Nationals candidate Jamie Chaffey is heading to Parkes and then to Dubbo to vote in the 2025 Federal seat of Parkes.The final day of polling is underway and many will be wondering if the large electorate has any surprises in store.The latest and last You Gov poll has indicated Nationals candidate Jamie Chaffey should win the seat of Parkes by a large margin on two party preferred 67 to 33 over Labor’s Nathan Fell.Chaffey, if the National Opinion Polls are realised, will have to work from the opposition benches.‘My wife Judy is coming with me and I will visit as many booths as I can and finish the day in Gunnedah," Chaffey said Ii his final pitch speaking in Parkes."I’ve had the most amazing privilege meeting some amazing people knocking on 24,000 doors and travelling over 36,000 kms.’’Jamie Chaffey at West Wyalong. IMAGE: FB‘’People are concerned with the 3 C’s, childcare, healthcare and aged care and when you leave town its about roads and telecommunications. "The Nationals have a plan for real cost of living , including cheaper fuel, up to $1200 in tax relief and a plan for affordable power.’’ Labor’s Nathan Fell says the campaign has been enjoyable even in the face of a crushing defeat.‘’People across the electorate have been warm and theres a lots to do to help our communities so I will continue to fight if Labor is re-elected tonight," said Fell. "As a local voice for the Parkes electorate to keep the pressure on the Nationals. ‘’Nathan Fell in Broken Hill. IMAGE: FBGreens Trish Frail is hoping to see voters flow through from disaffected people frustrated by the stranglehold the Nats have on the seat.‘’There is so much that needs to be done for people across this electorate and wouldn’t it be great if this seat became closer and marginal," she said.Shooters, Fishers, Farmers Steven Pope believes many have had enough of the big parties and he wants voters to consider changing their vote.

Spectators heard the sound of an over 400-year-old viola as the Warren Chamber Music Festival rolls through the shire this week. The New Zealand String Quartet's Gillian Ansell played the hand-crafted instrument in Warren at a sold-out opening concert on 1 May. Performances are taking place over four days across Nevertire, Collie and Warren and include world-class musicians as well as Warren's very own SING community choir. "The age of the wood, the lacquer, the design, it sounds like velvet," organiser and violinist Frances Evans said. "There's a reason why 400-year-old instruments still exist and it's because they were truly exceptional from the beginning." Instrument-maker Nicolò Amati crafted the viola in 1619 in Cremona in northern Italy.Much of it's history remains a mystery, according to the New Zealand String Quartet's website, although a family crest carved into it indicates the influential Medici family likely commissioned it. The family crest. The Medici family were a banking and political dynasty that held power in Florence and Tuscany in the mid-1000s. The New Zealand-based Adam Foundation loans the viola to the quartet. "I hope that the concerts celebrate what it is to have beautiful, artistic experiences in our incredibly scenic, sacred and special landscape in rural NSW," Ms Evans said. "I really hope people feel inspired, and I hope that people feel expanded, both in their hearts and in their knowledge and in their experience." The event began in 2021 and Ms Evans said at least 600 spectators have so far bought tickets across the four days this year.

 The Coalition has previously opposed fee-free TAFE, voting against legislation to extend it a few days before the election was called.  With voting tomorrow, local candidates who responded to our calls expressed their views. Fee-free TAFE was originally introduced in 2023, under the 12-month Skills Agreement. Between January 2023 and June 2024 the federal Government worked with states and territories to deliver 180,000 fee-free TAFE places. The agreement now falls under the Fee-Free TAFE Skills Agreement (FFTSA).  Free TAFE is designed to encourage people to undertake education and training in priority areas, such as:  Care (aged care, childcare, health care, disability care) Technology and digital Hospitality and tourism Construction Agriculture Sovereign capability  VET workforce   Of the 180,00 places delivered between 2023-4, 35,500 of those were in early childhood education and care, 35,000 in construction, and 131,000 in care and support roles.    Free TAFE is also designed to help Australians from priority groups, including:  First Nations Australians Young people aged 17–24 People out of work or receiving income support Unpaid carers People with a disability Women facing economic insecurity  Women undertaking study in non-traditional fields  As of January 2025, Free TAFE enrolments have included 197,700 regional and remote students, 44,400 people with disability and 34,100 First Nations people.  However there has been criticism around how many courses were made available in regional areas like the western plains.Nathan Fell, LaborLabor candidate for Parkes, Nathan Fell, said fee-free TAFE was critical to filling gaps in labour shortages and would ultimately benefit the Western NSW community.    "In areas like Broken Hill, Bourke, and Walgett, the smaller communities really struggle with tradespeople for things like plumbing, getting wiring done and having air conditioning installed," said Mr Fell.    "We have a very noticeable skills shortage, and free TAFE is helping to fix that.   "We've already seen a massive benefit to the community in Parkes, where people have enrolled in more than 4,700 courses.    Making TAFE free has unlocked opportunities for people all over the region. This is real support for people wanting to attend TAFE who might otherwise not be able to afford it."   Nationals candidate for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, says the Coalition does not oppose TAFE, however they see Labor's fee-free program as ineffective.    "We don’t oppose TAFE, we respect that public training providers have a role to play in our VET system," said Mr Chaffey.      "We have put forward a positive plan to back Australians who want to learn a trade, build a career, and contribute to our national success.    "Labor said their Fee-Free TAFE program would fix skills shortages and skill more Australians. But it just has not worked.     "The problem is Labor’s Fee-Free TAFE program is badly designed and poorly targeted. It has delivered a completion rate of only around 18 per cent."  Jamie Chaffey, Nationals  The Coalition's plan to tackle skill shortages involves increased support for technical colleges, business and apprentices. They plan to deliver 12 new national Australian Technical Colleges to increase the number of people doing school-based apprenticeships and traineeships across the country, specifically construction, plumbing, electrical, and other high-demand trades. Coalition policy also includes incentives to take up apprenticeships, such as a $12,000 payment for small and medium businesses to support the wages of new apprentices and trainees and between $5,000 and $10,000 in incentive payments on top of wages for new apprentices and trainees.  Maurice Davey, candidate for Parkes with the Family First, said the party did not have a specific policy on free TAFE, but emphasised the importance of education for young people.   "Reducing the exodus of particularly young people from rural areas is a huge issue. Access to TAFE and University education must be a priority, and affordability is certainly an issue," said Mr Davey.    Preliminary data from January 2023 to September 2024, shows more than 110,400 students completed Fee-Free TAFE courses.    

The national polls are in favour of Labor’s re-election but in the massive safe seat of Parkes the Nats are hot favourites in both betting and opinion ratings.But Labor candidate Nathan Fell speaking in Wilcannia this week about the campaign is optimistic the projected swing to him will cut through.‘’The campaign is cutting through, people I have talked to in the electorate are actively seeking to switch their votes and they believe this electorate and our communities have been forgotten by the Nats and are misguided," he said.Fell has travelled more than 7,000 kilometres over 19 days . "I am loving listening to the community and have learned a lot and people have been relatively positive, its enjoyable."The mining communities have talked with me when I was in Cobar last night discussing issues and also in Dubbo and my grass roots, boots on the ground campaign will continue if not elected I can support the area and give their ear for everybody to Canberra," he said.Mr Fell says the campaign so far has been clean with all candidates co-operative, unlike neighbouring Calare where in a tight race there have been scenes where banners have been stolen and damaged.The ALP candidate will blitz the far west and remote communities on his way back to his home base at Broken Hill. "I might lose the battle but I will look optimistically at representing the electorate in the future." 

The SES is warning to communities in Louth, Tilpa and Wilcannia flooding is coming their way but says their resources will also be on hand.Josh from the SES says ‘’Louth has already had minor flooding and we are monitoring it. We are providing services in several areas and trying to be there wherever we can.’’He says The Animal Agriculture Services is helping with stockfeed resupply and the SES has had several calls for assistance in recent days.‘’We will be in the affected areas as long it takes. The SES will be in Wilcannia on the 5th of May.’’Bourke mayor Lachlan Ford and Shire Council General Manager have worked with two state ministers who have indicated that assistance money is coming.NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Safrin says “We have seen that flooding has had a significant impact on the communities of Bourke, Brewarrina, and Walgett. "The waters may have finally receded, but people still need help."NSW Agriculture minister Tara Moriarty was in Bourke on Wednesday.  Disaster assistance is now available in the Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett Local Government Areas (LGAs) following the impact of flooding. The assistance measures are being provided by the Australian and New South Wales Governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).Support includes:Assistance for impacted residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation.Grants for low income, uninsured residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living.Grants for low income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a safe and habitable condition.Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged essential public assets.Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers, and non-profit organisations and grants to sporting and recreation clubs to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property.Freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.The NSW SES, NSW Reconstruction Authority and other services are out on the ground assessing impacts and providing support. To apply for a concessional loan or freight subsidy, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or click here. Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website. To share your flood story with the Western Plains News app Contact Us.

Three Western Plains councils have been awarded a share of over $463,000 for housing plans under an effort to fast-track new homes in regional NSW. Gilgandra Shire Council will receive about $227,000, Cobar $167,000 and Coonamble $70,000.The fund was announced on Thursday 1 May by the NSW government under the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund. But don't expect new housing to appear too soon, all three councils say the funds are to be used for a range of planning processes that will map the way forward. In Cobar, the grant will fund a study to map the town's housing need."We want to make sure that we've got a housing strategy for the town where, if developers come knocking on the door, we've got areas that are already earmarked and ready," Cobar mayor Jarrod Marsden said. "If projects are shovel-ready with development approvals already in place, then that's what we're looking for." Their strategy is expected to be completed by March 2026. Like in many Western Plains towns, Cr Marsden said housing availability is a problem in Cobar. IMAGE: River McCrossen In Gilgandra, the money is expected to deliver master plans for residential land in the north and east of the township, and for the development of the Aero Park Place Plan. Gilgandra Shire Council will contribute about $21,000 to the project.The council's General Manager David Neeves said studies on supply and demand and infrastructure needs will help the shire grow as nearby major national infrastructure projects like Inland Rail and the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone gets up and running."We need to start planning for what the flow-on effects of both those projects might have longer term," Mr Neeves said."The grant will help Council understand growth needs."We're very grateful for the support. I think it's great that the state government are looking to support communities, particularly those communities in the Renewable Energy Zones. (REZ)" Coonamble Shire Council will use its grant to identify supply and demand issues, and infrastructure needs, for a housing plan. The funded projects are three among 24 selected in regional NSW from a competitive process under the fund's third round, accounting for about $4.4 million. The government claims the round will expedite around 105,000 homes."By investing in planning today, we’re helping councils deliver the homes, parks, transport connections, and infrastructure communities need, and making sure young people and families can continue to build their futures in the regions," Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said. "Good planning unlocks opportunity. Through this fund, we’re giving councils the tools to deliver better-designed, more liveable communities across regional NSW, close to transport, jobs, and essential services."

Two of Australia's peak bodies representing local and regional news publishers say that whoever takes government needs to put their money where their mouths are.Country Press Australia has drawn attention to what many see as a disconnect between what politicians intend and what actually happens when government advertising budgets are allocated.“Government spends $450M+ on ads. Almost none to regional papers," the CPA said on social media on Wednesday 28 April."Let’s rethink how taxpayer dollars support public interest media. We call for 20% of ad budgets to be directed to regional and local outlets"This view has been reinforced by recent independent research and touted by other representatives of Australia's independent media. LINA (Local Independent News Association), an organisation which supports digital, hyper-local and independent publishers, says small news organisations need the newly elected government to spend with them. Claire Stuchbery Chief Executive Lina says rewards for these groups isn’t enough for the local content they produce. ‘’The current model is not fit for purpose and compensation has to be better for small independent publishers," she said. ‘’This model is not fit for purpose for them.’’Country Press NSW President Lucie Peart is urging parties of all persuasions to support media in the Western Plains who continue give voice to our communities.The Albanese Labor Government through its ‘news map’ did fund country media in December 2024 but many media organisations said it wasn’t enough.Ms Peart argues that one-off grant programs do not make up for the failure of government agencies to 'buy local' and consider regional audiences when they spend their advertising dollars.“We are urging the newly elected government to give struggling media organisations more support," she said. "Small businesses in communities in this area are reducing their advertising spend because of cost of living, interest rates and pressures of business.’’President of Country Press NSW Inc, Lucie Peart (right). IMAGE: ABC News Both LINA and the Country Press Association commend the government's initiative in their efforts to take a stance, policy-wise, against unfair treatment of news media by global online corporations.The Public Interest Journalism Initiative (PIJI) has welcomed support from major political parties and key independent members for the strengthening of Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code. “Public interest journalism ensures a diversity of voices in public discussion and serves as one of the most important mechanisms for accountable and democratic governments. Without it, we risk the erosion of the quality of our most fundamental institutions — executive, judicial, and legislative,” PIJI Chair Professor Allan Fels AO said.  Responses to a PIJI survey on the state of Australian public interest journalism also emphasised much work still needs to be done to strengthen and protect the sector from major threats presented by generative AI, social media giants and potential US trade sanctions. The News Media Bargaining Code, which previously saw major companies like Google and Meta pay Australian news media for content, has been described by Big Tech as a “coercive and discriminatory” tax. These companies have complained to US authorities, with their framing of the code as an unfair financial burden sparking concern of triggering trade sanctions.LINA Executive Director, Claire Stuchbery. IMAGE SUPPLIED. In response to PIJI’s survey, Labor stood by the code, along with its funding commitments towards the ABC, AAP and News Media Assistance Program. Acknowledging local news reporting as the lifeblood of Australian communities, Labor reiterated its existing policy position on public interest journalism but cautioned too much intervention could risk government overreach. The Greens focused on the need for diverse media ownership and accountability, and committed to locking in the restoration of full funding to the ABC via legislation. Independents Monique Ryan, Andrew Wilkie and Tammy Tyrrell were supportive of the government's current funding commitments to support Australian public interest journalism, but warned more must be done to prevent smaller players in news media from being left behind. [Editor's note: The Western Plains App is a member of LINA.]

Bourke Shire council mayor Lachlan Ford has welcomed significant new funding for the district's Airport.The Minister for Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, was in Bourke today to announce that the Government is working closely with the Bourke Shire Council, Central Darling Shire Council and Edward River Council to future proof access at three priority airstrips.‘’Council briefed the Minister on the recent flooding event in the Shire: the ongoing issue of the need for water security for Bourke; sought advice in regards to potential funding opportunities for the North Bourke Bridge project; raised the need for the continuation of air services to Bourke, Cobar and Walgett; and advised her of concerns that landholders have raised with Council regarding the Wild Dog Fence project," Cr Lachlan Ford said. The funding and work will enable better essential and emergency services access and allow for a greater range of operations at the airstrips. The funding is being made available as follows: ·      $4.66 million available to strengthen the runway at Bourke Airport·      $5.76 million earmarked for improving White Cliffs airstrip “Our rural and remote airstrips are a lifeline for regional NSW communities and provide vital access points for health and emergency services, specialist trades and general supplies, including in times of natural disasters," said NSW Minister for Western NSW Taria Moriarty when in Bourke on Thursday 24 April.“The Minns Labor Government is committed to making access for regional communities better and this investment from our Regional Development Trust Fund is delivering infrastructure to where it is needed and will make real improvements.“These upgrades at the Bourke, Deniliquin and White Cliffs airstrips will ensure these important assets are well prepared for the future with the ability to accommodate larger planes as fleets change in size and grow to bring more people, goods and trade to regional NSW.“The Bourke Airport is a critical hub in Western NSW that supports health professionals, emergency services and trades whilst also providing the community with access to commercial flights to Dubbo and beyond.”

If elected, the Coalition promises it would give $937,000 from the Safer Communities Fund to Boys to the Bush so they can expand their outreach to areas in the Western Plains, including Cobar, Nyngan, Condobolin, Narromine, Bourke, Coonamble, and Gunnedah.   Boys to the Bush (or Back Track) is a not-for-profit charity focused on intervention methods for at-risk boys aged between 10 and 17. They offer a range of programs for young people, such as MENtoring, (which allows young people to have one-on-one mentorship with a positive male role model), bush camps, and a school program.   Nationals candidate for the seat of Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, said the program was a direct response to concerns within the community about safety.   “I’ve heard firsthand from my own community of Gunnedah but also residents across the electorate of Parkes, safety is a high priority, and we’re responding with practical measures to help."   The funding promise is part of the Coalition's plan to tackle youth crime in regional NSW. Their strategy on youth crime will also include stricter bail laws for repeat youth offenders, and mandatory electronic monitoring and enforced curfews as part of bail conditions.   Greens candidate for Parkes, Ngemba woman Trish Frail, says the Greens are focused on prevention of crimes and supporting families and communities within the region.   "We [the Greens] would do everything to try and prevent the crime rate rising out in the bush. When it comes to the young people that are inflicting this crime, we need to look at how they need help. Why do they need help? Why are these kids slipping through the cracks?  "I've also been broken into. They've broken into my shop twice, and they've recently broken into my house. So I know what it's like.   "I will work very strongly in making sure these issues get addressed, and parents get support and guidance. We want to work with the parents and the community so the children can get proper outcomes and not just thrown in jail."  Greens Candidate Trish Frail (centre).  Nathan Fell, Labor candidate for Parkes, did not specify if Labor would fund Boys to the Bush if re-elected. However he highlighted the community-prevention programs his party has already implemented while being in government.   "I think Youth Crime needs to be addressed. These kids often come from disadvantaged homes and families, without the supports they need to foster growth," said Mr. Fell.   "I know the Albanese Labor Government is delivering significant investments to reduce youth crime and strengthen community safety for all Australians, investing over $40 million in programs designed to stop young people getting involved in crime in the first place, such as the U25-GO program and the Youth Empowerment Program."  Labour Candidate for Parkes Nathan Fell. U25-GO is a community safety grant program that provides $13.57 million in funding to peak state and territory bodies of the Police Citizens Youth Club, Blue Light Organisations, and other eligible organisations that focus on crime prevention for at-risk under 25 year olds.   Eligible organisations can apply for grants between $500,000 and $2,000,000 to support activities that encourage education, work-readiness, and community engagement, while keeping youth away from drug-use, criminal activity, and other anti-social behaviour.  Similar to U25-GO, the Youth Empowerment Program is another funding program that provides $28.3 million to 35 organisations across Australia to support at-risk young people aged between 10 and 17.   Mr. Fell also noted that the Albanese Labor Government delivered the landmark National Justice Reinvestment Program, which aims to help Indigenous communities to develop programs that reduce First Nations peoples' contact with the criminal justice system, including police, courts and prisons.  

From humble beginnings the Gilgandra Film Festival is turning into a big event.From 5.30 Friday night inspirational young local film/documentary makers will tell heartwarming stories that inspire and uplift.Event director Sue Armstrong says ‘’There will be tears, emotion, heartfelt stories of life in and around Gilgandra.’’‘’We have an amazing documentary from Louth off a family from a 30,000 acre property plus animated film, informative and fun.’’Seven schools including Tooraweenah Primary School are showcasing their wonderful work.Children from Tooraweenah Public School receive certificates by Festival Director Sue Armstrong (right) and Tooraweenah principal Karen Smith. IMAGE SUPPLIED.Aspirational film makers will be mentored by world class Cinematographer Simon Target who has produced award winning work.On Saturday from 7pm the line up includes :'What Country People See''There are People In the Forest''Lives of Gilgandra' which features farmers on their journey through agricultural work and the story of the Gilgandra Weekly newspaper.'Mission PNG' - a journey by Polish Priests and Nuns fighting to save livesSue says the Country Women's Association (CWA) is backing the event giving food and sandwiches to support the two days. “Five CWA's are supporting us in our volunteer-run event which looks like in its third year will pack the Gilgandra Town Hall, it’s a true community event for all.’’

Shooters, Fishers Farmer Party candidate Stephen Pope says polling is giving him a big opportunity of giving the seat of Parkes a shake up.He says the far west is ‘sick and tired’ of being ignored.‘’Independent polling has the SFFP right up with Labor."He’s buoyed by the success in the Dubbo Council Elections where Shooters, Fishers, Farmers Party council shocked pundits and Mr Pope led the campaign.‘’I am the chairperson of the Dubbo branch of the SFFS and I understand this electorate and the Nationals aren’t fixing the big problems we have in the electorate. I will get out and fix the many problems of our communities face to face and not sit in the office like the Nats do.’’ He said.He cites problems with the lack of crime fighters in smaller centres ‘’In Warren there is no policeman you have to hit a button on the station door if there is an emergency and wait for 40 minutes for an officer to come from Narromine.’’Mr Pope understands housing problems and says there is available land in communities, he wants the newly elected government to step up ‘help the bush’ .He is challenging good mate State Member Roy Butler.‘ Roy says start with grass roots and the bush will come along and amaze you,’’ said Stephen.‘’We are in this for the fight to save the bush.’’ 

The NSW Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis and NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty was joined by the Independent Member for Orange Philip Donato yestedray as SafeWork NSW hosts an industry roundtable to discuss the prevention of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in the agriculture sector. Now in its second year, the event brings together leaders from across government and industry to focus on practical solutions for reducing fatalities and serious injuries in the sector. Agriculture remains one of Australia’s most dangerous industries, with consistently high rates of workplace fatalities and serious injuries.Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said: “The Minns Labor government remains committed through the annual Agricultural Roundtable to address workplace health and safety concerns. “There are more than 81,000 workers in NSW employed in agricultural industries, including farming, fishing, and forestry. Workers employed in agriculture are at greater risk of being killed or injured at work than most. “Plant, machinery, vehicles and animals are the biggest dangers in agricultural workplace settings, and businesses and managers should ensure everyone who works in their business is provided with safe equipment and procedures as well as the right skills and supervision, to carry out their work safely."  In 2024, SafeWork NSW responded to 12 workplace fatalities in the agricultural industry in NSW. Incidents involving farm vehicles, including quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles (SSVs), remained one of the leading causes of fatalities and serious injuries in agriculture across NSW last year.The nature of farm work presents a unique set of safety risks—from operating heavy machinery like tractors, quad bikes, and side by side vehicles, to the handling of hazardous chemicals and livestock.This year’s agenda focuses on real-world challenges, including the daily risks faced by farmers, the barriers to changing safety behaviour, and the importance of effective prevention strategies.A dedicated session at the roundtable, Prevention in Action, explored proven safety measures, followed by a collaborative discussion on designing future initiatives that are practical, relevant, and industry led. Attendees will include representatives from local agricultural employers, NSW Farmers, unions, academics, relevant government agencies, and the Country Women’s Association.As part of the ongoing initiatives sparked by last year's Agriculture Roundtable, the SafeWork NSW Improving Connectivity for Farmers six-month pilot program is helping enhance mobile connectivity, signal strength, and reliability for farmers across regional NSW. The pilot commenced on 17 March 2025 and will run through to September 2025, with a number of Western Plains communities among those involved. The program targets several key postcodes, including 2800 (Orange)—a major regional centre—as well as towns and localities across the following postcodes: 2671 (West Wyalong), 2672 (Burcher), 2800 (Orange, Clifton Grove, Borenore), 2804 (Manildra, Cudal), 2806 (Molong),2820 (Trangie), 2821 (Nevertire), 2823 (Tottenham), 2830 (Dubbo), 2864 (Condobolin), 2865 (Tullibigeal), 2866 (Lake Cargelligo), 2867 (Euabalong), 2868 (Nymagee), 2870 (Parkes), 2871 (Forbes), 2873 (Trundle), 2874 (Tullamore), 2875 (Fifield), and 2877 (Albert). This initiative aims to support safer, more connected farming operations in regional NSW. Eligible farmers can claim up to $1,000 through the Small Business Rebate towards the purchase of a mobile signal booster or a mobile satellite internet system. 

Trish Frail a proud Ngemba woman with family connections to the Gunabooka and Byrock Indigenous nations says she is enjoying the Election campaign as a Greens candidate.She is a Brewarrina Councilor and is an experienced campaigner arguably a veteran in a big field for Saturdays election for the seat of Parkes.‘’I have learned a lot hearing community issues across the electorate and people are welcoming during pre-poll in Dubbo," she said.‘’My mother passed away when I was a teenager and not having a Mum to go to was hard. "However, I now have 5 children of my own and while I travelled around a lot when my children were small, I always came back to Bre. I was very supportive of my children and their schooling. For me, it was essential that they finished Year 12, and they did.""My achievements include being a published author, having successfully written a book called First Nations Principal of Culture Bible (which can be purchased through Amazon). I’m currently negotiating with my publisher for a second book.’’Trish has also owned her own business, Thulii Ngemba, which specialised in native foods. She is in her second term as a Councillor on Brewarrina Shire Council and has sat on a number of boards and committees:Brewarrina Hospital Board – giving me a good understanding of health issues in regional NSWNSW Government housing committee (6 years) – giving me a strong understanding of all the issues associated with housing and homelessnessCo-founder of the Aboriginal Women’s Legal CentreCo-convenor of the Australia Free Nuclear AllianceInternational Indigenous Greens memberMs Frail says she wants this election to be about making the seat of Parkes more marginal so the newly elected Federal Government listens to issues in the Far West.‘’We urge community to consider the Greens to get more funding for projects in our communities and to make this seat closer and marginal, we need help with floods, drought and strategies for better housing and pre-crisis planning for some of the climate problems out here,’’ she said, speaking from Dubbo Pre- Poll.

The National Farmers Federation has issued a warning that labour laws and red tape are affecting the recruitment and retention of agricultural workers, causing issues for Australian food security, farm viability, and regional economies.   NFF President David Jochinke noted the complexity of industrial labour laws makes it difficult for some farmers to run their business.   “ Small and family-run farms are struggling to navigate confusing rhetoric on pay rates, overtime, worker classification, compliance with fair work statutory regimes, and more.    “Farmers want to pay their workers a fair wage, but complicated Industrial Relations laws could be streamlined so farmers can spend more time out in the paddock, rather than chained to the desk.”   Mr Jochinke also criticised the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme as being "unworkable" for growers.   “Short-term, we need to fix the PALM scheme, streamline the skilled visa system, and retain the Working Holiday Maker visa scheme," said Mr Jochinke.  NFF President David Jochinke. Image: NFF The PALM scheme allows eligible businesses to employ workers from Timor-Leste, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, or Vanuatu, when local labour is not available to fill positions. As of March 2024, the PALM scheme provides jobs to more than 30,000 Pacific and Timor-Leste workers across the country.   In the 2023-4 budget, adjustments and expansions were made to the PALM scheme, including additional resources to participating countries, supporting PALM workers to attain qualifications, improving access to superannuation savings, and medicare access for workers and their families.   The PALM scheme also has a 30-hour minimum work guarantee or 120-hour four week guarantee, wherein workers are provided with a minimum amount of working hours during their tenure.   NFF has received assurances from the Coalition that migration cuts would not affect the flow of agricultural workers, and is calling on Labor to give the same assurances.  NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin.  NSW Farmers is also urging the Government to make practical regulatory reforms to workforce laws that reduce complexity for employers. They want the Albanese Government to reconsider its position on the PALM scheme’s 30-hour minimum work guarantee, if re-elected.    President of NSW Farmers, Xavier Martin, echoed Jochinke's calls for streamlined industrial relations laws.   “Workplace regulations must support productivity, not inhibit it. Compliance processes need to be streamlined so farmers can focus on running their businesses efficiently,” he said.  Both the NFF and NSW farmers also called for increased support to the AgCAREERSTART gap year program, in which 17-25 year olds can access a paid job, training and development in the agriculture industry.  

Alkane Resources (ASX:ALK) and Mandalay Resources Corporation (TSX:MND) have agreed to combine in a merger to create a diversified gold and antimony producer. Its a huge boost for the Tomingley project bringing more jobs to the Western Plains.Antimony is classified as a critical mineral by governments around the world, including Australia, and has been in use since ancient times.These days it is considered vital in industries from electronics to defence and renewable energy.The prospects for gold+antimony mining in NSW are rated as excellent.Alkane Managing Director Nic Earner says the transaction will take Alkane to a new level, bringing together two companies with complementary assets and a shared vision for growth. "Mandalay’s two high-quality mines match the attributes of Tomingley: a proven history of consistent production, cash generation and exploration upside. "The combination of assets, leadership, and supportive long-term shareholders enhances our scale and financial strength, and positions us well to continue to pursue additional growth opportunities”.He says the merged company will have a robust balance sheet with a pro-forma cash balance of $188 million as at 31 March 2025 to pursue organic and inorganic growth. Under the transaction, Mandalay shareholders will receive 7.875 ordinary shares of Alkane for each share of Mandalay held immediately prior to the effective time of the transaction. Upon completion, former Mandalay shareholders and existing Alkane shareholders will own 55% and 45%, respectively, of the outstanding shares of the combined company on a diluted basis. Mining.com.au says ‘Mandalay has engaged Haywood Securities as exclusive financial advisor, Goodmans as Canadian legal advisor, Clayton Utz as Australian legal advisor, and Gencap Mining Advisory. 'Alkane engaged Bell Potter Securities and Euroz Hartleys as joint financial advisors, Hopgood Ganim as Australian legal advisor and Bennett Jones as Canadian advisor to the transaction. 'The implied market capitalisation of the merged company is forecast to be $1.013 billion.'The company plans to continue to invest in exploration at all three of its producing mines in Australia and Sweden, as well as pursue other growth opportunities in addition to the Boda-Kaiser copper-gold project, which adds future production potential. Alkane Resources owns the Tomingley Gold and Northern Molong Porphyry projects, as well as other exploration prospects considered prospective for gold, copper, nickel, zinc and silver in New South Wales. Mandalay Resources owns the Costerfield Gold-Antimony Mine in Australia, alongside the Björkdal Gold Mine in Sweden. 

Western NSW Local Health District is encouraging people from across the Warrumbungle Shire to have their say and help shape future delivery of healthcare services across the region. Western NSW Local Health District Chief Executive, Mark Spittal, said the Healthy Warrumbungles project launched recently and will bring together a range of agencies and organisations, healthcare service providers and residents to prioritise and address key health challenges in the region.“We know our rural towns face unique challenges but we also know the best solutions often come from within, so we are committed to listening and understanding our residents’ perspectives, and working together to create meaningful change,” Mr Spittal said.“Together with the community, we are collaborating with organisations like the Warrumbungle Shire Council, Western NSW Primary Health Network, NSW Ambulance and the Rural Doctors Network, among others, to deliver this project.“By considering the many different perspectives and requirements of our community, and utilising key population and health data, we are aiming to provide a comprehensive blueprint for the development and delivery of more sustainable, collaborative healthcare initiatives and services.”Western NSW Primary Health Network Chief Executive Officer, Brad Porter, said there will be a range of initiatives in place for the community to provide input, particularly across the towns of Baradine, Binnaway, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Dunedoo and Mendooran.Mark Spittal, Western NSW Local Health District CEO“We want to hear from the community on what matters most to them when it comes to their health and wellbeing. The more input we get, the better we can tailor solutions to local needs,” Mr Porter said.“We will co-design local solutions with the community, using a place-based approach. Please support this by taking our health and wellbeing survey.“Residents can also get involved, provide feedback and have their say through pop-up street stalls and focus groups. We will continue working with those who take part to ensure we understand their input.”Warrumbungle Shire Mayor, Councillor Kathryn Rindfleish, welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to bring lasting benefits across the region, and encouraged residents across the Shire to get involved in the project.“Good health is the foundation of strong, thriving communities. This project is an exciting opportunity for people across the Warrumbungles to be actively involved in the development of healthcare services across our region,” Ms Rindfleish said.For more information on the Healthy Warrumbungles project and to take the community health and wellbeing survey, provide input or stay up to date with consultation activities, community members can click here to participate.

Farmers have called on federal politicians to commit to an urgent overhaul of the nation’s environmental policies that are hurting both farmers and the landscape. NSW Farmers’ Conservation and Resource Management Committee Chair Bronwyn Petrie said the federal government’s water buybacks were just one of many unworkable policies that were not only constricting food and fibre production but failing to deliver for the environment. “There’s no doubt we need action to end our cost-of-living crisis, but when it comes to climate and caring for our landscape, we’re hearing nothing but crickets this federal election,” Mrs Petrie said. “The federal government is buying up the water that we need to grow food and fibre, and not only is our Basin not benefiting, but our farmers and their communities are being stripped of their lifeblood. “There’s so much green tape that’s simply creating a lose-lose situation where the landscape hurts, and farmers do too – and that must change, before it’s too late to do anything at all.” Bronwyn Petrie, NSW FarmersEmissions targets were another looming environmental reform that Mrs Petrie urged federal politicians of all sides to engage with agriculture around to ensure food security was not put at risk. “We need realistic, viable emissions reduction strategies, not aspirational ones that expect farmers to use electric tractors that don’t exist and report on emissions we can’t track,” Mrs Petrie said. “Sustainability does not need to come at the cost of productivity in the agricultural sector."Not only did farmers meet the Kyoto targets for the whole of Australia, but they have significantly reduced emissions within the agricultural industry and continue to implement further improvements while protecting our natural environment and ecosystems.” 

If you live in the western plains and would like to get your vote in ahead of the Saturday 3 May election day, here's some helpful information.Postal VotingApplications for Postal Voting close this Wednesday, so if you haven't already applied there's unlikely to be time for the AEC to get your pack to you. If you've already received your pack, your postal vote certificate and ballot papers must be completed on or before election day.  Ballot papers must be received by the AEC no later than 13 days after the election or your vote will not be included in the count, so if you have your pack it is recommended to send it as soon as possible. Remote PollingRemote mobile polling teams have been roaming the region and this week plan to be in: Girilambone Bushcraft Cafe Carpark10 Sydney St GIRILAMBONE NSW 283128 Apr 2025 from 11:30 - 14:30 Wanaaring and District Soldiers Memorial HallBourke-Milparinka Rd WANAARING NSW 284028 Apr 2025 from 11:00 - 14:00 Louth Tennis ClubBloxham St LOUTH NSW 284029 Apr 2025 from 10:00 - 13:00 The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) have advised that schedules are subject to change due to a range of factors including adverse weather conditions and availability of transport arrangements. Given the current flooding situation in the north west of the region and recent rainfall, please check before attending by clicking here.  Pre-polling sitesUnfortunately, pre-polling options are not as common as in previous elections, with many western plains shires having no on-site early voting. Pre-polling is available at the following locations and dates: Coonamble Showground Pavilion9567 Castlereagh Hwy, Coonamble NSW 2829Opening hours: Wed 30 Apr – Thu 1 May, 8:30 am–5:30 pm Fri 2 May, 8:30 am–6 pm Bourke PCYC2 Wilson St, Bourke NSW 2840Opening hours: Wed 30 Apr – Thu 1 May, 8:30 am–5:30 pm Fri 2 May, 8:30 am–6 pm Cobar Youth & Community Centre3 Harcourt St, Cobar NSW 2835Opening hours: Sat 26 Apr, 9 am–4 pm Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May, 8:30 am–5:30 pm Fri 2 May, 8:30 am–6 pm Parkes PCYC36-38 Pearce St, Parkes NSW 2870Opening hours: Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May, 8:30 am–5:30 pm Fri 2 May, 8:30 am–6 pm  PCYC Broken Hill58 Gypsum St, Broken Hill NSW 2880Opening hours: Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May, 8:30 am–5:30 pm Fri 2 May, 8:30 am–6 pm Sat 3 May, 8 am–6 pm Narrabri Crossing Theatre - Band Room117 Tibbereena St, Narrabri NSW 2390Opening hours: Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May, 8:30 am–5:30 pm Fri 2 May, 8:30 am–6 pm For more locations outside the western plains region click here. Residents of local hospitals, multi purpose health services or aged care facilities are also supported by mobile polling.Find out whether the AEC polling staff will be visiting your local facilitiy by clicking here. 

NSW National Parks have advised that due to increased risk of rockfall after significant rain Sandstone Caves will be CLOSED from this morning Sunday 27 April 2025.The Sandstone Caves are located in the Pilliga Nature Reserve just off the Newell Highway north of Coonabarabran.The caves are home to ancient Aboriginal rock art and were recently threatened by a bushfire in the area.Pending a review of the site, National Parks NSW plan to re-open the walking track by 10am tomorrow, Monday 28 April 2025.However the closure may be extended if there is significantly more rain than forecast."Please consult the http://nationalparks.nsw.gov.au website for details on all reserve alerts," a spokesperson said. "We apologise for any inconvenience."