The Country Mayors Association (CMA) Chairman and Board are pushing a new plan for rural health in NSW proposed by Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr MP, and they are taking it to the top so rural and regional people can receive the care they deserve.The ‘Better Care, Closer to Home’ Alliance’s Rural Health Action Plan, is a call for action aligning with concerns of Country Mayors and their communities.The plan sits around rural and regional health services and how they can be improved to be equal to those of city counterparts.“The Action Plan, as proposed by Member Dr Joe McGirr MP, aligns with the key priorities and concerns of CMA Members and their communities.“We have written to Minister for Regional Health, the Hon Ryan Park MP to commend the practicalities and affordability of the Plan’s reforms to him,” Mayor Firman said. “I understand Dr McGirr has put the plan to Minister Park in writing and they have had an initial discussion about it. I’m confident that constructive discourse will continue.”CMA Chairman Mayor Rick Firman OAM, Wagga Wagga MP Dr Joe McGirr and NSW Local Government Minister the Hon Ron Hoenig MP. [Image CMA]“People in rural and regional health services work hard and do the best they can but there’s no denying the system is crook and band-aid solutions are increasingly costly and short-term, like the locum situation.“Greater collaboration between all aspects of the health sector is needed, including allied health service providers is needed, as is better communication between health services and their communities,” Mayor Firman said.“The CMA motto is ‘what we want is nothing more than equity’ and that extends to access to critical health services. "While we appreciate that there are currently parts of Sydney facing a shortage of doctors, we believe this is not as serious an access or equity issue as a rural mother-to-be having to drive more than 100 kms to reach a hospital with obstetric services.”Bogan Shire Medical Centre - Mayor Glen Neill said their hands are tied without doctors [Image Bogan Shire Council]Mayor of Bogan Shire Glen Neill is fully behind the plan and the members pushing for it.“Anything that we can do to make government sit up and take notice and look after us in the bush a bit better with doctors, for example I’ll back 1000 per cent,” said Crl Neill.“If we had more doctors more members of our community would be able to be treated at home without having to continually travel to Dubbo.“We have a good medical centre and a great hospital, and we can’t get doctors to the hospital. "We shouldn’t have to go to Dubbo to get three stitches in a cut finger, it’s ridiculous. "We have a great hospital and we can’t use it,” said Crl Neill. “It’s very frustrating.”Mayor of Bogan Shire Glen Neill [Image Bogan Shire Council]A collaborative partnership with Rural Doctors Network (RDN) saw a Health Access Survey shared with members to see where each community sat with its current healthcare. “We are currently collating those responses to form a picture of service provision and interaction in remote, rural and regional NSW,” Mayor Firman said.“It is our understanding that this is the first time in Australia that a survey of this nature has been undertaken. "The CMA will use the results to determine future advocacy activities while the RDN will utilise the results to inform its strategic direction and project planning.”The CMA Board supports all aspects of the Rural Health Action Plan, with the exception of its’ call for 'an independent commissioner', which was not considered necessary by the Board.“We acknowledge that treatment and health access can involve a range of contemporary approaches, including pharmacy and nurse practitioners. "However, these should help lighten an unsustainable load for a rural GP, not replace them. "If there is one GP in a town, the days of demanding 24/7 access to them all year round is unsustainable and consequently retention becomes a bigger problem than recruitment,” said Mayor Firman.

For many families across Western New South Wales, donating to charity and shopping for loved ones online has become as much a part of Christmas as the tree and the tinsel.But as festive generosity and online spending rise, so too do the risks of scams targeting regional communities.With many residents spread across vast distances and limited access to major retail centres, a growing share of Christmas shopping in towns like those across the Western Plains now happens online.That same reliance on parcel deliveries and digital payments is exactly what scammers look to exploit during the busy Black Friday and Christmas period.The NSW Small Business Commissioner has warned that cybercriminals are expected to intensify online scam activity in the lead-up to Christmas, taking advantage of increased internet traffic and bargain-hunting behaviour.Recent alerts from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) show scam tactics are becoming more sophisticated, including fake websites that mimic legitimate retailers, AI- generated advertisements that direct shoppers to fraudulent payment pages, counterfeit discount codes, and phishing messages sent by SMS or email.In regional communities, delivery scams are a particular concern, with residents heavily reliant on Australia Post and courier services at this time of year.Messages falsely claiming delivery delays, failed payments or account problems often contain links that redirect to malicious sites designed to steal banking and personal details.The ACCC has also warned about “too good to be true” online deals and fabricated countdown timers designed to pressure shoppers into rushed purchases - a tactic becoming increasingly common during major sale events.Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commissioner Sue Woodward warns shoppers to be cautious of scams during the festive season.While shoppers face online risks, charities across Western NSW are also feeling the strain as cost-of-living pressures grow.Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commissioner Sue Woodward AM said more people are turning to charities for help as family budgets tighten, but donations have almost flatlined.“Cost of living pressures mean more people are turning to charities for help."But sadly, some are being turned away because resources are so stretched,” Ms Woodward said.“Our latest Australian Charities Report showed donations have almost flatlined, rising by less than half a per cent in real terms."At this time of year, in the spirit of the season, we are encouraging people to dig deep and make a donation if they can.”Ms Woodward also warned that scammers actively target generous donors at Christmas by pretending to collect on behalf of legitimate charities through phone calls, emails, text messages and even in-person approaches.“We know there are scammers out there ready to exploit people’s generosity," she said.“They pretend they are collecting money on behalf of a charity when they’re not. "They may call, email, or approach you on the street seeking donations.”Scamwatch estimates $1.4 million in losses to fake charity scams has been officially reported in the past five years, with authorities believing the real figure is likely much higher due to under-reporting.Residents are being urged to check the ACNC Charity Register before donating, and only give through verified charity websites rather than clicking on unsolicited links or sharing personal details with unknown callers.For regional retailers, many of whom now rely heavily on online sales during the festive period, the NSW Small Business Commissioner is encouraging strong cyber security practices through November and December, including updating systems, training staff, verifying unfamiliar suppliers and helping customers shop safely.Free support tools are available through the NSW Small Business Commissioner’s website, including Cyber Security for Small Business: Awareness, Prevention & Response, along with cyber security webinars.As Western NSW families balance the convenience of online shopping with the spirit of giving this Christmas, authorities say a little extra caution can help ensure local generosity ends up where it belongs - supporting genuine businesses and real charities, not scammedLook up a charity’s contact details on the Charity Register.There are around 65,000 registered charities on the Register.Scamwatch, led by the National Anti-Scam Centre, has more tips on how to avoid scams.   

Rural Fire Services out of Nyngan are working to control a bushfirefire refusing to die, the blaze has been burning on and off since Saturday 6 December. The fire is just off the Mitchell Highway, between Coolabah and Girilambone. Emergency services have attempted to control the blaze since it caught on Saturday, but it is proving hard to extinguish. Rural Fire Services were able to control it on the morning of Monday 8 December but it re-ignited later that afternoon. Local crews have been working to contain it since. It is currently burning across more than 1400 hectares.IMAGE: Fires Near Me A RFS spokesperson says the crew are not sure what caused the bushfire, but it is not under investigation.The crew are undertaking backburning operations around the perimeter to stop the spread.

Fire and Rescue NSW is investigating the cause of Tuesday's building blaze in Walgett's main street. It happened about 6.30pm on 10 December at a building occupied by the Dharriwaa Elders Group on Fox Street, also the Castlereagh Highway.A spokesperson for Walgett Shire Council said staff were assisting with the BBQ at the Walgett Singers Carols event in Gray Park when a plume of black smoke was spotted nearby.  Staff quickly moved to investigate and found the Galuma-li building on Fox Street ablaze, with flames breaking through the windows and the structure rapidly consumed by fire. Council's spokesperson said the building had already sustained extensive fire damage.  Council General Manager Andrew Brown, drawing on his experience as a former Inspector at the Rural Fire Service, provided support on site and remained with emergency crews until the fire no longer posed a risk to nearby properties.  Mayor Jasen Ramien was also on site, attending with the Collarenebri Rural Fire Service crew and assisting throughout the response.  Council also acknowledged the swift action of its roads team, who quickly blocked surrounding roads to ensure public safety during the incident. A coordinated response from local emergency services ensured the fire was contained as quickly as conditions allowed.  Their efforts, supported by essential service workers, helped prevent damage to surrounding sites, including the Old Council Chambers, which has been used as a museum.   The neighbouring vet clinic has told the Western Plains App said animals were ok and safe. ''There was smoke inhalation and minor damage but animals and workers are okay."Council Mayor Jasen Ramien has thanked community, council workers and emergency service personnel. ''Their combined efforts were instrumental in protecting nearby buildings and safeguarding the historically significant items at the museum," he said. The loss of Galuma-li will be deeply felt across the Walgett Shire as the building served as a vital hub for service, culture, and connection.  Mayor Jasen Ramien said, "It is very unfortunate for the Dharriwaa Elders Group and the entire community.  "The Galuma-li building was a new space and a setback to all they have been working to achieve.  "With the support of Council and the wider community, we hope they are still able to continue offering their important programs and services while planning the next steps." Council expresses its sympathies to the Dharriwaa Elders Group and all those who contributed to the project and its vision.  Council's leadership team has reached out to offer the use of Council facilities, recognising the important role their activities play in supporting the community.  Council is also encouraging local groups with available spaces to come forward and provide support where they can. The Castlereagh Highway was closed in both directions between Wee Waa Street and Euroka Street while firefighters battled the blaze.   With police assistance motorists were diverted via Bate St, Vanstone St, Peel St, Montkeila St to return to Castlereagh Hwy.  

The main topic of conversation in playgrounds and schoolyards lately is the social media ban and how to get around it.The ban starts today, Wednesday 10 December 2025, and prohibits Australian children under the age of 16 from accessing most social media.They won’t be able to keep or create accounts on apps like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, X (previously Twitter), Facebook and more.A13-year-old Coonamble students talked to her peers and prepared this report.The ban isn’t designed to punish young people or their families, but to help reduce cyberbullying and exposure to disturbing content, online ‘grooming’ or abuse and other harms.Social media companies must prove that they are taking reasonable steps stop people that are under 16 years of age from having accounts, or the companies could face serious fines, up to $50 million.This new law has been introduced to keep kids safe online, but UNICEF Australia (United Nations Children's Fund Australia) believes the real fix should be improving social media safety, not just delaying access.Parliament House expects the ban to lower crime rates, improve mental health and reduce bullying, but that is not the opinion of the young people it will affect.One local teenage app user says she thinks it ‘will increase physical and verbal bullying’.The eSafety Commissioner surveyed 3,454 Australian children aged 10 to 17 years, about their experiences on social media, including cyberbullying.The results of that survey show that more than half of those children, have been cyberbullied at one point, around 53%, with 38% experiencing it in the last 12 months. Trans and gender diverse people are more likely to be cyberbullied, with 81% in total, 69% in the last 12 months.It has also been shown that online bullying is more prevalent among girls with 56% of those surveyed having had issues online, 40 % in the last 12 months in comparison to 50% of boys and 35% in the last 12 months.The social media minimum age bill was introduced into parliament in November 2024, becoming an Act a month later.Consumer research and its preliminary findings continued through early 2025. According to the answers from the survey, many people believe the minimum age for access to social media should be 13.Several members of the younger Coonamble community were asked how they thought the ban would affect them.Ten-year-olds will be subject to the ban. [IMAGE: Coonamble Times]"I think it’s really stupid because some people use it to support their mental health,” said one 12-year-old."Many kids used it to communicate with friends from overseas, that had similar interests."She was then asked what she will do after the ban comes into place."I will probably use my mum’s face on the age check with the camera,” she said.“I believe the ban will affect kids’ mental health and the increasing crime rates,” said a 14-year-old."People rely on social media, so without it, they will have nothing, they won’t be able to watch reels, post videos and contact friends, which will make them feel alone and bored.“So they will also be angry, so they will take it out by committing crimes."I will ask my mum to help, or even try to hack the ban.”A 10-year-old said, “They won’t be able to snap each other and call, they also won’t be able to watch things like TikTok, Instagram or YouTube unless they use their parents’ login.”Three different petitions were made available on the Parliament house website with one to remove the ban, which received 21,901 signatures, another to lower the age of the social media ban to 13, receiving 44,054 signatures, and one to redesign the ban, which received 1,613 signatures.There is no data available on the average age of participation for these petitions, but it is assumed that they would be from as young as 11.The opinion of some local parents interviewed is that while they agree with reducing access to social media, they also think it is the decision of the parent and how they manage their child’s use of social media.“I know my child, I have controls in place that my child has agreed to use Tik Tok and Facebook,” one parent said.“These include access to passwords which aren’t to be changed without permission and random phone inspections to check what’s being accessed.“You can’t assume that all kids under 16 have the same level of maturity and cognitive development.”So, will the social the media ban ruin teenage lives?We shall see what happens from today.

The weather has warmed up, and summer officially kicks off this week - with it comes a timely reminder about water safety.Alarmingly, almost half of Australian pool owners are unsure whether their pool gate would pass a safety inspection, with new research showing a worrying drop in vigilance as peak drowning season begins.Released as part of Check Your Pool Gate Month, the latest MagnaLatch® Pool Safety Report reveals widespread complacency among pool owners.Nearly three-quarters (70 per cent) admit they haven’t checked the latch or hinges on their pool gate for six months or more, while 41 per cent say they simply don’t think about it.Almost a quarter (24 per cent) say they “don’t have time,” and 21 per cent don’t know what to look for.The report was produced in partnership with Kids Alive, a national water safety program that educates the public on five key steps to prevent childhood drowning.It also found that almost a third (30 per cent) of families have left their pool gate open while cleaning or entertaining - a major risk factor during summer.Kids Alive founder Laurie Lawrence said the findings highlight just how critical regular checks are.“The very latest Pool Safety Report reveals almost half of pool owners are unsure if their pool gate would pass a safety inspection,” Mr Lawrence said.There is no place for complacency around pools, yet recent research suggests pool gates need more attention.“Worryingly, almost a third of Aussie families have left the pool gate open when cleaning or entertaining.”One in three families surveyed believe pool owners should get an official safety inspection - something Mr Lawrence applauds - but he said there are simple steps every household can take today.“We certainly encourage inspections, but there are still things people can do themselves to ensure their pool gates are safer,” Mr Lawrence said.“Make sure the gate self-closes and the latch clicks shut securely from any open position."Check for wear, rust or alignment issues, because that could prevent the latch from working properly."And lastly, never prop the gate open under any circumstances.”The research also revealed that 69 per cent of Australians wouldn’t know how to fix or upgrade their pool gate or fence if it didn’t meet safety standards, and only 15 per cent talk about pool safety regularly with family or friends.More than a third cannot recall when they last received a pool safety compliance certificate, with 13 per cent admitting they haven’t had one since the pool was first installed.With summer temperatures rising and backyard pools becoming a daily staple, Lawrence said now is the time for households to act.“Check Your Pool Gate Month encourages Australians to take a few minutes to inspect their pool gates, upgrade the security of their gate hardware, and ensure everything is working correctly to provide the utmost safety for their family,” he said.“The campaign is all about raising awareness for the importance of regular safety checks and proper gate maintenance."Ultimately, it’s about saving kids’ lives.”A full pool safety checklist and simple inspection steps are available here.

A man was airlifted to hospital after a truck rolled on him at a property in Condobolin on Monday 8 December. NSW Ambulance say emergency services received the call at around 10am to the property on Ridleys Road, south of the town, where a man in his 70s was partial crushed. They said they found him with abrasions and potential chest and back injuries. He was extricated and flown by helicopter to hospital in Orange.

Australian farmers are set to gain long-sought freedom over how their machinery is repaired, with the Federal Government committing to extend national Right to Repair laws to agricultural equipment.The move is welcomed as a landmark productivity reform across the farm sector.Following a meeting of state and territory Treasurers, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed agricultural machinery will be included in national Right to Repair reforms designed to modernise the economy and lift productivity.NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the announcement followed years of advocacy and marked a major turning point for the industry.“We’ve been calling for a legislated right to repair our farm machinery for a long time, and it’s brilliant to see our Federal Government has listened,” Mr Martin said.“These reforms will slash the huge costs and wait times farmers are facing to get their machinery fixed – and that in turn will help them put food on tables and clothes on backs in a way that’s faster and more efficient than ever before.”The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) described the decision as a historic win for farmers and a direct result of sustained advocacy from across the sector.NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the reform would deliver long-overdue competition and control back to farmers.“Farmers will finally have more freedom to choose who services and repairs their machinery.""That means less downtime, lower costs, and more control over their own businesses,” Mr McIntyre said.“When a machine breaks down in the middle of harvest, waiting on an authorised dealer isn’t just inconvenient, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars."This reform will help farmers stay productive and competitive, which is exactly what farmers and the economy needs.”Economic modelling by the Productivity Commission estimates the reforms could lift agricultural production by $97 million annually, while greater competition in the repair sector is expected to drive a $311 million increase to GDP.Andrew Leigh is the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, and has received praise from farming groups for advocating on the right to repair issue.Mr Martin said those figures reinforced the urgency of opening up the repairs market.“Farmers in countries like Canada have had this right for years – as has our automotive industry here in Australia – and it’s simply time we evened the score,” he said.“Enabling us to get our machines repaired by suitably qualified independent repairers will keep costs down and productivity up, so it’s really a no-brainer.Mr McIntyre said the Government’s commitment showed a clear understanding that supporting farmers delivers benefits well beyond the farm gate.“This will see real economic gains for the sector and the broader economy,” he said.The NFF has led the push for Right to Repair reforms for many years alongside its member organisations through the NFF Right to Repair Taskforce.“The NFF would like to acknowledge the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, Andrew Leigh, for his genuine engagement with the sector and ongoing advocacy on the issue,” Mr McIntyre said.Victorian Farmers’ Federation President Brett Hosking was also thrilled with the outcome.“This is a game-changing piece of reform that will act on recommendations from farmers, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, the Productivity Commission and Right to Repair academics, as well as putting us in line with our international competitors,” Mr Hosking said.“The VFF in partnership with the NFF has been pushing hard for this outcome, and it’s pleasing to see the Government back a practical reform that helps farmers get on with the job.”GrainGrowers CEO Shona Gawel said the commitment would ensure fair access to repair options for growers when it mattered most.“Extending Right to Repair laws to agricultural machinery is a landmark moment that will give farmers greater choice, reduce costs, and keep them operating when it matters most,” Ms Gawel said.Mr Martin said the reforms would also deliver direct benefits to regional communities by allowing farmers to rely on local, independent repairers.“This major reform will mean that farmers will be able to choose to use and support a qualified local repairer, so they can get their machinery fixed without huge costs or wait times,” he said.

Dubbo has hosted its first Try a Trade Day, bringing together industry, employers, training providers and more than 500 students for an interactive look at in-demand careers across the Central West and Orana regions.The event, held at Dubbo College Senior Campus, was a collaboration between Dubbo College and the NSW Department of Education’s Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program.Designed for Years 9–11, the initiative gave students the chance to explore a wide range of trades and career pathways in a single “one-stop shop.”Students from Dubbo College’s Delroy, South and Senior campuses attended, along with groups from Gilgandra High School, Coonamble High School, Trangie Central School, Coolah Central School and others from across the region.Try a Trade brought industry directly to young people, featuring hands-on demonstrations, large-scale machinery and interactive activities run by employers from renewable energy, construction and housing, mining, advanced manufacturing, early childhood services and health.Several local businesses and registered training organisations said the day provided a valuable chance to connect with students and highlight real job opportunities available locally.Mechanics is just one trade that students learned about at Try a Trade Day.Dubbo Regional Council was among the exhibitors, speaking with students about the trade roles, apprenticeships and long-term career benefits the organisation offers.For many students, the event was their first direct experience with trade-based work—an opportunity organisers say is crucial as the region faces a growing demand for skilled workers across infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, health and community services.The initiative forms part of a broader push to link young people with local employment pathways and ensure schools and industry are working together to build a future-ready workforce.Students from Trangie Central School said the experience broadened their understanding of what is possible after school.“It was a good experience to be a part of and to be able to gain knowledge about different trades,” one student said.Another added, “It was very packed, but also fun and informative.”Others praised the exhibitors’ enthusiasm:“It was good, great, and fun."Learned a lot."People were super nice, very involved with students, and willing to explain what their stall was about.”One student summed it up simply: “I really enjoyed the many hands-on activities.”Organisers say the success of Dubbo’s inaugural Try a Trade Day highlights the value of connecting students directly with employers—and signals a strong future for the event in years to come.

In a world first, Social Media Restrictions commence in Australia this Wednesday 10 December and western area parents and carers of kids are bracing for the ban in more ways than one.After a year of planning the teen social media ban is a reality and the world will be watching closely to see the results.Children under the age of 16 will be restricted from using such platforms as:FacebookInstagramTikTokSnapchatX (formerly Twitter)YouTubeRedditTwitchKickThreadsSally Sweeney, Head of Dolly’s Dream says the ban is not a magic wand [Image Dolly's Dream organisation]Australia’s anti-bullying organisation, Dolly’s Dream, has called the government’s ban on social media move a ‘decent start’, but warns the delay alone isn’t a quick fix – particularly in outback areas where social media serves as a teen’s vital connection to friends.“The social media delay isn’t a magic wand where kids will wake up and there’s no more bullying online. We’ve got to back it up by teaching our kids how to be safe and decent online, and we need to make sure there is proper support when things go wrong,” said Sally Sweeney, Head of Dolly’s Dream.“Tech companies need to build online platforms and spaces that are safe for young people. We know the world is watching Australia right now, surely this a moment for them to act,” said Ms Sweeney.While the majority of parents are looking at the move as a step forward in keeping kids safe, others say teens in the bush may be left feeling isolated.Outback parents have differing views on social media ban.One outback rural mother of teens says this may inadvertently affect bush kids in a negative way as they rely on these types of social media sites to connect with friends when they live on isolated stations after returning home from boarding school.“While any initiatives to keep kids and teens safer online are a great start, I do worry that rural kids particularly could become more isolated,” said Alana Moller who helps run a large cattle station.“Especially when we’re going into 8 weeks of school holidays, when many remote kids like mine will be returning home from boarding school. They may not see anyone their age for 2 months, so I’m not really sure what to expect in terms of the immediate impact of this said Ms Moller.Some parents have elected not to allow social media for their kids full stop.“We haven’t allowed our teen to have it in the first place and he fully understands why,” said mother of three Amy Edwards who lives on the farm 60 kilometres south east of Nyngan.“There have been incidents where he has been glad to have not had it, where his friends have, and have seen bad news first with little information, but we’ve been able to sit him down and tell him first.“It certainly means bullying for him stops as soon as he is out of the school gate, for his mates that’s not always the case.“Unfortunately, the way they are going to manage this ban and how they will enforce it is not yet clear, but with the schools banning phones at school and the ban on social media it may give kids some much needed breathing space to simply be kids,” said Mrs Edwards.A 15-year-old western area student says it is a problem for her, but she understands the why behind it.“I am pretty cranky about the government taking away our means of communication, I think instead of taking it away they could educate everyone better, but I truly understand it.“I have been bullied at times, but I have felt able to deal with it, but other kids who are not as lucky as me are probably feeling a whole lot of relief, which I can understand too.“It will take a bit of getting used to but there are places we can go, so we just need to go with it I reckon,” she said."As a parent of teenagers i really like it. But at the same time I am worried," said Deanne Walsh Community Hub Coordinator in Nyngan. "If parents are worried about their teen, their are services available to help. Nyngan has Headspace, Barnardos, and CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes that are all able to help parents with any worries. The Community Hub are able to make referrals to other services. so call in and see us," said Mrs Walsh. Preparing to lose the use of their favourite apps, kids are already looking to other sites they can go and even talking about going old school and calling their friends on the phone.While the ban may be easier said than done, with parents acknowledging it may not be 100 per cent effective, most parents are backing the move as a way of keeping kids safe. The ultimate goal.

Police have released footage of what appears to be a person moving away from a burning SUV as they renew an over a suspicious death around Brewarrina in September. Central North Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Andrew Barnes, said investigators believe there are community members with information about the incident. He also confirmed that the body discovered in the car belonged to 27-year-old Lightning Ridge man Joel Vrtacnik. "Police have been in contact with Joel’s family and we are committed to finding answers as to what happened to their son," he said. "Strike Force Mayville detectives have been making significant inquiries in this investigation and every day we are getting closer to an answer. "But we are still missing a key piece to the puzzle, which is what we are appealing for today.Video released by police, which they say appears to show a person moving near the burning SUV. "Anyone who may have been injured at the time of the explosion, or who may have witnessed a person with burn injuries on or around Sunday 28 September 2025 is urged to contact police. "We also want anyone who may have seen the SUV in Brewarrina during that time to contact police. "We believe there are people in the community of Brewarrina and surrounding areas who have relevant information to the investigation, and we need to speak with them." Detectives have also released CCTV vision of the SUV, captured on the day before the fire. Detectives have also executed four crime scene warrants within Barwon Four Reserve and at a home on Brewarrina's Cato Street in October, where they seized clothing and undertook forensic testing for further examination. Emergency services were called to the Kamilaroi Highway at about 5:15am on Sunday 28 September after an SUV was seen alight. Firefighters put out the blaze find the body inside.

Business and residents are being frustrated with more delays to a Telstra tower that was slated to be built in 2025 but Telstra says planning designs have delayed the construction.Gilgandra mayor Doug Batten says some businesses have to take their computer outside their shop to get connection.He has contacted Telstra management who have given assurances it will happen in 2026"It's frustrating for local businesses getting connections but they have told me its going to be next year," Cr Batten said."Going onto the footpath to try and get a connection to use eftpos in 2025 is not acceptable, and is bad for our community."Telstra Regional Manger Michael Marom told the Western Plains App on Friday 6 December that things are happening."We’re making progress to deliver better mobile coverage to Gilgandra," he said. "We’d hoped to have our new site up and running earlier, but building a new mobile base station is complex and getting the design right has taken a little longer than expected due to some unforeseen circumstances. "We expect to start construction early in the new year."Mr Marom said he understands the difficulty for local business and community.‘’We know the community wants better connectivity and we are doing everything we can to deliver it for them ASAP."The community has waited for a result since Councillors approved the tower build over three months ago.Gilgandra Mayor Doug Batten The development applicaiton for the proposed telecommunications tower at 76 Wamboin Street, Gilgandra was approved at Gilgandra Shire Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday 19 August 2025.The development is in recognition of the need to improve coverage and capacity of the Telstra network, with recent community representation to both Council and Telstra advocating for this response.Council acknowledged and considered the concerns raised in the one objection received as part of the Development Application (DA) assessment, with the DA advertised broadly through various channels for anyone wanting to make submission.General Manager, David Neeves said at the time delivering for community was front of mind for Council.“Council has balanced the objection with the general community benefit and outcomes anticipated from the proposed development, noting the apparent broader community acceptance and expectation for it to proceed. "The Telstra mobile coverage in Gilgandra is abysmal and we commend Telstra for taking this positive action to fix the problem.”Construction will involve the installation of one 45 metre monopole fitted with 9 panel antennas, an upgrade of the existing exchange building and removal of existing small cell infrastructure.Black Spots in the Western Plains have frustrated many in the community and local politicians have urged the Federal Government to give areas decent mobile reception.Cobar councillors contacted Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey in 2025 and he has pushing for what he calls ‘’absolutely dangerous planned Telstra outages" in Lightning Ridge, Rowena and Brewarrina."These outages go for two to seven days, leaving businesses without the means to carry out transactions, ordering and other processes essential to business, farms without connection to the outside world and people on the Telstra network without access to life-saving emergency services," Mr Chaffey said."This is despite an election promise by Labor to provide universal mobile coverage across Australia 'anywhere Australians can see the sky'. "Labor’s promise was to expand Triple Zero access for all Australians, expand outdoor voice and SMS coverage into existing mobile black spots, and to improve the availability of mobile signals during disasters and power outages."Instead, we are seeing the signal switched off altogether for extended periods."This would not happen in the city, and I will be asking questions at the highest level." Roy Butler state MP for Barwon has also expressed his concern as connectivity in his region, particularly since the 3G network was switched off, has continued to lag behind urban areas.

Federal National Party whip Matt Canavan was in Dunedoo last week to spruik their energy platform after the party ditched support for net zero. Around 30-40 people, mostly from the local and surrounding areas, gathered at the Dunedoo Sports Club on 29 November to hear Mr Canavan, along with Parkes MP Jamie Chaffey and local opponents to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). Longtime REZ critic Emma Bowman said she hoped to hear how the Nationals' net zero decision would affect her area if they re-enter government. "To me, we didn't get there," she said. "Something we are missing from the Coalition is an actual plan not just 'we're going to dump net zero.' We need to know what does that look like? Are we building five more coal fired power stations? I don't know what that even looks like. "While the community speakers did a great job outlining our problems and our issues, they were preaching to the choir. Because it seems to be always the same people sitting in that room saying the same thing over, and over and over again." Net zero refers to a point where the amount of greenhouse gas produced by human activity is level with the amount being removed. A map of the area covering the Central-West Orana REZ. [SOURCE: EnergyCo]Ms Bowman said she had hoped for an open discussion, although there was not a question-and-answer section with the politicians. Dunedoo sits firmly within the 20,000-kilometre Central-West Orana REZ, where the NSW government aims to power two million homes by 2028. Critics of the REZ say it will take up farming land and increase traffic wear on local roads. Landholders have also raised fears of being held liable for accidents that damage nearby renewables infrastructure. READ: Inquiry exposes challenges of renewables push in the bush Attendees also heard from Aidan Morrison, an energy researcher at conversative think tank the Centre for Independent Studies, and planning and environment lawyer Peter Holt. "There will be the establishment of temporary work camps and major disruption to the community," Mr Chaffey said ahead of the meeting.  "All of this disruption is for no benefit – our prices continue to increase and our emissions reduction has stalled. There is a cheaper, a better and a fairer way."Net Zero by 2050 is not the answer. Our country should not be held hostage to a promise that is higher than that of other OECD [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development] countries – a promise that can’t be kept."The Nationals have often criticised the Labor government's push for renewables, and support gas, renewable and nuclear power as part of Australia's energy mix.

NSW's anti-corruption commission has declined to investigate the management at Toorale National Park following concerns over unaccounted water use. Barwon MP Roy Butler requested a probe around July from the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).   However, Mr Butler's office confirmed this week that the Commission declined the request in September, citing insufficient evidence of corrupt conduct. The Commission said that the matter had more to do with procedural inconsistences, policy disputes and administrative decisions than dishonesty or deliberate wrongdoing. Mr Butler said that the decision risked public trust in water governance. “These decisions do nothing to build trust."Accountability and transparency in water management are essential, and this precedent undermines both,” Mr Butler said.   "We cannot have two sets of rules - one for government agencies and another for farmers and river communities - when the Water Management Act makes no such distinction."The 91,000-hectare national park used to be a sheep and irrigation property. [IMAGE: NSW government] Toorale sits about 80 kilometres south west of Bourke and was bought by the NSW government for environmental conservation at around 2008. Under NSW rules, environmental water and irrigation users need to measure and report the volume they take from rivers to ensure they stay within their allowance. Between 2024-25, water watchdog the Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) led a months-long investigation into Toorale, which is separate to the ICAC request.They found that while water infrastructure operated in line with approval conditions, the park did not fully account for its water use. The regulator issued a stop work order at Toorale in August 2025 for the matter to be rectified. The order lifted in September after the NSW government changed approval conditions to align with the Water Management Act. "The new conditions mean that all water diverted to the Western Floodplain at Toorale via Boera Dam, is debited against a corresponding water access licence," an NRAR spokesperson said. "The amended conditions ensure environmental water being diverted from Boera Dam at Toorale is accounted for, providing more clarity and transparency around water management at Toorale National Park. "NRAR did not take further enforcement action because the investigation did not identify any offences under the Water Management Act."The Boera Dam was built in 2020 to release water into the Western Floodplain, which sits on the west bank of the Warrego River. The water licence is held by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder, which is charged with using their allowances to protect and restore the Murray-Darling Basin. A federal government spokesperson said that the Water Holder does not own or operate the infrastructure. "The CEWH supports the NSW investigation into appropriate operation of infrastructure by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) and the accounting of water at Toorale. Clarity and transparency around water management decisions is critical for all water users," the federal DCCEEW spokesperson said. "The CEWH is committed to achieving environmental outcomes for the Barwon-Darling River and on the Toorale Western Floodplain in a manner that is consistent with our licence conditions and legislative obligations."

Grain Corp says grain quality has been "strong" in the Western Plains as harvest winds down across the region. In the company's Dubbo North and Dubbo West clusters - which include Coonamble, Gulargambone, Narromine, Nevertire, Tottenham, Nyngan and Trangie - combined receivals have reached more than 1.1 million tonnes. In the Burren Junction cluster - which covers Burren Junction, Cyron, Merah North, Merrywinebone and Walgett - receivals have now surpassed 560,000 tonnes, with the Burren Junction site itself setting a new receival record. A GrainCorp spokesperson said they mainly received wheat.For some growers, harvest continues and while much has been stored on farm there are still options for deliveries."Growers are encouraged to contact their local Site Managers for details on deliveries, opening hours, and segregations," the spokesperson said. "Our teams remain committed to working flexibly with growers to ensure continued grain receivals."Despite storms that damaged crops in parts of the Western Plains, agronomists said harvest had been largely good. IMAGE: River McCrossen Agronomists who spoke to the Western Plains App agreed that the year has generally trended well. "With seasonal conditions during the year, we got off to a good, timely start," Walgett-based agronomist Greg Rummery said. "With the size of the crop we had, which is well above average, we'd have really loved another fall of rain in early October or late September. "We didn't get that. That's just farming, but our crops really came home remarkably well given we didn't have a lot of spring rain." Mr Rummery, who covers a patch within the Walgett, Moree and Narrabri areas, said growers with a handle on fertiliser fared better. He and other local agronomists also said the bulk of farmers have finished harvesting in their areas. The GrainCorp spokesperson said on 5 December that their Wyalong and Parkes clusters further south are still receiving "strong volumes" after a cooler start to harvest delayed activity. Coonabarabran agronomist James Flemming said results were "quite patchy" in his area. "I think it really came down to moisture, to where it rained. The storms are quite patchy around the place," he said. "You could tell where we didn't get that late spring rain to finish crop. Where we didn't get it, it didn't finish the crop. Where we did, they were pretty good. "It shows how important managing rainfall and storing moisture is." Pockets of growers in the Come By Chance area also reported crop damage due to storms over the last few months. Out in Coonamble, agronomist Tom Cullen said wheat and barley panned out well for some properties with ability to handle tougher conditions due to stored moisture. However, he said initial frosts in late August-early September, followed by excessive heat, didn't do chickpeas any favour. "Every year is different. It's amazing how that's so true, but sowing times again is the biggest driver of yield, and just being prepared a bit better to be able to sow earlier," he said. "Anything we saw that was sowed late, or even sown on time, missed a bit of early rain to get it established. "It (the season) was pretty favorable for most part, except for the last six weeks where those target yields just fell."

Dog breeders must now register with the NSW government and cap the number of canines they keep, under new rules that began in December. The changes target illegal breeding and limit the number of non-desexed bitches over six-months-old to 20 per premises, unless breeders gain an exemption. Female dogs are limited to five litters in their lifetime, or up to three by caesarean.“I recognise most breeders do the right thing, and these new laws support those who are already doing the right thing by their animals, by weeding out the bad actors," said Minister for Regional and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty. “These law changes will ensure breeders are held accountable and those in animal welfare law enforcement are given the support they need." Under the changes, all breeders in NSW must have a Breeder Identification Number (BIN), while all ads must have the dog's microchip and the breeder's BIN if they are born after 1 December 2025.Breeders must also have one carer for every 20 dogs on premises.  Jail time and fines up to $110,000 for individuals and $550,000 for corporations apply for breaking the cap on female dogs. At the Dubbo branch of the Animal Welfare League, Foster Coordinator Janet Rose said they are increasingly seeing requests to surrender animals, mainly large dogs.The new rules apply to anyone responsible for a dog that falls pregnant, even if unplanned. [IMAGE: River McCrossen]She said the reforms are barking up the wrong tree. "It hasn't really taken into account all the breeders that are going to just bypass it with sites like Gumtree," said Ms Rose, who's branch takes requests from surrounding areas including Warren, Bourke and Coonamble. "What they need to do is not just concentrate on doing checks on the registered breeders. They need to be actively hunting down all these backyard breeders that haven't registered. Saying to someone you've got to register doesn't mean that they will. "We've just taken in a puppy that someone purchased through Gumtree from someone that wasn't a registered breeder. It was impulse. They had the puppy for a day and then surrendered it to us." Ms Rose said platforms used by dodgy breeders could demand their BIN. She also supports outlawing commercial dog farming to reduce the number of animals entering rescue and rehoming services. Anyone who is responsible for a dog that falls pregnant must have a BIN, even if the pregnancy was one-off or accidental. Owners can register on the NSW Pet Registry. Ms Rose said prospective dog owners should go to the Animal Welfare League or their council pound over breeders.

People in Nyngan and surrounding districts are being urged to help raise funds for Medical Wings Paediatric Services for the town. Not to be mistaken for Little Wings, Medical Wings Paediatric Services brings volunteering specialists from children’s hospitals to rural and remote communities for clinics to ease the burden of travelling to major centres for care for sick kids. Around 100 children in the shire have been identified as being in need of specialist paediatric services and would benefit greatly from a regular clinic in Nyngan. Despite the specialists, pilots and crew volunteering their time for these clinics, each community is required to cover the flight costs of around $1800 per trip or $20,000 per year for monthly clinics. Medical Wings delivered over 100 paediatric clinics last year across regional and remote NSW and Queensland according to a report offered to Bogan Shire Council by Director People and Community Services, Debb Wood. Medical Wings an important concept for rural and regional kids - [Image Medical Wings] “Each clinic typically includes several paediatricians, and the program currently supports over 3,200 families and plays a vital role in improving access to healthcare in underserved areas," said Mrs Woods. “Medical Wings Paediatric Services flights can also include other specialists being flown in to meet the needs of the community where there is an identified gap in service delivery." Director People and Community Services at Bogan Shire Debb Wood - [Image Bogan Shire Council] Derek Francis General Manager Bogan Shire Council says Council is working hard to make this service a reality. “This is a great service, largely supported by volunteer pilots and clinicians, that we really need in our community,” said Mr Francis. “We know that there are extensive waiting lists for children and young people in our area to access paediatricians and Medical Wings provides a solution.  “Medical Wings would enable children to access specialists without having to travel while also providing support to local practitioners. “Council will continue to Lobby Governments to address the shortage of paediatric medical services in rural and remote communities. “It is important that any donations for this purpose are specified as intended for Medical Wings rather than Little Wings generally – which is also a vital service transporting children to medical facilities,” said Mr Francis. Derek Francis General Manager Bogan Shire Council. [IMAGE: A.White] Member for Barwon Roy Butler is keen to work with Bogan Shire to make this a reality."Access to paediatric services is a problem across all of my electorate," he said."The future of medical services is likely to be partnerships between the NSW Government and non-government organisations like Medical Wings."The State Government cannot meet the needs nor provide the services to communities like Nyngan. "I will be happy to work with Bogan Shire in securing the funds they need for this service to operate for the next 12 months."“This would be so fantastic if we could get it off the ground,” said a western area mum who has been driving to Sydney for two years for medical treatment for her daughter. “The cost of travelling and staying for appointments and tests is exhorbitant and tiring, and hard on our family. “Taking days off work and arranging childcare is another aspect that if the specialists came to us, we wouldn’t have to worry about. “Our child’s health is paramount, and we do what we need to, but if our community could hold these clinics that would lessen our burden that’s for certain,” she said.

Health authorities are urging Western Plains residents to get the jab against Japanese Encephalitis virus (JEV) as 60 local government areas are flagged for higher risk. The vaccine is free in all 11 western plains shires for people aged two months or older who live or work there. The mosquito-borne virus can cause rare but serious conditions like headaches, fever, vomiting and brain swelling. Last week, JEV was detected for the first time in the 2025-2026 season in mosquitoes collected from the Horsham Rural City Council region in Victoria. “Mosquito numbers will likely increase with warmer weather, and we remind everyone in NSW to protect themselves against mosquito bites, which can cause diseases such as Japanese Encephalitis and Murray Valley Encephalitis, and infection with Kunjin virus, Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus," said Dr Stephen Conaty, who is NSW Health's Director for Health Protection. The vaccine is available through General Practitioners, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. Once fully vaccinated, it can take between 2 to 4 weeks for the body to develop its immune response to the disease. [IMAGE: Animalia]Authorities say that people who meet the eligibility criteria should make an appointment ahead of time and let the provider know it is for the JEV jab. They say providers may need a few days’ notice to order supply and may charge a consultation fee. Authorities are also warning about another mosquito-borne virus, Kunjin, which was detected in Cowra through a chicken blood sample on 20 November 2025.Mosquito-borne diseases cannot be transmitted directly between humans or from any other animal.During the mosquito season In 2022, NSW Health set up vaccine clinics dedicated to JEV across the Western Plains. NSW Health has so far not announced the same measure this time around.Besides the injection, avoiding mozzie bites is the best way to go. Below is a list from NSW Health of ways to protect yourself. Apply repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times Re-apply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Be sure to apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and covered footwear Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas) Cover windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps Remove items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed Use repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions Use an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting to protect infants aged less than three months, secured along the edges While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net

Bring a chair and bundle a picnic rug to binge the fireworks at Warren's annual Christmas party tonight, Friday 5 November. The free fun-for-all will have jumping castles, a giant slide and an inflatable obstacle course for the kids, plus a 7pm visit by Santas via golf cart. For the first time, the magic will take place at Carter Oval Youth Sports Precinct near the local splash park, where daytime temperatures are expected to reach 39 degrees. "Bring your family. Come and enjoy the evening and get with the community," Warren Shire Council's Bec Christian said. "This year is a lot of local people have stepped up and are doing market and food stalls, which we haven't had previously. "It will be a wonderful opportunity to support local makers, enjoy a warm summer evening, and celebrate the festive season."Dancers will again take the stage at the party at the sports precinct. [IMAGE: Warren Shire Council] The fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:15pm. The suitably-named Ms Christian said circus entertainers from Sydney will rove through the crowd in glow-in-the dark costumes. The event will also feature dances from local groups Dance Experience and Warraan Widji Arts, along with Sydney blues group Stevn Edmonds Band. The splash park will open from 6pm, followed by a 7pm visit from Santa via golf cart- a Warren tradition.  Bar facilities will be on site, where Ms Christian said organisers expect around 500 to 600 people. There will also be a barbeque and chocolate wheel. "The event is shaping up to be a memorable evening for the Warren community," Ms Christian said. "We got the new facility there that we opened end of last year, and just thought why not utilize splash park for the kids?" Warren Shire opened the new facilities in December 2024, while include a canteen and male and female changerooms.