Early insights from a NSW Country Women's Association survey showed housing, health, and safety as the top priorities amongst members.Findings from the survey that began in August will help inform the CWA what their top priorities will be in the coming years."This is the first survey of this kind that we have done, and it’s great to see the level of interest it’s attracted," CWA NSW president Joy Beames said. The survey will create the benchmark for the organisation's planning and strategy and will be undertaken annually. Secretary of the Coonamble CWA branch Amanda Colwell said all members can provide input. "The insight gained from the information is a snapshot of what is important to all women and families and what is vital to forming the direction of CWA and our role as advocates to the government and non-government bodies."  CWA NSW started the survey because they felt it was the right time to launch their own inquiry into what the needs of women in NSW are and how to best support them.Issues at front-and-centre for 1,300 respondents thus far include health and access to health care, personal safety and housing affordability.  Many respondents also said that affordable childcare and flexible work arrangements along with training and mentorship would improve women's socio-economic status.  "Priorities will be different for the ages and stages of the individual so this opportunity to gather thoughts and feelings from as diverse a base as possible will benefit everyone," Ms Colwell said.  On the topic of health, the greatest areas of concern among respondents were the lack of access to specialised care providers, affordability, and gender-based violence and harassment.  Domestic and family violence was also the focus of the CWA's annual awareness week which ran from 1 to 7 September.  “Across the week we heard so many stories of violence, coercion, and intimidation, so we hope the survey provides another avenue for women to have a voice on this issue and feel like they’re taking back even a small measure of control. We want to assure them we’re listening, and we’ll ensure our policy-makers hear them as well," Ms Beames said.  The full survey can be found here and is open until 31 October. 

It's a long way from working with lions and elephants in his birth country of Swaziland, but Condobolin's new vet Patrick Hlatshwayo is looking forward to his next Australian adventure.  Dr Hlatshwayo joined the Central West Local Land Service in July. Since then, he has been getting to know the region and the farmers who live there. "I go out and visit the farmers just to say hi and ask them how things are going," he said. "I don’t want to just go there when people have issues."  Dr Hlatshwayo's interest in veterinary medicine was sparked during his childhood growing up on a farm in Swaziland. He went on to graduate at Perth's Murdoch University in 1990, before returning home.   In Swaziland, he helped contain a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak that started in 2000. "One vet from the field phoned me to say that all the animals were lame," Dr Hlatshwayo said.  He took a sample from a cow's tongue to a lab in South Africa for testing where it was confirmed that the animals suffered from FMD. The outbreak had disastrous economic impacts on Swaziland and it took more than six years for the European Union to start trade with them again. The new vet in town is enjoying his time in the regional NSW.Dr Hlatshwayo also treated animals in the wild which could be dangerous work.  "When you are in a game reserve with other animals, they see a vet and think you are food."  In 2003, Dr Hlatshwayo got a job in New Zealand before coming to Australia in 2006 and working as an on-plant veterinarian for the Federal Government.  He returned to Swaziland in 2015 to write regulations for the Veterinary Public Act and opening a private practice in 2019.  When Dr Hlatshwayo saw the job opening in Condobolin he knew he had to take his chance. "I thought let me just apply for this job and do something that's different from what I've done before. "I think it's a lifetime opportunity for to me to meet different people and have experiences I wouldn't have otherwise." He plans to stay in Condobolin for the long haul and is in the process of bringing over his family. "People tell me that they've had a hard time keeping a vet around. I'm happy to be in the community. I think it's the best thing." 

Central West Local Land Services (CWLLS) Invasive Species Team Leader, Nigel Boyce, says the time to control feral pigs is now. To assist landholders, the CWLLS is offering fully funded treatment of grain as a method of reducing numbers.Feral pigs have significant impacts on agricultural production and the environment and are also a host and vector for numerous endemic and exotic diseases and parasites that affect both people and livestock.Mr Boyce said the aim of treating grain for landholders to bait pigs is to give them a helping hand with control methods.“This will enable more land managers to undertake control programs to reduce numbers across the region, and in turn their impacts on production and the environment” Mr Boyce said.Feral pigs are very adaptable and can thrive in most environments. Recent exceptional conditions have meant they have increased in numbers while managing to stay well hidden. The CWLLS advise that the cool and wet conditions have meant feral pigs will now be seeking a high energy diet.Central West Local Land Services is encouraging land managers to take advantage of current conditions and control feral pigs now before damage occurs to crops prior to harvest.“During last year’s harvest, landholders noticed damage to crops from feral pigs. This damage hits the hip pocket and is worth the effort to control the pigs before it’s too late,” Mr Boyce said.Long term strategy needed - Roy ButlerMember for Barwon, Roy Butler, has long been an advocate for feral pest control and last week delivered a private members' statement to NSW Parliament, stressing the need for long-term strategies to keep the agricultural sector healthy.“There is no long-term strategy or cohesive management system that can adequately manage the situation we are in today with pests in New South Wales,” Mr Butler said. “There are more than 340 pest weeds and over 40 pest animal species which cost us around $1.9 billion per year, and that's been conservative. Not only is the cost to our state massive, but the impacts of pests on the agriculture sector, the environment and our regional communities are compounding.“Feral species are often very adaptable. Those that survive drought are often the strongest, and when good conditions return, they thrive. We have witnessed this boom and bust repeatedly in New South Wales. Most recently, we've seen the mouse plague and the proliferation of feral pigs.”Feral pigs are good at finding areas to ‘camp’ that are well hidden, but still need food and water according to the CWLLS. They suggest free feeding of pigs and monitoring with cameras will enable landholders to get an indication of how many pigs are on their property and in turn the potential for crop damage.Baiting to minimise numbers“Baiting of feral pigs is the primary control method and when done correctly has the potential to eliminate the majority of the local population,” Mr Boyce said. “When controlling feral pigs, the aim is to take out over 70 per cent of the pigs to have an impact on that local population.”In parliament, Mr Butler praised the landholders' efforts to control pigs and other invasive species and called for them to receive extra support.“Farmers are some of the most resilient members of our community, but to help themselves, they need to be empowered when it comes to pest control,” he said. “Not only do we need more funding, but we also need to enable our landholders, who are compelled by law to manage pests on their properties, to easily access pathways for the right equipment for the job, like Category D firearms and noise attenuation devices. We need a multi-pronged approach that includes baiting, bounties, trapping, fencing, ground, and aerial shooting. Empowering communities means developing clear and detailed strategies based on thorough consultation process,”But while government processes for increased control methods is in process, there is a way to make an impact on feral pig numbers right now.“We encourage landholders to make use of this funded grain treatment to control feral pigs before too much damage occurs,” Mr Boyce said.For information on the treated grain program or advice on a feral pig control program, contact your local Biosecurity Officer on 1300 795 299 to assist you with making your baiting operations more successful.

Baradine rugby league forward Ashanti Pennell came a step closer to hitting the big time when she made her NSW Women’s Premiership debut with the South Sydney Rabbitohs last week.In 2021, Ashanti was selected to the NSW Country Rugby under 18s team, impressing coaches over the years with a strong work ethic.Eighteen-years-old and only just completing Year 12, she was chosen in the next year to play Tarsha Gale Cup with West Tigers under 19s squad.In November 2023 the Rabbitohs announced her as part of their 29-woman premiership squad.The Rabbitohs faced the Newcastle Knights on Friday 13 September at Sydney’s Redfern Oval, where Ashanti switched in for Kyana Patten in 59th minute.Baradine Magpies Secretary Bronwyn Masman watched the game at a friend’s house.“It was nice to see her on the field. She’s trained hard, and moved to Sydney for it,” Ms Masman said.“All Magpies would be very proud of her, win or lose.”It was a rough beginning for the front rower, with Newcastle scoring in the same minute to bring the tally to 40-4.A chip from Ashanti within the ten-metre line saw the green and red almost claim a second try in the last ten minutes, but the fairytale ending was not to be.The footy slipped past the Knights’ line and into the goal area.Fellow forward Nancy Sullivan gave chase and made a dive for contact, but it bounced out of reach and out of play.The final score remained unchanged at the final whistle in round 11 of the competition.“She’s worked hard her whole life, and so have her family. You put your life on hold a bit as well to follow your child’s dream,” Ms Masman said.Ashanti also played in Bathurst with the Castlereagh Cougars on Saturday 14 September in the Western Women’s Rugby League Opens competition, where she scored the side’s only try against Panorama Platypi.The Platypi defeated the Cougars 54-4 in the first round.

Residents of Warrumbungle Shire are being invited to contribute to the future economic and tourism strategy for the region.Council has called for community input into the Economic Development and Tourism Strategy for 2025-2030 via an online survey.  “Community input is vital as we develop a strategy that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents,” said Warrumbungle Shire Council’s Director Environment and Development Services, Leeanne Ryan. “By gathering feedback through this survey, we aim to craft a plan that supports growth, sustainability, and enhanced tourism within the Shire.” The survey will be open until Friday, 4 October 2024, at 5:00pm, and residents are encouraged to dedicate 5 to 10 minutes to share their perspectives. “We urge everyone to participate and make their voices heard,” Ms Ryan added. “Your feedback is essential in guiding the Shire’s future development and ensuring our approach aligns with community priorities.”   To take part in the survey, visit: Warrumbungle Shire Economic Development and Tourism Strategy 2025-2030: Community Survey.   For more information and to access the survey, please visit the Warrumbungle Shire Council’s website under the ‘Have Your Say’ tab.    

Cobar, Coonamble, Lachlan and the Warrumbungles will see upgrades to their fire trails in preparation for summer, as part of an inspection of around 546 fire trails statewide in the coming weeks.  Crown Lands and the Rural Fire Service will conduct aerial inspections to see which fire trails require maintenance work, such as in the case of erosion or vegetation growth, or if watercourse crossings need repairs.  NSW Soil Conservation Service will do on-ground maintenance work where needed.  Emergency service workers and wildlife service use fire trails to contain and manage bushfires as hotter temperatures approach.  "Fire trails are critical infrastructure," Acting Project Officer for Bushfire Crownlands, Paula Gilchrist said. "Ahead of the bushfire season, we need to get out there and make sure they are all safe and accessible for our firefighters, so that our communities can have the best possible protection. "We send the report out to the bushfire management committees. Crownlands will prioritise upgrades around these reports," she said. "Because they are unsealed roads, they risk erosion so you have to maintain the structures to ensure you get as much durability of the service as you can," Joss Halling, soil conservation service area manager for the Central West and Sydney said.  The NSW government has allocated $7.9 million for ground maintenance and strategic fire trails on  Crown land in 2024-2025 and a further $4.8 million for hazard reduction activities such as controlled burns.  “Crown Lands is responsible for maintaining approximately 2,400 kilometers of fire trails, and over 660 hectares of Asset Protection Zones across NSW to ensure adequate fire breaks between bushland and buildings in residential areas," Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said.  “Ensuring our fire trails are properly maintained is critical to protecting our firefighters and communities across the state as we head into a potentially dangerous bushfire season," Mr Kamper said.

Come By Chance is busy preparing for its annual Picnic Races on Saturday 28 September.Complete with fashion, face-painting, food, fireworks and foot races - plus a bar running until 11pm - Committee Secretary Jeremy Borowski said the family-friendly event is a fun way to support the local community.   "We have a small community with a very big heart that needs the support of the surrounding communities to make the effort, the time and the money that goes into keeping something like Come By Chance Races running worthwhile," Mr Borowski said."Without their support, without people’s patronage, then we can't hope to continue."Grab yourself a group of friends and come on down for a fantastic day out."The committee is hoping for a crowd of around 700 people, with gates opening from 11:30am and the first race at 1:30pm.Exact horse and jockey numbers are yet to be confirmed, but the organising committee expects six races, with a total prize pool of $49,000.Horses won't be the only competitors on the day, with foot races taking place.Competition for fashion in the field is expected to be strong, with prizes for the best dressed girls, ladies and men.Fireworks will light the sky at around 7pm as night sets in, and there will be a live band fronted by local Maddie Warden.The races will have EFTPOS, though cash is preferred.Mr Borowski said the committee were working hard with Racing NSW to ensure the track is up to standard."Hopefully this is something we only have to do once, and then once we're up to scratch, it's a good foundation to ensure the success of future seasons," he said.The race organisers made special mention of the sponsors which reached out with renewed support despite a sponsorship rollover last year, special thanks going to Rabobank, Geronimo Farm Equipment, MJC Plumbing, Nomadic Welding & Fabrication and this year's newest sponsor Greenoaks Agriculture.

A preliminary report on NSW's management of invasive species has proposed a revamp of a system it says is incohesive. Released this month, the NSW Invasive Species Management Review found "siloed governance structures" meant key players were not working together to tackle invasive species. The report also found "complex" government structures are creating potential for confusion, overlap and gaps in roles. "The system’s shared responsibilities for planning and resourcing have been articulated in NSW but have not been supported by strategic, risk-based prioritisation, consistent leadership and coordination of cross-tenure programs or a resourcing strategy to make the most effective and efficient use of limited funds," the report said. "Siloed management across different agencies without consistent leadership and guidance from Agriculture and Biosecurity within the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) means that the operation and understanding of responsibilities varies significantly between organisations." The report proposed an Invasive Species Investment Program with funding allocated in five-year terms.Feral animals and invasive weeds also take their toll. PHOTO: Wikimedia It also proposed remaking the NSW Invasive Species Plan to be "outcomes driven" and include biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural values. The Natural Resources Commission is heading the review and estimated in a worst-case scenario that failing to effectively manage new incursions from invasive species could annually cost of $29.7 billion by 2030. Invasive Species Council Advocacy Director Jack Gough said the review plains an "ugly picture" of invasive species management in NSW. "Without major changes and increased investment in invasive species management our state’s economy, productivity and native wildlife will suffer," Mr Gough said. "We congratulate the Natural Resources Commission on such a comprehensive report and hope this review will provide the new NSW Government with a platform to drive the reform, funding and focus needed to reduce the damage and prevent the next wave of invasive species-driven extinctions." NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said the Government has been tackling invasive species while the report was underway."We haven’t sat still - we’ve got on with the job and started addressing the feral pig problem, fixing the system’s governance by creating the Independent Biosecurity Commissioner role and appointing Dr Marion Healy, plus providing record funding for biosecurity and NSW local land services. “In addition, we will be making sure that public land managers are not only compliant but are leading the way in how they manage the public estate for future generations." However, the Greens and Nationals said the Government needs to do more. "This should serve as a wake-up call for the Government to implement the common sense recommendations in the report, including funding for a five year Invasive Species Program and investment in regional pest and weed coordinators," Nationals Shadow Minister for Regional NSW said. "I’m genuinely concerned that the Government wants to process this report in their own time. The reality is that the environment cannot be expected to wait while the Minns Labor Government figures out what parts of this report are politically convenient for them," Greens environment spokesperson Sue Higginson said.

On Saturday, 14 September, Outback Arts hosted the grand opening of this year's Outback Archies exhibition, celebrating the vibrant creativity and unique stories of our region's artists.This year's exhibition, featuring 88 artworks from 18 local government areas across Western NSW and beyond, explores the theme Legends and Landscapes.Artists from Coonamble did particularly well, but there was plenty of talent shown from other areas of the Western Plains as well."It's great to see artists from Bourke, Wentworth and all different shires coming in and hopefully they can grow from this opportunity," Outback Arts CEO Jamie-Lea Trindall said.At the opening, Ms Trindall announced the Outback Archies, established in 2011, will be going through a makeover in the coming year and that the public will be invited to offer input and suggest ways to improve."The Outback Archies are a highlight on the arts calendar in Western NSW, and we are thrilled to announce upcoming changes, including a rebrand and restructure of the prize,” she said.Jude Flemming of Warren with her winning work, Jump Up. Photo: suppliedIn the meantime, it's a great opportunity to view some of the talented artists from across our region, including the unique image entitled Dave by Georgia Ditchfield of Coonamble, which received first place in the photography section ."Nestled between old gum trees, you’ll find Dave hard at work, no matter the temperature, forging knives. Like forging precious metals into elegant knives, we too, are shaped by our surroundings," Ms Ditchfield said."Dave’s quiet passion and dedication to his craftsmanship is an example to inspire, with his unwavering commitment to his craft. Dave is a friend and neighbour, from whom I draw inspiration in the heart of the bush."Dave by Georgia Ditchfield of Coonamble won the photography award. Photo: facebook.Ms Trindall said, “We are always so excited by the entries, and this year is no different. The quality is high, but what is most inspiring is the way people find and express stories of the legends and landscapes from their everyday lives." Judging the talent this year were artist Ana Robson from Coonamble, Campbelltown Arts Centre curator Emily Rolfe and chair of Aboriginal Regional Arts Aleisha Longsdale. "(The works) show the love we have for our landscape and our country around here," Ms Robson said.Outback Arts aims to bring artists together to inspire one another and their community as well as providing emerging artists with a platform to boost their profile. It works in partnership with regional and metropolitan sponsors to present this exhibition and support emerging and established artists.A complete list of winners from this year's Outback Archies art prize can be found on the Outback Arts Facebook page.The exhibition will be on display at the Outback Arts Gallery in Coonamble until 25 October. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite artwork for the People’s Choice Award. Many of the exhibits are up for sale. 

A raft of changes to workplace law were introduced in late August for businesses with more than 15 employees, the most publicised of which is the right to disconnect from work. The changes will apply to small businesses in another year. Employees now have the right to refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact or attempted contact outside their working hours, unless their refusal is unreasonable. This includes contact, or attempted contact, from their employer, or another person, if the contact is work-related.Given the industry-specific implications, NSW Farmers are bringing a series of workshops on the right to disconnect and other new employment laws to Dubbo, Nyngan, Gilgandra and Coonabarabran this month. All farmers can attend, even if they are not members of NSW Farmers. “Each session is short, sharp and practical, lasting around two hours in total, and we’ve gone to great lengths to make it well worth the trip into town for anyone interested in coming along,” NSW Farmers Head of Workplace Relations Gracia Kusuma said.  In a speech earlier this year, former Employment Minister Tony Burke said the right to disconnect wasn't about a complete ban on contact between employer and employee - for example, things like sending out work rosters to their employees would not be affected. The new law is all about choice and not being punished if workers choose to switch off. "Employers will still be able to call people if there's an extra shift, 'We can't find something', that sort of thing, that will all still happen," Mr Burke said."But the concept that you are meant to be constantly monitoring your email, the concept that you have to have your phone with you at all times, the concept that you can be punished because you didn't do something during a period that you weren't working, is over." NSW Farmers Head of Workplace Relations Gracia Kusuma said in an industry like agriculture, there are often seasonal out-of-hours expectations and the new laws need to be adaptable. “These changes will have a significant impact on farm businesses, and so now is a more critical time to get across what the latest workplace laws and regulations are, as well as how they could affect the way your farm workforce operates,” she said.While the change has generally been seen as a way to improve work/life balance and to reduce stress, not all stakeholders are happy with the concept. The state’s peak business organisation, Business NSW says the new right to disconnect laws have arrived at a challenging time for small and medium businesses, with the decline in business confidence dropping from -59.7 to -67.8, based upon long-running opinion surveys.“Business confidence in NSW has declined for the second straight quarter, making for a tough outlook for business,” Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter said.“Into this environment has come the Federal Government’s so-called ‘closing loopholes’ legislation. These laws will take time to have their full effect, but there is no doubt that it’s an additional layer of red tape our economy doesn’t need. This will increase the compliance and regulatory burden on business.”   NSW has the highest number of business insolvencies. In 2023-24 NSW had 42 per cent of Australia’s insolvencies yet only 31 per cent of the country’s population. Since the pandemic, NSW is the only state which has seen average yearly insolvencies increase.   “Small business (with less than 15 employees) will have another year before the right to disconnect laws kick in for them – and that’s positive because there will most likely be teething problems for medium and large businesses,” Mr Hunter said.  “Ultimately, modern day employers are shifting to this informal ‘give-and-take’ approach anyway. Workplaces are saying ‘you can work in the morning and can pick up the kids in the afternoon no problem’. But under the new laws, contacting someone after hours is now considered problematic – even if someone’s traditional workday has already had those family-friendly allowances factored in. If the unions want a regimented workplace, then that flexibility needs to cut both ways.” Ms Kusuma says farming is a unique employment environment."Often there is a requirement that people are meant to be available out-of-hours in farming," she said."There can be emergencies after hours or seasonal conditions that require contact. There are obviously expectations, but they need to be based on what's reasonable. "I think it's important to clarify that these new laws don't mean you can't contact your employees, it means that it is their choice whether to to follow up that contact. It's obviously got to involve common sense."INFORMATION SESSIONS:Information sessions will be held on September 25 at Nyngan RSL from 9.30am to 11.30am and Gilgandra Services Club – 2pm to 4pm. On September 26 the session will be at Acacia Motel, Coonabarabran from 9.30am 11.30am. Farmers can register for an event by visiting: https://form.jotform.com/holleyt/nswf-wr-wshop-rsvp.For more information on the "right to disconnect" follow this link https://www.fwc.gov.au/documents/resources/right-to-disconnect-fact-sheet.pdf

NSW’s newest national park, located 150 kilometres north-west of Bourke, has been given the name Cuttaburra. The name refers to the Cuttaburra Creek that flows through the park and the surrounding Yantabulla Swamp Cuttaburra Basin. A spokesperson for the Minister of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Heritage Penny Sharpe said it could be well over a year before visitors can access the new Park. It is made up of three former stations - Comeroo, Muttawary and Maranoa - which means there is still farming equipment, fences and other hazards that could be dangerous to visitors on the land. Only once those are cleared up and facilities such as toilets are installed will the park be open to visitors. Activities will then include camping, bird watching and driving tours. Meet the eastern fat-tailed gecko (photo supplied)The NSW Parks and Wildlife Service will also liaise with local Aboriginal groups that lay claim to that land to ensure that the land is treated in a culturally appropriate manner. The 37,700-hectare park is home to 158 native animal species, twelve of which are classed as threatened, including the stripe-face dunnart and eastern fat-tailed gecko. The Yantabulla Swamp is home to up to 50,000 waterbirds and thousands of internationally protected migratory shorebirds. “This new national park will protect many native plants and animals, including a dozen listed as threatened species, as well as one of Australia’s most important wetlands,” Minister Sharpe said. Other key programs underway in the Park include feral animal and weed control, fire management and conservation cultural projects. Melissa Hams of NPWS with Minister Sharpe on her visit to Cuttaburra (photo supplied)“Creating Cuttaburra National Park will ensure people from across NSW, and around the globe, will be able to visit and explore this area for themselves,” Minister Sharpe said.“I have been lucky enough to see first-hand the new Park’s creeks, woodlands, open floodplains, stony mulga hills and wildlife – and I’m pleased the area will be protected for generations of visitors to come.”

The owner of Cobar’s Endeavor Mine has secured funding that will assist with the escalation of mining.Polymetals Resources confirmed early this week it had secured a loan to fund their activity at the lead, zinc and silver mine through a strategic partnership with global global metal and commodities trader, Ocean Partners.The historic mine, 40 kilometres north west of Cobar, has been in care and maintenance for five years, but will be scaled back up after a restart study demonstrated better than anticipated profitability and an increased present value of $414 million from $201 million (Resurgent metal prices behind Endeavor Mine reopening).The new deal with Ocean Partners includes an initial US$20 million loan, as well as an offtake agreement for the ore.Polymetals Executive Chairman Dave Sproule welcomed the announcement as the last hurdle in supporting the restart at Endeavor, with the company on track to having production moving and cash flow in the first half of 2025.“Surface and underground refurbishment work is underway, and we very much look forward to realising on the significant Endeavor asset with its substantive remaining ore reserves and exploration potential," he said.“The strategic partnership with Ocean Partners builds upon an existing 20-year relationship between us, with Endeavor being a perfect fit for our respective capability and experience. The intent is to build a platform for growth, and the flexibility provided by the Ocean Partners facility allows us to execute this strategy.“The path to production is now secure and we remain laser focused on delivering on our commitment to our shareholders and the Cobar region.”

The farm sector is set to be the big beneficiary of a trade deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), following news the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has been signed.While the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the deal, announced this week, others say it should be put in context.In the agreement, tariffs have been removed from Australian exports including beef, sheep meat, dairy, oil seeds, seafood, canola seeds, nuts, honey, chickpeas and lentils - equating to $50 million each year in tariff savings to Australian farmers and food producers.And that’s good news according to NFF Chief Executive, Tony Mahar. “Australian farmers export more than 70 per cent of what they produce, so gaining new and diverse market access is critical to the sector’s resilience,” Mr Mahar said. “This agreement also marks a strategic opening into the Middle East, a growing market of more than 58 million people with a heavy reliance on food imports."Small share of our exports – NSW FarmersNSW Farmers economist Samuel Miller welcomed news of the agreement but said it needed to be put in a global context. “Export to the Middle East for NSW primary industries is a relatively small share of our total exports - $731 million in 2023, of $13.1 billion in total," he said.“Although it is a small share, it has been growing from around $180m in 2020 (an increase of 300%).”Mr Miller said the agreement was a win for farmers and would help diversify our markets, which are heavily reliant on Asia.“However, it isn’t exactly a shift change in the way the state’s farmers are going to be doing business, unless exports to the Middle East start to outstrip Europe and USA.”Shadow Minister for Trade and Tourism, Kevin Hogan also welcomed news that negotiations had concluded on the Agreement. “The Nationals understand the importance and benefit of open and free trade," he said.“The irony is not lost on us however that this announcement comes just one week after the National Ag Rally out the front of Parliament House, led by WA sheep farmers to protest the Government’s decision to phase out live exports of sheep by sea.“Live sheep are a key commodity for the UAE, who import for religious, cultural and social reasons. This deal with the UAE could have supported the industry for years to come yet instead they have turned their backs on our farmers and left them out in the cold.”Live exporters say they are waiting to see more detail on the trade agreement to assess how it will impact them directly. 

Nyngan’s branch of Can Assist held a fundraising High Tea on Saturday 14 September with over 100 people present, making a whopping $10,776 on the day for cancer sufferers in the local area, including a large donation from an anonymous local. Under the banner of “Locals Helping Locals”, Can Assist Nyngan is run by a band of compassionate volunteers who are either cancer survivors, sufferers, carers or just community members willing to help out. Now in its twelfth year, since its inception the group has been able give out $250,000 to help those in need, including sponsoring two rooms at Macquarie Home Stay in Dubbo (a volunteer-run organisation providing accommodation and assistance to people in outlying areas needing medical treatments) and assisting every application they have received asking for assistance. “What an amazing community we live in,” said Can Assist president Lyn Webster. “We love how the people of Nyngan have always supported us and our work in the local community. "People are so generous and kind and the fact that all the money raised stays within our community is a real bonus. It is one of the reasons why people are so willing to give, donate and support the work we do. “Small communities are amazing, and we are blessed with the best.”The latest fundraising effort showcased the baking of local cooks who made all of the cakes and slices. Photo: Angie White “We had amazing prizes donated by local business houses and those who attended had a great time bidding on these, with all the money being added to the total funds raised for the day," said Ms Webster. “We also wish to acknowledge a local rugby league player who donated all of his match payments for the year to Can Assist, which with a contribution from Nyngan Senior Rugby League came to $5000. A selfless act from the young man who wished to remain anonymous. We are so grateful to him for his generosity.” A fashion parade with local models and fashion from Blue Illusion of Dubbo added to the fun on the day. Photo supplied

After being named as a finalist this year’s NSW Royal Agricultural Show Rural Achiever Award, Nyngan’s Rebecca George is now encouraging other regional dwellers to take the opportunity to apply for the 2025 program before nominations close tomorrow, 20 September.“I would absolutely encourage anyone to put their hand up and apply for the Royal Achiever Award,” she said.“It doesn't matter if you're from a rural background or not.“The opportunities and networking we've been provided with during the program at the Easter Show, and the ongoing opportunities have been exceptional.”After short-listing, eight Rural Achievers will be selected to receive an extensive eight-day program of events during the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show.The itinerary includes function at Government House, stewarding, a behind-the-scenes look at the Show, dinners with respected agricultural industry leaders, plus a share in $17,000 prize money and other prizes.In addition, the winning finalist will represent NSW for the 2026 National Rural Ambassador Award.Ms George said the group of 2024 finalists had recently been on a trip to the Global Food Forum in Brisbane and also to the Royal Adelaide Show for an exchange program with that state’s delegates.“I was really honoured to be chosen and our group of finalists were great. We got along really well and making connections and friendships from all over the state was a big bonus,” she said.Country shows are in her blood, including being named as Showgirl at the Nyngan Show 2018. Through this competition Ms George learnt the importance of local agricultural shows and discovered a network of people which she now considers her closest friends.“I met a lot of like-minded people who are passionate about keeping agriculture alive within their community. And the Sydney Show highlights agriculture to the people of Sydney who might not know about the origins of their food or the qualities and attributes of farm animals,” she said.Ms George is heavily involved with her family's farm business and also works closely with her local show society to ensure rural communities stay alive and connected.“My sister and I are very involved with our family farm,” Ms George said.“I’ve been home for seven years and I wouldn’t change a thing. We run a mixed farm with cropping and livestock, and I love it.”For more information or to apply for the RAS Rural Achiever Award, please visit the website

Young cattle farmers in the Western Plains are being invited to apply for a new industry leadership program created by Cattle Australia (CA).The seven-month Australian Beef Leaders (ABL) Program is being offered to 21 to 35-year-olds who want to grow their strengths in leadership and advocacy.CA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chris Parker, said CA was proud to be leading a program that would reward talent and support the long-term success of the beef industry.“This program presents an important opportunity to nurture and empower the future leaders of our industry, by equipping them with knowledge and skills to advocate on the cattle industry’s behalf for years to come,” Dr Parker said.“ABL is about building the community of forward-thinking people who are ready to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities of modern agriculture.“We are looking forward to working with our inaugural cohort to provide them with a range of experiences, as well as learning and networking opportunities, including face-to-face sessions with established industry leaders, and personal development training in areas such as public speaking, policy, media and negotiation skills.“This is a long-term commitment by CA to identify key talent within our industry and support them in becoming strong, effective and resilient leaders for tomorrow.”The program will be run from November 2024 to June 2025 and will seek to unlock the potential of a cohort of seven successful applicants from diverse geographic beef producing regions.Successful applicants will receive training to develop skills in advocacy, policy, and media engagement, while also promoting personal development through self-awareness and confidence-building activities.The program will enhance participants’ understanding of the beef industry, including its representative bodies, governance structures and regional challenges, and prepare them to be influential in driving meaningful change for the cattle industry’s future.“We strongly encourage anyone who wants to learn, grow, make new connections and, importantly, be at the forefront of a strong, innovative and profitable beef sector to put their name forward,” Dr Parker said.Applications close 30 September.For more information go to:  https://cattleaustralia.com.au/australian-beef-leaders-program-2024/

The bull riding and dog jumping will soon return to Nevertire, with less than ten sleeps to go until the village's annual rodeo. Over 1000 people are expected in the village on 28 September - more than ten times the population - where riders will vie for a $10,000 prize pool. Entries are open until 20 September for riders, who last year numbered about 150, to compete in front of around 1200 spectators. "We're expecting the same amount of spectators, if not more," Alicia McCarten said, secretary of organising committee, We of the Nevertire. "Entries are open for nomination and they're looking really positive, so obviously the more competitors you have the better the day is going to be. "I'm looking forward to having another great year and I think it will be a really fun day." 2023 Open Bull winner Thomas Hudson on bull 'Billy the Kid.' He scored an impressive 88. PHOTO: Jodie Adams PhotographyIn the local's steer ride amateurs from the village with have the chance to put their skills to the test, while dogs will compete for their owners' bragging rights in the high jump. Rodeo-goers will also cheer on cowboys and cowgirls in the novice bullride, saddlebronc and bareback events, plus the ladies, junior and juvenile barrel racing, and junior and juvenile steer rides. "The local steer ride is always a good laugh and test of skills and courage,” committee president Tom Russ said. “Gates will open from 12pm, and there will be a full bar and BBQ facilities onsite. We’ll have EFTPOS available, but we also recommend cash as the service in Nevertire can be dodgy at the best of times, let alone with an extra thousand people in town. “There’s also limited shade and seating so feel free to bring along your own chair and your best big cowboy hat.” Tickets are available online and at the gate.

Nearly 1,000 Essential Energy customers in Brewarrina were left without power this morning after a cat came in contact with the high-voltage electricity network inside the zone around 5am.  The incident caused two fuses to fail which led the electricity network protection equipment to operate automatically after detecting a fault.  In total, 956 customers energy accounts were involved, affecting many organisations and citizens in the area.  The Brewarrina Central School shared on Facebook that they would only have limited services due to the unplanned outage.  The Brewarrina Shire Council was also temporarily closed until the power could be restored.  Power was partially restored to the area around 10:20am.  The Brewarrina Shire Council announced on Facebook they will be resuming service by 11am. 

Walgett's new crisis housing for women and children is expected welcome its first tenants this week, with manager Mission Australia hoping the housing will better help victim-survivors recovering from domestic violence and homelessness. The new site takes over from the shared five-bedroom Barwon Cottage, with the block including two two-bedroom units and two three-bedroom units. The site is security fenced, has cameras right around the perimeter and an intercom system that goes to all the units. "Hopefully it gives the women a little bit more independence, not having to share accommodation. They'll be living in their own units, which allows them time to go through and deal with the traumas that they've been through," Mission Australia Project Manager Kellie Maxwell said. "This has been a long time coming, so we are very excited with the new safehouse." The complex will also have a 'hub' section for support services like legal aid, drug and alcohol and mental health counsellors to work with clients on-site.Ms Maxwell says the safe house is designed for a 'wrap around' approach to support. PHOTO: Mission Australia Women will be able to access the accommodation by approaching or calling the Mission Australia office in Walgett's Fox Street. Other services can also refer them. The accommodation took three years to build and is on the site of the old men's refuge, which Ms Maxwell said had been "in very poor condition."  She said Barwon Cottage will be used for the new men's refuge. “Walgett Women’s Safe House will provide a home for women and children fleeing abusive relationships, and a place where recovery is encouraged and supported, including holistic healing and wraparound support for Aboriginal women and families,” Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said.  “The NSW Government is committed to supporting victim-survivors of domestic violence and ensuring women and children can live safely and freely in their own communities." The site will prioritise Indigenous women and children, who Ms Maxwell said make a large proportion of clients in the area. One of the units at the safehouse. PHOTO: Mission Australia She said Indigenous clients will have access to culturally appropriate support. "Seventy-five per cent of our staff are Aboriginal and we have a lot of Aboriginal resources. We have fairly strong connections with the Dharriwaa Elders Group and the Walgett Community Working Party."  The new site opened in mid-August, although Ms Maxwell said it hadn't been able to welcome clients due to minor issues with the complex, including around plumbing and toothing.  Walgett experienced the highest rate of domestic violence-related assault in NSW between April 2023 and March 2024, according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research.  In that period, the Local Government Area (LGA) saw 197 reports, or 3571 people per 100,000. Walgett was also revealed as the (LGA) with the highest rate of homelessness in NSW this year - 285 people per 10,000 - according to Homeless NSW.