Flavourtech Awarded Business of the Year at 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards
Business NSW has announced the winners of the 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards, with Griffith-based company Flavourtech taking out the prestigious title of Business of the Year. The awards ceremony was held at Piccolo Family Farm in Griffith on Friday 19 September.
Image Credit: Giorgio Trovato
Media Release: Business NSW
Business NSW has announced the winners of the 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards, with Griffith-based company Flavourtech taking out the prestigious title of Business of the Year. The awards ceremony was held at Piccolo Family Farm in Griffith on Friday 19 September.
Flavourtech earned the top honour after winning both the Excellence in International Business and Excellence in Large Business categories. The company was recognised for its innovation, ethical practices, community engagement, and global reputation. Their their commitment to workforce development also received special acknowledgement. This marks Flavourtech’s second time receiving the Business of the Year award, having previously won in 2021.
The awards program featured 20 categories celebrating leadership, sustainability, innovation, diversity and inclusion, and the visitor economy. Winners from the regional awards will go on to represent the Riverina Murray region at the Business NSW State Business Awards, to be held at the ICC in Sydney on 29 October 2025.
Click the button below to read the full media release and explore the complete list of award winners.
New Rest Area Funding Boosts Safety for Regional Truck Drivers
The Australian Government is investing $3.6 million in four new projects to improve safety and comfort for truck drivers travelling on regional freight routes. The funding is part of the broader $140 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) initiative, which has now supported 25 new and upgraded rest areas across Australia.
Image Credit: Sander Yigin
Minister Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Senator The Hon Anthony Chisholm, Assistant Minister for Regional Development; Senator Glenn Sterle, Senator for Western Australia
The Australian Government is investing $3.6 million in four new projects to improve safety and comfort for truck drivers travelling on regional freight routes. The funding is part of the broader $140 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) initiative, which has now supported 25 new and upgraded rest areas across Australia.
The latest projects include:
New parking, toilet blocks, and picnic shelters at the Kyeamba Rest Area between Yass and Albury.
A new female toilet block at the Nhill Trailer Exchange in Western Victoria.
Two new rest areas at Wiawera and Black Springs in South Australia, each with space for four vehicles, sheltered tables, and seating.
These upgrades aim to provide truck drivers with safe and comfortable facilities for their breaks, helping reduce fatigue and improve road safety.
Truck drivers are encouraged to contribute to future planning by completing the Heavy Vehicle Rest Areas Survey. The survey takes less than five minutes and helps identify priority locations for future rest area developments.
This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting freight operations and enhancing road safety in partnership with state governments and industry stakeholders.
Australia Launches Refreshed National Freight Strategy and Action Plan
The Australian Government has released an updated National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, along with a new five-year National Action Plan, to strengthen Australia’s freight networks and supply chains.
Image: Andy Li
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
The Australian Government has released an updated National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, along with a new five-year National Action Plan, to strengthen Australia’s freight networks and supply chains.
Originally launched in 2019, the strategy has been refreshed in response to recent challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical sifts, extreme weather events, and workforce shortages. With Australia’s freight task expected to grow by 26% between 2020 and 2050, the updated strategy aims to ensure the sector remains resilient, efficient, and future-ready.
The refreshed Strategy focuses on four key priority areas:
Productivity
Resilience
Decarbonisation
Data
These priorities are designed to support more efficient supply chains and guide collaborative action between governments and industry across all freight modes.
The accompanying National Action Plan outlines a series of nationally significant actions to be delivered over the next five years. Safety remains a core focus across all initiatives.
Key actions include:
Developing a National Freight Resilience Plan to improve responses to supply chain disruptions.
Creating a Freight Infrastructure Investment Framework to guide infrastructure decisions.
Conducting safety research on batteries and zero-emission technologies for freight vehicles and locomotives.
Promoting the adoption of safety and productivity-enhancing technologies.
Modelling current and future freight networks to support long-term planning and efficiency.
This strategy and Action Plan aim to ensure Australia’s roads, railways, ports, and supply chains can meet growing industry and consumer demands while reducing while reducing emissions and improving safety.
Local Radio Strengthened with Over 130 Emergency Resilience Projects
The Australian Government has completed 131 broadcasting resilience projects across Australia to ensure local radio services remain operational during emergencies. Delivered through the $20 million Broadcasting Resilience Program (BRP), these upgrades are helping communities stay connected, safe, and informed when it matters most.
Image Credit: Elijah Merrell
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport
The Australian Government has completed 131 broadcasting resilience projects across Australia to ensure local radio services remain operational during emergencies. Delivered through the $20 million Broadcasting Resilience Program (BRP), these upgrades are helping communities stay connected, safe, and informed when it matters most.
The program has upgraded 98 ABC AM and FM broadcast sites, improving their ability to withstand power outages and severe weather events. In addition, 48 sites received emergency power upgrades, which have already provided over 1,200 hours of backup power during critical incidents.
Five mobile broadcasting assets were also deployed under the BRP. These units can be rapidly dispatched to areas where transmission has failed, restoring local radio services and offering mobile charging capabilities. One such deployment occurred in June on Dunk Island, Queensland, where a power cable cut caused widespread outages. A mobile unit from Mount Bellenden Ker was sent to the island and restored services within 24 hours.
The BRP has proven effective during recent emergencies, including floods in Tasmania, storms in Wilcannia (NSW), and bushfires in Dimbulah (QLD).
Delivered by BAI Communications, the BRP is part of the Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia. This broader initiative includes $400 million to improve mobile coverage and enhance the resilience of communications infrastructure nationwide.
Bradman’s Baggy Green Joins the National Museum Collection
One of Sir Donald Bradman’s iconic Baggy Green caps has been acquired by the National Museum of Australia, thanks to funding from the Australian Government’s National Cultural Heritage Account.
Image Credit: Scott Webb
Media Release: The Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for the Arts; Susan Templeman MP, Special Envoy for the Arts
One of Sir Donald Bradman’s iconic Baggy Green caps has been acquired by the National Museum of Australia, thanks to funding from the Australian Government’s National Cultural Heritage Account.
The cap was worn by Bradman during the 1946-47 Ashes Series in Australia, a historic post-war tour that marked the beginning of a dominant era for the national cricket team. It is one of only two know Baggy Greens from that series, making it a rare and culturally significant artefact.
This acquisition preserves a powerful symbol of Australian sporting history and national pride. The cap represents a time when cricket heroes like Bradman brought hope and unity to Australians following the hardships of World War II.
The Baggy Green will be displayed in the Museum’s permanent Landmarks gallery, which explores Australia’s broad history. The gallery includes a dedicated section on sport and features other Bradman memorabilia.
The National Cultural Heritage Account was established to help Australian cultural institutions acquire and safeguard important heritage objects. This latest purchase ensures that future generations can connect with defining moments in Australia’s sporting legacy.
Faster Broadband Coming to Over 600,000 Australian Premises
The Australian Government has announced a major upgrade to the National Broadband Network (NBN), bringing faster and more reliable internet to approximately 622,000 households and businesses across Australia.
Image Credit: Dreamlike Street
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport; Senator The Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for Finance, Minister for Women, Minister for the Public Service
The Australian Government has announced a major upgrade to the National Broadband Network (NBN), bringing faster and more reliable internet to approximately 622,000 households and businesses across Australia.
This final stage of fibre to the node upgrades is already underway, with more than 228,000 premises currently being worked on. The initiative is backed by a government equity injection of up to $3 billion, alongside an $800 million contribution from NBN Co.
More than 95% of the targeted premises will be upgraded to full fibre, enabling access to the NBN’s fastest upload and download speeds. These upgrades are expected to deliver significant economic benefits, with Accenture modelling forecasting a $10.4 billion cumulative uplift in GDP over the next decade. Households could also save over 100 hours and $2,580 annually avoided travel time.
This latest investment builds on the Government’s previous $2.4 billion commitment to fibre upgrades, which are on track to benefit 1.5 million premises nationwide. The upgrades also complement the expansion of the fixed wireless footprint and the recent partnership between NBN Co and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which will deliver broadband via Low Earth Orbit Satellites.
The Australian Government continues to prioritise connectivity, recognising that fast, affordable internet is essential for productivity and modern living.
Newell Highway Upgrade Complete Between Narrabri and Moree
The three-year upgrade of the Newell Highway between Narrabri and Moree is now complete, delivering major improvements to one of regional New South Wales’ most important freight routes.
Image Credit: Joseph two
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; The Hon Jenny Aitchison MP, Minister for Roads, Minister for Regional Transport; Glenn Sterle, Senator for Western Australia; Roy Butler, Member for Barwon
The three-year upgrade of the Newell Highway between Narrabri and Moree is now complete, delivering major improvements to one of regional New South Wales’ most important freight routes.
Funded jointly by the Australian and NSW Governments, the $261.17 million Newell Highway Heavy Duty Pavement Upgrade has transformed over 20 kilometres of road. The project included intersection upgrades, widened shoulders, and five new overtaking lanes to improve safety and traffic flow.
Works were delivered across four priority sections:
8 km south of Moree, including a new culvert at Clarks Gully and intersection upgrades at Burrington Road, Tapscott Road, and Wallanol Road.
4.4 km around Bellata, with upgrades to Temi Road, North Street, Wilga Street, and Oak Street,
5.6 km around Edgeroi, including the Smithfeild Lane intersection.
2.6 km north of Narrabri, with a new culvert at Murrumbilla Lane.
The final piece of the project is the new Spring Creek Rest Area, now the largest heavy vehicle rest stop in the north-west region. It offers short and long-term parking for up to 18 heavy vehicles, plus dedicated spaces for light vehicles and those towing caravans or trailers. Amenities include accessible toilets, picnic, shelters, bins, solar lighting, and over 500 newly planted trees for shade.
Construction crews used significant resources, including 3900 cubic metres of structural concrete, 8900 tonnes of asphalt, 700 tonnes of steel, and 575,000 tonnes of pavement material and gravel. Despite losing 118 days to bad weather, the project remained on track.
Minor finishing works such as fencing, signage, and final sealing are scheduled for early 2026.
Australia Invests $1.1 Billion to Boost Cleaner Fuel Production
The Australian Government has announced a landmark $1.1 billion investment to accelerate the domestic production of low carbon liquid fuels, marking a major step towards cleaner energy and stronger fuel security.
Image Credit: Dawn McDonald
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; The Hon Jim Chalmers MP, Treasurer; The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy; The Hon Julie Collins MP, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
The Australian Government has announced a landmark $1.1 billion investment to accelerate the domestic production of low carbon liquid fuels, marking a major step towards cleaner energy and stronger fuel security.
The funding will support the new ten-year Cleaner Fuels Program, designed to stimulate private investment in onshore production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. These “drop-in” fuels are compatible with existing engines and infrastructure, with the first production expected by 2029.
Australia is well-positioned to lead in this space, thanks to it’s abundant feedstocks such as canola, sorghum, sugar, and waste, and access to reliable renewable energy. Currently, liquid fuels account for around half of the nation’s energy use. Replacing fossil fuels with cleaner alternatives presents a significant opportunity to reduce emissions and grow the economy.
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation estimates that a mature Australian low carbon liquid fuel industry could be worth $36 billion by 2050, with the potential to reduce cumulative emissions by 230 million tonnes CO₂-e, equivalent to the annual emissions of 86 million cars.
Funding will be awarded through a competitive process, with eligibility criteria to be shaped by public consultation. The initiative builds on existing government programs including the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative and the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund.
To further support the industry, the Government is expanding the Guarantee of Origin Scheme to include low carbon liquid fuels and has introduced a fuel quality standard for renewable diesel.
This investment aims to strengthen Australia’s fuel supply chain, support regional jobs, and position the country as a key player in the global transition to net zero.
The Australian Government Advances Regional Telecommunications Reform
The Australian Government is taking significant steps to improve connectivity across Australia with the release of draft legislation for the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO). This initiative aims to ensure that mobile voices and text services are accessible outdoors almost anywhere Australians can see the sky.
Image Credit: NASA Hubble Space Telescope
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport
The Australian Government is taking significant steps to improve connectivity across Australia with the release of draft legislation for the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO). This initiative aims to ensure that mobile voices and text services are accessible outdoors almost anywhere Australians can see the sky.
As part of the Government’s response to the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review, UOMO is expected to expand basic outdoor mobile coverage by over 5 million square kilometres. The reform will benefit regional and remote communities by enhancing access to essential telecommunications services, particularly in areas currently underserved.
Mobile network operators will be required to provide reasonable outdoor coverage using a mix of existing infrastructure and emerging direct-to-device (D2D) technology, supported by Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats). This approach is designed to modernise Australia’s universal service arrangements and reduce digital divide.
The Government is inviting feedback on the draft legislation until 19 October2025. Alongside this, it continues to invest in programs such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Mobile Network Hardening Program to improve mobile coverage, resilience, and capacity.
Additional efforts include upgrades to the NBN and the expansion of its fixed wireless footprint. NBN Co will also use LEOSats from Project Kuiper to deliver high-speed broadband to rural and remote areas.
These reforms reflect the Government’s commitment to supporting economic growth, increasing productivity, and meeting Australia’s growing demand for reliable digital connectivity.
Game On: New Funding to Help Community Sports Clubs Tackle Climate Change
The Australian Government has announced a major investment in grassroots sport with the launch of the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program. This initiative will deliver $50 million over four years to support up to 500 community sporting clubs across Australia in taking practical climate action.
Image Credit: Emile-Victor Portenart
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport; and The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy
The Australian Government has announced a major investment in grassroots sport with the launch of the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program. This initiative will deliver $50 million over four years to support up to 500 community sporting clubs across Australia in taking practical climate action.
Local clubs will be able to access funding for upgrades such as improved shade and drainage, solar panels, battery storage, and energy-efficient systems. These enhancements aim to reduce energy bills, improve climate resilience, and ensure facilities remain safe and accessible in the face of increasingly extreme weather events.
With over 14 million Australians using community sport facilities, the program is designed to strengthen the role of sport in local communities while helping clubs redirect savings into essential areas like equipment, participation programs for girls, and development pathways for young athletes and officials.
The initiative complements existing government efforts, including the $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, and aligns with broader climate and energy goals. It also encourages private sector involvement, inviting energy companies, banks, and equipment providers to partner in futureproofing community sport.
Inspired by successful grassroots climate initiatives such as Cricket for Climate, the program represents a significant step towards empowering communities to adapt to climate challenges while keeping sport thriving at the local level.
Upcoming Works Across the Olympic Highway - Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays
The EnergyConnect project team are continuing to advance construction activities on the transmission like from Dinawan, NSW to Wagga Wagga Via Lockhart.
Image Credit: Elecnor Australia
The EnergyConnect project team are continuing to advance construction activities on the transmission like from Dinawan, NSW to Wagga Wagga Via Lockhart.
Work to prepare for the transmission line stringing will take place on Monday 8 September and Wednesday 10 September 2025, along the Olympic Highway approximately 3km south of Uranquinty.
From Saturday 13 September to Sunday 21 September 2025, crews will install draw wire and pull conductor wire across the highway.
Further works are scheduled to resume from Monday 29 September through to Wednesday 1 October 2025, weather permitting.
Traffic control will be in place while work is underway to ensure the safety of both motorists and construction crews. Speed limits will vary from 100km/hr to 40km/hr throughout the work zone, and drivers may experience delays of up to 15 minutes.
The public can also anticipate an increase in heavy equipment on local roads in and around the Olympic Highway associated with stringing activities. Stringing will also take place across the ARTC railway line during this time, with six to seven cranes operating in the area.
Please keep to the signposted speed limits, follow the direction of traffic controllers, and drive to the conditions.
Read the full notification here: Construction Notification
Have Your Say: Upper Murrumbidgee Drought Operating Framework
The Australian Government is seeking public feedback on the Draft Upper Murrumbidgee River River - Drought Operating Framework, which outlines how water will be managed during drought conditions over the next two years.
Image Credit: Urvish Oza
The Australian Government is seeking public feedback on the Draft Upper Murrumbidgee River River - Drought Operating Framework, which outlines how water will be managed during drought conditions over the next two years.
This framework is designed to guide decisions about water releases, storage, and accounting in the Upper Murrumbidgee River, with the goal of supporting river health, downstream communities, and energy operations like Snowy Hydro.
Key aspects include:
Triggers for water releases based on river conditions
Timing and volum of release
Water accounting and valuation
Environmental and community impacts
This is a short-term plan, with broader review of long-term water management strategies to follow.
Public consultation is open until 5pm on Thursday, 11 September 2025.
Regional Leaders Unite at Parliament House to Champion Regional NSW
On August 6, 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) NSW & ACT brought together a powerful coalition of regional leaders, government officials, and community advocates at NSW Parliament House for the Friends of Regional NSW event.
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Featured: RDA NSW & ACT CEO’s and Chairs
On August 6, 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) NSW & ACT brought together a powerful coalition of regional leaders, government officials, and community advocates at NSW Parliament House for the Friends of Regional NSW event.
The gathering celebrated the strength and resilience of regional communities and reinforced the importance of collaboration between local voices and government decision-makers. Hosted by RDA NSW & ACT Chair Anna Guillan AM, the event featured a keynote address from The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC, Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW, and Western NSW.
Minister Moriarty highlighted the critical role of regional communities is shaping the future of New South Wales and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equitable investment and support across the state.
The event underscored key themes including:
Place-based policy development
Data-informed decision-making
The value of lived experience in shaping regional outcomes
With RDA representatives, MPs, senior public servants, and regional stakeholders in attendance, the event served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when regional voices are heard and empowered.
As the RDA network continues to advocate for sustainable growth and opportunity across NSW, events like this play a vital role in building the partnerships that drive real change.
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
New Rail Safety Tech Trial Launched Near Quirindi to Save Lives
A ground breaking trial of new rail safety technology has officially launched at the Callaghans Lane Level Crossing near Quirindi, marking a major step forward in protecting regional communities from level crossing accidents.
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
Image Credit: Chris Bair
A ground breaking trial of new rail safety technology has officially launched at the Callaghans Lane Level Crossing near Quirindi, marking a major step forward in protecting regional communities from level crossing accidents.
The $1.2 million trial, a joint initiative between the Australian and NSW Governments, Transport for NSW, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), and Rail Safety Systems, features the Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS), a firs-of-its-kind solution designed specifically for rural and remote areas.
How it Works:
The RAXS system transforms a passive level crossing into an active one using:
Wireless train detection
Flashing lights and bells
Solar-powered, modular design
Advanced warning signage
This setup alerts motorists when a train is approaching, significantly improving safety at crossings that previously relied only on static signs.
Why it Matters:
The Callaghans Lane site was chosen due to its tragic history, including a fatal crash in 2023. With over 2,700 level crossings in NSW, and more than 850 of them passively controlled, the need for innovative, cost-effective safety solutions in urgent.
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine king said the trial is part of the $180.1 million Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program, which supports infrastructure upgrades and new technologies to reduce fatalities.
What’s Next?
The trial will run through mid-2026, with monitoring in place to assess how drivers respond to the system. Cameras installed for the trial will not be used for enforcement and will be removed afterward.
If successful, the RAXS system could be rolled out more broadly, offering a faster, more affordable way to upgrade regional crossings, potentially activating three sites for the cost of one traditional upgrade.
$68 Million for Life-Saving Road Upgrades Across Australia
The Australian Government has announced a major investment of over $63 million to improve road safety and infrastructure across regional and rural communities. This funding, delivered through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP), will support 23 new projects aimed at saving lives, reducing travel times, and enhancing connectivity.
Image Credit: Tom Shamberger
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
The Australian Government has announced a major investment of over $63 million to improve road safety and infrastructure across regional and rural communities. This funding, delivered through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP), will support 23 new projects aimed at saving lives, reducing travel times, and enhancing connectivity.
The Upgrade Will Include:
Road realignments and shoulder sealing
Installation of safety barriers and rumble strips
Bridge and culvert replacements
Flood resilience improvements
Heavy vehicle rest areas and wash bays
State-by-State Breakdown:
NSW: $22.4 million for 8 projects
VIC: $19.5 million for 7 projects
QLD: $15.6 million for 5 projects
TAS: $4.8 million for 2 projects
WA: $1.4 million for 1 project
Local Impact:
Projects like the Wyndham Street Bridge replacement in Greta, NSW, and the Buangor-Ben Nevis Road reconstruction in Victoria are just a few examples of how this funding will directly benefit local communities.
Supporting Safer Roads:
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King emphasised the importance of supporting local government and reducing administrative burdens, ensuring that communities can focus on delivering safer roads for everyone.
National Skills Week 2025: Empowering Regional and Remote Careers Through VET
National Skills Week 2025 is set to run from 25-31 August, spotlighting the transformative power of Vocational Education and Training (VET) especially in regional and remote Australia, where demand for skilled workers is rapidly rising.
Media Release: The Capital Group
Image Credit: Tim Mossholder
National Skills Week 2025 is set to run from 25-31 August, spotlighting the transformative power of Vocational Education and Training (VET) especially in regional and remote Australia, where demand for skilled workers is rapidly rising.
This year’s theme, “Explore ALL the Options,” encourages Australians to consider the diverse career pathways available through VET, from Free TAFE courses to apprenticeships and traineeships tailored to local industry needs.
Why VET Matters in Regional Australia:
Industries such as health, construction, hospitality, mining and clean energy are thriving in regional areas, but they face growing skills shortages. VET is helping bridge this gap by equipping individuals with practical, job-ready skills.
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, regional VET students often outperform their metropolitan counterparts in both qualification completion and employment outcomes.
Voices from the Field:
Industry leaders from Wine Australia, ReadyTech, and Apprenticeship Support Australia have praised VET for building not just capability, but confidence and community. Their insights highlight how VET supports both personal growth and regional prosperity.
National Skills Week is backed by the Federal Government, State Governments, and leading VET organisations including TAFE NSW, Wine Australia, and Apprenticeship Support Australia.
$8 Million Boost for Currumbin Wildlife Hospital
The Australian Government has announced an $8 million investment in the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital to support the development of a new research and education facility. This funding is part of the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program and aims to enhance wildlife care, research, and community education.
Media Release: The Hon Kristy McBain, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories.
Image Credit: Jordan Whitt
The Australian Government has announced an $8 million investment in the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital to support the development of a new research and education facility. This funding is part of the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program and aims to enhance wildlife care, research, and community education.
The new facility will be build alongside the existing hospital and is expected to be completed by 2027. It will provide dedicated spaces for research, school visits, and professional development for wildlife carers and veterinary professionals.
The project is a collaboration between the National Trust of Australia (Queensland), the Queensland Government, the City of Gold Coast, and philanthropic partners, with a total funding pool of $14 million.
An Evening with the Australian Defence Force: Showcasing the Importance of Defence Infrastructure in the Riverina-Murray
Last week we hosted An Evening with the Australian Defence Force at the CSU Riverina Playhouse. This significant evening brought together senior Defence leaders, government officials, educators, and industry stakeholders to spotlight the national and regional importance of Defence assets located in the Riverina-Murray.
Last week we hosted An Evening with the Australian Defence Force at the CSU Riverina Playhouse.
Thank you to our partners Charles Sturt University and sponsors Riverina Water who helped to bring this event to fruition.
This significant evening brought together senior Defence leaders, government officials, educators, and industry stakeholders to spotlight the national and regional importance of Defence assets located in the Riverina-Murray.
Attendees explored how the region’s major bases—RAAF Base Wagga, Blamey Barracks (Kapooka), and the Albury-Wodonga Military Area—continue to contribute to Australia’s national security while unlocking long-term economic, education, and workforce benefits across our communities.
The event featured a compelling keynote address, an insightful panel discussion with leading Defence representatives, a vibrant networking reception.
Speakers Include:
Dr John Coyne - Australian Strategic Policy Institute
Group Captain Kerry Hollings AM - RAAF Base Wagga Wagga
Colonel Matthew Freeman - Army Logistics Training Centre
Colonel Gerard Kearns CSC - 1st Recruit Training Battalion
Moderator: Dianna Somerville - Chair, RDA Riverina
Event Outcomes:
Highlighted the strategic importance of Defence infrastructure in the Riverina-Murray Identified new opportunities for collaboration across education, innovation, and investment Strengthened community and industry partnerships with the Defence sector.
Image: Rachel Whiting, CEO, RDA Riverina
Image: Dr John Coyne, Australian Strategic Policy Institute
Image: Panel Discussion
Image L to R: Colonel Gerard Kearns - CSC 1 Recruit Training Battalion, Dianna Somerville - Chair RDA Riverina, Colonel Matthew Freeman - Army Logistics Training Centre, Group Captain Kerry Hollings - AM RAAF Base Wagga Wagga, Dr John Coyne - Australian Strategic Policy Institute, and Rachel Whiting - CEO RDA Riverina.
Image L to R: Colonel Gerard Kearns - CSC 1 Recruit Training Battalion, Dianna Somerville - Chair RDA Riverina, Group Captain Kerry Hollings - AM RAAF Base Wagga Wagga, Kay Hull AO - Former Member for Riverina , David Bardos - Board Member RDA Riverina, and Colonel Matthew Freeman - Army Logistics Training Centre.
Image L to R: David Bardos - Board Member - RDA Riverina, Melissa Boxall - Board Member RDA Riverina, Dianna Somerville - Chair RDA Riverina, Rachel Whiting - CEO RDA Riverina, Amanda Cappello - Operations Manager RDA Riverina, Sara Johnston - Communications Coordinator RDA Riverina.
Regional Farmers Call for Immediate Drought Support at Southern NSW Drought Summit
Regional farming leaders have issued an urgent call for immediate financial and practical support at the Southern NSW Drought Summit, held on Monday, 4 August.
Media Release: Snowy Valleys Council
Image Credit: Meric Tuna
Regional farming leaders have issued an urgent call for immediate financial and practical support at the Southern NSW Drought Summit, held on Monday, 4 August. The summit brought together government representatives, including NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty, seven members of the NSW Parliament, local farmers, agronomists, and rural support services from drought-affected regions across Southern NSW.
Organised by the Council Mayors of Snowy Valleys, Greater Hume, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Wagga Wagga, and Yass, the summit highlighted the severe impact of worsening drought conditions. Currently, 49% of NSW is affected by drought, with even the most resilient producers reaching breaking point.
Farmers spoke about the growing toll of fodder and water shortages, record-high freight costs, and widespread pasture loss not only on their livestock and livelihoods but also on their mental health and family wellbeing. Speakers included Julian Roche, a third-generation beef producer for Yaven Creek, and Barney Hyams, an orchardist and grazier from Batlow, who both shared the compounding challenges of bushfires, prolonged drought, and soaring input costs.
A key outcome of the summit was the proposal to establish a NSW Government-led, producer-informed Drought Taskforce to oversee the implementation of recommendations. The roadmap for action includes:
Immediate financial relief through freight and fodder subsidies, emergency grants, and Local Land Services waivers.
Targeted recovery programs for restocking, pasture regeneration, business support, and mental health services.
Long-term reform of the National Drought Agreement to recognise drought as a natural disaster and incentivise resilience through tax incentives and on-farm preparedness measures.
Job Opportunity | Communications & Engagement Coordinator at Eastern Riverina Arts
Eastern Riverina Arts (ERA) is on the lookout for a creative, strategic and multi-skilled Communications and Engagement Coordinator to shape the voice and presence of one of the region’s leading arts organisations.
Image Credit: Eastern Riverina Arts
Eastern Riverina Arts (ERA) is on the lookout for a creative, strategic and multi-skilled Communications and Engagement Coordinator to shape the voice and presence of one of the region’s leading arts organisations. This part-time role (22.5 hours per week) is perfect for someone passionate about the arts, community engagement, and strategic communication. The successful candidate will lead the organisation’s communications across digital platforms, publications, and events while also building strong relationships with artists, arts organisations, and levels of government.
Key responsibilities include:
Developing and delivering engaging communications across ERA’s website, social media, newsletters, and publications
Coordinating events and workshops
Supporting artists and community groups
Contributing to strategic arts and cultural projects across the region
The Communications & Engagement Coordinator will also play a vital role in increasing participation in the arts, strengthening Eastern Riverina Art’s brand presence and ensuring the success of key initiatives such as Creative Riverina, the Riverina Touring Network and the Station Creative Workspace.
Eastern Riverina Arts is the peak body for arts and cultural development across eight local government areas: Bland, Coolamon, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Lockhart, Junee, Snowy Valleys, Temora, and Wagga Wagga. ERA enriches and connects the region through creative industry support, cultural programming, and community engagement.
Application Process:
A Cover Letter
A CV (Maximum 2 pages)
A statement addressing in detail the Selection Criteria and Key Attributes
Applications close: Monday 18 August 5:00pm
Key organisation contacts: Ashleigh Baxter, Executive Director, 02 6921 6890