NSW Police have recently launched a new platform linking police and the community, which could prove invaluable to people in the bush in times of emergencies.  ‘BluLink’ allows members of the public direct access to police dispatchers and police responding to emergencies.  Via a link sent from Triple Zero (OOO) dispatchers, the public can provide police live streaming video, GPS coordinates, digital media uploads and text messages which can assist police confirm the exact location of an emergency and access to incidents as they unfold.  The platform powered by GoodSam is easy to use and unlike an app does not need to be downloaded prior.   After contacting Triple Zero members of the public will receive a link via their smartphone which will enable them to share information that may be of help to police and emergency services.   Such information will give police an indication of which resources need to be allocated to an incident, assisting with the triage process and support of subsequent investigations, while photos and pre-recorded videos can also be uploaded, and the platform’s chat function will allow text messaging between police and the public in situations where a voice call could be deemed difficult.  The text messages can be translated into 150 different languages, giving police an even better chance of getting vital information, without the need for a translator.  Nyngan police Sergeant Tony Wood says the new technology is extremely helpful for rural areas.   Minister for Police and Counter terrorism, Yasmin Catley “We have been using ‘BluLink’ in a trial version for the last six months or so and it has proven to be enormously beneficial, particularly the GPS capabilities.,” said Sergeant Wood. “In remote areas, rural addressing can be difficult to interrupt so the program allows us to immediately and accurately locate where someone may be, as well as staying in contact with people who may need to report things, who can then provide us with imagery and videos taken at the time which has been very helpful to our investigations."  Minister for Police and Counter terrorism, Yasmin Catley, said the launch of ‘BluLink’ further strengthens the capability of police and emergency dispatchers by giving them instant, real-time access to unfolding emergencies.  “Police rely on members of the community to accurately describe an incident, so they know what they’re dealing with and how they need to respond; ‘BluLink’ gives them unrivalled access to a scene before they’ve even arrived. “On average, police receive more than 1500 emergency calls for assistance every day; this technology will help triage and respond to incidents more effectively than ever before.”  Commander of Technology and Communication Services Command, Assistant Commissioner Stacey Maloney. A 12-month trial of ‘BluLink’ commenced in 2023, proving its worth assisting with the Bondi Junction stabbing earlier this year as well as rescues and missing person cases.  “We know that members of the community are our eyes and ears and ‘BluLink’ is an innovative way in which further information can be provided to us during a Triple Zero (000) call, which assists us in enhancing our policing response,” said Commander of Technology and Communication Services Command, Assistant Commissioner Stacey Maloney. “’BluLink’ is expected to better assist the public and save time and resources across every police command for both front line and specialist areas. “You never know when you might be in an emergency, or need to call Triple Zero (000), and ‘BluLink’ could help if something were to happen.”  How it works: In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000). If the operator requires further information, they will send you a text message. Tap on the link to open the BluLink platform. You will then be able to share information such as your GPS location, stream live video, or have a text message conversation if you’re in a situation where you’re unable to speak.  During the trial the following has been achieved, More than 700 Live Videos streamed More than 8300 locations obtained More than 100 High Risk Missing Person locations obtained More than 60 Missing Bushwalker locations obtained More than 78,000 Digital Victim Cards issued More than 8000 digital media files uploaded More than 1500 Chat messages initiated More than 1600 requests for translation. 

The town of Nyngan was abuzz last Saturday as 250 women gathered at the racecourse for the annual ‘The Long Table’ luncheon.  “The initial plan was simply to hold a ‘perfect day’ where women could come together for a few hours with friends and family and forget about the world,” said committee member Susan Barclay. “We all have so many worries and so much to do, that a couple of hours carefree, to celebrate women and each other, is the most amazing feeling, and one to really treasure.“The fact that we could also raise around $28,000.00 for our local Can Assist Branch was just the icing on the cake,” said Mrs Barclay.  Under two rows of gum trees, the racket would have scared off even the most confident of birds, friends reunited and caught up.  The Long Table, in its second year, sold out all its tickets in only 21 minutes, such is its popularity, and women travelled from all over NSW and interstate to attend.  Mistress of Ceremonies Grace Ryan, Deputy Editor of Central Western Daily newspaper, kept the proceedings rolling as the wine and beer flowed and food from ‘Eat Your Greens’ was delivered to tables by local Nyngan High School students.  Fiorina Gibbons from Dubbo Cancer Centre spoke to the crowd about the centre’s life-saving work, while Angie White and Nano Moody shared a poem that had the audience alternating between tears and laughter, on the beauty of women.   An auction of donated items raised thousands of dollars as the ladies battled it out in entertaining style, with auctioneer Simon Bell trying his hardest to keep up.  “You simply could not fault the day,” said Astrid Linke. “Everything was perfection, from the delectable food to the stunning floral arrangements (from local florist Crafted Blooms) that adorned tables and the photo area.  “The company was warm and inspiring, making this gathering a true celebration of friendship and all the good things in life. Most definitely a day to be remembered (and marked in the calendar!),” said Ms Linke. “As someone who has previously lived in the far west of the state, the day reminded me of everything that is wonderful about living and working in the more regional areas of NSW and the binding friendships you develop there,” said lunch goer Lotty Mackenzie.  MC Grace Ryan - Deputy Editor Central Western Daily - Photo courtesy Liv Ashton The Long Table.  “The Long Table was a celebration of women supporting women and the ties that bind. An opportunity for reflection on the good times, the bad times and the really tough times and the periods in between, when you know, no matter what, that your friends will ‘show up’. “A day for catch ups with old friends and for developing new friendships, an excuse to dress up, to eat good food and to dance a little in the sunshine,” said Ms Mackenzie. “It was an absolute credit to the committee who pull together such an amazing event and to the crowd. Of fun loving, supportive, beautiful women who used it as the perfect excuse to celebrate each other. I don’t think I have smiled so much in a long while.”  Firoina Gibbons - Dubbo Cancer Centre Photo courtesy Liv Ashton The Long Table.  

Community organisations, local councils and universities across Australia are being given the opportunity apply for funding from the Country University Centres (CUC) to help establish a regional university study hub (uni hub) in their area. “The Government has set a target that by 2050, 80 per cent of workers will have a TAFE or university qualification," said the Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare.“To hit that target we have to break down that invisible barrier that stops a lot of people from the bush getting a crack at going to university. “The evidence is that where University Study Hubs are, university participation goes up." There currently 36 uni hubs in regional Australia - with another ten expected to open by Semester 1, 2025 - supporting close to 4,400 students. This new round of applications is looking to choose the locations to add to that total opening the way for sites in communities across the Western Plains region to make university more accessible."The beauty of the regional university study hub model, in general, is that they service the students who study at any university or education facility," Jacob Cass, manager of the CUC Centre in Parkes said. The Parkes uni hub was established in 2020 and services over 160 students. There are also existing smaller hubs in Moree and Narrabri but so far none in the Orana or Far West regions. The hubs provide spaces and varying student support services, including for those from low socio-economic backgrounds, First Nations students and students with disability.Not all centres are the same but most offer internet access with computers for students to use. Some centres also offer free printing.  Due to high demand, the Parkes centre is looking for space to expand. "We've outgrown the space but I think there's a beautiful story behind it," Mr Cass said.  Over the past four years, the study hub has seen 35 graduations. "They have been supported right through to the end in their decision which is fantastic," Mr Cass said.  He says the study hubs offer a place away from home with less distractions "A lot of people who come down here are parents. Here they get two or three hours where they can focus on their studies," Mr Cass said.  The Parkes Centre also offers social activities for students such as a fortnightly coffee catch-up where students get free coffee and get to meet their peers. Applications for the new regional university study hubs are open until 18 October. 

The state government has launched its first primary prevention strategy to combat sexual, domestic and family violence.  The NSW Strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024-2028 is meant to tackle the drivers behind family and domestic violence.  “This framework will be the foundation of our efforts to not just respond to violence once it has occurred, but to stop it before it starts," NSW Premier Chris Minns said. Local initiatives stand front and centre when tackling domestic violence, Deputy CEO of Domestic Violence NSW Elise Phillips said "Prevention in regional and rural areas looks like community-led educational initiatives that advocate for respectful relationships and challenge harmful community attitude."  Domestic Violence NSW was one of the 200 organisations that worked in consultation with the NSW government to develop the prevention strategy.  The priorities of the strategy are progressing prevention in priority settings, supporting Aboriginal-led prevention, and providing centralised support to prevention efforts across the state.  "We recommended they prioritise efforts led by local communities to shift attitudes and discourage violent behaviour before they start," Ms Phillips said.  "We also stressed the need to focus on a whole-of-government approach and Aboriginal-led prevention efforts." Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said that early intervention is one of the most efficient ways to nip family and domestic violence in the bud before it progresses. "When you teach a child respect and resilience at an early age and build their self-esteem, it becomes a part of the fabric of who they are. They grow up knowing what healthy, respectful, and equal relationships look like." Ms Phillips said that although the strategy is a good start, there are still aspects that need assessment. "Of course, our journey to ending domestic and family violence is made of many small steps so there will be follow-up action required, like the $62 million in funding required to deliver this plan." Nevertheless, the collaborative approach and delivery of this strategy is certainly cause for hope." The Minns Labor Government estimates the implementation of the strategy will cost $38.3 million. “We have a long road ahead of us to catch up to where we should be in terms of a comprehensive statewide approach to primary prevention, but not doing this work is simply not an option, the stakes are far too high," Premier Minns said. 

Operation Regional Mongoose has resulted in yet another arrest with a vehicle and goods seized in Lake Cargelligo and a man charged last week.Operation Regional Mongoose is a high-visibility police operation to tackle serious property-related crime committed predominately by young offenders.At about 6.45pm on Friday 20 September, officers attached to Murrumbidgee Police District, with assistance from Central West Police District, Southern and Western Region Tactical Operations Unit and Tactical Operation Regional Support executed a search warrant at Foster Street, Lake Cargelligo.During the search, a motor vehicle and a number of items were seized.Following inquiries made relating to items allegedly located at the search warrant, about 1.40pm on Tuesday 24 September, a 20-year-old man attended Narrandera Police Station and was arrested.Police will allege in court he was involved in several break, enter and steal offences and motor vehicle thefts in Parkes and West Wyalong on Wednesday 14 August and Thursday 15 August.He was charged with two counts of break & enter house etc steal value up to $60,000, two counts of take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, aggravated break and enter dwelling in company steal up to $60000, possess unauthorised firearm, and never licensed person drive vehicle on road.He appeared before Wagga Wagga Local Court yesterday (Wednesday 25 September 2024), where he was granted conditional bail to reappear before the same court on Monday 30 September 2024.Inquiries through Operation Regional Mongoose are ongoing.Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

The first hearing for the state's regional crime inquiry will start on 1 October in Bourke at their information and exhibition centre.  The inquiry was announced in March of this year after a back-and-forth about whether it would happen or not.Dozens of councils across regional and rural NSW joined forces with the Country Women's Association (CWA), the Country Mayor's Association, NSW police association, and NSW farmers to rally for inquiry that would address the rising rates of crime across regional and rural NSW. Submissions to the inquiry closed on 31 May. Bourke and Lachlan Shire Councils were among 195 groups and individuals who made written submissions, along with Walgett's Dhariwa Elders Group and the Safer Coonamble Group. "We've got youth crime that is escalating in the regions now. Many people are even too scared to leave their homes.  People deserve to feel safe in their local neighbourhood, that's why we got to get to the core issue of why we are seeing crime escalate," inquiry member and Bathurst MP Paul Toole said. "Considerable resources are being expended on trying to rectify the situation which unfortunately to date has proved to be a bridge too far and it is clear a vastly different approach may be required," Bourke Shire Mayor Barry Holman said in a submission from the Bourke Shire Council.During their visit to Bourke, members of the inquiry committee will be meeting with community groups, police, council, and members of the public to get an understanding of the scope of the issue.  "One of the big things is there's a lot of agencies that don't provide support after 5 p.m. and a lot of youth crime is happening during the evening," Mr Toole said.  He added that some challenges are unique to regional and rural areas. "We've got large areas to cover. It is very demanding on our police officers and we need to make sure they feel supported," Mr Toole said.  The next hearing is scheduled for 2 October in Broken Hill with more hearing locations to be announced in the coming weeks.  Those hoping for the Inquiry to quickly deliver findings, followed by a swift response from government are likely to be disappointed.Due to the volume of submissions received and the Committee's intention to undertake broad stakeholder engagement across NSW, the Committee has extended its reporting deadline.The inquiry will table a first report by 30 May 2025 with a final report due on 30 November 2025.

Environment Minister Tanya Pilbersek has approved an extension of three thermal coal mines, including the Narrabri Underground Mine Stage 3 Extension Project from Whitehaven Coal.   The proposal extends mining in Narrabri from 2031 to 2044. The duration of the approval lasts until 31 December 2066 to allow sufficient time for rehabilitation measures.Opponents based in the northwest have slammed the decision to expand the Narrabri project, saying it will have a devasting impact on the Pilliga forest, groundwater bores, and cultural heritage sites. “This will essentially sterilise a whole swathe of farmland. The mine will be long gone but the water depletion will remain," Boggabri farmer Sally Hunter said.  “At a time when food security is getting ever so important and farmland and water should be protected, Tanya Plibersek is sacrificing precious groundwater so multibillion-dollar coal companies can export fossil fuels for another two decades.   “This is a bloody disgrace.”The approval has been a blow to First Nations groups campaigning for the cessation of coal mining in and around the Pilliga Forest.  "I'm disappointed we're in 2024 and we're still finding ways to extract fossil fuels," Gomeroi woman Suellyn Tighe said.  Ms Tighe has been fighting for years to keep the land of her ancestors free from pollution through coal and gas extraction.  "On the one hand, they profess to be a green government, yet they are still granting extensions for mining." “The Pilliga Forest and the water that runs through and beneath it is sacred to Gomeroi," Traditional Gomeroi owner Karra Kinchella said.  “Tanya Plibersek’s decision to approve Whitehaven’s destructive Narrabri coal mine expansion is an insult to us and our ancestors." Minister Pilbersek has stated that the approval is following environmental laws that stipulate a 100,000-ton carbon emission safeguard mechanism, but Ms Tighe says those laws are not enough to save the environment."I think it's a weak premise to be standing on." The mine extensions are set to secure 1,800 jobs in total with the Narrabri mine employing around 500 people.  In the 2023 financial year, 29 percent of Whitehaven's 18.2 metric tonne run-of-mine coal production came from the Narrabri mine.  Whitehaven has said it will continue to identify and minimise environmental impacts such as air quality, noise pollution, and a robust water management system.  According to an independent survey conducted by Whitehaven, 51 percent of the community in Narrabri has a positive sentiment towards the company, an increase of 16 percent compared to ten years ago.  "We have set an overall Scope 1 emissions intensity reduction target that aligns with our obligations under the safeguard mechanism," Managing Director and CEO of Whitehaven Paul Flynn said.  "In the 2023 financial year, we reported zero environmental enforcement actions which compares favourably with four in the prior year. This reflects our focused investment in capacity and infrastructure over the past several years." Other coal mines that have been expanded include the Ashton Coal Project in Ravensworth and the deepening of the Mount Pleasant mine from MACH energy.

Nyngan will be rocking this Saturday as the town hosts to the annual Big Bogan Street Festival. A free day of entertainment is planned with musicians, stalls and fun activities for all of the family.  Following on from the success of last year’s event, Bogan Shire Council has gone above and beyond to make this day even more successful, with The Wolfe Brothers set to hit the stage to entertain the crowd as the headline act.   Kicking off at midday, at the Big Bogan in Pangee Street, will be a Best Dressed Bogan competition for babies, boys, girls, sheilas and blokes with a $300 first prize up for grabs.  Artists supporting The Wolfe Brothers will be the Baker Boys Band, as well as Chinwags, Bec White, and Central West based musician Jo Hyndes.  Even the kids get a performance with The Beanies all set to get toes tapping with their bright and happy show, along with face painting and jumping castle.  There will be a range of food vendors and market stalls lining the main street as well as a 100 metre long marquee on the road, with tables and chairs for people to dine at.   Throughout the day, there will be live acoustic music in Davidson Park while people browse the markets and socialise, with the main acts to take to the main stage near the Big Bogan from 6pm.  Nyngan Mayor Glen Neill said he is very grateful to Transport NSW which has provided funding under the Open Street Event Program to allow the event to go ahead.  “Bogan Shire Council is looking forward to a great day out for locals and visitors alike for the Big Bogan Street Festival,” said Mayor Neill. “The Shire staff and management have worked tirelessly for this event, and we are very proud of their efforts. ”We are always working on ways to support our community and days like these bring everyone together," he said.

Warren is getting its own aviation school in a few weeks, as a local brings his successful training formula back home.  Straight n Level, a branch of the Bankstown Flying School based in Sydney, will offer flying lessons from the newly renovated Warren airport starting on 19 October.  The Director of the Bankstown Flying School, Nigel Clark, is originally from Warren and lived there for around 25 years before moving to Sydney.  "I've been in Sydney pretty much since I started flying in 2001," he said. "But I've still got a family and property in Warren."  Nigel Clark, Director of the Bankstown Flying SchoolMr Clark has been teaching aviation classes since 2009 and has been operating his own flying school out of the Bankstown Aerodrome in Sydney since 2016.  He decided to start a flying school in Warren after an upgrade to the terminal building was completed earlier this year. Warren Airport. Photo: supplied "There's airports everywhere but they're so underutilized," Mr Clark said.  "With my 20-odd years' experience, I decided I had to head back to where I came from to see if we can rejuvenate aviation." Mr Clark said he has already had aviation enthusiasts from Cobar, Walgett, Narromine, Dubbo and Tilpa show contact him about the flight courses.  "There's already been a bit of interest around from people that either have an airplane and want some skills upgrading or people that have an interest in learning to fly, with an ambition to buy a plane and be able to fly around.  "You can get places three times quicker than with a car."  Straight n Level will offer training for recreational, private and commercial flight licences.  "We will do everything from a trial introductory flight course to multi-engine instrument rating," Mr Clark said. They are starting off using a Cessna 172 (above) for their training. It is a four-seat, single-engine, fixed-wing aircraft that is commonly used for flight training purposes.  The flying school will also offer training using a Beechcraft Model 76 Duchess, a twin-engine monoplane, ideal for multi-engine classes.  "There's room to expand from there. It just depends on demand," Mr Clark said.

The new mayor of Warrumbungle Shire says her priorities will be to govern with a kind and inclusive approach and ensure council sets sail for a strong and sustainable future.Councillor Kathryn Rindfleish was last week elected Mayor, and will be supported by Councillor Jason Newton as deputy.In accepting the role Cr Rindfleish thanked her fellow councillors for their trust and support, committing to continuing the work done by her predecessor, outgoing Mayor Ambrose Doolan.Having been a part of the Coolah community for many years, the business woman is an active leader who is also president of the Coolah Chamber of Commerce, treasurer of the local swimming club and an active volunteer.“I welcome the opportunity to lead the Warrumbungle Shire Council as we navigate through ever changing times and look forward to building a stronger more effective team working with our Councillors,” Cr Rindfleish said.“These relationships are an integral part of the success of any Council and we need to foster and support those existing relationships and build new relationships with as many stakeholders as we can to ensure that Council is engaged with the community.  This will go a long way to ensuring the Warrumbungle Shire Council can be a success story that everyone can be proud of. “A collaborative approach within our network will ensure the opportunity for our staff to feel valued and will enable the team to take ownership of their roles within the organisation.” She said newly elected Councillors and returning Councillors had hit the ground running.  “I will continue to ensure we work to achieve our goals under the Council plan and look forward to continuing to work with our communities throughout the shire.”  The other councillors and Warrumbungle Shire Council Acting General Manager, Lindsay Mason, congratulated both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor on their election. They will now serve in the roles until the next mayoral elections in September 2026. 

The NSW Government will start offering a $20,000 sign-on bonus for midwives who choose to relocate and start work in rural, regional and remote NSW on 30 September. The agreement is part of the Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme running until 31 March 2025, to entice healthcare workers to move to rural and remote areas.  The NSW Government has also invested an additional $200.1 million to deliver more health worker accommodation in these communities. “I’ve said this countless times, worker shortages in our regional, rural, and remote communities are the biggest single challenge facing our health system," the Minister for Health Ryan Park said. "With this innovative trial, we are looking at new ways to fill critical vacancies in our regions to build a stronger and more supported regional health workforce."   NSW Nurses and Midwives Association (NSWNMA) Gilgandra District Hospital Branch President Sheree Staggs said that a sign-on bonus has worked in Gilgandra before to attract more nurses. "It is a great incentive and it's definitely worthwhile for the midwives to grab that extra pay," she said.  "We've had international nurses come and we're finally getting a little bit of relief. But other facilities like Coonamble and Warren are still struggling."  Ms Staggs said that although a sign-on bonus is a good incentive to get people on the job, already employed staff also need a retention bonus to keep them there.  She is also concerned that the sign-on bonus could pull away midwives who are needed in the city.  "Statewide there are shortages of nurses and midwives everywhere," she said. "I feel that the city hospitals that are understaffed and can't get midwives would be quite angry about it. It’s a bit robbing Peter to pay Paul."On 24 September, the NSWNMA took to Sydney streets and went on strike for 24 hours to protest for a 15 per cent pay increase for nurses and midwives.Nurses from across NSW join the protest in Sydney. Photo supplied."They're all going to Queensland and Victoria where you get paid better," MS Staggs said.Nurses from across the state joined the protest, which was held as well in Tweed and Albury. “We really just want want to get back to work and do what we do best and that’s care of the patients under our care in NSW,” Ms Staggs said. 

Cobar is making strides as a pioneer in architectural design in remote Australia. The town was recently featured in the Architecture AU magazine as a pacemaker for how to fan the social flame in small towns with innovative architectural design. The Cobar Shire Council started working closely with the Sydney-based architecture firm Dunn Hillam in 2018. Co-founder of Dunn Hillam Ashley Dunn said that the work his architecture firm has done in Cobar was only possible through successful collaboration with the council and residents.  "We asked the locals to help us understand what the existing community networks are which areas might need some help, and what’s missing.  "It doesn't cost any more money to listen carefully to what the community needs."Mr Dunn said that in the past 25 years around half of their work has been in regional areas, such as Gilgandra, Gunnedah, and national parks in the Northern Territory. Mr Dunn said high-class, innovative projects are not reserved for metropolitan areas.  "People in the city seem to think that everything good happens in the city and that's not true."  The revitalisation of the Great Cobar Museum won architectural and heritage awards, including the 2022 National Trust NSW Heritage award.  "It shows that you can build high-quality projects in the regions," Mr Dunn said. "We were able to open and make the whole building accessible which has also been a great success out there with the young contingent."  Dunn Hillam also recently completed a childcare centre for council which gives the community access to 85 childcare spots.  The Early Learning Centre in Cobar offers residents over 80 childcare spots. The architecture firm is currently working on a coach house for the museum to sort parts of their larger collection such as vehicles and mining equipment."There's plenty of work out here but the result of the childcare places is that the money actually stays in the community and doesn't disappear."  The architecture firm is working on projects in Bourke and Lightning Ridge at the moment, helping design a healthcare centre for the Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service (BACHS) and an underground opal museum in Lightning Ridge.  Mr Dunn said they plan on staying out in Cobar as long as they keep getting jobs that help the community. 

Let's go back to 1983, when British rocker David Bowie travelled to the tiny western plains town of Carinda to film his now iconic video for Let's Dance at the Carinda Hotel.Revisit the film clip here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbD_kBJc_gIThe spotlight the filming created on this normally sleepy town had long reaching effect and in 2016, locals were inspired to create the Let's Dance Carinda event, aka the Bowie Festival, celebrating the legendary music of David Bowie, his style and influence. This year's Let's Dance Carinda event will be held over the upcoming long weekend on October 5 and 6. The enthusiastic organising committee say visitors are in for an unforgettable experience, be they long-time fans or new to the sound, this is the ideal chance to experience the magic of a true musical icon. Rebecca McLellan is part of the organising committee and said those attending should be ready for some amazing tribute acts. "We have a great line up of artists including Hunky Dory, Ballz'n'All, Savage Groove, The Bavid Dowies and Starman," Ms McLennan said. "We really encourage people to dress up as that is all part of the fun. And if punters want to get more into Bowie 'Fashion,' Jenny Greentree from Back'O'Bourke Gallery will be present to run a Brush With Fame painting workshop. Ensuring there is something for everyone, the busy committee has organised shearing demonstrations, bar, food vans and obviously plenty of fun. In the glam stakes, there are prizes in the men’s, women’s, and kids’ categories—so get creative and shine. "We have free camping as well," Ms McLellan said. "There's room for tents and vans as well as glamping options, we have even paid for gas to have hot water! The free unpowered sites are first come, first served." Glamping tents are still available but will sell out quick. Bookings can be made online to secure your comfy sleeping space. General admission tickets are available now! Click the link to purchase and secure your place at this year’s event. "We are expecting to see 300 - 400 people," Ms McLellan said. "It's a vibrant, fun, family festival with activities and entertainment for all ages. Bring the whole crew for a day of music and memories." More information: https://www.letsdancecarinda.com/ The only thing left is to do is "put on your red shoes and dance the blues."

The lack of child care options in the bush is proving a barrier to recruitment for doctors and other health professionals and is impacting health care for rural patients. A survey carried out by the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) has shown that nearly 70 per cent of the healthcare workers that responded made choices about their work location based on the availability of child care in their community. Dr Sue Harrison, Chair of RDAA’s Female Doctors Group, said that accessing childcare for doctors, nurses and other health care workers had been impacting on the availability of services for many years. “Our members have been telling us for decades that they need access to child care in order to be able to take up jobs in the bush,” Dr Harrison said. “Many of our doctors have had to turn down positions, particularly in rural towns, as they simply cannot find options for child care to cover their work hours. “This burden is often shared with their partner, resulting in both parents working reduced hours to enable them to care for their children. This can be difficult as many medical families, just like other families in the community, have both parents working in a professional role, whether that be in the health sector or outside of it. “In our recent survey of rural health care workers more than 50 per cent of respondents reported that either they or their partner had reduced work hours to meet their childcare need.”  A growing problem With the increasing number of female doctors in rural areas, and women generally in the workforce, this problem has been growing over recent decades. The final report from the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Early childhood education and care* showed that in 2023, three in four mothers with children aged 0–4 years were in paid employment. “Gone are the days when female doctors had informal arrangements with members of the community, or within their workplace, to care for their children during extended work hours or when they were called in for emergencies,” Dr Harrison said.     

The Pilliga Forest is blooming in all its glory with a spectacular show of spring wildflowers.It’s an ancient and unique place and a tough competitive life for plants in the forest with limited water, hot dry summers and cold winters. But this year a wetter than average winter has stimulated a mass of plants into producing some stunning floral displays. An enthusiastic group of locals recently went on a tag-a-long tour of the Pilliga Forest’s wildflower hot spots. Bilby Boom’s native plant identification experts, Anthony O’Halloran and Annabelle Greenup, accompanied by environmentalist Sue Brookhouse led the expedition into the wildflower spectacle.“This is probably the best spring flowering that I have ever seen in the Pilliga,” Anthony said. "Coming in from the east on number 1 break road and heading north up Rocky Road into County Line Road is just spectacular, as well as at the Sculptures in the Scrub. The bright red hop bush makes a stunning backdrop to smaller plants. (image; A.O’Halloran)“The season has been particularly good in the northern part of the forest, not too frosty and regular water for around the last six to eight months have pushed it all along.  Normally our winters involve frosty dry spells, but we have barely had more than three frosts in row; it has been frequently mild and wet," he said.“There is a cascade of species coming in a little bit earlier than normal. You will see the Dampiera adpressa, a prominent blue flower, on the sides of the roads such as Ironbark Crossing and Burma Road."“One of the plants I have a soft spot for is the Mint Bush and the species that is dominant in the forest at the moment is a beautiful purple one that really comes out at you particularly on the rocky ridges. Usually, you see just one or two plants here and there, but this year they are jumping out at you with lots of flowers.  I have never seen it before; they are very striking. “In the pure white department, the Wedding Bush is also stunning and you can see this on number 1 break and Burma Road. There is a beautiful Westringia cheelii around the Salt Caves and, towards the northern section of Country Line Road and heading up to Schwaggers Bore, there is the pink Phebalium nottii, which is an amazing hot pink flower with yellow stamens; it is eye-catching.“The narrow leaved hop bush is an outstanding red. Since it is the fruit that give colour, they will be in fierce display for the next few weeks. These pendulous plants are growing up to two metres and standing above the white Westringia and blue Dampiera they give a wonderful display.”Earlier flowering“Although many of the plants are flowering earlier than normal, we can expect a flowering of different species going right through to October and November. Some of the plants flower in response to the amount of daylight and some flower in response to the ambient temperatures. The ambient temperatures are around two weeks early this year and the plants that flower on a given amount of light are right on time, so both are doing really well," Anthony said. Known as a biodiversity hotspot, the Pilliga contains an estimated 900 plant species, including some now widely grown in cultivation, as well as many threatened species. It is a mixture of a state reserve, national park and state forest.  Wildflower explorers: Anthony O’Halloran and Annabelle Greenup guided a group of wildflower enthusiasts through the Pilliga Forest. Pictured are, Anthony O’Halloran, Annabelle Greenup with Maxine Finlay and Julie Shinton (image; S.Brookhouse)“I have driven over 300 kms through the forest and the good news is that there are very few introduced plant species to be seen,” Anthony added. “The Pilliga Forest is a joyous expression of Australian beauty without any feral plants getting in the way," he said.“Also, a reminder that the birds are something to look for at the moment. On our drive through the forest the wood swallows were just sitting on the ground looking for insects and the Rainbow Bee-eaters should be arriving soon in October; they are a most beautiful bird.  “So just go out there and enjoy natures wonder right on our doorstep.”

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.