for motocross was a major motivator in his life, and kept him away from drugs and alcohol. "I was really lucky because one of my friends took me to freestyle motocross live, and I was so far from them in skill level it wasn't even funny," he said. "But I had a couple of people who told me, if you work hard you can really achieve it. So I had that passion which motivated me and kept me on the right track. "I truly think if everyone did followed their passion the world would be a better place."  There'll also be lots of school holiday fun, a BBQ, footy and laser tag. GROW is on at Victoria Park, Udora Road in Warren tomorrow and attendance is free.

A teenage boy will face court today following an investigation into the use of unregistered motorcycles on public roads in Coonamble.About 3:30pm yesterday (Sunday 13 July 2025), police attended a premises in King Street, Coonamble where a teenage boy was located allegedly hiding in a roof cavity.During a subsequent search, officers attached to Orana Mid-Western Police District located a small amount of Methylamphetamine in the boy’s underwear.A Honda CRF450 motorcycle was also seized.The 15-year-old boy was charged withuse unregistered, registrable vehicle Class A on roaduse uninsured motor vehicle on roadrider without helmet ride with one passenger without helmetnever licensed person drive vehicle on roaddrive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerouspossess prohibited drug andbreach of bail.He was refused bail to appear before a Children’s Court today, Monday 14 July 2025.

The Lake Cargelligo’s sewerage treatment plant will get a $3million makeover with the NSW Government announcing an allocation in the 2025-26 Budget to restore vital water and sewer infrastructure to flood-affected towns.The devastating flood which struck communities across the central west in 2022 caused significant damage to council-managed water and sewer pipelines.The funding is part of the recovery program and plans to reconfigure infrastructure to be more flood-resilient.Lachlan's shire deputy mayor Megan Mortimer said ''Lake Cargelligo’s sewerage treatment works were overwhelmed during the 2022 floods and suffered significant damage."We could never do this without this funding."It will allow the works to be repaired and enhanced, improving durability for the residents for Lake Cargelligo and reducing pollution risk to the adjacent Lachlan River. ''Ms Mortimer said her community is grateful.IMAGE: Lachlan Shire Council NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin in Parkes said she had seen some of the damaged infrastructure first-hand.“Reliable water and sewer services are things people in the cities often take for granted," Minister Saffin said."Our regional communities shouldn’t be left worse off after disasters. Today this starts to get fixed." Barwon MP Roy Butler said it was timely funding for Lake Cargelligo."Regional communities have long faced underinvestment in this vital infrastructure. In many areas, sewerage and domestic water systems are outdated, risking residents' liveability, while sewerage treatment has often caused disputes between councils and the EPA.“I am very pleased to see this investment in our regions, and I will continue working with the NSW Government on this crucial infrastructure." Other key projects announced include:$22.9 million to rebuild the Lake Endeavour pipeline in Parkes Shire$300,000 to Cabonne Shire Council for repairs to damaged sewer pumping stations $300,000 to Central Tablelands Water for repairs to water services in EugowraThe Minister said these investments are part of the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to climate resilience, disaster recovery and stronger infrastructure across regional NSW.The funding follows close collaboration between the NSW Government and flood-affected councils, local water authorities and local stakeholders and responds to community advocacy for long-overdue infrastructure support.

Recent news from NSW Government’s Heritage Grant Program has seen $487,825 worth of funding awarded to fourteen sites or heritage programs aimed at conserving local history and upgrading and preserving historical sites in the western area.The funds help to preserve, promote and realise the value of heritage of items and historic places, while creating awareness of the value of heritage in both cultural understanding and local economies. In the western plains, some groups are able put grants towards protecting specific sites and making them more accessible to the public, while councils are assisted to identify heritage assets, provide expert advice and distribute small grants to help owners of historic buildings and sites repair and maintain them.This year projects will take place across a multitude of western area towns and Member for Barwon Roy Butler is thrilled about this for each community.“I am delighted to announce the Barwon recipients of the NSW Government's Heritage Grants Program and look forward to their progress and completion,” said Mr Butler.The recipients are:Giru Ngurra (Warm Home), Warren Macquarie Local Aboriginal Land Council.All Saints Anglican Church Condobolin Lachlan Shire.2025 - 2027, The Heart of NSW - Local Heritage Funding - Lachlan Shire.Updated Local Heritage Study and Nyngan Town Hall Action Plan – Bogan Shire Council.Council Heritage Services - Bourke Shire Council.Old Towers Drug Co building in Bourke.Brewarrina Heritage Advisory Service - Brewarrina Shire CouncilGilgandra Local Heritage Initiatives Gilgandra Shire CouncilSmall Heritage Grants Program 2025-2027 - Walgett Shire CouncilSmall Heritage Grants and Heritage Advisor Program - Warrumbungle Shire Council.Coonamble Heritage Reflections - Coonamble Shire Council.“We were very pleased to have been allocated some Heritage Grant funding after our application earlier this year,” said Derek Francis General Manager Bogan Shire Council.Bogan Shire Council General Manager Derek Francis - Image Angie White.“At our November meeting council considered a report from me on the condition of the Nyngan Town Hall as well as a Notice of Motion from Councillor Emily Stanton that we apply for the grant to do an updated Heritage Study of the Bogan Shire LGA.“This study will build on an earlier study (2012) to identify, conserve, promote and celebrate heritage within the LGA and will involve community consultation.“The Nyngan Town Hall is a very important community asset but in 2023 Council closed the Hall on discovery of damage to parts of the ceiling caused by a roof leak.“Council engaged a structural engineer to carry out a comprehensive inspection, and the report received prompted a discussion with the NSW Public Works Heritage Section and asking them to develop a Heritage Asset Action Plan to guide the repair and preservation of the Nyngan Town Hall, whereby BSC is providing 50% of the total cost of the plans,” said Mr Francis.Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place - Image Warren Shire Council.Senior Project Officer for Warren Local Aboriginal Land Council, Fleur Magick Dennis was successful in obtaining an $80,000 grant from Heritage NSW towards the Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place."Culturally our Country, our home, our Ngurra, our special places require respectful visitation from the people who belong to Country,” said Ms Dennis. "The visitation keeps our place "warm", keeps our place spiritually well. “Giru Ngurra (Warm Home) project is the upgrade of the pedestrian pathways at the Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place from the current gravel to an asphalt surface. "This will allow for better access for wheelchairs, walking frames, mobility scooters and emergency services. It will increase access and safety for visitors to our special place,” said Ms Dennis.The Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place is a highly significant place for Aboriginal people of Warren and surrounding region. “Historically, Aboriginal people lived at the site, gave birth at the site, created carved trees & ceremonial places and buried our loved ones,” said Ms Dennis.“In contemporary times the Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place is used by our local & regional Aboriginal community for special community events such as NAIDOC, for cultural gatherings and workshops, for cultural projects, for ceremonies and for continuation of our cultural practices.”The Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place is also visited extensively by the non-Aboriginal community by both domestic and international visitors for cultural education, cultural tourism and recreation. “The increasing visitation to the reserve by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal visitors since the introduction of the pathway and interpretive signage is a positive for our community and our Country.Uncle George Riley, Chairperson of Warren Local Aboriginal Land Council and volunteer caretaker of the Beemunnel - Image WLALC.Uncle George Riley, Chairperson of Warren Local Aboriginal Land Council and volunteer caretaker of the Beemunnel for over two decades commented "It feels terrific to get the funding to upgrade the pathway because the Beemunnel means everything to me and my family."

A recent eSafety report has shone a spotlight on high rates of exposure to online harm amongst children 10-15 years old after a survey of 2,629 children.The report titled ‘Digital use and risk: Online platform engagement among children aged 10 to 15’, is the latest in eSafety’s ongoing series of reports presenting findings from its Keeping Kids Safe Online survey.Frightening statistics give parents and authority figures cause for concern with almost 3 in 4 children (74%) having seen or heard content associated with harm online at some point, while 1 in 2 has been cyber bullied.According to the report 96 per cent of children in this age demographic had used at least one social media platform, and a majority had used a communication platform to chat, message, call or video call others (94%), with 7 out of 10 saying they had been exposed to harmful content.Almost 3 in 4 children (74%) having seen or heard content associated with harm online.Such things as cyberbullying, violent videos, image-based abuse, hateful material, dangerous online challenges and messages promoting disordered eating and even suicide were witnessed by those taking part in the study.A disturbing 1 in 7 told of online grooming from adults or children up to four years older than them.Social media was the most common platform where children reported recently encountering most online harms, and many children experienced harm on communication and gaming platforms.Trans and gender-diverse children faced a higher level of problems across the board, while girls were more likely to be cyberbullied and to experience non-consensual tracking, monitoring or harassment.Western area Psychologist and School Counsellor Astrid Linke said this problem is becoming more apparent in young people."We’re seeing more and more young people impacted by the harmful content they’re exposed to online—often before they have the emotional maturity to process it. "These platforms are shaping their sense of self, relationships, and mental health in ways that can be damaging. There’s a real urgency for stronger protections, more open conversations at school and at home, and education that empowers kids to navigate the digital world safely," said Ms Linke.Social media is the most common platform for harm to children.“It’s a worry isn't it, but social media is here to stay unfortunately,” says one western area teacher and mother of four teenagers.“I think the best thing we can do is to help our kids and students understand what they might come across.“I’ve thought about using parental controls more, but they can be tricky, and I think could potentially backfire.“We have a strict policy of no phones in bedrooms, but that is as far as we go.“Communication is the key as it is with all things, encouraging open conversations so that they are comfortable coming to you if they’re unsure about something and of course setting a good example and modelling how to treat themselves and others with respect, this should hopefully have a flow on to their online world,” she said.‘This is a real worry for parents” said a western area father of two teenagers.“Kids are so computer literate that they know how to do everything and are easily able to log onto sites and do all types of things. Add to that the new AI technology and kids are at risk of being harmed in ways we never imagined.“Country kids are just as at risk, with a lot of time on their hands in some areas with not much for kids to do.Keeping kids busy and off social media one way of keeping them safe.“We try to keep our kids involved in lots of sports and activities, so they have less time to go online because of their busy schedules.“Keeping lines of communication open and being vigilant with screen time are other things we do to keep our kids safe,” he said.The eSafety Commissioner website has resources for children to log onto for help or advice in situations that may arise.The website has a dedicated First Nations section and welcomes children asking for help.Parents are encouraged to log into the Parent section for advice and tips to keep kids safe.

Mention native vegetation management and many jaws tighten, as landholders brace for a new round of rules and regulations that could impact their activities.The NSW government’s proposed amendments to the Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code 2018 aim to improve environmental outcomes on private rural land.While these changes promise long-term benefits for the environment, they also bring potential challenges for farmers and landholders.The government's consultation on the changes began on 6 June and the opportunity to comment through their website was recently extended to 1 August. The amendments could lead to long-term sustainability by improving land health and enhancing farming productivity in the future.The latest changes also promise clearer guidelines, to make it easier for farmers to comply with regulations and avoid confusion.A stronger focus on management of invasive species may help protect crops and reduce the spread of harmful pests, while larger set-aside areas for native vegetation could benefit farming through better biodiversity and natural pollination.“The proposed amendments to the Land Management Code are refinements of existing settings to ensure that the land management framework maintains the right balance between agricultural production and environmental protection," said a Local Land Services spokesperson.However, there are concerns.The requirement for larger set-aside areas risks reducing the amount of arable land available for farming activities, constraining farmers looking to expand or optimise their land use.The implementation of the new rules may also bring added costs, requiring farmers to invest in new practices or undergo additional monitoring.Adjusting to the changes could be difficult, especially for farmers who have been following the existing rules for years.A local Tottenham farmer expressed frustration with the lack of clarity in the draft Native Vegetation Management Plan."The language and structure of the document are not accessible to the average landholder, making it challenging to fully understand the practical implications for land use and management”, he commented."This lack of clarity, combined with what appears to be an overly regulatory approach, raises serious concerns about how it may limit opportunities to improve land productivity while continuing to care for the environment.”The amendments are part of the broader NSW Plan for Nature, a government initiative released in 2024 that builds on the reviews of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Local Land Services Act 2013.The plan outlines a series of steps to protect biodiversity and improve land management practices across the state, with the amended Code playing a key role in this transition.However, landholders argue that they are dedicated to preserving the land and these changes risk undermining the very practices that have kept the land sustainable."When did farmers become the enemy and why are we treated as though we have no care for the future of our land?," asked one western plains farmer."We have been here for six generations; my family has cared for the land and handed it down to each generation with a love and passion for Australia and farming.”While the changes are designed to protect the environment, those likely to be most affected say there is an absence of clear, accessible communication from the government about the changes and are calling for face to face information sessions."What's most concerning is the limited and inadequate consultation process," another farmer said."It's extremely difficult for landholders to provide thoughtful constructive feedback when there has been so little meaningful engagement."Farmers who spoke to the Western Plains App say they are left struggling to understand how these amendments will directly affect them, and without the chance for a proper two-way conversation, feel their voices are being overlooked.The public consultation is open online until 1 August for farmers and the wider community to give their opinions on the proposed amendments.To read the discussion paper and provide feedback on the proposed amendments click here.

Nyngan’s Benjamin Loiacono says he was surprised and honoured by his nomination and becoming a finalist for the Emergency Service Rotary NSW Community Service Awards.He serves as a Paramedic and Station Officer at Nyngan Station for NSW Ambulance.Over more than 23 years in emergency services, Ben has held critical roles including Zone Manager and Duty Operations Manager, excelling in clinical oversight, mentoring, and staff welfare.His nominator said he is widely respected for his exemplary leadership, commitment to community care, and tireless service. They said Ben consistently goes above and beyond, offering operational support and peer assistance even during personal time. He notably sacrificed leave to support colleagues after the sudden passing of a fellow paramedic in a remote town—an act emblematic of his selfless dedication.“It's challenging and rewarding and sometimes in critical situations we have to bring dedicated RFS and Police to assist us over my nine years here, everything is community connecting and working together.," Ben told the Western Plains App. Beyond his official duties, Ben contributes extensively to the Nyngan community as a volunteer with the RFS and a board member of the local RSL.‘’I stress to RFS volunteers coming through it's all about our community and giving back and so rewarding. "I have been a volunteer for 23 years for RFS and I love being involved.’‘’The RSL is again another way of being part of this tight knit community and the club is central for the town," he said.Benjamin’s nomination says 'His innovations, such as staff recognition and leadership development initiatives, have improved service culture and staff morale across the Central and Far West Zone. 'Ben embodies compassion, resilience, and quiet leadership. 'His unwavering service— even in multiple uniforms—is a source of inspiration to colleagues and the broader community alike. 'For his extraordinary commitment and impact, Benjamin Loiacono is a deserving nominee for this award.'He has a partner in Nyngan and five dogs."They can keep you busy," he joked.There are four finalists in the Ambulance section of the awards, Natalie Boyd from Taree, Phi Hoey from Southern NSW, Simone Sutherland from Manildra along with Benjamin Loiacano.Award sections include NSW Fire and Rescue, Rural Fire Service , NSW Surf Lifesaving, Volunteer Rescue and NSW Ambulance.Winners for each service, plus two special overall winners, and the young volunteer winner, will be announced at an Awards presentation on Saturday 2 August 2025 at Bankstown Sports Club. The overall winners for NSW will then represent the State at the National Awards to be held in October at Government House, Yarralumla, hosted by our Governor General, Her Excellency Samantha Joy Mostyn AC.

Gone are the days of pacing at the front gate, peering down a dusty road wondering where the school bus has got to. Parents across the Western Plains, from Coonamble to Walgett and everywhere in between can now track their child’s school bus in real-time, thanks to a major technological leap in NSW’s regional transport system.The Transport Connected Bus (TCB) Program, now fully rolled out, has fitted all 3,010 contracted buses operating in rural and regional NSW with real-time GPS tracking and automatic passenger counting technology. This includes buses servicing the Western Plains, where travelers often face long distances and unpredictable conditions.The upgrade allows passengers to see exactly where their bus is, when it will arrive, and how full it is, all from their smartphone.Passengers can now:Track their bus in real-time using apps like Opal Travel or the Transport for NSW Trip PlannerAccess interactive maps, timetables, and live service updatesView how full their bus is before it arrivesPlan smoother journeys with more accurate arrival and capacity informationThe system brings rural and regional areas in line with Greater Sydney and Outer Metropolitan regions, providing equal access to the same smart technology city commuters have used for years.There's no excuse for running late with real time bus movements available to all.The program was rolled out in three phases, starting in July 2020.Phase 1 introduced real-time tracking to services in Bega, Dubbo and Coffs Harbour.Phase 2 followed in September 2022, expanding to 14 regional areas including Albury, Bathurst, Griffith, Orange, Tamworth, and Wagga Wagga.Phase 3 completed in April 2025, connecting a further 1,738 buses and 1,937 regular and school services across rural and regional NSW.In total, the system now supports more than 3,880 routes and 316,000 kilometres of daily bus travel. The TCB Program involved collaboration with 451 contracted bus operators, ranging from large fleet companies to small, family-run businesses — and was completed ahead of schedule.As well as benefiting passengers, the technology gives Transport for NSW and bus operators new tools to manage services, improve scheduling, and keep buses running on time.It was even used successfully during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred to promptly cancel services on the NSW North Coast, ensuring passenger safety.Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said the upgrade was about ensuring regional areas were not left behind.“As someone who represents a regional community, I know how frustrating it is for regional commuters and public transport users who feel left behind when it comes to accessing real-time data," she said.IMAGE: facebook"No matter where you live in NSW, you deserve the same quality public transport experience."“With more than 40 million regional bus journeys every year, every passenger deserves a smooth, reliable trip."These upgrades eliminate the guesswork, now you'll know exactly where your bus is and when it will arrive.”Minister Aitchison says the government is committed to equipping regional areas with the same world-class transport technology as the biggest cities.To plan your next journey or track a bus in real time, visit transportnsw.info/trip or download a public transport app from transportnsw.info/apps.

A child is in a stable condition in hospital after allegedly being shot in the leg during a hunting trip near Bourke overnight.An investigation was commenced after a nine-year-old boy suffering a gunshot wound to his right thigh, was taken to Bourke Hospital about 7.15pm yesterday, Friday 11 July 2025.Officers attached to Central North Police District have been told the boy was injured while on a hunting trip with nine others at a property about 40 kilometres north of Bourke.Police have spoken with the group, which compirses four boys, aged between nine and 15, and five men, aged between 37 and 63. All are from Victoria.Inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are underway with 17 firearms – including air rifles, rifles and a shotgun – seized. Inquiries into the group’s firearms licences are ongoing.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

An eclectic line-up, a special venue and a unique opportunity to experience the depth of home-grown musical talent of western plains.It's at Lightning Ridge and one of those opportunities is tonight, Saturday 12 July.If you're looking for a warm inviting night under the stars surrounded by great music and fire buckets then it's time to get amongst the The Hungry Spirit's Open Mic Night.On the second Saturday of every month the Tin Camp at THE Hungry Spirit will host artists from all over the region, totalling 30 plus performers, and for only a gold coin entry you can enjoy the show.Supported by Lightning Ridge Bowling Club and with funding received from Regional Arts Australia, Regional Arts NSW and the Regional Arts Fund, organiser Rebel Black said it will be a night not to be missed. Rebel Black Organiser of Open Mic Night at THE Hungry Spirit - Image Ms Black.“We did an expression of interest late last year and had more than 20 applications and were able to offer 8 acts a headline opportunity, and all but one act are regional and remote artists,” said Ms Black.“Genres have varied from hip hop to folk acoustic and rock, and artists are coming from places including Coonabarabran, Warren, Dubbo, Tamworth, the open mic has a $200 prize for people’s choice, and we always get some great talent appearing. . “After moving our events to a Saturday, we now get a bigger audience and those who come along are from young kids to over 80-year-olds.“The Tin Camp is designed as a safe space for sharing and is the concept of Goodooga born Indigenous artist Warren Mason and an important community gathering place,” said Ms Black.Headline artist Jane A Nao - Image Ms A Naoi.Headline artist Jane A Naoi, said she feels incredibly grateful to be sharing her music in Lightning Ridge, and sharing the stage with such talented young First Nations artists."The Hungry Spirit and Tin Camp Studios have created a wonderful space for creativity and I'm so pleased that Regional Arts Fund, Outback Arts and all of the other contributors are making these nights of live music possible," said Ms Naoi.The Hungry Spirit and Tin Camp - Image THE Hungry Spirit.A highlight of the night will be a group of students from Warraan Widji Arts Young Mob who will travel to Lightning Ridge to take part, with the WWA Wayilwan choir and Budjirriwan band members busy in preparation to take the stage.WWA Wayilwan choir and Budjirriwan band members practising for the event - Image Warraan Widji Arts.A Warraan Widji representative praised those kids involved.“WWA Wayilwan choir and Budjirriwan band members are dedicated to reawakening Wayilwan language in our community and beyond. We are so proud,” she said.Lots of practise for the WWA Wayilwan choir and Budjirriwan band members - Image Warraan Widji Arts.“We have a large cohort of youth coming from Warren for their first big performance and it's so special for everyone - the audience and the artists,” said Ms Black.“We are proud to be able to create such a welcoming and supportive space to offer a great experience for emerging artists and acts to get exposure and experience and we are especially looking forward to the group from Warren for their first big performance it's so special for everyone - the audience and the artists.“We are working on securing further financial support so we can expand on the opportunity for rural and remote artists and audiences.".

A crisp, sunny winter’s day drew around 100 young agricultural enthusiasts from across the region to the Trangie Agricultural Research Centre on Monday, July 7, for the annual Trangie Junior Judging Day.Competitors aged 6 to 21 came from as far afield as Gilgandra, Coonabarabran, Dubbo, Condobolin, and Bathurst to join locals from Trangie, Warren, Narromine and Tottenham.They assessed a wide array of agricultural products including beef and meat sheep, Merino sheep, cotton samples, wool fleeces and grains, gaining hands-on experience under expert guidance.Kath Donoghue, Livestock Research Officer at Trangie Agricultural Research Centre said the competition has deep roots in the region.“The earliest date on the trophy is 1940, so we’ve now got third-generation families competing,” she said. “It’s great to see the tradition continue.”Although the emphasis is firmly on education, there’s plenty of healthy competition involved.“It’s not a formal school event as its held in the school holidays, most competitors come as individuals and it’s a wonderful learning opportunity,” Ms Donoghue said.“We had about 100 kids this year, and the day is really about building their confidence in assessing agricultural products and communicating their decisions clearly.”Competitors were also given guidance in public speaking, a critical part of junior judging events, thanks to Meg Dunford.“Meg does a fantastic job helping the kids feel more confident when they’re speaking in front of a crowd. "That’s a huge part of judging, explaining why you made the decisions you did,” Ms Donoghue said.Participants don’t automatically qualify for future events, but winners’ names are submitted to be eligible for state-level junior judging finals in Sydney.“They can go on to Dubbo next and possibly qualify for the state finals,” Ms Donoghue said. “We make sure those opportunities are there for them.”And while not everyone walks away with a title, the rewards go beyond ribbons according to Ms Donoghue. “The champions win $100 and the reserves get $50, but it’s really about the experience and giving it a go."There’s a lot of pride in taking part,” she said.In addition to the young judges, a wide network of breeders and producers helped make the day a success.Livestock was supplied by Egelabra Merino Stud, Double C Australian Whites, and NSW DPI.Cotton Australia organised cotton displays from local growers, while agricultural products were contributed by GrainCorp and Quality Wool.Receiving ribbons for their judging skills were Mary Westwood from Gilgandra, Harrison Baker from Dubbo and Hannah Flynn from Trangie.“This event wouldn't be possible without the incredible support from the community and sponsors, including local breeders,” Ms Donoghue said.Results of the Trangie Junior Judging Day were as follows:Champions of the Day:Overall Champion & Senior Champion: Hannah Flynn, TrangieReserve Senior Champions: Mary Westwood, Gilgandra; Harrison Baker, DubboJunior Champion: Jasper Smith, TrangieReserve Junior Champion: Amelia Smith, TrangieAustin Steer Memorial Award: Rose Flick, CumnockSub-Junior Most Enthusiastic Award: Oliver Cosgrove, Warren and Mac McRae, TrangiePointscore Champions:Overall Pointscore Champion: Heidi Flynn, TrangieSenior Runners-up: Mary Westwood and Harrison BakerJunior Winner: Jasper SmithJunior Runner-up: Amelia SmithEncouragement & Memorial Awards:Austin Steer Memorial Award Winner: Olivia Mitchell, BathurstJunior Encouragement Awards: Charlie Cumberland, Nelly Tink, Ruby Milgate, Anna Orr, Hattie McRae and Gus McRaeSenior Encouragement Awards: Isabelle Willis, Maggie Willis, Ryan Bell, Ruby Bevan and Emmaline LittlerMost Enthusiastic Sub-Juniors:Joint Winners: Oliver Cosgrove and Mac McRaeThe day was not just a test of agricultural knowledge but a celebration of rural youth, skills development, and community pride.For many local youth, it’s just the beginning of a bright future in agriculture!

Police are appealing for information following the break in of two businesses and a vehicle theft in Cobar earlier this year.Officers from Central North Police District began an investigation after an unknown man stole a white van from Tindera Street, Cobar, about 11.15pm on Sunday 16 March 2025.About 2.20am on Monday 17 March 2025, the van was seen outside a service station on Marshall and Bourke Street, Cobar.A man forced entry to the business and stole confectionery items.About five minutes later, the van was driven to a supermarket on Marshall Street, Cobar, where a man smashed a door and forced entry.The man stole tobacco products and alcohol. He is described as wearing a blue hooded jumper, black tracksuit pants and black coloured sneakers.Anyone who information on this man is urged to contact police. IMAGE: NSW Police.Police located the vehicle burnt out in bushland near Pipeline Road, Cobar on Thursday 20 March 2025.As investigations continue, police have released images of a man who might assist with inquiries.

In May this year the New South Wales Government announced reforms that would allow general practitioners (GPs) to treat and diagnose attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Now the reforms are coming into play. From September, GPs across the state will be able to resupply prescriptions with ADHD medication to their patients without the need for a formal arrangement with a psychiatrist or paediatrician.  Coonamble-based psychologist Stephanie Ryan says the change would be a game-changer for people living in rural and regional communities. "Access to psychiatrists and paediatricians can involve long waitlists — often six months to over a year — and travel to major centres," she said. "Empowering local GPs with the ability to diagnose and manage ADHD will make it easier for families to access support earlier and more conveniently." Mrs Ryan also said the streamlined diagnosis would be beneficial for the health and development of children with ADHD. Stephanie Ryan of Psychologic Solutions. "Children with clear ADHD presentations may be able to start treatment under the care of their GP, which is critical because delays in intervention can have serious impacts on a child’s learning, self-esteem, and social development," Mrs Ryan said.  "This change also has the potential to reduce pressure on specialist services and improve mental health outcomes more broadly by reducing wait times. "Ultimately, it’s a step in the right direction for equity in mental health care — particularly for regional and rural communities." The NSW Government is currently accepting expressions of interest for GPs who wish to undertake training to be able to diagnose ADHD. NSW Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said the reforms were all about fairness. “We are building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income. No more waiting lists just to refill your script. No more reaching for your credit card to access essential healthcare," she said “These reforms are about fairness. Your ability to get help for ADHD shouldn’t depend on how much money you have or whether you can afford a specialist appointment.”Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson. IMAGE: NSW Labor Further training to enable GPs to diagnose and initiate medication will begin by the end of 2025. 

Collarenebri Bore Baths were supposed to be a big tourism drawcard when they opened in September 2024. They garnered national attention, being featured on ABC's Landline program. But after only two months of being open Walgett Shire Council was forced to shut them down. After months of planning, work will soon kick off to get the bore baths back in action.The Collerenabri bore baths were initially slated to run between four to six hours per day, with continuous water circulation lasting eight minutes before being discharged and replaced. The excess water then flowed to the Walgett Shire Council's evaporation ponds, which are located in the sewer treatment plant. However, the evaporation ponds were not designed to handle such large volumes of water. Under advice from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Walgett Shire Council shut the plant in November 2024. Many within the community are frustrated with the situation. Local publican Phyllis Dunn said the closure is having an impact on the town's tourism economy. "We get at least 30 people per week asking about bore baths," she said. "People are saying 'we were going to stay here, but now that the bore baths closed we're just going to pass through'. ""It's a shame the publicity on Landline and in magazines is all wasted."  Walgett Shire Council says they are currently undergoing a tendering process for the construction of new evaporation ponds and pipework in order to get the bore baths up and running again. A spokesperson from council said there is potential for the bore baths re-open to later this year, however it is difficult to lock in a firm timeline. "It remains a high priority for Council and we’ll keep the community updated as soon as we know more. "It will become clearer once the tender process is finished and we have a contractor ready to go," the spokesperson said.The Walgett bore baths are temporarily closed. IMAGE: Walgett Shire Council.  The Walgett Bore Baths are also temporarily closed due to leaks in the pipes.Since Walgett Swimming Pool and Walgett Bore Bath piping configuration means both facilities cannot operate at the same time, Council will also be looking at a major redevelopment for the bore baths. Neither bore baths site has a confirmed dates for reopening.

The grounds of the Brewarrina Visitor Information Centre have turned white this week as the Brewarrina Blizzard kicked off on Monday 7 July, just in time for the school holidays. Hundreds of visitors came to hit the ice on the first day of the annual event, with locals and travellers alike enjoying a taste of snow. Brewarrina Shire General Manager David Kirby said the festival was fast becoming highlight of Brewarrina's social calendar. "The turnout and energy on opening day have already surpassed our expectations, with families, visitors, and locals embracing the magic and fun together," said Mr Kirby."We expect thousands to have donned skates by the end of the week. "It's been a mammoth effort, with all hands-on deck preparing and setting up."The equipment for the real ice rink arrived Wednesday, and by Friday we had ice."IMAGE: Clement Bausiere"But it's not just the event bump in. So much goes on behind the scenes for months."The entire Council team plays a part, and everyone is incredibly proud to bring such excitement and joy to our community." "Ensuring that it remains completely free is fundamental to our mission—making this unique winter wonderland experience accessible to everyone, regardless of circumstance, is vital. "For many in our remote area, it provides a unique chance to enjoy the joys of a 'white winter' right here in outback NSW." Since its inception in 2023, almost 30,000 skaters have hit the ice in Brewarrina, making it one of the most popular events in town. This year, Brewarrina has also expanded their offerings since previous years.As well as the ice skating, there is an artificial snow machine, plus plenty of cosy and heated places to sit.There's an expanded food an drink selection as well with Sami's Crazy Pizzas offering made to order authentic woodfired pizzas, and Mr Whippy's van selling ice cream treats and hot dogs.Plus, Brewarrina Shire Council's innovative educational coffee van, Bre & Co, alongside the Brewarrina Blizzard kitchen, will be serving country cafe classics.The ice rink will be open daily from 10am to 8pm until Sunday 13 July. Skaters can book their free session online.

Residents in parts of the Western Plains may have felt a slight tremor Monday night after a magnitude 3.3 earthquake was recorded near Mendooran in the early morning of Monday 7 July.Geoscience Australia confirmed the quake struck at 1:15am at a shallow depth of 7 kilometres.The epicentre was about 20 kilometres west of Mendooran.Nearby towns including Gilgandra, Dunedoo and Dubbo felt the tremor’s effects, with residents reporting light shaking and rattling windows.While no damage or injuries have been reported, the unusual overnight quake has sparked plenty of chatter in the community, with locals taking to social media to share their experiences.One resident described it as “short and sharp, made the floor vibrate and the doors rattle.”Another said, “I initially thought someone was trying to break in as some things in the house rattled,” while a third added, “There was a clap of thunder, the house shook and windows rattled.”The recent magnitude 3.3 earthquake near Mendooran is part of a noticeable uptick in seismic activity across the Western Plains region.Location of the quake on Monday 7 July. SOURCE: Geoscience Australia This latest quake is not far from where a light magnitude 2.7 earthquake hit, 23 kilometres east of Gilgandra, in the early hours of Thursday 24 April 2025. Just over six weeks ago, on 24 May a significant magnitude 5.2 quake struck in The Marra area near Nyngan, followed by aftershocks measuring 4.2 and 3.6. Residents as far as Dubbo and Narrabri reported feeling the tremors.While earthquakes of this magnitude are generally not destructive, their frequency has prompted discussions about the region's preparedness for seismic events. The situation continues to be monitored, and residents are encouraged to report any tremors they experience to Geoscience Australia.

Inspectors from NSW Fisheries and NSW Environmental Pollution Agency acting on community concerns were on the ground yesterday (Tuesday 8 July) at Lake Cargelligo and Lake Curlew to investigate mass deaths of native fish.It follows a large fish kills at both inland lakes over the past couple of weeks.Aquatic ecologist Dr Adam Kerezsy says the native bony herring fish are dead in big numbers, probably thousands.‘’There are large numbers near the banks and few of us including fish biologists have put our heads together," Dr Kerezsy said."We’re pretty sure it’s a combination of a cold snap and the Lake got drawn down to fifty per cent last year and summer was hot and in May it was super-hot but we are leaving some of our suspicions open.’’Dr Kerezsy lives near Lake Cargelligo and hopes investigators could uncover something new.‘’The response from Fisheries and the EPA has been rapid so we can’t fault them,’’ he said.‘’The bony herring has lived on this continent for centuries and this winter has been colder so it could be something much different.’’ Dead bony herring at Lake Cargelligo. [IMAGE: Adam Kerezsy]Dr Kerezsy started seeing small numbers of dead fish about two weeks ago and alerted agencies.‘’Birds are doing well out of it at the moment but I imagine summer could be different and its only affecting fish between 10 to 20cm."The Department of Primary Industries said together with Water NSW investigations would continue.State MP for Barwon in Lake Cargelligo said he was working with community and authorities to determine the cause but it is possible that there is little that could have been done to prevent the fish deaths.