ISSN 0314 - 5352

Number��9 www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/newsletters/wdn

Outbackladies–youareinvitedto GatherinHayinNovember! by Tertia Butcher, Convenor, Women’s Gathering

Time to get that 1960/70s little number out of the mothballs girls – it’s party time on the Hay Plains, and when the girls from Hay party – it’s a dress-up occasion.

This year’s NSW Women’s Gathering on the first weekend in November (2nd–4th) will feature a 60s/70s fashion parade on the Saturday night and everyone is encouraged to get into the groove thing and dress in your favourite 70s outfit.

Hay lost its venue for the Gathering due to a massive explosion at the iconic Hay War Memorial High School in July, but the biggest marquee west of the Blue Mountains will be making its way across the Hay Plains for the weekend of fun laughter and good times.

The workshops at the Gathering offer you everything from ‘how to make the perfect coffee’ (The Home Barista), line dancing, wine appreciation, to Hatha yoga and boxercise. The artist in you is also

well catered for with workshops in oil painting, gouache, mosaic and floral art. Those searching for inner peace can choose between kinesiology, Shiatsu, Tai Chi and meditation.

Feel you deserve to be pampered? Book into the popular colour coding workshop then relax with a massage or facial. Pampering sessions can be booked at the Gathering at only a small extra charge.

Other workshops include cultural walks, afternoon tea at Westhaven (a ‘living’ museum on the outskirts of Hay), the Bishop’s Lodge roses and a visit to a vast district garden.

A highlight of the weekend program is a presentation by two women incarcerated as children at the Hay Girls Institute located at the Hay Gaol (now a museum). There stories will move you when they tell of rapes, brutal assaults and emotionally scarring for life by the people put in charge of their care. These women, part of the Forgotten Australians, paid for the sins

Continued on page 4

Sep/Oct07

Produced for landholders in the Western Division of NSW

Inthisissue...

Hay Women’s Gathering

Shear Strife Sound & Light Show at Shear Outback

RIRDC Rural Women’s Award 2008

Bourke farmers take out Young Farmer award

$450,000 up for grabs

Broken Hill local wins western scholarship

30 years of service at Fort Grey

Bokhara Plains open for inspection

New AWEX code of practice

Wetlands on farms

CSIRO forecasts climate change

contribute ~ Flat Out in Hay ~ create collect ~Women’s Gathering ~ curate

November 2-4, 2007 Hay, Riverina NSW

www.wgnsw.com 1300 30 70 90

Register todayWeekend of Workshops, Speakers, great food & fabulous company!

Presented by Women about Hay

!

Editorial by Sally Ware Rangelands Officer NSW DPI, Hay

Experienced landholders passing on their knowledge to the next generation is always a good thing. And this is exactly what happened at the last Western Division Young Farmer’s Network property visit in June. Host John Vagg from Orana Station at Ivanhoe reported that in one weekend, his ten visitors had a good look over his property which included discussing his techniques for goat fencing, viewing his goat handling facilities and the goat herds and visiting his paddocks where large areas of turpentine are dying. Catering for the weekend was undertaken by the Hay NSW DPI Drought Support Worker Danny Byrnes. The co-ordinator of the rotating farm tour weekends is Briony Heatley from Talyawalka Station, Menindee ph: (08) 8091 6470 or email briheatley@ bigpond.com.

There is always plenty happening in the Western Division. Enjoy reading this Newsletter!

John Vagg demonstrating his water jet system for placing steel posts in the ground watched by Viv White from Cobar. Photo: Dougall Roberts, NSW Farmers’ Association, Bourke

Western Division Newsletter © State of New South Wales through NSW Department of Primary Industries 2007 This work is copyright. You may download, display, print and reproduce this material in an unaltered form only (retaining this notice) for your own personal use or for non-commercial use in your organisation. To copy, adapt, publish, distribute, or commercialise any of this publication you will need to to seek permission from the Editor of the Western Division Newsletter.

Deleteorchangeofaddressdetails (pleasetickonebox)

Delete Change of address Name: ..............................................................................................................................

Address:...........................................................................................................................

....................................................................................................Phone: .........................

Please fax to Sally Ware at the Hay office of NSW DPI on (02) 6993 2177 or post to PO Box 393, Hay NSW 2711 or email typed details through to sally.ware@dpi.nsw.gov.au

The Western Division Newsletter is produced by NSW Department of Primary Industries with funding assistance from the Department of Environment and Climate Change, the Department of Lands and the Western, Lower Murray Darling and Lachlan Catchment Authorities.

WesternDivisionNewsletter 2

ShearStrifeSound&Light ShowatShearOutback by Kim Biggs, Museum Director, Shear Outback

Sharpen those combs and cutters because as the shadows fall across the boards there’s a riot brewing! Shearers battling for better conditions in 1891, sheds burning in 1956 and tempers blazing over wide combs in 1982. This is your opportunity to experience some of the great industrial disputes across our nation’s history – stories of true grit and endurance.

Shear Outback, The Australian Shearers’ Hall of Fame in Hay has a whole new recipe for experiencing the history of our nation. In September this year, Shear Outback launches ‘Shear Strife – A Baitlayer’s Tale’.

Shear Strife is a state-of-the-art sound and light show. This imaginative theatrical experience magically brings to life the fight to improve working conditions of the shearing industry. Staged five nights a week from March to November, Shear Strife is the tale of a shearers’ cook who lived through it all. The experience for visitors will last approximately 60

minutes; however, show times will vary in accordance with sunset times so you need to book. The show opens in 2007 with a short season (finishing 30 November) and then operates annually from March to November.

Shear Outback’s development of the sound and light show is supported by Arts NSW and the federal government’s Australian Tourism Development Program.

Of course there’s plenty to do during the day at Shear Outback as well! After winning the Heritage & Cultural Tourism section of the NSW Inland Tourism Awards over two consecutive years, the museum was awarded a Distinction for the 2007 awards. Shear Outback’s big appeal lies in its ability to offer a ‘real experience’, with something worth seeing for those from all walks of life – those with no experience of the industry through to industry members and shearing novices. The live shearing demonstrations, impressive and entertaining interpretative centre and the Round-up maze make for a wonderful experience.

September/October2007 �

‘Shear Strife Sound & Light Show at Shear Outback’ continued from page 3

April 2007 saw a further four legends inducted to the Australian Shearers’ Hall of Fame at Shear Outback biennial Festival of the Blades. Then there has been a vibrant temporary exhibitions program and also an annual program of pastoral heritage tours – the next, in October 2007, tours the homestead gardens of the region.

Special Offers

Bring a copy of this newsletter and receive a 10% discount on one admission to the

Sound & Light Show. The show operates from Wednesday to Sunday each week and Shear Outback will be offering a special viewings on November 2nd and 4th for the 2007 Hay Women’s Gathering.

Further information on any aspect of Shear Outback can be obtained by contacting (02) 6993 4000 or info@shearoutback.com.au.

‘Outback ladies – you are invited to Gather in Hay in November!’ continued from page 1

of their parents and others who neglected them.

So book now so you don’t miss out on a fabulous weekend of entertainment, laughs, learning and most of all – fun! If you haven’t been to Hay before, make the most of the opportunity and spend an extra day exploring one of Hay’s five vibrant museums or enjoy taking in the magic of the plains.

More information can be obtained from the Convener, Tertia Butcher on (02) 6993 0669 or from the Hay Visitor Information Centre (02) 6993 4045. If you are on the web visit www.wgnsw.com for all the information about workshops and to download a registration form. If you haven’t booked accommodation, do so today and visit www.visithay.com for more information, remember to say you are coming for the Women’s Gathering as accommodation has been reserved specifically for the Gathering.

So book today and spend some time with Women about Hay and let’s all Contribute – Create – Collect and Curate!

Early-bird registrations close Friday September 14.

LachlanCMAbus goingtoGathering

The Lachlan CMA will be sponsoring a bus from the Lachlan Catchment area to Hay for those attending the Conference. Some accommodation has also been reserved but is not part of the sponsorship. To claim a seat and bed RSVP to Angela Higgins in the Hillston office on (02) 6967 2897 by Wednesday October 3.

WesternDivisionNewsletter Advertising Rates per Issue

18 cm x 25.5 cm $550 18 cm x 12.5 cm $307 14 cm x 10 cm $223 10.5 cm x 12.5 cm $209 18 cm x 5 cm $149 10.5 cm x 8 cm $139 6.8 cm x 10 cm $120 6.8 cm x 5 cm $67

All prices are GST inclusive; 10 % discount for full year advertising; published Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct

Contact: Sally Ware, NSW DPI, HayPh: (02) 6993 1608 Email: sally.ware@dpi.nsw.gov.au

� WesternDivisionNewsletter

Applicationsnowopenfor2008 RIRDCRuralWomen’sAward by Allison Priest, Rural Women’s Network Assistant Coordinator, NSW DPI

The Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation (RIRDC) Rural Women’s Award recognises and encourages the vital contribution women make to rural Australia. It supports women with a strong and positive vision for the future of rural Australia and provides them with an exciting opportunity to develop their skills and make a difference.

Eleanor Cook, winner of the 2007 RIRDC Rural Women’s Award and Editor of the Coolah Diary is encouraging all rural women to apply for this year’s Award.

Eleanor has a strong commitment to the sustainability of rural communities and creating a strong base to help support the economy of small country towns. Originally from Sydney, her rural life began when she met her husband Phillip and moved to a farm near Coolah in the state’s north-west, where she has raised their son. Eleanor has applied her marketing background to local initiatives and is involved in a range of local committees. She helped establish the Community District Development Group, which has attracted $1.5 million in funding for community projects over recent years.

Eleanor’s Award project aims to reduce fund-raising pressures on rural community members, particularly rural women, by establishing a community-managed trust fund. This would enable bequeathed funds to be invested and the profits used to support a wide scope of work across social, economic and environmental projects. While Eleanor’s aim initially is to establish the fund in Coolah, she hopes to develop a simple model that could be used by other small rural communities.

Eleanor sees the Rural Women’s Award as an opportunity to develop her skills to be

able to implement the scheme and promote it to potential investors.

Eleanor Cook, winner of the 2007 RIRDC NSW Rural Women’s Award

‘I am looking to develop my personal skills and my knowledge of trusts and financial investing and board operations. I also want to be able to publicly portray this concept to other rural communities,’ said Eleanor.

Wife, mother, farmer, editor and fundraiser are all roles Eleanor juggles and while it can be tough she sees it as part of appreciating the rural way of life.

‘When I moved to the country I realised that anything you required such as a service or facility you had to work very hard for and fundraise. I believe there are many opportunities, such as a community foundation, to capitalise on the growing interest in rural Australia at the present time.

‘With so much emphasis and media coverage on the drought at the moment people are recognising the value of the food bowl of rural Australia and the role that it plays for city people so there’s a real opportunity to attract investment through bequeathing funds or donations to a foundation to invest in rural Australia and keep these communities sustainable.’

September/October2007 �

‘Applications now open for 2008 RIRDC Rural Women’s Award’ continued from previous page

Eleanor’s project and its emphasis on community sustainability is particularly relevant as much of rural NSW struggles with climate change. She hopes to inspire other rural women to adopt her approach of ‘working smarter, not harder’ to achieve results in their communities.

The 2008 Rural Women’s Award is focused on supporting women with strong leadership skills, a positive vision for the future and the potential to make a difference in rural industries. It is open to all women involved in agriculture, including broadacre and intensive livestock and cropping enterprises, horticulture, forestry, fisheries, natural resource management and related service industries.

The Award provides a $10,000 bursary for the winner and the opportunity for the winner and runner-up to participate in the RIRDC Australian Institute of Company Directors Course. Applications close Monday 15 October 2007.

Women interested in applying for the 2008 Award have access to more than twenty past winners and finalists who are happy to discuss ideas and mentor applicants through the application process.

For an application package or details of mentors, contact Allison Priest, NSW Award Coordinator on (02) 6391 3620 or email: allison.priest@ dpi.nsw.gov.au. Information is also available from: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/rwn and www.rural womensaward.gov.au.

AllroadsleadtoKilferainOctober Kilfera Station will be the location for the 18th annual Kilfera Field Day on Wednesday, October 3. Located 23 kilometres south-west of Ivanhoe, the field day is held on the property of Clive, Fay and Peter Linnett.

Eighteen years ago, whilst driving a stock and station agent around Kilfera, Clive came up with the idea of hosting a local field day and displaying stock and equipment to the district. The field day is one of the main events held near Ivanhoe,

Kilfera Field Day (23 km south west of Ivanhoe on Balranald Road)

Wednesday, October 3 2007 10.00 am start

All major agricultural exhibits Afternoon auction to support the RFDS and Ivanhoe

Hospital Contact: Fay Linnett ph: (02) 6995 1315

email: kilfera.stn@bigpond.com

an outback community which is located 200 kilometres from any major centre.

The success of the field day is a tribute to the organising abilities of the committee of three, the Linnett family, who over the years, have gone to great lengths to put together a great day for Ivanhoe and surrounding districts.

The grand total raised from the field days, over the past 17 years, now exceeds $150,000, which is a credible amount considering there is no charge through the gate and for sites. This money is raised by each exhibitor donating an item from their display which is auctioned at the end of the day. Proceeds from the auction go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and the Ivanhoe District Hospital and is used to buy equipment for the hospital and the Flying Doctor to use at the hospital during their two day per week clinics. These visits by the RFDS ensure that a broad range of specialists can service the district. Field day funds have also been used to purchase and erect a fuel shed for the RFDS at the Ivanhoe aerodrome.

� WesternDivisionNewsletter

BourkefarmerstakeoutjointNSW YoungFarmerawardtitlefor2007 by Tracey Glasgow, Manager, Public Affairs, NSW DPI, Sydney

Western Division livestock producers Ben and Liarne Mannix of ‘Gumbooka’ Bourke have been named joint winners of the 2007 NSW Young Farmer of the Year award.

In a first for the awards, now in their fourth year, the Young Farmer title was a tie between husband and wife team Ben, 33, and Liarne, 30, and Stuart Blake, 27, of Walcha.

Ben and Liarne, who diversified into goats and dohne sheep to help cope with drought, were recognised for excellent farm and drought management skills and strong community involvement.

Stuart, a mixed grazing farmer who also runs an artificial breeding service for sheep and cattle, was named joint winner for outstanding use of innovation and marketing.

Ben and Liarne manage their 18,000 hectare property, which is north-east of Bourke in the Western Division, together with Ben’s parents Paul and Patricia.

They also have a second property Corella, which is 16,000 hectares.

The couple described the win as a huge honour, and said they looked forward to sharing some of their experiences and farming approaches with other young farmers across the State.

‘My main message is to encourage other young farmers to get enthusiastic about farming, and to learn more about the different approaches to sustainability and biodiversity,’ Ben said.

‘As far as managing your stock and animals and things, just be positive and keep questioning yourself, and keep looking for more information because, information is a fantastic tool.’

Liarne says it is important to stay in touch with friends and take a break from

the farm, particularly when coping with challenges such as drought.

‘We try very hard to make a rule that we go away off the property at least one weekend a month. We take part in a rotating farm tour, where basically the idea is to go and visit other young farmers, and to try and harvest their knowledge and have a social catch-up as well.’

Traditionally a merino sheep producer, Ben and Liarne have diversified in recent years to focus more on goats and alternative meat sheep breeds such as dorpers and dohne sheep to better suit both the local environment and ongoing drought conditions.

Ben and Liarne use the principles of Grazing for Profit and Holistic Resource Management in their farm management, and are also involved in a five-year Enterprise Based Conservation Program.

Ben’s use of a gyrocopter has helped reduce muster time from several days to just a few hours and has provided an additional income source.

Good communication and planned regular breaks including visits to other Western Division farmers has helped them cope with six years of drought. Ben and Liarne are very active community members and

Ben and Liarne Mannix

September/October2007 7

have actively supported young farmer forums in the Western Division.

Rob Sinnamon, manager of a cattle farm near Casino was named the NSW Farmer of the Year at the gala awards dinner which was part of the NSW Farmers Association annual conference.

Rob took out the award for his efforts in boosting the quality of the cattle breeding enterprise, establishing increased market opportunities and implementing improved water and soil health management.

Farmer of the Year runner-up, Stuart Larsson of Mallanganee, also in northern NSW, was recognised for his diversification into seeds and organic soybean production, and improved environment results through use of compost produced on-farm.

Now in their fourth year, the annual awards aim to celebrate excellence in farming and environmental management, and increase recognition of farming diversity and sustainability.

The annual awards are coordinated by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and NSW Farmers Association, and supported by Rural Press and the Royal Agricultural Society.

For more information contact NSW DPI’s Trudy Glasgow (02) 8289 3928.

Brewarrina,BourkeandWalgettferalpig controlprogram by Colin Betts, Ranger, Brewarrina RLPB

Landholders in the Brewarrina, part of Bourke and part of the Western Division of the Walgett Rural Lands Protection Boards area who are interested in taking part in a large-scale, coordinated feral pig control program are encouraged to contact their local Rural Lands Protection Board (RLPB) office.

The program is being conducted in conjunction with the three RLPBs, the Department of Primary Industries, the Australian Government and the Western Catchment Management Authority.

The $250,000 program will include baiting, trapping and aerial shooting.

Landholder participation is the key to the program’s success and since the pigs are able to travel, a high level of collaboration with neighbours is essential.

Current conditions are ideal to significantly reduce feral pig numbers so we hope as many landholders as possible will consider taking advantage of the program and talking to their neighbours about becoming involved as well.

Local landholders are well aware of the importance of controlling feral pigs to improve land condition and water quality as well as improving stock and infrastructure management and reducing the spread of disease.

CSSP is available free of charge, provided two neighbours are also willing to participate.

Traps will be available for hire free of charge to participating landholders. Landholders with significant bodies of water on their property will be a priority.

Landholders can benefit from aerial shooting if they are interested. Priority areas for aerial shooting include the Narran Lakes, the Darling Floodplain, north of Bourke and the Bogan River.

Landholders in these areas are encouraged to contact their local RLPB. No works will be undertaken without landholder consent.

WesternDivisionNewsletter 8

DoIneedanExtractiveIndustriesLicence?

In the Western Division of NSW, anybody wanting to remove materials from any Western Lands Leases or other Crown Lands that are not covered by the Department of Mineral Resources must obtain an Extractive Industry Licence from the Department of Lands under the Crown Lands Act 1989.

In the past, provisions existed for Local Councils and the Roads and Traffic Authority to remove materials from Crown lands. These provisions no longer apply and a licence is now required.

The information required by the Lands to assess a licence application will depend on the size of the proposed area and the type and quantity of material to be extracted.

In addition to a licence from Lands, it may also be necessary to obtain other approvals from local councils and catchment management authorities, so it is recommended you check with these agencies as well.

For further information on how to apply for an extractive industry licence with Lands and information on how to prepare an application please contact your local Rangeland Management Officer at – Walgett (02) 6828 0111, Bourke (02) 6872 2144, Balranald (03) 5051 6204, Wentworth (03) 5051 6205, Wilcannia (08) 8082 5202 or Broken Hill/Unincorporated Area (08) 8082 5203 or Ms Lexie Martin, Dubbo (02) 6883 3012.

$��0,000upforgrabs–foralimitedtimeonly! Tobefuturedroughtready!Drought recovery incentives to a total value of $450,000 are now available for a short time for Lower Murray Darling Catchment landholders interested in establishing stock containment facilities (drought lot) or to improve the security and quality of water supplies to support them in managing grazing pressure through drought conditions.

Landholders can seek funding of up to $10,000 each in order to maintain condition of native vegetation and have until 30 September 2007 to complete and submit an application form to LMD CMA.

Chair of the Lower Murray Darling CMA, Mark King, says anyone in the Catchment is eligible to apply.

‘If you are in the rangelands and want to improve your drought recovery facilities, you should contact LMD CMA’ Mr King said.

‘Every landholder needs to be drought-ready and to ensure that they maintain condition of the native vegetation on their properties. This can simply be done by restricting livestock grazing in any one area and stock containment facilities are the way to do this.’

‘The availability of this short-term LMD CMA incentive becomes a worthy contribution to your property’s ability to help reduce grazing pressure and to maintain the 40% minimum ground cover that assists in the recovery of vegetation’ he said.

‘No two properties, or no two paddocks or two projects are ever the same. In the current financial year LMD CMA will be able to provide financial funding to assist landholders in establishing more effective drought efficient facilities on properties.’

Guidelines and Expression of Interest application forms are available now by calling (03) 5021 9460 or visiting www.lmd.cma.nsw.gov.au. It is strongly recommended that landholders contact the LMD CMA to register their initial interest and to then prepare and submit their project proposal on the official ‘Expression of Interest’ form.

As well as administering incentive funding for on-ground works and training, LMD CMA will also assist local people to set the direction for natural resource management through the Catchment Action Plan, manage native vegetation and undertake and coordinate broad-scale projects that are essential for the health of the catchment.

LMD CMA 32 Enterprise Way PO Box 363 Buronga NSW 2739 Ph (03) 5021 9460 Fax (03) 5021 1308 www.lmd.cma.nsw.gov.au

September/October2007 9

Apicturetellsathousand words!Whichweediswhich? LMD CMA 32 Enterprise Way PO Box 363 Buronga NSW 2739 Ph (03) 5021 9460 Fax (03) 5021 1308 www.lmd.cma.nsw.gov.au

Having trouble telling the difference between Acacia nilotica and Acacia karroo? Or whether that peppercorn tree in the back paddock is classified as a noxious weed?

The LMD CMA ‘Regional Weed Strategy’ (2nd edition which has been circulated to all catchment landholders) has now been complemented with a series of brochures on weeds in specific agricultural streams such as Cropping areas, Horticultural areas, Rangeland areas and Riverine areas.

These nifty full coloured brochures are a handy ready-reckoner that can be carried in the back pocket or the glove box of the ute. Full colour photographs of weeds, their common names and scientific names provide an easy reference to the landholder.

The impacts of invasive plants have a negative impact on our native flora and fauna, and cause a loss of biodiversity, second only to land clearing.

Weeds cost the Australian economy over $4 billion per year in lost agricultural production. Early action to prevent new weeds from establishing and spreading is the best way to prevent future impacts and ongoing cost to the community.

‘The vision is to minimise the economic, environmental and social impacts of existing, new and emerging weeds in the catchment through co-ordination, co-operation and commitment from weed managers and the community.’

‘This co-operative approach to this problem significantly highlights the growing relationship between the LMD CMA and other players in other parts of the catchment,’ Mr King said.

Copies of these brochures can be obtained by phoning the Buronga office on (03) 5021 9460. They are also available from the Balranald Shire Office, Wentworth Shire Office and NSW DPI office at Dareton.

�0 WesternDivisionNewsletter

BrokenHilllocalwins westernscholarshipby Daryl Green, General Manager Western CMA

The 2007 Russel Harland Memorial Scholarship offered by the Western Catchment Management Authority (WCMA) has been awarded to Jennifer Sandow of Pimpara Lake Station near Milparinka.

Jenny is completing a Bachelor of Environmental Studies majoring in Environmental Management at the University of Adelaide.

Jenny is a very worthy recipient of the scholarship, displaying a strong personal and professional commitment to natural resource management.

Jenny and her family live on Pimpara Lake Station, 200 km north of Broken Hill.

‘It is a great honour to receive the scholarship,’ Ms Sandow said.

‘It gives me the opportunity to invest what I have learnt at university back into my local community and the larger western district,’ she said.

Now in the second year of her degree, Jenny looks forward to returning home during holidays to help out on the family property. She is particularly interested in soil health and water supply management.

‘These holidays I am working at home to control the woody weeds, like hop bush, on our property. Dad has given me the velparing job,’ she said.

Under the terms of the scholarship, she will receive $5,000 per year for the final two years of her degree. She will complete at least four weeks paid work for the Western CMA each year.

Once she has completed her studies, she will work with the Western CMA for at least one year, at a location to be negotiated.

Jennifer Sandow of Pimpara Station, near Milparinka

The scholarship is named in memory of Russel Harland, a stalwart of natural resources management in the Western Catchment, who passed away suddenly at the age of 44 in November, 2002.

The Russel Harland Memorial Scholarship is awarded each year to a university student from NSW who displays strong personal, community and educational commitment to rural or regional areas and particularly the Western Catchment.

Applications for next year’s scholarship will be advertised in late 2007.

Hay Family Fodder Cook Book Launch On Saturday, 15 September 2007

At 11.00am At the One Tree Hotel

Guest Speaker, Food Author and Educator Anneka Manning

RSVP for catering to Hay Pre-School (02) 6993 1757 Proceeds to Hay School of the Air P & C,

Hay Mobile Children’s Service and Hay Pre-School

September/October2007 ��

DickCondonScholarshipopen toWesternDivisionresidents

The Dick Condon Scholarship is open to all students with a residential address in the Western Division of New South Wales. The scholarship aims to assist young people off the land in the Western Division with schooling expenses as they enter into years 11 and 12. You don’t have to be attending a school in the Western Division, as long as your family holds a Western Lands Lease.

The scholarship has been running since 2004, with successful recipients of the scholarship and their families finding the $1000 per year for Year 11 and Year 12 a valuable benefit to the many costs associated with senior school. Funds can be used to meet school fees, boarding expenses, uniforms, books, stationery and lap top computers.

As the funds for the scholarship are from the sale of Dick Condon’s book Out of the West, applicants must provide a 500 word written composition of a section of the book, to demonstrate they have an understanding of what Dick has compiled in his book. Applicants also need a letter of support from their school principal and a copy of the student’s school report covering the Trial School Examination.

Applications are not assessed on academic ability, all applications are placed in a draw and the winner is drawn out by a prominent

member of the community such as a mayor or chairperson of a CMA.

A total of $2,000 is available to the successful scholar. The scholarship provides $1,000 for Year 11 expenses and another $1,000 for Year 12.

Previous winners of the Scholarship are

2004 Greg Larwood, Bunnerungie Station, Wentworth

2005 Nicola Duncan, Glen Esk Station, Wentworth

2006 Mark McDonald, Morden Station, Broken Hill

2007 Shane Rees, Retreat Station, Ivanhoe

To receive a scholarship application or information pack contact the Rangeland Management Action Plan in Wentworth on (03) 5027 2416, email rmap_off@ bigpond.net.au or visit their website www. rangelandmap.org.au or visit the Lachlan or Western CMA offices for an information pack.

Completed applications and supporting documents must be received no later than 1 February 2008.

Out of the West can be purchased from RMAP Inc for $35.00.

Hatfield Grease Lightning (Rock and Roll) Ball 20 October 2007 Hatfield Hall Families welcome

Meal commences at 7pm; ball at 8.30pm. BYO drinks

Details: Suzanne Nield (03) 5020 6868; Gay McKeon (02) 6993 8173; Amber Croft (03) 5020 6837; Pip Ryan (02) 6993 8329. RSVP Friday, October 12

�2 WesternDivisionNewsletter

ConservationFarmingSystems by Kathleen Mann, Public Relations and Media Officer, Lachlan CMA, Parkes Through its Land Management Program the Lachlan CMA recognises the importance of soil health and the impacts of degradation issues such as wind and water erosion, vegetation decline, soil acidity and soil sodicity and that these issues can be addressed through improvements in management systems and farming practices.

With a focus on fine tuning the skills of landholders in conservation farming systems, the Lachlan CMA has recruited the services of the Kondinin Group to produce a series of specialised workshops. The workshops are group directed and hands on and will be delivered by a host of expert speakers with backgrounds in applying conservation tillage techniques at a practical level.

The workshop series will run over 5 days, scheduled according to seasonal conditions and farming programs, and each group will have the option to undertake further field days in areas of particular interest.

Hillston is one of the target locations for the first series of workshops although they will be run in other areas as demand arises. The first courses will commence in September, with a view that 8 courses in total will be run across the Lachlan Catchment. Course costs will be sponsored by the Lachlan Catchment Management Authority. To register interest in these courses or future conservation farming training, landholders are encouraged to contact Sandra at the Condobolin office of the Lachlan CMA on (02) 6895 2033 or for more information email neil.mcmillan@ cma.nsw.gov.au.

PO Box 121 Parkes NSW 2870 Ph (02) 6862 1255 Fax (02) 6862 5254 Mob 0428 284 252

CumbungSwampreedbedsrehabilitation project by Kathleen Mann, Public Relations and Media Officer, Lachlan CMA, Parkes

Lachlan CMA has undertaken another important environmental project to rehabilitate the Cumbung Swamp, a nationally significant wetland, listed on the Register of the National Estate. The swamp is unique in that it is a terminal drainage basin in relatively natural condition.

The project consists of a number of components, including collection of digital elevation data and subsequent modelling of flows through the swamp. The project also will involve the provision of wetland management training and farm planning services to landholders who are managing the swamp land.

Collection of information for ground truthing of the elevation data commenced in July. Vegetation mapping is set to commence shortly.

Carp control options in the reedbeds are also a key component of this project. This is an ideal time to undertake such options as the reedbeds are essentially dry.

To find out more about this project or other Lachlan CMA activities in the lower catchment area contact Michelle Jefferies or Angela Higgins, Catchment Officers at the Hillston office ph: (02) 6967 2897.

Landholders and researchers looking into carp control options in the swamp at the bottom of Lake Bunumburt in late June. L–R: Ivor Stuart, Kingfisher Research; Yvonne McLean, Boyong Station; Michelle Jefferies, LCMA; Johno McLean, Boyong Station; Keith Bell, K&C Fisheries and Anthony Connallin, SARDI (South Australia Research and Development Institute)

PO Box 121 Parkes NSW 2870 Ph (02) 6862 1255 Fax (02) 6862 5254 Mob 0428 284 252

September/October2007 ��

NPWS�0thAnniversary October 2007 marks the 40th anniversary of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

NPWS manages 783 national parks and reserves covering over 6.65 million hectares or 8 per cent of NSW. This includes some of NSW’s most spectacular locations, including Mungo, Wilandra and Mutawintji National Parks in the outback.

A range of events and activities are planned to commemorate the conservation of some of the state’s most unique and precious natural landscapes, cultural heritage and wildlife.

Our key celebration period will be from 1–14 October, with Sunday 7 October

being a free entry day to all national parks in NSW.

To find out what is happening in the Western Division visit www.nationalparks. nsw.gov.au.

While national parks provide a vital haven for many of our precious native plants and animals, they also offer a plethora of activities for the community to enjoy. From bushwalking, abseiling or camping to canoeing, skiing or swimming visiting parks is a great way to get out and experience NSW’s incredible natural environment.

LanceHowleyhonoured Lance Howley (left) of Balranald with his NSW Farmers’Association Certificate of Honour presented to him following his retirement in July, after many years of service, from a number of representative Committees including the Western Division Council and the Western Lands Advisory Board. Pictured with Lance is Balranald Branch Secretary Joy Harris, his wife Pauline and Branch Chairman Tim O’Halloran.

AWI announces new Project Manager Blowfly ControlIan Evans has been announced as the new Project Manager for Blowfly Control with Australian Wool Innovation (AWI). Prior to this role, Ian was the District Livestock Officer for Sheep and Wool with NSW DPI for 16 years and for the last 5 years, the NSW Sheep Ectoparasite Control Co-Ordinator, which involved developing the National Mulesing Assurance Program with the Livestock Contractor’s Association and

writing the mulesing training manual. Ian is also an accredited muleser.

Ian will be based at the AWI Falkiner Field Station in Deniliquin and will be working in the program that is researching the area of finding viable alternatives to conventional mulesing before the 2010 deadline. Ian’s contact number is 0427 773 005.

�� WesternDivisionNewsletter

�0yearsofserviceatFortGreywith NationalParksandWildlifeService by Katie Ritichie, Public Affairs Officer, DECC, Forbes

Billy Thomas first started with National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) at the age of 23 years as a Field Officer at Sturt National Park on 26 July 1977. Thirty years later it’s a job in which he still takes pride.

Billy was no stranger to western NSW when he started with NPWS.

‘I was born at Tibooburra and have lived my whole life in the western district,’ Billy said.

‘For the entire 30 years with NPWS I have been stationed at Fort Grey, within Sturt Park. My role is to maintain the western area of the park. Sturt Park is like my own backyard with my very own spectacular sunsets.

‘Over the years there have been many changes and developments in Sturt National Park which I have been able to be part of, including the development of facilities for tourists, building the roads, campgrounds, walking tracks and lookouts.

‘Tourism is an increasingly important role with our national parks and it’s important that we promote our parks and continue to maintain and upgrade the tourism facilities. Being able to meet tourists and have a chat is always fun part of the role of a field officer. Over the years I have met many different people from every State of Australia and each with a story of their own.

‘The controlling of pests and weeds is also an increasingly important role for NPWS; we need to protect our native land, animals and birds, especially my favourites the bustards and brolgas.

‘Sturt National Park is bordered by properties on every side and fostering good relationships with the neighbours is imperative, especially in the western area of NSW.

Living at Fort Grey for 30 years has meant living with isolation, except for people from the area around Cameron Corner. I would like to thank them for their friendship and company over the years.

‘Sturt National Park is of course my favourite National Park in NSW. I encourage everyone to come and visit it, say hello and enjoy some of the amazing experiences I have been privileged to enjoy everyday for the last 30 years.’

National Parks and Wildlife Far West Regional Manager Steve Millington said Billy’s love of big machinery and passion for graders had saved many a tourist from a sticky spot.

‘Billy hates to see potholes in his roads. It’s like painting the Sydney Harbour Bridge, when he gets to the end he turns around and starts all over again’.

‘He’s always been a quiet achiever and visitors driving on dirt roads through Sturt NP have a lot to be grateful for’.

‘Billy and other NPWS field staff who work in our national parks are the backbone of the department. Often locals themselves, they quickly establish a rapport and working relationship with park neighbours and other stakeholders.’

September/October2007 ��

BokharaPlainsopenfor inspection by James Leigo, Catchment The 2005 Young Farmer of the Year, Officer, Western CMA Graham Finlayson and his wife Cathy, will

host a field day in conjunction with the Western Catchment Management Authority (CMA) at their property, Bokhara Plains near Brewarrina on Friday 28 September from 9:30 am.

Graham was awarded the prestigious 2005 Young Farmer of the Year title in recognition of his efforts in diversification and regenerative land management practices on Bokhara Plains.

Two years later, the Finlaysons are keen to share their experiences with other landholders.

Linking complementary enterprises such as tourism, organics and regenerative agriculture has been integral to the success of the Finlayson’s business at Bokhara.

Graham and Cathy are working with innovative natural systems instead of fighting against ‘mother nature’ in a semi-arid environment. This has been the key to achieving their goals.

Graham and Cathy run a cattle grazing enterprise, with a strong emphasis on care for the tough environment of Western Division grazing country.

Livestock are managed in an intensive grazing system that balances the health of the animals with the need to rest pastures and promote the native perennial grasses of the low rainfall area.

Claypan in 2004 (left) and the same claypan in 2007 (right)

Graham’s goal is to increase the property’s groundcover as well as improve the biodiversity in the pastures through use of time controlled, cell grazing which leaves plenty of pasture in the paddock after each graze.

Graham and Cathy added farmstay accommodation to their enterprise in 2001 to provide diversity and a reliable income, particularly during periods of being totally de-stocked.

‘For us to be able to improve our grazing management and control we have increased the number of paddocks from 8 to 35, with plans for more subdivision this summer,’ Mr Finlayson said.

‘This allows us to combine the effects of using larger mobs for beneficial ‘herd effect’ where it is required, and the ability to rest the paddocks for 48 to 50 weeks every year.

‘The amount of time the livestock are out of the paddock is more crucial than the number of head that you have present when grazing to promote the beneficial and palatable pasture species.

The Finlaysons have brought about great change with beneficial results in the past few years, despite prolonged drought conditions.

Graham supports the holistic management philosophy and believes that using concentrated animal numbers can

�� WesternDivisionNewsletter

rehabilitate claypans as their hooves break up surfaces and their dung and urine increases fertility.

It is Graham’s opinion that fencing larger mobs of stock in a certain area creates a beneficial herd impact and allows the country the necessary long rest periods to promote the native perennial grasses back into the system.

Grazing periods of only a few days to a week, allow pastures to be rested for up to six months twice a year, every year.

The Western Catchment Management Authority will provide free buses from Lightning Ridge, Walgett, Enngonia and Bourke for landholders wishing to attend this field day. To reserve a seat on one of the buses or to register for the field day contract you local CMA office or phone 1800 032 101.

Lookingafternaturalenvironmentwhile maximising farm profitability by James Leigo, Catchment Officer, Western CMA Ivanhoe Monday 29 – Wednesday

‘Pasture to Pocket’ workshops will be held at seven locations across the western region by the Western Catchment Management Authority (CMA).

These workshops investigate the most up-to-date grazing principles landholders can apply to improve animal performance and to maximise farm profitability, while looking after the natural environment.

The two and a half day ‘Pasture to Pocket’ grazing workshops will assist land owners and station managers to best utilize pasture for their livestock needs.

The workshops includes a short field trip allowing workshop participant to investigate how the material learnt at the workshop can be applied in their local district.

The workshops will be held at the following locations:

Engonnia Monday 17 – Wednesday 19 September

Lightning Ridge Monday 24 – Tuesday 25 September

Brewarrina Wednesday 26 – Thursday 27 September

Tibooburra Monday 15 – Wednesday 17 October

Wanaaring Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 October

31 October

White Cliffs Thursday 1 – Saturday 3 November

Subjects covered in the workshops include the benefits and drawbacks of a range of grazing systems, principles of sustainable grazing, property development and planning, and animal supplementation strategies.

The workshops will allow participants to investigate how changes to livestock and pasture management can mean more money in their pockets, while at the same time improving the condition of the natural environment.

Having these workshops at a range of locations is a unique opportunity for participants to easily access information that is directly relevant to their local district.

Everyone who manages pastures and livestock on a day-to-day basis should consider attending the workshops.

People interested in attending workshops are advised to contact their local Western CMA office or call 1800 032 101. The workshops have booking fee of $200 per business attending which, will be fully refunded following attendance at the workshop.

September/October2007 �7

NewAWEXcodeofpractice by Gemma Junk, NSW DPI Livestock Officer, Bourke Greg Sawyer, Woolclasser Registrar, AWEX

Recently, the Australian Wool Exchange Ltd (AWEX) held more BOARDtalk Woolclasser seminars in NSW and QLD. The main topic of discussion was the new 2007 – 2009 Woolclassers Code of Practice (COP).

There have been some changes to the Woolclassers’ Code of Practice since 2004 including a new format, and a section on woolgrower responsibilities. However, the main changes have been the simplified Bale Description template.

The main changes include:

1)All lines of wool must have the sheep breed group listed.

2) The 2004 COP required the presence of visible medullated fibres to be represented by the P suffix. This has now changed to a K (due to potential conflict of using P for Pieces)

3) Secondary lines where characteristics are unable to be measured should be identified with AA.

4) Where a line clearly represents the classed characteristic, cast line descriptors should be used.

5) Main lines of wool, including those classed out for a measured characteristic, should use AAA as their descriptor. The BBB line (made as a broad line) should now be described as AAA (Breed) and indicated on the specification sheet as classed out for broad (and not to be matched). The measured result (micron) will indicate that it is a broad line.

6) Some descriptors from the 2004 COP have been removed.

7) Under the 2007 Bale Description system, the woolclasser is required to manage the wool book, specification sheet and wool presser to avoid incorrect allocation of bales.

8) It is important to note that whilst the Bale Descriptions may have been modified, the basic classing principles

are unchanged. Woolclassers are still required to create lines that are uniform, predictable and low risk to the wool buyer or end user.

The 2007 COP also includes the Dark and Medullated Fibre Risk (DMFR) scheme. The scheme is a declaration made by woolgrowers regarding the risk of dark and/or medullated fibres being present in Merino wool.

The six factors causing dark fibre incidence include:

• wool type (pieces have more urine stain for example)

• crutching (reduces the presence of urine stained wool at shearing)

• sex (e.g. breech area of ewes have higher presence of stain)

• age (lambs, weaners and sheep above 8 years of age may have more pigmentation)

• 3 month crutch/shear interval (this doesn’t allow urine stain to develop to brown/black colour)

• contact with shedding breeds (this results in the transfer of pigmented and/or medullated fibres).

Most importantly, the Y or K Bale Description suffix should be used on any wool where Pigmented or Medullated fibre is visible. The purpose of the R is to highlight that there is a risk of contamination from pigmented or medullated fibres but these fibres are not actually visible. This would be the case if Merino sheep have been in contact with shedding breeds at any time during the wool growth period or if merino ewes have reared a crossbred lamb from shedding breed sire during the wool growth period.

Dark and medullated fibre contamination poses a serious threat to the reputation of Australian wool. For this reason, it is crucial to prevent and/or declare any possible risk of fibre contamination from these shedding breeds. It is also

�8 WesternDivisionNewsletter

WildDogDestructionBoardReportMay2007 Thanks must again go to the Government for the payment of the wild dog rates. This year has seen a change of Board Chairman, from Geoff Wise to Geoff Woods. The reason for the change is only known to the Government as we have now lost a good Western Lands Commissioner as well as a good Department of Primary Industries Western Region leader.

The Board is operating well with one change: Richard Conners has retired and Bill O’Connor has been nominated to replace him, representing the Milparinka Rural Lands Protection Board.

The new Operations Manager has settled into the position well, he replaced Len Dixon who has retired and is well again after a lung transplant.

There have been a few staff changes but generally all is going well and much happier since the rain filled house tanks and the families have fresh water again. Robyn Mann, Board Secretary, continues to do an excellent job and must be thanked for her efforts.

The fence is still in good condition, especially the clayed sections; the claying has been on hold because of the drought, with only small sections being done. The un-clayed sections, especially on the western side of Sturt National Park, presented challenges before the rain. The rain then caused wash aways but these were rapidly fixed. Hopefully claying can recommence this winter.

‘New AWEX code of practice’ continued from page 18

important to note that the woolgrower and woolclasser are mutually responsible to ensure that this is adhered to.

For more information on Woolclasser Registration or to obtain a copy of the new Code of Practice, please contact Greg Sawyer (02) 9428 6140 or greg_sawyer@ awex.com.au.

The Board has approved permanent bait stations outside of the fence so as when wash aways occur the dog density can be kept very low and so gives the men time to repair the fence. It will also give data as to which areas of the fence have the most pressure from the dogs.

Some of the older plastic netting is starting to break down, as is the section east of the Barrier fence. The Paroo has run a lot of water since the fence was last replaced and the fence is showing signs of age. The Board has allocated some money to start an upgrade east of the Barrier fence.

The cost of maintaining the fence is always going up. Fence materials, wages and fuel are all very expensive. The mining industry is making labour in the bush very scarce. The fuel price is, as we all know, making machinery operation and the running of the fence very expensive. The added administrative charges imposed by the Government (Public Sector Employment Legislation and audit costs) and the loss of rate base to the NPWS mean that rates will have to remain high. We believe the Government has been very fair in paying the rates on behalf of the graziers as a drought measure, but when the drought breaks the Government should continue to pay half the rates as a lot of the costs of the fence are Government generated costs and the public benefit of the fence must be recognised.

Lookingforatough,hardworking, reliableworkmatetogothelongdistance?

‘70series’ ute–

newer,notsofter

TalktoIANLUGSDINat LugsdinToyota,Hay 2711

Ph: 02 6993 1661 Mob: 0428 729 305 for a no fuss, obligation free quote on the full range of

Toyota utes and wagons LMD 17590

September/October2007 �9

WetlandsonFarms by Libby McIntyre, NSW DPI

Wetlands on Farms is a new program to help private landholders in the Murray Darling Basin integrate wetland/s into their farming systems and at the same time help to conserve and protect these valuable ecosystems

The program will help landholders understand some of the important aspects of wetlands on-farm and how to integrate sustainable management of wetlands into existing enterprises.

Sustainable use of wetlands and farm production are not mutually exclusive – they can work together for beneficial long term results.

Wetlands on farms may:

• improve the productive and financial value of your property

• provide opportunistic grazing and cropping

• provide a buffer to slow overland flow helping to reduce erosion

• provide excellent habitat and breeding grounds for fish, birds and other native plants and animals

If you would you like to:

• gauge and understand the value and benefits of your on-farm wetlands

• develop a wetland plan for your property that integrates farm production with sustainable wetland use, and

• identify funding opportunities to carry out wetland management?

then Wetlands on Farms may be for you.

The Wetlands on Farms team will help you develop your wetland management plan by using the following:

• a comprehensive best management practice manual for wetlands, and

• a GIS-based wetland planning tool producing information specific to your property.

Use of these tools will result in up-to-date high resolution maps of your property and a property specific wetland plan including detailed management actions.

Who is involved?

Wetlands on Farms will work with individual landholders, groups of neighbouring landholders and Catchment Management Authorities to improve wetland management west of the Dividing Range.

20 WesternDivisionNewsletter

The CMAs involved are: Border Rivers – Gwydir, Central West, Lachlan, Lower Murray Darling, Murray, Murrumbidgee, Namoi and Western.

Interested?

Wetlands on Farms is delivered by NSW DPI. If you are in the Western CMA area please contact Libby McIntyre on:

ph: (02) 6881 1233/0429 019 309

Fax: (02) 6881 1295 or

Email: libby.mcintyre@dpi.nsw.gov.au

If you are in any of the other CMA’s in the Murray Darling Basin please call:

Northern - Charlie Carruthers

(Border Rivers-Gwydir, Namoi & Central West CMAs)

ph: (02) 6730 1900

Fax: (02) 6730 1999/0447 770 752

Email: charlie.carruthers@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Southern - Steffan Holmes

(Lower Murray Darling, Murray, Murrumbidgee & Lachlan CMAs)

ph: (02) 6881 1216

Fax: (02) 6881 1295/0428 961 671

Email: steffan.holmes@dpi.nsw.gov.au

New fishing bag and size limits announcedThe Iemma Government has announced changes to saltwater and freshwater fishing rules after extensive consultation with NSW recreational and commercial fishers.

Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said the bag and size limits for recreational fishing are reviewed periodically to ensure a sustainable future for high quality recreational fishing in NSW. The size limits also apply to commercial fishing.

‘These changes reflect the findings of scientific assessments, the National Recreational and Indigenous Fishing Survey, the Palmer inquiry into illegal fishing, advice from expert committees of fishers and more than 3300 public submissions,’ Mr Macdonald said.

The changes to freshwater fishing include –

• Increasing the minimum legal length for Murray cod and a new closed season for Australian bass and estuary perch to protect breeding fish.

• Leaving a line unattended will now be prohibited but the distance a fisher can be from each line has been increased.

• Simplifying the trout water classifications.

The changes to saltwater fishing include –

• New minimum legal length limits for pearl perch, yellowtail kingfish, luderick

(blackfish) dolphin fish (mahi-mahi), blue groper and morwong.

• Bag limit reductions from 20 to 10 for bonito, dolphin fish, octopus, rubberlip and jackass morwong and a new combined bag limit of 20 for bream and tarwhine.

• Bag limit reductions from 2 to 1 for popular billfish species, including marlin.

Mr Macdonald said a number of changes would also be made to improve the management of fishing competitions, including developing a voluntary code of practice,’ he said.

‘About one million people enjoy recreational fishing each year in NSW.

‘These changes are about working with the community to progressively improve fishing rules to ensure the future sustainability and viability of our valuable fisheries resources.’

The changes will start on September 3, 2007. NSW DPI will undertake an extensive public advisory campaign over the coming months to promote the changes, including new fishing guides and updated signage around NSW waterways.

A full list of changes can also be found at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au.

September/October2007 2�

CSIROforecastsclimatechange impactsforWesternCatchment by Rory Treweeke, Chair of the A new CSIRO report summarising research Western CMA into climate change and its possible impact

on the Western Catchment points to increased variability for local communities, industries and ecosystems.

Land managers in the Western Catchment are used to great variability in both rainfall and temperatures.

The CSIRO report indicates that this variability is likely to increase with an overall drying tendency over the next twenty to fifty years, coupled with an increase in average temperatures.

The challenge is to be aware of how this will affect the grazing, dryland farming, irrigation industries, and the natural environment within which they operate, and to have appropriate management strategies in place.

The Western Catchment is the largest in NSW, spanning approximately 230,000 km2 and is unique in NSW because it encompasses a whole series of river systems, most of them seasonal, and includes the largest and most diverse areas of natural rangelands within NSW.

The CSIRO research into the Western Catchment was commissioned by the NSW Government in order to gain a clearer picture of potential future impacts on the State’s key catchment areas.

Key findings of the CSIRO Regional study include:

• Since 1950, the Western Catchment has experienced warming of around 1.3 degrees;

• Projections suggest increases in evaporation, heat waves, extreme winds and fire risk, as well as potential for seasonal increases in extreme rainfall events;

• Changes in rainfall and higher evaporation rates are likely to lead to less water for streams and rivers in the

Western CMA staffer, Katrina Hannigan, with the newly released report. Copies of the report are available from Western CMA offices and were distributed at a forum into climate change held in Broken Hill on 16 August.

Western catchment, which will have downstream consequences for storages and place strains on the catchment’s water resources;

• Decreases in runoff due to climate change may reduce the extent and function of the catchment’s freshwater wetlands, such as the internationally recognised Lake Pinaroo and the Narran Lake Nature Reserve;

• Climate change is likely to heighten the need for conservation efforts to protect the catchment’s 125 species, two populations, and six ecological communities that are classified as endangered or threatened; and

• A modest level of warming may threaten the catchment’s characteristic woodlands, currently listed as endangered, including the Nelia, Coolibah-Black Box, Myall and Brigalow-Gidgee woodlands.

The CSIRO found that the catchment faces serious challenges into the future, due to likely accelerating climate change. It is important that we understand what to expect from climate change.

22 WesternDivisionNewsletter

Grantsforruralcommunities From July 1 2007, the CWA of NSW is distributing emergency government drought aid grants on the behalf of the CWA of Australia (CWAA) to drought affected families and members of the rural communities.

These grants can be used to:

• meet essential household expenses and other basic needs

• fund community-based activities such gatherings, outings, excursions or information sessions

• providing ‘support packs’ such as food hampers or clothing packs to drought affected households that would not otherwise seed assistance

• maintenance of community facilities where their upkeep is usually funded by fundraising activities.

Rural community groups (including schools and other not-for-profit organisations) located in drought areas may apply for the grant up to a maximum of $3000.

Information is available through the CWA website at www.cwaofnsw.org.au or call the NSW DPI Drought Support Workers or a Rural Financial Counsellor (see details below). Applications must be on new forms.

NSW DPI Drought Support Workers

Danny Byrnes, Hay ph: 0428 973 141

Lyn Leigo, Bourke ph: 0427 265 810

Free local Rural Financial Counsellors in the Western Division

Ella Credlin, Hay ph: (02) 6993 4130

Georgiana Consett, Lake Cargelligo ph: (02) 6898 1151

Suzanne Davidson, Griffith ph: (02) 6964 2420

Brian Dodson/Belinda Piccirillo, Wentworth Balranald ph: (03) 5021 1558

Livestockorganicbooknow available Launched in July at Cleaver’s organic butcher shop in Neutral Bay by the Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, Robyn Neeson’s book Going Organic: Organic Livestock Production – a conversion package for organic livestock production in the rangelands of western New South Wales is now available for purchase.

The booklet is written by NSW DPI Organic Farming Liaison Officer Robyn Neeson and was jointly funded by the NSW Government and the Rural Industries Research Development Corporation (RIRDC).

The cost of the book is $30 and it can be purchased from RIRDC by phoning (02) 6271 4100 or through the RIRDC website http:// www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/ORG/07-038.pdf

September/October2007 2�

If u

ncla

imed

ple

ase

retu

rn to

:NSW Department of Primary Industries

PO Box 865, DUBBO NSW 2830

To the Landholder

TheeditoroftheWDNwelcomescontributions

IssueNo. Deadlineforarticles Sendarticlesto:

120 Nov–Feb 1 October 2007 Sally Ware, NSW DPI

121 Mar–Apr 1 February 2008 PO Box 393, Hay 2711

122 May–Jun 1 April 2008 Fax: (02) 6993 2177

123 Jul–Aug 1 June 2008 Phone: (02) 6993 1608

124 Nov–Feb 1 October 2008 Email: sally.ware@dpi.nsw.gov.au