Upcoming Works Across the Olympic Highway - Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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:

1. A Cover Letter

2. A CV (Maximum 2 pages)

3. 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

New sustainability Report by RMIT

Image Credit: RMIT Online

RMIT Online, in collaboration with Deloitte Access Economics, has released a powerful new sustainability report titled “Towards a Green-Skilled Workforce” and it’s a wakeup call for Australian businesses.

The report highlights the urgent need for climate readiness and green workforce development, revealing that:

56% of businesses expect significant financial impacts from climate change within the next 10 years.

• 43% are unprepared for mandatory climate reporting, which begins this year.

• Australia will need 1 million additional green-skilled workers by 2030

• Managers with green skills could earn up to 13% more, representing a $1.7 billion opportunity

The report outlines the economic risks, compliance challenges, and critical skills shortages facing Australian organisations and urges business leaders to act now.

To support this transition, RMIT is also launching the Regenerative Futures Institute in 2026, aimed at equipping the workforce with the skills needed for a sustainable future.

Councils become 'critical frontline actors' in crisis response

Image Credit: La Trobe University - Campaspe River Flooding in 2022

A new report has highlighted a joint emergency response by five local councils in northern Victoria during the 2022 floods, one of the most severe weather events in the state’s history. The councils, forming the Northern Victorian Emergency Management Cluster, coordinated efforts to operate a major emergency relief centre and establish a field hospital in Bendigo, supporting evacuees from Campaspe Shire over a two-week period.

The strengthening Collaborative Emergency Management Report, led by La Trobe University, found that combining resources and working together allowed the councils to better meet local needs during the crisis. The collaboration helped address resource shortages, staff burnout, and complex community demands.

The Bendigo Showgrounds Emergency Relief Centre housed over 280 evacuees, offering medical care, meals, laundry services, and trauma-informed support. Loddon Shire, one of the hardest-hit areas, reported $36 million in asset damage, $100 million in crop losses, and the death of 3,500 livestock.

The report emphasised the importance of local knowledge, mutual trust, and institutional support in emergency management, especially as climate change increases the frequency and severity of disasters. It also called for more responsive funding systems and legislative frameworks that enable collaboration.

At the heart of the findings is a simple truth: effective emergency management is about resilience, response, and recovery for real people.

Stringing Across Holbrook Road

Image Credit: EnergyConnect - Transgrid

The EnergyConnect project team are continuing to advance construction activities on the transmission line from Dinawan, NSW to Wagga Wagga via Lockhart. From Friday 8 August to Friday 22 August 2025 weather permitting, the project team will be stringing transmission lines across Holbrook Road, approximately 6km south of Wagga Wagga.

There will be traffic control in place at the affected locations while works are being carried out to ensure the safety of motorists and construction crews. There will be varying speed limits from 100km to 40kms in place whole works are being carried out. Motorists can expect waiting times of up to 10 minutes.

The public can also anticipate an increase in heavy equipment on local roads in and around Holbrook Road associated with stringing activities. Please keep to the signposted speed limits, follow the direction of traffic controllers, and drive to the conditions. Please factor this in when planning your journey into and out of Wagga Wagga.

You can read the Construction Notification here: Transmission Line Stringing Holbrook Road

icare Launches New Lung Mobile Clinic |Bringing Vital Screening to Regional NSW

Image Credit: CDC

icare has officially launched its new, state-of-the-art Lung Health Mobile Clinic, continuing a long-standing commitment to supporting the respiratory health of workers across New South Wales. The clinic has just begun its inaugural road trip, with its next stop in Wagga Wagga already fully booked highlighting the strong demand for accessible lung health services in regional communities.

This new mobile clinic builds on the legacy of icare’s original lung screening bus, which served the community for nearly 16 years. Over that time, it travelled more than 700,000 kilometres, screened over 53,000 individuals, and visited more than 300 destinations across NSW. Each year, icare’s program provides lung health checks to over 5,000 people, helping detect and treat dust-related diseases such as asbestosis, silicosis, and mesothelioma.

The upgraded clinic features cutting-edge technology and enhanced facilities, including:

• Digital chest X-ray imaging for accurate and reliable diagnostics

• Advanced spirometry equipment to assess lung function

• Digital monitoring systems to streamline care

• Backup power supply for uninterrupted service in remote areas

• Improved accessibility and comfort, with a larger clinical space

• A welcoming design, including an interior mural by Indigenous agency Mumbulla Creative, reflecting connection to Country and icare’s values.

New Toolkit Empowers Farmers and Communities to Plan for Renewable Energy Project Retirement

Image Credit: Re-Alliance

A new resource from RE-Alliance, an independent not-for-profit, is helping farmers, landholders, and regional communities understand what happens when renewable energy projects like wind and solar farm reach the end of their operational life.

The toolkit, titled “Refurbishment, repowering or retirement. What happens when renewables approach end of life?”, provides clear and factual information about the three main pathways for aging renewable infrastructure.

• Refurbishment: Replacing worn components to extend the life of the project

• Repowering: Upgrading the entire site with newer, more efficient technology, potentially including battery storage

• Decommissioning: Removing infrastructure and rehabilitating the site, as agreed with the landholder

With some of Australia’s earliest renewable projects now approaching retirement age, this toolkit arrives at a crucial time. It aims to support informed decision-making and long-term planning for communities hosting renewable energy developments.

Impacts of the Water Amendment (Restoring Our Rivers) Act 2023 on NSW Regional Communities

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

The committee in Investment, Industry and Regional Development held a public hearing in Griffith on 23 July 2025. This inquiry was established to examine and report on the impacts of the Water Amendment (Restoring Our Rivers) Act 2023 on NSW regional communities.

The Committee is looking into major changes from recent federal legislation, such as

• the impact of reintroducing buybacks

• risks to achieving legislative outcomes, such as reducing unlicensed take of water

• the impact of environmental water rules and rules-based changes in NSW

• options to improve government programs aimed at offsetting the impacts of buybacks

Representatives from Leeton Shire, Murrumbidgee council, RAMJO, Griffith City Council, Murray Darling Association, Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia, De Bortoli Wines Pty Ltd, Matrix Commodities Pty Ltd, Griffith Business Chamber, Leeton Business Chamber, Soroptomists International Griffith Inc, Murrumbidgee Irrigation, Murrumbidgee Groundwater Inc and Murrumbidgee Private Irrigators Inc, City of Wagga Wagga and Murray River Council presented at the Inquiry.

You can read the written submissions here: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-details.aspx?pk=3089#tab-submissions

A transcript of the inquiry will be available in coming weeks here: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-details.aspx?pk=3089#tab-hearingsandtranscripts

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

Image Credit: NSW Legislative Assembly

RDA Riverina Attends the NSW Training Awards 2025

Image L to R: Scott Sandbrook, CEO, Committee4Wagga, and Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager, RDA Riverina

Image L to R: Amanda Cappello Operations Manager RA Riverina, Geoff Reardon Regional Manger - Industry Capability Network NSW, Mel Heffer Business Development Manager GTES Complete Apprentice Management, and Nadine Whalan Job Coordinator Murray-Riverina Workforce Australia

On 19 Jun 2025, Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager at RDA Riverina, proudly attended the NSW Training Awards for the Riverina region, held at the Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre. This prestigious event is part of a state-wide initiative celebrating excellence in vocational education and training (VET) and shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of students, apprentices, and educators across the Riverina.

Amanda joined a diverse gathering of industry leaders, educators, and community members to honour finalists and winners in categories such as Apprentice of the Year, Trainee of the Year, and VET in School Student of the Year. The evening was a powerful testament to the region’s commitment to nurturing talent, building career pathways, and supporting hight-quality training programs that meet the evolving needs of local industries.

The Riverina Training Awards form a vital part of the broader NSW Training Awards Program, which promotes the value of vocational education and encourages excellence across all sectors. Amanda’s attendance reflects RDA Riverina’s ongoing support for initiatives that strengthen workforce development and celebrate the achievements of future leaders in our region.

Congratulations to all the nominees and recipience, your dedication, skill and passion are shaping the future of our workforce and inspiring communities across the Riverina and beyond.

Amplifying Regional Voices in Multicultural NSW’s Next STrategic Plan

Image: Event attendees.

Image L to R: Multicultural NSW Deputy CEO James Jegasothy, The Welome Experienc Local Connector Jayadev Ajayakumar RDA Riverina

Image L to R: James Jegasothy, Deputy CEO of Multicultural NSW, Dr Saba Nabi, Advisory Board Member Multicultural NSW, Tabitha Chepkwony Community Engagement Officer at Multicultural NSW, Jay Local Connector Welcome Experience, RDA Riverina

Our Local Connector Jay, participated in a Strategic Plan Consultation hosted by Multicultural NSW at the International Hotel Wagga Wagga on June 3rd, 2025. This state-wide consultation process is informing the development of Multicultural NSW’s next Strategic Plan, which will guide their work beyond the current Stronger Together (2021-2025) Framework.

Held across NSW throughout June and July the consultations invite community members, government representatives, and sector stakeholders to help shape the future direction of multiculturalism in the state. Jay contributed insights from the Riverina and Wagga Wagga region, highlighting the importance of regional voices in conversations about inclusion, settlement, and service access. He spoke to the unique experiences of culturally and linguistically diverse communities in rural areas, where issues like housing, employment, and culturally appropriate services continue to impact migrant retention and community cohesion.

“It was a great opportunity to advocate for the realities of multiculturalism in regional NSW and ensure our local challenges and strengths are part of the bigger picture.” Jay shared.

Multicultural NSW’s next Strategic Plan is expected to be finalised in 2025 and will aim to support a more inclusive, connected, and cohesive multicultural future for all of NSW. Community members who couldn’t attend in person are still welcome to provide feedback online via the link below.

An Evening with the Australian Defence Force

This important evening held on the 6 August 2025, will bring together senior Defence leaders, government officials, educators, and industry stakeholders to highlight the national and regional importance of Defence assets located in the Riverina-Murray. We will explore 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 will feature a keynote address, a panel discussion with leading Defence representatives, and a networking reception.

Confirmed Speakers:

· Colonel Matthew Freeman – Army Logistic Training Centre

· Colonel Gerard Kearns CSC – 1st Recruit Training Battalion

· Moderator: Dianna Somerville – Chair, RDA Riverina

Purpose of the Event:

· Spotlight the strategic importance of Defence infrastructure in our region

· Identify opportunities for collaboration across education, innovation, and investment

· Strengthen community and industry partnerships with the Defence sector

Have Your Say On Inland Rail

Image Credit: Dan Loran

Inland Rail is Australia’s largest infrastructure projects, and it’s shaping the future of freight transport across the country. To ensure the project continues to meet the needs of local communities, Inland Rail is inviting feedback through a short survey.

Your input helps guide how Inland Rail communicates and engages with the public. The survey takes just 10 minutes and is open until Monday, 14 July 2025.