Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man wanted over an alleged break and enter in the Warren area. Thirty-four-year-old Bradley Hamilton is wanted over the alleged incident, which police say took place in July 2024. Officers with the rana Mid-Western Police District are conducting inquiries into his whereabouts and say he may be in the Coonamble, Quambone, Moree and Warren areas. Bradley is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 170cm - 175cm tall, of medium build, with black hair and black eyes. "Anyone who sees him is urged not to approach him but to call Triple Zero (000) immediately," a police spokesperson said.

Residents across Western and Far West NSW will now have access to a free virtual healthcare service designed to provide care for non-life-threatening conditions.While this service is expected to relieve some of the pressure on emergency departments and hospitals, the ongoing shortage of medical professionals in regional areas remains a significant challenge.The new virtual care service, available from 8am to 10pm daily for people aged 16 and over, aims to assist those suffering from common ailments such as coughs, fevers, respiratory symptoms, minor infections, and rashes.The introduction of virtual care is part of a broader push to alleviate strain on hospitals, with significant investments in urgent care services, emergency department short stay units, and ambulance efficiency improvements.However, the service is not intended to replace the need for on-site medical staff in regional communities, where shortages continue to be a major concern.Roy Barwon, Member for Barwon, emphasised the importance of virtual care as a supplementary service rather than a substitute for in-person healthcare.“It isn’t meant to be a replacement for on-site health workers, of which there is still a major shortage in many regional, rural, and remote areas, but it is meant to deal with some of the problems with the health system," Mr Butler said."In some towns in Barwon, there are no regular GP services, forcing people to either travel hundreds of kilometres or to turn up at the ED of their local hospital or medical centre."Having some alternative, albeit online, will prevent people having to travel for medical attention, reduce the number of people presenting at an ED, and take some of the pressure off overworked hospital staff.”Positive Steps in Rural Healthcare RecruitmentWhile medical workforce shortages persist, there have been promising signs in regional recruitment.The NSW Government's decision to double the financial incentives under the Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme from $10,000 to $20,000 led to a 20 per cent surge in health worker recruitment and retention last year.Since the scheme’s launch in 2022, 1,628 health workers have been recruited, and 9,447 have been retained in critical rural and regional positions.One of those individuals is Soumya Baby, a registered nurse at Gilgandra Multi-Purpose Service, who relocated from New Zealand to Gilgandra with her family through the NSW Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme in November 2023.Soumya Baby is enjoying her time in the Western Plains, thanks to the Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme.Ms Baby began her career training, working and educating general nursing students in her home country of India, before moving to Dubai and then New Zealand, where she worked as a maternity, paediatric, COVID-19, aged-care and emergency nurse.“It has always been my dream to come to Australia, and the incentive scheme helped us financially to relocate and settle here,” Ms Baby said.“This is the best decision that I have made."I am earning my salary with additional benefits to help my family and me to start our lives here in Gilgandra.“The community at Gilgandra is lovely, and I have not been made to feel ‘new’ at work, with my colleagues supporting me along the way."Coming from Dubai, I am now getting to spend more time with my family, so we are very happy. It’s the best thing, and I plan to continue in Gilgandra.”While the introduction of virtual healthcare is a positive development that will help ease hospital congestion and provide an alternative for those without immediate access to a GP, it does not solve the long-term problem of medical workforce shortages in regional areas.The increased investment in rural healthcare recruitment is a step in the right direction, but continued efforts are needed to ensure communities across Western NSW have reliable, in-person healthcare options.For now, residents can take advantage of the virtual service for minor ailments, knowing that more efforts are being made to strengthen healthcare services across the region.You can access this service by phoning HealthDirect on 1800 022 222 where patients will first speak to a registered nurse who will assess your condition, and if appropriate, refer you to the virtual care service.

Locals fished over 1800 fish out of Lake Cargelligo over the weekend for a 'carp-a-thon' raising money towards new playing grounds for the area's junior rugby league club.   Up to 170 people came out on Saturday 15 March to remove the invasive European Carp from the lake. Fishers in the junior and senior sections vied to catch the longest, heaviest carp, with prizes including swags, a pizza oven and a kayak on the line.  "There used to be a Fisherama run locally, but it folded. So, we thought 'why not run a smaller one and just target carp?'" Lake Cargelligo Junior Rugby League Club (Sharks) president Carl Vagg said. "They're definitely a dominant species in the waterways, which is a bit unfortunate. There's a lot of fish that the older blokes talk about catching quite a few of back in the day that you just don't see anymore." The Fisherama folded in 2024 after organisers failed to form a committee.At 83 centimetres, Billy Kelly took the longest carp in the under 14s junior section. IMAGE: Facebook/ Lake Cargelligo JRL Carp-a-thonLocal electrical service owner Kris Hasse caught the longest and heaviest carp, weighing 6.45 kilograms and measuring 84 centimetres. Participants on Saturday were also given tickets to raffle prizes for each carp they caught. Mr Vagg said the funds will help provide more playing space for the growing club. "We've currently got around 150-odd kids, that sometimes varies up to 180 odd kids registered each year for the junior rugby league," Mr Vagg said. "These days, with a large female participation in the junior rugby league, we believe we're struggling for ground space." Mr Vagg said he hopes the club can run the carp buster again next year. The carp were disposed at a local site operated by Lachlan Shire Council.

As national women’s organisation, VIEW Club prepare to celebrate their 65th anniversary on March 30, the resounding message across the Western area is one of solidarity, friendship, commitment and charity for children via the Smith Family’s Learning for Life program.VIEW, which was established in 1960, stands for the Voice, Interests and Education of Women.They advocate for the education of young Australians in need, and bring women together in local communities to develop skills, enjoy social activities, make connections and participate in networking events.NSW has 5,400 members in 130 VIEW Clubs, from the Queensland border, south down to Eden and as far west as Cobar.Across the country, 60% percent of VIEW members are from rural and regional areas, who have volunteered more than 3.3 million hours of time and raised over $45 million in the sponsorship of 1800 students.To the women of Nyngan, Cobar, Warren and Coonabarabran however, VIEW is an integral part of their community, with members looking forward to the monthly events and fundraisers they create.Coonabarabran ladies celebrating VIEW club - image courtesy Coonabarabran VIEW.91-year-old June McWhirter was the Inaugural President for the Coonabarabran VIEW club 30 years ago and says VIEW has been an important part of her rural life.“It’s a meeting place for women to get together and have a meal and raise money to support children in their education, and in turn support each other through life events and day to day happenings, said Mrs McWhirter.“Our numbers have dwindled as our members get older but the get togethers mean a lot to those of us who attend and in times of crisis we all gather to support one another, its truly wonderful,” said Mrs McWhirter.Ladies of Cobar View Club celebrate Melbourne Cup day - image courtesy Cobar VIEW Club.Cobar View Club celebrates 42 years this year and Lillian Simpson (Treasurer) said the organisation has an important role to play.“We currently have around 24 members in our organisation and all our fund raising goes to the Smith Family, where we support three students.“We get together every month and celebrate various things, this week was Saint Patricks Day which was great fun.“Many of our members have been in the club for 30 years or more with Kate Winders being an inaugural member for 42 years. We are very fortunate to be supported by local businesses particularly Cobar Golf Club and Anni’s Arts & Crafts who have assisted us to hold fundraisers."Nyngan VIEW Club ladies enjoying a monthly get together - Image courtesy Abigail McLaughlin.Nyngan President Norma Jeffrey said VIEW club is equally about the friendships as raising money.“We love that we can raise money for the children, which is so very important, and we also love the getting together and talking and sharing what has been happening in our lives.“We are all friends, and our monthly meetings give us the perfect excuse to catch up, and if we can raise money for a good cause at the same time, well that’s even better,” said Mrs Jeffery.Warren VIEW ladies and new committee for 2025 - Image courtesy Warren VIEW Club.“The Warren community has been very supportive of Warren View Club,” says newly inducted president Sue Harvey.“Warren raises money for the Learning for Life program which assists disadvantaged children with their educational needs.“Warren View gives back to the community through various avenues including visits to Calara House, school reading, knitting classes, youth centre and assisting in local events as they arise.“We are proud of our achievements over 39 years in all our fundraising efforts and bringing local ladies together in a social, welcoming and friendly environment.“Some of our Foundation members are still regulars at our monthly luncheon at which we have a guest speaker."Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales - Image courtesy Royal Far West.“VIEW has made an immense contribution to Australian society for over six decades,” said Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales.“Founded at a time of great social change in Australia, particularly for women, VIEW has constantly evolved to meet the changing needs of society, while never losing sight of its important objectives - to support women, The Smith Family and disadvantaged young people,” she said.Members from across NSW will come together to celebrate the 65th anniversary of its founding, at an afternoon tea hosted by the Governor of New South Wales at Government House, Sydney.

Two Western Plains gun clubs have received almost $50,000 each for safety and bathroom works they hope will bring more shooters to the range. The NSW government announced on Thursday 20 March that the Gilgandra Rifle Club and the Condobolin branch of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (SSAA) had two of 25 projects awarded to funded to improve shooting facilities in NSW. The Gilgandra club will upgrade the backstop behind their shooting range, while Condobolin will install a women's toilet block. "We want to get the women shooting," Condobolin SSAA secretary John Driscoll said. "The ladies need to have a toilet of their own. "We've had blokes bring their partners out, and they're taking an interest."Club officials say the upgrades help draw new members. IMAGE: River McCrossen The Condo club will also replace the existing portable toilet with a permanent block and install a safety shower, disability access features and a septic system. The funding comes from a $800,000 pool under the Safe Shooting Program, which awarded grants between $10,000 and $50,000. As well as safety upgrades, officials hope the funding will increase participation in the sport from women, Indigenous, queer and culturally and linguistically diverse people."The safer you can make it, the better it's going to be," Gilgandra Rifle Club treasurer Ally Prout said. His club will use the money to raise the 'stop butt,' the barrier behind the target line, to bring it up to legal standard. "Projects announced today (20 March) will increase the use of shooting facilities across NSW and encourage participation by people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities," Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said. "This funding will play a significant role in supporting the next generation of Olympians and ensure Australia’s success at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games."

While Carinda may have lost much of its small town in a storm last year, it will never lose its community spirit, nor the value of the local pub, which has recently been purchased by a local family just to give the community somewhere to gather.Marion Saunders, the new licensee, is not known for her skills running a pub but more for her role as fashion and women’s influencer. Her tongue in cheek view of the world and refusal to take life seriously will be put to good use in her new role as publican in Carinda.Maz, as she is referred to, took to social media to announce her new adventure after weeks of hinting.“When some people turn 60, they might take up a hobby, might go on a cruise or go travelling, well I brought a pub,” she laughs.“Many people will remember last November our little village was hit by a tornado that left a trail of destruction in its wake. We had damage to our community hall where we have a lot of gatherings where people meet for different events.Carinda Pub - Image Courtesy Maz Saunders. “We lost our village store, which was decimated, and now, the only thing we have as a community is our pub."The pub famous for its connection to David Bowie, who filmed the music clip to ‘Let’s Dance” is a popular place for residents and passersby.Storm damage in Carinda in 2024 - Image Western Plains App“Because the Pub is the hub of the community now and all we have left and so many people rely on this place for community group meetings and it’s where people come and gather, my husband and I decided to buy it.”The pub will also collaborate with Mark and Caitlin Currey (Mrs Saunders daughter and son in law) with their paddock to plate program from Bogewong Butchery to utilise meat from around the local area.Maz Saunders Fashion Influencer now Pub owner - Image courtesy Maz Saunders.Mrs Saunders says they have some grand plans for the building, including sprucing up the accommodation and creating a new beer garden.“We are going to scrub and love the old building and bring it back to life,” said Mrs Saunders. “So if you are out near Carinda, call in and enjoy some great hospitality and follow us along on our journey because it is going to be a hell of a ride,” laughed Mrs Saunders.

*Update 24 March 2025: since publication, one Angledool property has been withdrawn from the auction. Fourteen properties in the Brewarrina shire are set go under the hammer next week after the landowners persistently failed to pay their rates. Two residential dwellings, one commercial property and 11 properties classed as vacant across Brewarrina, Goodooga and Angledool are up for auction as the council moves to recover almost $300,000 in overdue charges. The auction takes place on Thursday 27 March at the council chamber on Brewarrina's Bathurst Street.  Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said the auction is a last resort. "Unpaid rates are a heavy burden on our Council and community," Mr Kirby said. "The landowners have had ample opportunity to respond to Council and make arrangements for payments. We have reached out to them multiple times, publicly advertised the sale, and this measure is only being taken after all other avenues have been exhausted. "We have a financial hardship policy in place and understand sometimes there may delays in payments because of short-term hardships. However, these properties have significant unpaid amounts and have been for quite some time."Landowners can still settle overdue amounts right up until the auction date."This property on Brewarrina's Bourke Street is set to head for auction. IMAGE: Google MapsThe council could not confirm whether the residential and business properties are occupied.Under NSW law, councils can sell vacant land to recover charges if they are unpaid for more than a year. For other land, councils must wait five years. Bidder registration begins at 9am and the auction starts at 10am. Photo ID is required for registration. Successful bidders must put down a ten per cent deposit on the day for the purchase. "There's a fair bit of interest," said Richelle Codrington from real estate agency Schute Bell, who are overseeing the auction. "People see it as a somewhat bargain scenario, which isn't always the case." Mr Kirby encouraged budding property owners to join the auction. "It is a chance to acquire property while contributing to the financial health of our community," he said.

The 2025 Baradine Show has been hailed a success by organisers.With competitors travelling from Victoria to participate in the yard dog competition and an overall increase in entries in the cattle, sheep and horse sections, the Baradine Show committee is riding high celebrating the success of the annual event held on Saturday, 15 March.Earlier in the year members of the Baradine Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural (P.A & H) committee were concerned about the future of the show, admitting that things were not looking good and initially cancelling the event.“What a turnaround it has been after some serious anxiety over the future of the Baradine Show and whether or not we could make a go of it,” says Baradine P.A & H president, Stephen Coe. “We are delighted with its success.“All thanks go to the volunteers, the regular ones and the new ones. We had a great roll-up of support from some young local volunteers, who have been amazing. They introduced some new event ideas and have breathed life back into the event. I believe it is very important to get the young ones involved. Pulling together in the way we have is what makes a healthy show. It does look good for the future.”From livestock and produce to arts and crafts, the competition was strong. More than 80 entries were received in the yard dogs, the new commercial cattle section was well supported and the crowd favourite motor bike barrel racing was back stirring up the dust with competitive spirit.There was plenty of excitement throughout the day including a novel Dog Pee Lotto, a reptile show, line dancing display, tractor pull, horse sports, a children’s pet competition, a parade of vintage cars, pavilion exhibits, live music and amusement rides concluding with a sparkling display of fireworks.Warrumbungle Shire Mayor, Cr Kathryn Rindfleish officially declared the show open and presented life memberships to some long-serving volunteers.“I thank the show society for inviting me,” she said. “It is good to be here at such a great event that has successfully come through a bit of a patchy time.“Congratulations to everyone who has made this day possible and congratulations to everyone who has entries in the show. I have been to a few shows and the Baradine Show has certainly put on a great day.”

Police say rapid response units will be able to serve communities across the western plains as they launch a new operation targeting youth crime. Sixty designated officers will disrupt serious violent crime among 11 to 16-year-olds across regional NSW under Operation Soteria, announced in Dubbo on Wednesday 19 March. The operation will include arresting "ringleaders" and diverting first-time offenders. “The operational arm of this operation will consist of high-visibility policing, targeting a defined cohort of hundreds of repeat offenders believed to be responsible for 90% of youth crime across regional NSW,” NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisano said. Western Plains towns are not part of the initial focus areas, although police confirmed they can serve areas outside them, including from Dubbo and Moree.PolAir, NSW Police's air unit, will be available to transport rapid response officers.Police said the officers will target "aggravated" theft and break and enter incidents, as well as 'post and boast' offences where offenders announce their crimes online. A media statement said they will also refer young offenders to programs like YAMS (Youth Action Meetings), a multi-agency forum designed to prevent re-offending."The prevention arm of this operation is extremely important as we want to funnel young kids on the fringe of this criminal activity into suitable programs and away from criminal activity," Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisano said. The permanent operation is expected to run in three phases, with police reviewing progress after the first three months. The operation has three phases, with the latter two being shaped by what happens in phase one. The initial focus areas are Moree, Tamworth, Dubbo, Orange, Tweed Heads, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Taree and Newcastle.

The NSW government and Warrumbungle Shire Council have committed $1.2 million for research to overhaul Dunedoo's more than 100-year-old water network. The government announced on 18 March that the research will look at "the most viable" upgrades to bring water standards up to the non-mandatory Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.The government will cover about $930,000 to deliver a concept design by December 2026 with the local council contributing the remained. Local business owners say poor water quality costs them in service and maintenance fees, and dries their skin. "It's like sandpaper running through the pipes," Dundeoo Swan Motel owner Julie Anne said. She drinks bottled water and is buying a water softener for the business, which she expects will cost $20,000.The Dunedoo Swan Motel. "I'm quite often - probably every six months - having to change the shower heads because of the build-up of calcium," Ms Anne said. "Probably once a fortnight, we have to deep clean the bathrooms with things that will get rid of limescale and build up." It's a similar story for one Dunedoo retail owner, who said they order water in for their coffee machine because the town water will wear it out. "We let them (customers) know that we personally don't drink it, but we will still let people if they want," the owner said. A government spokesperson said the early phase will probe solutions including new bores and a new water treatment plant. They will also look at upgraded disinfection technology and "additional treatment processes depending on the quality of the bore water."   The project will be tender-ready once the design is complete and is expected to deliver safer and more secure water for decades.  "The system is no longer treating water effectively," said Lisa Hingerty, Executive Director for Infrastructure Development at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). "It’s vital we get this planning and development stage right, which includes completing all the appropriate checks and balances so the project is in a good position to progress to the tender phase."Dunedoo's water treatment plant. IMAGE: Warrumbungle Shire Council Motel owner Ms Anne said it was "fantastic" to hear a commitment to improve local drinking water, although she didn't understand the near 21-month timeline for the design. A DEECCW spokesperson said there is no quick fix to Dunedoo's "complex" water woes."It’s essential we complete all the appropriate checks and balances," the spokesperson said."This early phase is a critical first step in any infrastructure project. It involves a meticulous evaluation that requires complex technical, environmental, and financial investigations."It focuses on understanding the specific requirements for new or upgraded water infrastructure, site opportunities and constraints, the preferred treatment type and design configuration and costs. "These investigations take considerable time to complete, and in this instance there is a complex set of challenges that need to be properly assessed before any infrastructure options are put on the table. "One of these challenges is the quality of the water in Dunedoo, which requires advanced technology to treat it effectively to a high standard that meets Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.  "The council is also taking the time to consult closely with the community and explore a range of options including securing an alternative water source that can meet the town’s supply requirements while keeping costs down for ratepayers." Dunedoo is also undergoing a $3.4 million upgrade to its water treatment plant, with $2.6 million from the NSW government and the rest from the shire.“Improving water and wastewater facilities is essential in enabling regional towns to operate and thrive, and ensuring we have safer and more reliable services now and into the future," Warrumbungle mayor Kathryn Rindfleish said. “I look forward to seeing this water treatment plant project take shape as we inch closer to getting shovels in the ground."

Around $200,000 has been secured from the NSW government to tackle stray animals in the Walgett and Brewarrina shires.The project will be run via a partnership with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). RSPCA vets and zoologists will weigh the impact of approaches like sterilisation, rehoming, euthanasia and creating pathways to surrender unwanted animals. Heat and motion cameras will be installed to monitor roaming animal numbers before and after interventions.“We have a stray dog problem in our Shire and the easy fix of doing a blitz only works for a short period of time before the dogs are back on the street," Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said. "This new program will assist Council in understanding some of the issues contributing to the high number of stray animals in our community in far greater detail and find strategies to reduce the number on a more permanent basis." The project is expected to roll out in Brewarrina this year, although it is unclear when it will begin in Walgett. Dr Gemma Ma works in animal welfare at the RSPCA. IMAGE: supplied.A Brewarrina Shire spokesperson said the council will help residents access a local vet or RSPCA services when they are in town. The project's Chief Investigator, the RSPCA's Dr Gemma Ma, was in Brewarrina in October 2024 for their 'Healthy Pet Day,' where 56 animals were desexed. She said they will work with researchers from the University of Sydney and University of New England, as well as the Brewarrina Local Aboriginal Lands Council, the Brewarrina Community Working Party and local vets. "We’ve had some very positive co-design meetings with local stakeholders and are now working on the details of the project plan," Dr Ma said. Council pound and nuisance complaint data will also feed into the program. A Council spokesperson said they will finalise details on specific interventions from community consultations.

Police say they found the body believed to belong to a 78-year-old woman reported missing in Lightning Ridge over the weekend. Angela Kranz was last reported seen between 8.30am and 9.00am on Saturday 15 March near Wooloroo and Tip roads. When she failed to return home and could not be located or contacted, officers began inquiries into her whereabouts. "Following an extensive multi-agency search, the woman’s body was found late this afternoon," a police spokesperson said. "While the body is yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of the missing woman." Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has unveiled plans for a reimagined $5 banknote that will celebrate First Nations cultures and history, replacing the longstanding tradition of using a portrait of the British Monarch.Since 1992, Queen Elizabeth II has been featured on the smallest Australian note, but the new design will not include King Charles III.Instead, the theme ‘Connection to Country’ has been selected to depict the diversity and depth of First Nations cultures across Australia.In 2024, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) sought input from the Australian public to determine a meaningful theme, receiving over 2,100 submissions.The Imagery Selection Panel—comprising senior RBA representatives, Note Printing Australia, and prominent First Nations business and community members—chose ‘Connection to Country’ as the theme that will guide the design process.At the time, Assistant Governor (Business Services) Michelle McPhee encouraged all Australians to participate in shaping the new note.“We invite all Australians to reimagine the $5 banknote in the search for themes that reflect our nation’s unique and rich First Nations cultures and history,” she said.“This could be a story passed down for generations, a location, an idea, an instrument, or an object that binds a community.“Involving the public in this process is vital, and by actively engaging First Nations communities, we can better capture themes that tell our nation’s story."Honouring First Nations HeritageThe RBA said that the chosen theme ‘Connection to Country’ reflects the longstanding relationship First Nations peoples have with the land."The overturning of the concept of terra nullius acknowledged the deep connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have maintained with Country for thousands of years," they said.The new banknote will also highlight the role of First Nations communities in environmental conservation, particularly through the use of traditional ecological knowledge to sustain and protect Australia’s landscapes.For those of us old enough to remember, this new note follows a history of Indigenous representation on Australian banknotes.The Australian one-dollar note - featuring Indigenous design - was introduced in 1966 and replaced by the one-dollar coin in 1984.The first $1 note issued in 1966 featured Aboriginal rock paintings and bark paintings by David Malangi Daymirringu.The first polymer banknote—a $10 note released in 1988—incorporated examples of both ancient and contemporary Aboriginal art.Today, the $50 banknote features Ngarrindjeri author and activist David Unaipon, while the current $5 note includes the Forecourt Mosaic, a design by Michael Nelson Jagamara based on his Central Desert dot-style painting ‘Possum and Wallaby Dreaming’.Political Debate Over the ChangeThe decision to remove the British monarch from the $5 note has drawn mixed reactions from political and public figures.Opposition Leader Peter Dutton criticised the move, calling it “another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions” and describing it as “woke nonsense” akin to debates over Australia Day.The Australian Monarchist League echoed these sentiments, calling the decision “neo-communism in action.”However, Finance Minister Jim Chalmers supported the change, calling it “the right decision for the right reasons.”He emphasised the importance of recognising First Nations culture, history, and heritage while maintaining the monarchy’s representation on Australian coins.As the RBA continues working on the design, the Imagery Selection Panel will provide ongoing guidance to ensure the new note authentically represents First Nations cultures.An Indigenous artist will be invited to create artwork that reflects the theme’s significance, shaping how ‘Connection to Country’ is brought to life on Australia’s next $5 banknote.With public input and collaboration with First Nations communities, the reimagined banknote will serve as a significant step in acknowledging and celebrating Australia’s Indigenous heritage.The note will retain the security features introduced in 2016 and will still have Parliament House on the reverse side.Don't expect to see the new note in your pockets just yet though, as the RBA say the process to finalise a design will take several years before it is released.

Police are appealing for public assistance following multiple alledged break and enters and an assault in Bourke last month. Officers were called at about 4.50am Saturday 22 February to a motel on Anson Street following reports of a break and enter. Police were told a group of around four unknown people armed with knives forced entry into staff accommodation and threatened the occupant – a 24-year-old man – before stealing cash, bank cards and mobile phones. "The group then allegedly broke into a second motel room, and threatened the occupant – a 52-year-old man – with long knives, before fleeing with cash, bank cards and a mobile phone," a police spokesperson said. "The older man suffered a minor cut to his neck, with no other injuries reported." The group then allegedly crashed through a locked gate in a white Holden SUV before driving off.IMAGE: NSW ForceA crime scene was established and police located the SUV at about 11am on Lewana Place, Orange. The vehicle – which had front end damage to the windscreen and hood – was seized for forensic examination. Police believe this incident is linked with another alleged break and enter that reportedly occurred at a caravan park on Becker Street Bourke earlier on the same day. In that incident, officers were called to the park at about 3:40am following reports a caravan had been broken into. "Police arrived and were told two unknown men gained entry to an Isuzu ute and attempted to force entry into a caravan," a police spokesperson said. "One of the caravan’s occupants – a 62-year-old man – attempted to hold the caravan door shut to keep the men out, however during the incident one of his fingers was cut with a knife. The man was transported to Bourke Hospital for treatment. "A 61-year-old woman also in the caravan at the time was uninjured." A crime scene was established and inquiries into both incidents are ongoing. Police are hoping to speak to two men who may be able to assist officers with their inquiries. The men are described as being of Indigenous appearance and of thin build. One of the men last seen wearing a black hoodie and white shorts, and the other man last seen wearing a black hoodie and black pants. Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage, CCTV or information about this incident to contact Central North Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

CPR training, a garden and a music festival are some of the Western Plains projects receiving up to $10,000 under the Strengthening Rural Communities fund. At least five community groups in Warren, Condobolin, Carinda, Coonamble and Trangie were among more than 80 recipients confirmed for funding by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) on 13 March. The Condobolin and District Landcare Management Committee will receive $9450 to fund emergency training for 20 town and farm residents. Committee Landcare Coordinator Kate Stuckey did the training two years ago and wanted more locals to have the opportunity. "We're a good over half an hour from town to the nearest hospital," Ms Stuckey said. "You're left feeling confident that, if you came across an accident or something disastrous happened on your own property, you're going to be able to handle that situation and able to possibly save a life."The Condobolin and District Landcare Management Committee's Kate Stuckey. IMAGE: suppliedMs Stuckey, who lives about 50 kilometres north of Condobolin, said the two-day course includes CPR, treating bleeding and leading ambulances and helicopters to a property. The FRRR also awarded $10,000 towards Carinda's annual David Bowie Music festival, although details are yet to be confirmed. The Trangie Local Aboriginal Land Council will also receive $10,000 for "an art project to connect pregnant women to community," along with maternal health check-ups. Coonamble's Outback Arts will have $6150 for a show featuring stories from 20 locals while the Warren Health Action Committee (WHAC) will receive about $9300 towards a garden and BBQ area at an aged care facility. "The idea is to get the residents to socialise a bit more," WHAC president Rode Sandell said. "We're very excited to receive it and very appreciative of the FRRR."

A new taskforce will has been formed to help Aboriginal business grow under state's the Closing the Gap targets. The Aboriginal Business Taskforce will have eight members, including business CEO and ex-Sydney Swans player Adam Goodes and Gunnedah business owner Sharon Winsor. The government says the taskforce will ensure authorities hear Aboriginal business owners. However, Brewarrina's Urayne Warraweena, who is working to set up an Aboriginal tourism business, said she is wary of the advisory body. "It's advice going up. I want advice down," she said. "We're always consulting with the government. We're always giving government advice and strategies. But how does that help me on the ground? "When will we see the outcomes of this taskforce?"The Indigenous-majority taskforce includes Doug Delaney, Luke McIlroy-Ranga, Malinda Rutter, Melissa Fletcher, Phillip Usher, Sharon Winsor, Terri-Anne Daniel and Adam Goodes. IMAGE: supplied. Research from the Federal Department of Industry, Science and Resources shows that for every $1 of revenue, certified Indigenous businesses create $4.41 of economic and social value. Aboriginal-owned businesses are also more likely to employ Aboriginal people than their non-Aboriginal counterparts, according to the 2023 NSW Treasury First Nations Women’s Economic Participation Review. The NSW government has committed to increasing the proportion of Indigenous people aged 25-64 in employment to 62 per cent by 2031, a Closing the Gap target. The proportion sat at 59.6 per cent in 2021."Being part of this taskforce is a real opportunity to ensure that Aboriginal business owners, like myself, have a direct line to government decision-makers. We bring lived experience of the real challenges, and because we are entrepreneurs, we bring bold solutions to the table," Taskforce member Terri-Anne Daniel said. “Through discussions it was clear the Aboriginal business sector wanted a strategy-focused group that can provide advice to government," said David Harris, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty. “The taskforce is another step in NSW’s determination to lead the nation in pursuing economic prosperity as a key goal to close the gap for Aboriginal people.” Ms Warraweena is creating a business plan before she looks at what government support is available. The former Local Aboriginal Lands Council member said there are ideas and passion to start businesses in the local Aboriginal community. However, she said a lack of knowledge can get in the way. "We come from a very small community. Not all of us are qualified in anything," Ms Warraweena said."I don't feel like that's a big gap. It's a little support. "We're so far gapped from Sydney. I hope that with this taskforce - if they do offer support - that they've got smaller regional places where I can actually talk to someone."

If the latest round of plastic bans have gone by, some western retailers say they've hardly seen an impact. New rules came into effect on 1 January that barred plastic items packed inside, or attached to, food and drink packaging via a machine-automated process. That includes plastic straws on the side of juice boxes and plastic spoons sealed inside snack packs. Bourke's Copper Rose Café owner Steven Turner said customers haven’t fussed about the move away from 'integrated packaging.' "There's not really too much concern over it," he said. "Paper straws have got better now. They've probably got a harder lining on the outside."Dunedoo's White Rose Cafe began the move away from plastics well before the new ban. IMAGE: Facebook/ White Rose Cafe.The ban applies to brand owners, manufacturers and retailers, and does not include the plastic sleeve encasing paper straws. Single-use plastic straws were banned in NSW from 1 November 2022, although straws integrated with packaging were a temporary exemption. At the White Rose Café in Dunedoo, Meeya Newman said they already made the switch at least 12 months ago. "I think everyone was aware that the rule was coming, and a lot of companies, a lot of places, were also doing it," she said. "People just adjusted." Ms Newman also said the change hasn't bothered customers, although it was a "frustrating" process to find the right paper alternatives. "You can't return products once they've been opened," she said.  "We had a lot of reps selling us their product, or giving us their products, or we had to buy them - especially straws and cups - and they just didn't hold up." Other retailers told the App they had seen little to no impact since the start of 2025. One didn't have the problem of transitioning products since they only opened in late 2024.

Relying on volunteers is not unique to Australia’s rural firefighting but dependence on them comes to the forefront when a large fire breaks out.Local, regional and interstate volunteer firefighters were instrumental in battling the recent sandstone caves fire in the Pilliga Forest that burnt out 9,409 hectares and  closing the Newell Highway between Coonabarabran and Narrabri for more than a week.Incident Controller for the Castlereagh RFS Zone, Inspector Dez White says that more than 300 Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers, along with national parks firefighters, aviation specialists and heavy machinery operators were deployed to help battle the large blaze.  “Crews came from a range of brigades including Shoalhaven, the south coast, Queanbeyan, Cooma, Sydney, the Liverpool Range, as well as Gunnedah and neighbouring districts,” she said.“When we manage a fire locally there are a few decisions to be made before it is turned into a Section 44, which was what this fire had become. The Section 44 declaration allows us to bring in all the external help; there are a lot of conversations on what resources we need and how we manage the volunteers and agency resources as well.“There is always an emphasis on giving all the volunteers a good experience when they come to the country to help and being able to provide them with local accommodation, such as the Camp Cypress facility in Baradine, allows us to do that.           “We could not fight a fire on that scale without the help from volunteers. They answered the call quickly and came to our aid, which is really appreciated.”Sixty of the RFS volunteers stayed in Baradine for four days with strike teams travelling out to fight the fire on rostered day and night shifts.Snowy Monaro Group Officer, Brett Lees said the strike teams consisted of volunteers from the southern tablelands area surrounding Canberra, Goulburn, Yass, Crookwell, Monaro and from the far south coast down to Eden and the Riverina highlands. “A request was put out through our area command last week for a deployment to the section 44 up here in the Warrumbungles,” he said. “You have local mobile crews that have been fighting the fire for a few days, this extra support allows them to take a well-earned break from near-constant fire response duties.  “Usually when we do these, deployments we end up in a base camp, which is just a huge, big tent with a stretcher and a sleeping bag.  But the accommodation in Baradine gets a five-star rating from us! They've gone above and beyond for us considering that they were given just twenty-four hours’ notice of our arrival.            “We have members in our teams that are retired and those who have taken annual leave from their work to help out. We do it because we like to do it.  There is great camaraderie amongst all of us; we have just gelled and become a team.”  The RFS says that the cause of the ignition of the Sandstone Caves fire is still under investigation and specialist fire investigators have been out in the field to locate the ignition point for preliminary reporting. RFS volunteers during the clean-up after the Sandstone Caves fire. (image; RFS).Members of the public are reminded that it is important to remain vigilant regarding bushfires, especially on days of high fire danger. Any unattended fires should be reported to triple zero and if there is a fire in the area, members of the public can stay up to date by using the Hazards Near Me app or by visiting the RFS website.  

Police in western NSW will have extra backup for "high risk" situations with new SWAT vehicles announced today. Four nine-tonne BearCats will rotate between the western, northern and southern regions of the state to support officers from the Tactical Operations Unit. They are four of five new vehicles for regional and metropolitan NSW costing $3.5 million. "This is about protecting our specialist officers," NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said. "All of these vehicles are bullet and blast resistant and have the capacity to transport hostages or injured personnel." Police could not disclose where the regional Lenco-made vehicles will be based or what situations classify as high-risk.IMAGE: NSW Police However, they are expected to transport tactical operators and negotiators where they need protection from weapons fire and a safe base of operations. The extra vehicles are also expected to reduce their response time to regional areas.  Their features include riot shield covers, spotlights and external speakers. The additions bring the number of specialised armoured vehicles in the NSW to six, the most in any state in Australia. "The NSW Police Force is world class so it’s only fitting they have modern resources and technology to fight crime and keep our community safe," Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley, said.