Celebrating National Ag Day in the Riverina

L-R: Zoe Lamont, Founder, Farm Door Wagga Wagga, Alesha Bennet, Young White Suffolk Breeder, Jessica Ryan, NSW Young Farmers Chair

On Friday, 21 November 2025, we celebrated National Agriculture Day with the theme “Stand with the Land”, honouring the resilience and innovation of Australia’s farmers and rural communities. This year’s event was proudly hosted by RDA Riverina in partnership with AgriFutures, AgriPark, Charles Sturt University, Local Land Services, and NSW DPI at the Mawambul Training Centre, CSU Wagga Wagga.

National Ag Day is a call to recognise the people who feed and clothe us, even through floods, droughts, policy challenges, and trade disruptions. Agriculture is the backbone of the Riverina economy, and this day reminds us of its vital role in sustaining communities and driving innovation.

The luncheon brought together over 60 attendees, including producers, researchers, and community leaders. It featured a panel of inspiring speakers who shared insights on sustainability, leadership, and the future of farming:

• Jessica Ryan – NSW Young Farmers Chair (Harden)

• Zoe Lamont – Founder, Farm Door (Wagga Wagga)

• Alesha Bennett – Young White Suffolk Breeder & Emerging Ag Leader (Tarcutta)

These voices reflected the diversity and strength of our agricultural sector, from grassroots farming to entrepreneurial innovation.

National Ag Day is more than a celebration—it’s a movement. At RDA Riverina, we continue to champion initiatives that strengthen our agricultural backbone, from paddock-to-plate projects to workforce development and regional innovation. Let’s keep standing with the land, today and every day.

RDA RIVERINA AGM AND END-OF-YEAR Celebrations

L-R: Sue Molyneaux - Board Member, Dallas Tout - Board Member, Mark Hillis - Board Member, Melanie Reeves - Board Member, Dianna Somerville - Chair, Rachel Whiting - CEO, Amanda Cappello - Operations Manager, Melissa Boxall - Board Member, Isabel Virgona - Board Member, David Bardos - Board Member, Ray Willis - Board Member, Absent: Patricia Wilkinson - Deputy Chair.

On 18 November, RDA Riverina Board Members gathered at PCYC Wagga Wagga for the Annual General Meeting, followed by the final Board Meeting of 2025 to review key updates and set priorities for the year ahead.

During the afternoon, the board received a presentation from Transgrid, reinforcing the shared commitment to support the Riverina region.

The RDA Riverina Board then toured Wagga Wagga’s PCYC contemporary facilities, offering the opportunity to hear how the centre serves as a hub for youth engagement and community programs. The facilities feature a climate-controlled, multi-court indoor stadium, a fully equipped gym, flexible spaces for group fitness, and well-appointed meeting spaces with video conferencing alongside a welcoming café area. The site also includes out-of-school-hours care and a youth hub, reflecting PCYC’s mission - delivered in partnership with NSW Police - to empower young people, build leadership, and reduce and prevent youth crime.

It was a productive close to the year, before joining stakeholders for our end-of-year stakeholder drinks at Food I Am. A focus of the event was wishing farewell to RDA Riverina Chair, Dianna Somerville. Dianna has served almost 5 years as Chair of the organisation, leading us through the many flow on effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on our region, nationally and globally. Through those unprecedented times we grew as an organisation in staff numbers, in impact, in purpose, and in our drive to better the region.

Later, a small group continued the conversation over dinner in a relaxed setting. Food I Am has held a special place in RDA Riverina’s story. In 2011, the partnership began as part of an initiative to showcase the Riverina’s rich food culture and culinary talent, efforts that became Taste Riverina. Over the years, Food I Am has become more than a venue - it is renowned as a platform for celebrating local produce, fostering regional identity, and creating memorable experiences for stakeholders and visitors alike. It was fitting that we celebrated the year at Food I Am, together celebrating the achievements of founder Tania Sibrey.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our stakeholders for their ongoing support and collaboration throughout 2025. Your commitment and partnership have been instrumental in driving positive outcomes for the Riverina region. As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited to continue working together to build on this momentum, strengthen regional opportunities, and deliver impactful initiatives. RDA Riverina wishes everyone a safe and joyful festive season and a successful year ahead.

RDA Riverina end of year lunch

L-R: Marg Couch, Manager Griffith Projects and Local Connector, Melanie Renkin, Research Officer, Kayla Cherry, Assistant Communications Officer, Sophie Ackland, Administration Officer, Katie Pastro, Project and Communications Officer, Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development, Sara Johnston, Communications Coordinator, Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager, Jayadev Ajayakumar, Local Connector

Marg Couch, Manager Griffith Projects and Local Connector with Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager

The RDA Riverina team wrapped up another successful and extremely busy year at the Coolamon Hotel for an end of year lunch, squeezing in a tour of the venue’s recently renovated function space and accommodation facilities. As we reflected on the year that was, our heartfelt thanks and best wishes were directed at our Operations Manager, Amanda Cappello, who is moving at the end of the year. Amanda has been a much valued member of our team for the past three years, applying her strategic mindset across the wide range of programs and initiatives run by RDA Riverina, and overseeing an enhancement of internal and external policies and procedures. Although we are fortunate to keep her on staff remotely for the transition period, we will all miss her energetic and enthusiastic presence in the Wagga office.

Lunch was held in The Glasshouse, a stunning space blending natural light with period features and seasonal charm. Local produce featured in delicious bistro-style dishes with the personalised service you can expect from the historic Coolamon Hotel. Sated, the staff were treated to a guided tour of the venue from the owner, starting with the upstairs function space, The Long Room. Thoughtful touches and a blend of modernity with historic elegance gives the space a breezy yet cosy feeling. A cocktail bar with a grand chandelier greets visitors on entry, pressed metal ceilings combine with soft wall lighting, fireplaces, palms and cane chairs to create an inviting room with a capacity of 80 patrons. Doors lead out to the expansive verandah for warm nights sipping cocktails with friends.

The tour ended with a look at the newly opened accommodation, featuring a well supplied communal kitchenette, 4 large bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and more of that timeless style combined with modern conveniences such as in room controls for air conditioning and even the ability to play your own media through the room speakers. The staff were very impressed with the renovated venue and accommodation, all of which is wheelchair accessible, and were excited to consider the prospect of another great Riverina venue for meetings, presentations and forums.

As we wind up activities for the year, we thank all of our stakeholders, partners and collaborators for the work you do to make this region the thriving hub of activity and enterprise that it is. We look forward to seeing what 2026 brings, and continuing to work with you all to develop the region.

Ensuring a Sustainable National Broadband Network

Media Release: Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport

Image Credit: Jackson Sophat

Carriers will be able to deliver better services to customers, with the Regional Broadband Scheme charges slashed. The Scheme ensures transparent and sustainable funding for essential fixed wireless and satellite broadband services delivered by NBN Co in rural, regional and remote Australia by changing fixed-line broadband networks a monthly charge for each service they provide.

Under legislation, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) must provide advice to the Minister for Communications about the monthly charge amount under the Scheme every 5 years.

In line with the ACCC’s advice, the Minister will reduce the amount to $2.17 per chargeable premises, for 5 years from 2025-26. It will continue to be CPI-indexed annually.

Regional Energy Accord: Riverina & Murray Shaping Australia’s Energy Transition

L-R: Ray Willis, RDA Riverina Board Member, Malkah Lara Muckenschnabl, Associate Partner YoBou, Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development, Sabiene Heindl, CEO The Energy Charter, Sarimah Hellyer, CEO RDA Murray, Bryce Ives, Principal Consultant YoBou, Mark Hillis, RDA Riverina Board Member

On Thursday, 27 November 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina and Murray, in partnership with The Energy Charter, hosted two pivotal events at the Local Land Service Mawambul Training Centre, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga: the Regional Energy Accord Business Workshop and the Regional Energy Accord Roundtable. These events followed strategic engagement with local landholders the day before.

Why a Regional Energy Accord?

The Riverina and Murray regions are at the forefront of Australia’s energy transition, hosting major renewable infrastructure and experiencing both the opportunities and challenges that come with change. Local communities are navigating new impacts on land, business, and daily life as the energy landscape evolves. The Regional Energy Accord is a national initiative designed to ensure this transition occurs in partnership with communities, not to them. It’s a voluntary agreement, co-designed by regional voices, industry, and government, setting out shared principles and practical steps for collaboration that reflects the priorities and aspirations of our region.

Elevating Regional Voices

The landholder engagement meetings heard from local people impacted by renewable energy developments. Sharing of stories and listening to concerns is part of true regional engagement. The morning Business Workshop brought together business leaders from across the Riverina and Murray, providing a platform to share insights and contribute to the Accord’s development. Discussions focused on trust, fairness, and the need for visible local benefits—emphasising that commitments must be delivered, not just promised. Participants agreed that regional expertise and leadership are essential for ensuring the energy transition delivers genuine, lasting value. Engagement also occurred with a group of young community leaders. The importance of hearing voices from all demographics in our community was highlighted.

Shaping a Fair and Inclusive Transition

The afternoon Roundtable built on these conversations, gathering community leaders, industry representatives, government officials, and stakeholders from diverse sectors. The agenda included mapping the region’s energy story, identifying guiding principles, and developing practical commitments that reflect local values and priorities. The collaborative format encouraged open dialogue, creative thinking, and a shared commitment to shaping a fair and inclusive energy future.

A National Effort, Grounded in Local Experience

Supported by The Energy Charter and facilitated by YoBou Pty Ltd, the Accord aims to unite stakeholders around shared principles and practical steps for collaboration. The process is grounded in authentic local listening, with the goal of building trust, supporting local leadership, and turning good intentions into visible actions on the ground. The Riverina and Murray Roundtable is the fourth in a series, adding local priorities and insights to the national Accord.

Lasting Impact

By hosting these events, RDA Riverina and RDA Murray have ensured that the perspectives of local business and community leaders are central to the development of the Regional Energy Accord. The outcomes will inform a national framework designed to deliver real, measurable benefits for regional Australia—ensuring that communities are not left behind, but are active partners in shaping the future.

Biosecurity Training Strengthens Renewable Energy Development in the Riverina

On 25 November 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina partnered with EnergyCo and Charles Sturt University to deliver the first Biosecurity Training for the Renewable Energy Industry at the AgriPark on Charles Sturt University’s Wagga Wagga Campus.

This initiative is a vital step in ensuring renewable energy projects in the South-West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) meet stringent biosecurity standards while respecting the needs of local landholders.

Why Biosecurity Matters

As renewable energy projects expand across rural NSW, maintaining strong biosecurity practices is essential to protect agricultural land and livestock. The training addressed risks such as weed and pest spread, soil contamination, and vehicle hygiene—critical issues for developers working in farming communities.

About the Session

The one-day program combined classroom learning with a hands-on field component at Charles Sturt Farm. Participant explored:

• Biosecurity principles and compliance with the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015.

• Practical hygiene protocols for vehicles and machinery.

• Soil and vegetation management strategies.

• Landholder engagement and property access planning.

The session brought together participants from across the renewable energy and agricultural sectors, creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

What Participants Said

• “Loved the inter-industry discussion. I felt it helped with the social licence having Ag experience in the room.”

• “Good presentation which elevated the importance of biosecurity risk to the local projects. It was good to have some Elecnor folk there who have some lived experiences and lessons they were able to pass on.”

• “This will be especially useful for construction contractors.”

Looking Ahead

The next training session will be held in Hay early 2026, targeting major contractors responsible for constructing renewable projects. These workshops are part of a broader effort to unlock 3.56 GW of clean energy capacity, create thousands of jobs, and attract $17.8 billion in private investment to the South-West REZ.

Community TV More Available Than Ever Before, With CTV+

Image Credit: Oscar Nord

Media Release: Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport

Australian stories will be even more accessible thanks to an investment from the Australian Government. Developed with the support of the Australian Government, the new CTV+ streaming app for smart TVs means community television is more available than ever before.

The Australian Government delivered $386,000 through its Community Broadcasting Program to support CTV+, making diverse voices, local content and real stories more accessible than ever.

National Road Transport Technology Strategy Plots a Course Ahead

Image Credit: Connor Wang

Media Release: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

The Australian Government, on behalf of Australia’s infrastructure and transport Ministers, has released the National Road Transport Technology Strategy, setting out a nationally consistent approach to technology deployment and adoption in the road transport sector.

With the automotive industry rapidly changing with greater vehicle connectivity and automated driving technologies, this strategy will support the responsible adoption of these road transport technologies.

The Government recognises that these new technologies can help improve road safety and reduce fuel and energy use, but with this comes greater safety, privacy and cyber security risks.

The National Road Transport Technology Strategy outlines the policy, regulatory and investment roles of governments in supporting new road transport technologies, and provides a set of nine principles to guide nationally consistent decision-making across all jurisdictions.

Through the strategy and action plan, the Federal, State and Territory Governments are working together to ensure the community gets the best out of these technologies and the risks are managed.

Productivity Commissions Inquiry into Regional Airfares

Image Credit: Philip Myrtorp

Media Release: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

The Australian Government released the terms of reference for the Productivity Commission inquiry into key factors that determine regional airfares.

Regional Australians deserve reliable air services at reasonable prices and that’s what this review is about.

That’s why in response to the Aviation White Paper, we tasked the Productivity Commission to look at regional airfares, including competition, pricing practices and whether profits along the supply chain are fair.

This will give state governments and the Commonwealth the nationally consistent data required to tackle the issue of regional airfares.

Delivering Stronger Oversight of Triple Zero

Image Credit: Mpho Mojapelo

Media Release: Minister of Communications, Minister for Sport

Oversight of the Triple Zero system has been strengthened by the Australian Government, with legislation passing Parliament.

The new laws give the Triple Zero Custodian the power to demand information from telecommunications providers, through the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), so it can monitor Triple Zero performance, identify risks, and respond more quickly to outages and make improvements.

It will also increase the maximum penalties faced by telcos for failing to follow the Triple Zero rules to $30 million.

The laws cement the powers of the Custodian which has been established administratively within the Department of Communications since March and will ensure end-to-end oversight of Triple Zero.

Rest Area Upgrades to Benefit Heavy Vehicle Drivers on the Newell Highway

Image Credit: Gabriel Santos

Media Release: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

Works to upgrade two rest areas on the Newell Highway south of Moree has begun, benefiting all road users, particularly heavy vehicle drivers travelling in the state’s north-west.

The Australia Government and NSW State Government have committed $12 million to extensively upgrade the northbound and southbound rest areas either side of the Newell Highway at Tycannah.

The Tycannah rest areas upgrade work is receiving $2.4 million in funding from the NSW Government, and $9.6 in funding through the Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

The existing rest areas at Tycannah service the major long-haul interstate freight route linking Melbourne and Brisbane but currently have no toilets and no turning lanes.

The upgrades will include a reconfiguration of the rest areas to better accommodate extra-long vehicles, and also deceleration lanes at the entry of the rest area to improve safety.

Industry-Led Projects Driving Heavy Vehicle Safety with $4.2 Million Investment

Image Credit: Chris

Media Release: Assistant Minister for Regional Development

The Australian Government and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) are continuing to improve safety for everyone on Australia’s roads by funding 12 crucial industry-lead projects through Round 10 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).

To date, the Australian Government has invested more that $45 million across 182 HVSI projects since the program started in 2016, delivering safety improvements across Australia’s heavy vehicle industry and protecting all road users,

The trucking industry is vital for the Australia economy and way of life, with Australia’s road freight expected to grow by 77% between 2020 and 2050.

Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Sustainability

Image Credit: Marcus Reubenstein

Media Release: Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories

The Australia Government has announced a Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Sustainability, referred to the Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport.

This inquiry will explore key challenges facing local councils, including:

• Financial sustainability and funding sources

• Workforce security

• Cost shifting between different levels of government

The Committee will build on work from the previous term, which highlighted issues such as declining council revenue, increasing service obligations, and unique pressures on regional councils compared to metropolitan areas.

Have your say:

Written submissions are open until 3 February 2026. Previous submissions will still be considered, but new or updated contributions are welcome.

For more details, including the Terms of Reference and how to make a submission, visit the official announcement below:

Whitton Malt House Celebrates Five Years of Innovation

Image L to R: Serena Hardwick, Regional Director, Business NSW; Matt Leonard, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Cotton; Kaitlin Leonard, General Manager, Whitton Malt House; Leanne; Rodger; Annette Commins, Marg Couch, Local Connector, RDA Riverina; and Tim Commins, Southern Cotton | Whitton Malt House

This month, Marg Couch Joined the celebrations marking five years since Whitton Malt House first opened its doors. What began as a bold vision has become a destination loved by locals and visitors alike, a place to gather, dine, educate and celebrate.

The celebration dinner last week showcased the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our region. Roger Commins, his family, and business partners continue to inspire their commitment to growth and innovation. The team is now expanding with the first stage of a 22-stie caravan park, scheduled for completion in early 2026.

It’s exciting to see the next generation stepping up, with Manager Kaitlin Leonard carrying forward her father’s vision. Looking ahead, Whitton Malt House will host major events, starting with the Riverina Field Days in March 2026, followed by large-scale music festivals and more over the next year.

Congratulations to Whitton Malt House and all those who helped build the dream, on this remarkable milestone.

Wagga Wagga Inland Rail Update

Image Credit: Inland Rail, Edmondson Street Bridge

Wagga Wagga residents should be aware of major traffic changes now underway as part of the Inland Rail Project. From 22 November 2025, the Edmondson Street bridge has been closed for a trial period to test traffic mitigation measures ahead of its planned demolition and rebuild. This work is essential to accommodate double-stacked freight trains through the city.

What does this mean for you?

• Traffic Detours: Expect changes across Wagga, including:

  • Temporary roundabout at Macleay and Coleman Streets,

  • Lane separators and turning restrictions

  • Parking restrictions near work zones

  • Updated signage.

  • Traffic delays which are expected to be around 10 minutes during peak periods.

• Bus Routes: School and public bus timetables have been adjusted. Check the Transport for NSW Trip Planner or Busabout Wagga for updated routes.

• Pedestrian Access: While the bridge is closed to vehicles, pedestrian access remains via Mothers Bridge and Cassidy Street footbridge.

• Duration: If the trial proves successful, the bridge will remain closed for approximately 18 months while the new, taller and wider structure is built.

To learn more, view road closure maps, and access other information, please click the button below.

New Funding to Keep Communities Informed

Image Credit: Markus Winkler

Media Release: Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport

Diverse and regional communities will get the news that matters to them, through a $67 million investment from the Australian Government.

Now open for applications, the new Journalism Assistance Fund will support Australian news outlets to keep journalists employed and produce news that informs and educates. More than $67 million will be delivered under the program, with successful applicants able to access up to $39,000 for each eligible full-time-equivalent journalist they employ over the three financial years to June 2028.

To read the full media release click the button below.

Arthur Boyd’s Art Returns to Bundanon

Media Release: Minister for the Arts

Image Credit: Dannie Jing

Eleven works by one of Australia’s most beloved artists, Arthur Boyd, will be loaned to Bundanon Art Museum thanks to the Australian Government’s Sharing the National Collection Program.

Bundanon is an Australian cultural institution and living arts centre that supports the arts through its residency, education, exhibition and performance programs. On loan from the National Gallery of Australia, Bundanon will present the works in two parts exploring the artist’s early career. Created in the 1930s when Boyd lived with his grandfather at Port Phillip Bay, the works fill a gap in the chronology of Bundanon’s collection.

To read the full media release click the button below.

The Music Sounds Better Across Australia

Media Release: Minister for the Arts

Image Credit: Danny Howe

The Australian Government is delivering on its commitment to support our live music industry to keep venues open and festivals entertaining fans across the country. Through the ReviveLive program, the Australian Government will provide support to 105 organisations across Australia.

59 music festivals 46 live music venues will receive support for performances and upgrades including to improve accessibility for people with a disability. The funding ensures music venues and festivals, including those in regional and remote areas across Australia remain open and accessible to all audiences.

To read the full media release follow click the button below.

Exploring UNSW’s New Rural Clinical Campus in Wagga Wagga

Yesterday, our operations manager had the privilege of attending the UNSW Rural Clinical Campuses Wagga Wagga Community Tour, held at the Biomedical Sciences Centre on Edward Street. This purpose-built facility represents a major investment in rural medical education and is set to transform healthcare training in our region.

The tour offered a first-hand look at UNSW’s state-of-the-art learning spaces, including specialised science laboratories, high-tech simulation facilities, and a dry anatomy lab. These resources will ensure that medical students in Wagga Wagga have access to the same advanced technology and teaching standards as their Sydney counterparts.

What stood out most was the centre’s strategic location adjacent to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, enabling long-term clinical placements and fostering strong partnerships with the Murrumbidgee Local Health District. This approach will help train the next generation of doctors to live and work in rural and regional areas, addressing critical workforce needs.

The facility hosts students across all six years of UNSW’s undergraduate medical degree, including many from rural backgrounds. Research shows these students are more likely to remain in regional communities, which is great news for the Riverina.

Part of the laboratory space

Learning space

Attendees and the Guide for the event.

Part of the simulation facilities

Investment to Boost Drought Resilience Across Regional NSW

Image Credit: Ramy Loaiza

Media release: The premier, Minister for Agriculture

The Australian and NSW State Governments will jointly invest $43.2 million to support farmers to strengthen their drought resilience and climate adaptation, as drought continues to impact regional communities across NSW.

Delivered through Phase 2 of the Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP), the funding will support farmers to access subsidised learning and development opportunities that will help them to manage risk, build long-term operational resilience, and continue to remain productive.

From personalised coaching, workshops, digital learning, and peer-to-peer case studies, the FBRP equips farmers with practical support to ensure they are better prepared before, during and after these challenging periods.

To read the full media release follow the link below.