Once in a lifetime experience – free concert on Tuesday – 6.30pm – 25th July at Condo RSL
Roland Amanya one of the Watoto choir. Contr
Media Release.
In January 2017, Watoto launched a whole new Watoto Children’s Choir production, Signs & Wonders that celebrates the joy of salvation. The choir, whose members are orphans and other vulnerable children, will present new worship music from the Watoto Church in Uganda and invite audiences to experience an encounter with God.
“This production is going to challenge preconceived ideas about miracles. It demonstrates that each of our daily lives are signs and wonders of God’s work in us. This is evidenced by the miraculous transformation that Jesus works in people who were once lost, but are now found. We see this through the innocence of the child telling of their transformation from their dark past to the light that God has shown upon them,” says James Skinner, Creative Director: Watoto Choirs.
Roland Amanya (12) is among 18 children who will tour Australia for six months as part of the Watoto Children’s Choir production, Signs & Wonders. During the 6 months of training back home in Uganda, he stood out as a leader who speaks confidently and clearly.
He is already a role model to the other boys on his team.When asked about going on tour, he says, “I look forward to sharing my story with many people so they can know more about God. I hope it will be a blessing to everyone we meet. “Roland loves playing soccer, reading and watching movies. With Science as his favourite subject, he looks forward to becoming a medical doctor one day.He wasn’t always that optimistic about life though. After the death of her husband, Roland’s mother struggled to take care of her five children. When she learned about Watoto through her sister, she felt led to apply to be a housemother. After careful screening and training, Stella became a housemother in 2013. Roland gladly joined her in their beautiful Watoto home. “Since coming to Watoto, we have enjoyed a good life. We were struggling before and my mum didn’t know how we would survive. Now, we have a lovely home, food everyday and I am receiving quality education,” says 12-year-old Roland. Roland quickly adjusted to life in the Watoto villages. He grew to love his new siblings and it didn’t take long for him to make friends either.“I love my brothers and sisters. The gardens surrounding our house are big and beautiful and there are so many children to play with. I love it here.”
Rodney recognised
• Rodney Campbell with wife Gwen at his presentation. Cont
At the last meeting of the Tottenham Lions Club, Rodney Campbell was presented with a Lions Community Service Award by President Bill Berryman in recognition of the countless hours of voluntary work he has undertaken with the club.
Rodney is the longest serving Lions member of the club, having joined Canowindra Lions in 1975, then transferring to Tottenham in 1982 when he moved to the district with wife Gwen and family.
Speaking at the presentation, Lion Ben Nicholls spoke of Rodney’s dedication to the club and community and said that Rodney had attended almost every working bee over his many years as a member of Lions – a wonderful record.
Coincidentally, Rodney had also received the same week, a certificate and commemorative stencil for 50 years as a registered wool classer. Congratulations Rodney.
Contributed by Jenny Day.
Road concerns from residents
• Lachlan Shire ratepayers are concerned at the level of failure on the Fifield Road and are wondering why such damage is occurring. Cont
By Melissa Blewitt
Concerns have been raised by Lachlan Shire ratepayers over the current condition of Fifield Road.
The road is experiencing widespread failure of the seal on the newest section, and it has ratepayers worried.
A ratepayer contacted The Condobolin Argus, posing questions about the state of the road, and who was responsible for footing the repair bill.
“This stretch of road has just recently being reformed and resurfaced. The pot holes and damage runs the entire length of the resurfacing from the railway crossing over the hill and onto the Trundle Road approximately four or five kilometres,” the ratepayer explained.
“I was just wondering if the ratepayers of Condo will have to foot the cost of repairs, a second time?”
The Condobolin Argus approached LSC for a response to these questions, and an explanation for the current condition of Fifield Road.
“Council is disappointed with the widespread failure of the seal on the newest section of Fifield Road (immediately north of the rail line),” Lachlan Shire Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services Tekohi Rivera stated.
“Council staff are working closely with its sealing contractor to determine the reason for the “peeling” of the seal.
“This type of “peeling” failure is rare so there will be ongoing monitoring, measurement and investigation by Council and its sealing contractor until the full extent of the failure is revealed.
“Once a cause is determined, removal and replacement of the seal will be done. Council asks road users to be patient during this time and to drive to the conditions at all times.
“Any further enquiries may be directed to the Director Infrastructure Services, Mr Tekohi Rivera by calling 02 68951900 or emailing council@lachlan.nsw.gov.au who will endeavour to respond to all enquiries.”
Public Speaking Success
Ambassador and Adjudicator for the State NAIDOC Public Speaking Challenge, Luke Carroll, with Condobolin Public School students Rylee Ogston, Mikaela Harris, Kaitlyn Maloney and Corey Herbert. Cont
Contributed
Condobolin Public School had two teams participating in the Macquarie NAIDOC Public Speaking Challenge held at Dubbo West Public School last week.
Children were required to participate in teams of two and speak about the topic “Our Languages Matter.” There were 22 teams, (44 speakers) participating in this round and the School was very proud to have two teams in the top four.
Corey Herbert and Kaitlyn Maloney were awarded second place which means they will now go through to the next level of competition. Rylee Ogston and Mikaela Harris (substituting for Emma Buckland), were also very strong in their delivery, with the adjudicator commenting on what a tough decision she had in selecting third place. They were fourth overall.
Sustainable Soils
Central West Farming Systems (CWFS) hosted Major General the Honourable Michael Jeffery (centre, front) taking him on a tour that showcased the Lachlan Shire and the surrounding region recently. MB
By Melissa Blewitt
Major General the Honourable Michael Jeffery believes to save the soil is to save the planet.
Mr Jeffery has spent the past four years developing strategies to protect and maintain agricultural lands in the face of threats from soil and water degradation, erosion and harmful land-use practices.
Central West Farming Systems (CWFS) hosted Mr Jeffery and his wife Marlena, on Tuesday, 20 to Thursday, 22 June showcasing the Lachlan Shire and the region.
As well as being active on many other committees throughout Australia, he is currently Australia’s Advocate for Soil Health. The role entails the development of nationwide soil research, development and extension strategy.
Major General Jeffery and CWFS have recently been working together as part of the newly established Co-Operative Research Centre for High Performance Soils (CRC-HPS), along with other research groups. The CRC for High Performance Soils will receive nearly $40 million over 10 years and aims to help farmers’ bridge the gap between soil science and farm management.
Mr Jeffery said Australia’s 130,000 farmers were under heavy pressure to produce food cheaply, while managing 60 per cent of Australia’s land mass. He believes there should be a national objective to restore and maintain the health of the Australian agricultural landscape.
As Soil Advocate since December 2012, Major General Jeffery has worked hard to raise public awareness of the critical role soil plays (integrated with good water and vegetation management) in underpinning sustainable productivity, delivering high quality ecosystem services and helping to meet global challenges including food security and climate change.
Major General Jeffery, his wife Marlena and Soils for Life chief of staff, Natalie Williams met with CWFS staff and CWFS Executive members, and NSW DPI Manager Ian Menz, at the Condobolin Agricultural Research and Advisory Station before touring the Station and the CWFS Lachlan Irrigation Research Site, on the first day of their visit.
An informal dinner with CWFS staff and CWFS Executive Committee members capped off the first day’s visit where Major General Jeffery gave some interesting insights into his highly distinguished career as well as his passion for soils and the agricultural industry.
Major General Jeffery, Marlena and Natalie spent the second day touring towns within our region. This included visiting the CWFS’ Tottenham Regional Site where trials are conducted to locally validate research undertaken by the GRDC. This was followed by a tour of the CWFS lime trial at Tottenham High School, which is designed to introduce high school students to research agriculture and to demonstrate the impact soil acidity has on agriculture. Major General Jeffery was very impressed with the students’ involvement in this trial and their understanding of the need for improving the health of our soils.
The group then travelled to Trundle to visit both Trundle Central School and St Patrick’s Primary School. Major General Jeffery spoke to the students about leadership and overcoming locational disadvantage, as well as his life as a Governor General and his military experiences.
Major General Jeffery’s wife, Marlena, also engaged with the community and talked to the students at the local schools (Condobolin, Trundle, and Bedgerabong) about the various aspects of her life as an army spouse as well as her role supporting a Governor General.
Tattoo will be terrific
The NSW Police Pipe Band will be performing at the Condobolin Tattoo on 16th September
Media Release.
On Saturday 16th September 2017, the Fourth Condobolin Tattoo will be hosted by the Condobolin RSL Pipe Band in conjunction with the Condobolin RSL Club.
Organisation for the 2017 Condobolin Tattoo is well underway with world recognised Pipe Bands, Dancers and other performers confirming their attendance.
We are very fortunate to have secured the New South Wales Police Pipe Band to perform at the Condobolin 2017 Tattoo and to celebrate with them their 70th Anniversary.
The Band was formed in 1946 by then Police Commissioner William John MacKay, at the request of a group of experienced police pipers and drummers on the proviso that the ancient tartan and the crest of Clan MacKay be adopted. The Clan motto “Manu Forti” translates to “with a strong hand”.
In August 2017, the Band will be appearing for the second time at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland. The first time being in 1975.
A shortage of serving police able to play pipes and drums saw the introduction in 1973 of “special constables.” These were civilians playing with the band on a full-time basis and, like serving members, they were equipped and recompensed. More were to join the band over the next 5 years and when the State Government of the day disbanded the unit in 1989 there were 22 members, 10 serving police and 12 special constables.
A group of the band’s ex members reformed the band in unofficial capacity for the Anzac Day march in 1990 and 1991. The band has continued since that time achieving great results and attaining a well-established reputation within the NSW Police Force and the community.
The New South Wales Police Pipe Band provided a substantial contribution to both Edinburgh Military Tattoos held in Sydney in 2005, 2010 and Melbourne in 2016 and was widely recognised by many participants and spectators of those tattoos.
Today, both serving and retired police come together with community volunteers to proudly serve the people of New South Wales as an official State Band. Most noticeable in their striking red doublets, the band continues to produce a splash of red (and tartan) amongst the sea of police blue uniforms.
The 2017 Condobolin Tattoo would not take place without the support of the community and our Gold sponsors – Condobolin RSL Club, Lachlan Shire Council, Evolution Mining, CMOC – Northparkes Mines, Chamens Supa IGA & Liquor and Penrith City Council.
Tickets go on sale on 1st July 2017 online at www.123TIX.com.au Adults $40 Children $10 (3-17yrs). This is an outdoor all weather event. Get your tickets before they are all sold out!! For more information please contact: Rob Neal Pipe Major on 6896 2917 or Heather Jones Secretary on 0429 548 796.
Media Release
$250,000 to help youth
• Participants and mentors in the successful “Back Track” Program at Lake Cargelligo.
By Melissa Blewitt
Condobolin and Lake Cargelligo will benefit from a $250,000 grant that is aimed at helping troubled teens and preventing youth crime.
Minister for Police Troy Grant and Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries made the announcement on Monday, with funding being secured through the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government’s Community Safety Fund.
The program will be delivered as a collaboration between Western Plains Regional Development Corp., Lower Lachlan Community Services, and Central West Family Support Service.
WPRD Executive Officer Anne Coffey said the funding will be used to extend the best elements of ‘Back Track’, which will now be known as ‘Down the Track’ in Lake Cargelligo.
“This program was originally funded through Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation (VFFF) and has been extremely successful with engaging 12 young men who have since all received part time employment,” she stated.
“We have held very successful shearing schools and a fencing school, which included a Certificate II in Agriculture. There is a very strong mentoring component into the program, similar to the ‘Back Track’ program at Armidale, where mentors support individual young men to overcome barriers to employment and to guide youth into more positive behaviours.
“This approach, not only provides success for the individual involved, but leads to a safer community for all.
“Part of the program will be extending youth centre hours for older children and widening the intake to include young women, non-Indigenous youth as well as young Indigenous men.
In Condobolin, the project will extend youth engagement activities including using the ‘Drop In’ centre for targeted youth needs, with an intensive intervention program aimed at referred disengaged young people in the community, as well as skills development for staff, mentors and participants.
The recent Growing Lachlan Report, which was undertaken by the Community Connection Officers, highlighted the need for more programs for youth and the need to improve Community Safety which was used as a basis for the grant.
Mr Humphries said the project will provide troubled teenagers in the region with mentoring to improve their skills, boost their self-esteem, and strengthen ties with their families and their communities.
“Lachlan Shire faces many community challenges, including high youth unemployment, crime rates above the State average in many categories, and problems with drug and alcohol abuse.
“Helping troubled youths turn their backs on lives of crime and anti-social behaviour will have major benefits for the safety and prosperity of our community.”
The Community Safety Fund has already delivered close to $5 million in support for crime prevention initiatives across NSW.
Council Dumps Tip Fees for domestic waste
Council resolved to scrap tip fees for domestic waste for a 6 month trial starting July.
By Melissa Blewitt
Lachlan Shire residents will no longer have to pay tip fees for domestic waste from 1st July.
Lachlan Shire Council will waive tip fees for residential users at the gate for all tips for a six-month trial period. Commercial fees will still apply.
The decision follows a motion put forth by Councillor Melissa Rees at the May Council meeting. It was seconded by Councillor Peter Harris, and unanimously supported by all other Councillors.
“A trial period of six months has been determined to assess if the community will work with Council to improve recycling, show correct waste disposal behaviour in designated areas and keep the tip areas clean and tidy,” Lachlan Shire Mayor, John Medcalf explained.
“Lachlan Shire Council recognises the importance of providing effective waste service in delivering positive public health, environmental and economic outcomes for the community.”
Tip fees still apply to commercial/industrial/agricultural waste. This includes waste collection contractors, commercial volumes of waste; for example, a demolished house or large volumes like agricultural waste or grain tarps.
Domestic waste is defined as waste that is generated as a result of ordinary day-to-day use of a domestic premise and either: 1. Taken from the premises by, or on behalf of, the person who generated the waste; or; 2. Collected by, or on behalf of, a local government as part of a waste collection and disposal system.
Commercial Waste is generated by businesses, industries, schools, hospitals, other institutions and government offices.
“We are seeking community support to prevent rubbish and litter dumping and help Council to maintain our landfill areas in a clean and tidy condition,” Mr Medcalf concluded.
New Highway Service Centre proposed
Lachlan Shire calls for expressions of interest for a new Highway Service Centre on the Gipps Way just out of Condobolin.
Media Release
Lachlan Shire Council’s announcement last week that it is calling Expressions of Interest (EOI) for a 24 hour Fuel Service Centre at Condobolin has largely been welcomed by the community.
The EOI is for the construction of a 24 hour Fuel Service Centre on The Gipps Way catering for large trucks.
The area will be known as a Tourism Precinct with a visitor information centre and cafeteria and will also be the site of the popular “Utes in the Paddock” outdoor gallery as well as the National Jockeys Memorial.
Lachlan Shire Council Mayor, John Medcalf, said while there have been some detractors the response to the precinct has been largely very positive.
“Council is working hard in its economic development efforts and it’s through projects such as these that we will be able to increase the number of people coming to Condobolin which in turn will have a flow on effect to our local businesses and our local economy,” he explained.
“It’s important also to make sure our approach roads look good and our main street looks attractive as the improvement of the main street of a country town can be a cost effective way of encouraging economic development.
“Our aim is to attract people here and provide them with a pleasant stay even if it’s only for a couple of hours or a few days. If they have a good experience they will tell others who will come here and so on.
“During the past week I’ve had some enquiries that the 24 Hour Service Centre will be bad for local businesses and why are we doing work on this and the main street instead of on our roads.
“I hope some of the queries people might have will be answered with the following questions and answers.” See below.
Answering questions on the proposed highway service station for Condobolin
How will the 24 hour Fuel Service Centre affect local businesses?
While another fuel service station and cafeteria may affect businesses already supplying these services the entire tourism precinct is expected to attract many more visitors to the Shire which will have a flow-on effect for existing businesses. The entire shire will benefit by having a dedicated visitor information centre located with the cafeteria which will provide information about other attractions in the shire.
Are local businesses invited/encouraged to apply to the EOI tender?
Yes local Fuel service stations have been provided with a copy of the EOI and are encouraged to consider applying. The cafeteria is proposed to be leased to a private operator and locals can apply to operate that part of the business.
Where can the expression of interested documents be found?
Copies can be obtained from Council or the Tenderlink website www.tenderlink.com/lachlan
Where is the Tourism Precinct proposed to be located?
The site is opposite the South Forbes road as it intersects with the Gipps Way and is some 25 acres in area.
Who is paying for the service centre/ tourism precinct?
The 24 hour Fuel Service Centre will be fully funded by the successful tenderer. Council will be using grant funds and ratepayers’ funds to relocate the utes and construct the new National Jockeys Memorial.
Why isn’t the money proposed for this development being used to upgrade existing roads?
Council has a dedicated roads budget along with budgets for many other services provided by Council. The tourism budget will pay for the tourist attractions. Roads leading to the Tourism Precinct are currently being assessed and estimates provided to upgrade The Gipps Way, The Murie, etc to ensure they are passable in future flood events.
What happened to the funding received for the 2016 floods and why have the roads not been fixed?
Council obtains Federal and State road grants which must be spent by June 30th otherwise Council has to give them back. The flood grants have to be spent within 18 months so Council is focusing on completing the current roads program which was delayed significantly due to the flooding. Flood money will be spent in the second half of this year and next year.
Wouldn’t the money be better spent on improving existing businesses in town?
The money for the service station will be privately funded. The tourist attractions are needed to promote Condobolin and increase economic development in the Shire. Council is fortunate to receive the Utes in the Paddock which is already an iconic attraction.
Has flooding around the area of the proposed site been considered?
Yes it will be part of a detailed development application process. The ground level for buildings will be built up above flood levels and fuel tanks will be installed above ground.
What will it do for employment in the local region?
The service station will create jobs along with the cafeteria. The Visitor Information Centre will also require staffing. The total attraction is expected to increase employment in the shire due to the benefits of increased numbers of tourists spending locally.
Why isn’t the Council trying to get a store to replace Country Target?
Council has made enquiries with a number of stores selling similar products to the former Country Target Store. Unfortunately all have minimum population catchment areas of 7,500 or greater and will not open a store here. Council is continuing its enquiries and will be calling for Expressions of Interest from interested retailers in the near future.
Funding success
• Vad Carey (Condobolin Community Centre), Heather Blackley (WPRD), Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton and Anne Coffey (WPRD) were all smiles last Thursday. Mr Coulton was in town to congratulate community groups on successful funding applications for Volunteer Grants. MB
By Melissa Blewitt
The Condobolin Community Centre will benefit from a $4,200 funding boost through the Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants program.
The funding will be used to purchase a reverse cycle air conditioner for the facility, which will be installed into the Pottery Room. Western Plains Regional Development assisted the Condobolin Community Centre in writing the grant application.
Community Centre spokesperson Vad Carey said the new air conditioner would enable the potters to be comfortable in both winter and summer.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton visited Condobolin last Thursday, to congratulate the Community Centre on securing funding.
“The grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 enable organisations, like the Condobolin Community Centre, to better support their volunteers by purchasing much-needed equipment, training and transport,” he explained.
“The energy, expertise and time our volunteers give to our community supports those most in need and represents what Australian communities are all about – giving a helping hand.
“I’m glad to see that local organisations in Condobolin and around the Parkes Electorate, will have this support to continue their valuable work.”
OAM for Des Manwaring
Condobolin’s Des Manwaring was awarded a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia on the Queen’s Birthday Honour List. KP
By Melissa Blewitt
Former long serving Councillor and Mayor of Lachlan Shire Council Des Manwaring, has been recognised with a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia on the Queen’s Birthday Honour List. Mr Manwaring was awarded the OAM in the General Division for service to Local Government and the Lachlan Shire Community.
He still lives in the Condobolin area with his wife Jeanette, and they are both still part of a thriving family farming business, which has grown over many years.
His connection to Condobolin began in 1967, when he began share farming on 3,000 acres. He, along with wife Jeanette and his family, now own around 50,000 acres.
“You never do things for acknowledgment, but all I have ever wanted to do was to give a little something back to the community that has given my family so much,” he said in 2015, when he was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship. It was the first time a Paul Harris Fellow has not been connected to the Condobolin Rotary Club itself.
“The first years were a bit rough, but Jeanette and I knew there was no other place like Condobolin, so we knew this was going to be home for us and our family.”
Lachlan Shire Mayor, John Medcalf, said the award was “very much deserved” and was acknowledgement of Mr Manwaring’s commitment to the local community.
“I want to say a big congratulations to Des, it is very much deserved,” he stated.
“He has long served his community with dignity and respect. He spent 30 years in Local Government advancing the causes of the Lachlan Shire and was a true gentleman. He truly has made an outstanding contribution to Condobolin and the Shire.”
Mr Manwaring became a Councillor in 1984, where he remained until his retirement from Local Government in 2016. He was mayor from 2006 until 2015, and held the Deputy Mayor’s position on two occasions – From 1997 until 2005, and then again in 2015 to 2016.
His other service includes: Member, Lachlan Senior Management Team, NSW Rural Fire Service, current; Representative to the Lachlan Service Agreement Committee; Member, Mid Lachlan Valley Team Bush Fire Management Committee, since 2007; Deputy Group Captain, Lachlan District, 2000-2003; Group Captain, 1980-2000.
He was the Senior Deputy Captain of Vermont Hill South, from 2004 to 2006, and has been a member since 1958. Mr Manwaring is a Master, Masonic Lodge Condobolin, Freemasons from 1989 to 1991, and has been a member of the organisation since 1984. He is a continued supporter of the Condo 750. He is current Chairman of Western Plains Regional Development Inc in Condobolin. Mr Manwaring has received the Emeritus Mayor, Local Government NSW, 2014; 30 Years Service, Local Government NSW, 2014; Long Service Medal and Clasps, 50 Years Service, NSW Rural Fire Service, 2014; 2015; and Outstanding Service Award for 20 Years Service, Shires Association of NSW, 2005.
Anglican Street Stall serves up delicious treats
• The Anglican Street Stall has had an array of delicious homemade treats on offer recently. MB
New community bus service for Tottenham
• President of the Tottenham Welfare Council, Geoff Chase, Lachlan Shire Mayor John Medcalf, Senior Manager Community Transport Kathy Dickson, Regional Transport Co-Ordinator Megan Prouse and Flexible Transport Program Manager Transport NSW, George Pund at the Tottenham Trial Launch. Cont
By Melissa Blewitt
A trial service has started in the hope of providing a flexible and tailored solution to public transport needs in Tottenham.
A mini-bus took the first three passengers from the town, 140 kilometres down the road to the larger regional city of Dubbo last Wednesday.
The initial run, follows an ongoing campaign by the Tottenham Welfare Council, led by President Geoff Chase, LiveBetter was chosen due to its commitment to providing affordable services to communities in rural, regional and remote Australia.
“What began as one Tottenham resident’s idea has now come to fruition – we look forward to the local community using the LiveBetter service to its fullest,” he explained.
The six-month pilot is a joint project with Transport for NSW, Tottenham Welfare Council and LiveBetter Community Services, providing the town with a weekly pre-booked transport service linking it with the communities of Albert, Narromine and Dubbo.
The service is tailor-made for Tottenham and the pick-up and drop off points can change depending on passengers’ needs, but they must pre-book.
The type of vehicle doing the weekly run depends on demand and can range from a car to a small bus and the service also provides storage for cold products people may need to transport and space for wheelchairs and prams.
Mayor of Lachlan Shire Council, Councillor John Medcalf was extremely pleased with the announcement which followed over a year of community consultation and lobbying to have a transport service introduced for Tottenham and Albert residents.
“It is very pleasing that from tomorrow Dubbo Community Transport will be running a community bus leaving from Tottenham at 8am and Albert at 8:45am arriving in Dubbo at 10:30am and departing from Dubbo at 2pm to return to Tottenham around 4.30pm,” he stated.
“This will connect residents with health, education, transport and social services based in Dubbo.
“I would hope residents will utilise the service to ensure it remains a service for the long term.”
According to Kathy Dickson, LiveBetter Senior Manager Community Transport, Transport for NSW should be commended for being so forward thinking with their remote transport solutions and looks forward to a long and effective relationship with them.
“We are pleased to be working with Transport for NSW to lead the way in providing this innovative and on-demand transport,” she said.
Andrew Constance, NSW Minister for Transport, said while there are high hopes for the success of the trial, it is not a “one size fits all” solution to regional transport demand.
Transport will leave Tottenham at 8am Wednesdays with same day return leaving Dubbo at 2.30pm via Narromine and Albert. Return trips costs $15 adult, $7.50 child and $2.50 concession.
Transport needs covered under this service include shopping, individual social outings, visits to family and friends, and doctor’s/specialist appointments.
Community members looking to book transport or to request further information simply need to call the LiveBetter Community Transport – Dubbo office on (02) 6882 7711. There are no eligibility criteria for this service.
Condobolin Hospital wins Innovation Award
Clinical Nurse Educator and Infection Prevention and Control Co-ordinator Susannah Ford with the Western NSW Local Health District Innovation Award. Image Credit: Western NSW Local Health.
By Melissa Blewitt
Condobolin Health Service has won the Western NSW Local Health District Innovation Award.
The ‘Making antimicrobial stewardship a priority in the acute rural facility’ project was initiated and conducted under the guidance of Clinical Nurse Educator and Infection Prevention and Control Co-ordinator Susannah Ford.
“It’s a simple project really,” Mrs Ford explained.
“Basically the program is aimed at trying to reduce the amount of antibiotics being used in Condobolin.
“Along with trying to reduce the amount of antibiotics used, we wanted to ensure all patients, if they are on antibiotics, that there is a legitimate reasons for them to be on them. And if they are on antibiotics, then we also make sure it is the right one.
“I think there is huge pressure from the public in this modern day of technology. People can google their symptoms and there is an expectation that antibiotics can cure almost everything.
When penicillin was discovered, it was a miracle drug that cured things that you would die of before. Now there is a tendency for patients to believe that antibiotics is the answer.
“Lots of people present with viral infections, that antibiotics will not do anything for. The whole project is about reducing the amount of antibiotics we use and making sure there is a real reason or need to have antibiotics, and ensure we are using the right antibiotic.”
Mrs Ford added this was an “exciting” time for Condobolin Health Service, as there is potential for the project to be replicated in other sites, similar in size.
“This is a nurse-led initiative, and there are very few places in NSW doing what we are doing,” she stated.
“We are the only Hospital in the Local Health District to be undertaking something like this at the moment. There is an opportunity that this program will be implemented in other facilities.
“I am so excited that the program has worked and I know we have good reliable data that has the potential to impact change and improve how we use antibiotics.
“What is even more exciting is the conversation it has started. Clinical staff are thinking more about antimicrobial stewardship at the bedside. There is more questioning and concern about how we use antibiotics.
“When I come to work, I am often greeted with sticky notes, phone messages from clinical staff wanting to ensure we are giving the right antibiotics for the right reasons.
“Patients are receiving less unnecessary antimicrobial therapy within Condobolin and this means less medications and less associated side effects.”
According to Mrs Ford, antibiotics resistance was a global problem and that all health professionals have a responsibility to fight it.
“In Condobolin, antimicrobial stewardship is no longer just 3.14 of standard 3 of the national standards that we can tick off. It is a viable, worthwhile program improving how we use antibiotics in our facility and a demonstration of how good rounding and accountability really can make a difference in improving how we care for our patients.”
Mrs Ford said just because Condobolin is a small town, didn’t mean patient quality of care was compromised.
“I find it so encouraging for Condobolin. People can come and work here as a nurse and do some really good things,’ she said.
“It just goes to show it can be really exciting career to be a nurse in Condobolin. We live here and we care about our community. It is really empowering for women that they can have a great career in Condobolin and don’t have to go to a bigger, metropolitan hospital.
“I get to do a million things that other don’t get to do, and am challenged on a daily basis.” MB
Fun Run raises nearly $20,000
* St Joseh’s students enjoy the Colour Fun Run Day
• The St Joseph’s P and F Committee organised Colour Fun Run raised nearly $20,000. It was held at St Joseph’s Parish School Condobolin last Sunday, and the end total raised was $19,839. ABOVE: Brooke Smith, Josie May, Rachel Bendall, Sienna Smith, Lily Ryan, Jemima Donnelly, Judith Donnelly and Briana Bishop had a fantastic time during the event. MB/KP
Medcalf is CENTROC Chair
• Former Centroc chair Bill West, newly elected chair Cr John Medcalf and parliamentary secretary for Western NSW the Honourable Rick Colless. Cont
By Melissa Blewitt
Lachlan Shire Mayor, John Medcalf, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the Central Organisation of Councils (Centroc).
The announcement was made as Centroc met in Sydney with NSW Government representatives last week.
Cr Medcalf believes he has taken on the role at an exciting time for local government.
He has been an elected member of Lachlan Shire for 26 years, has been acting in the role of Centroc chair since February and will serve as chair until the regular elections in November.
Bathurst Council general manager David Shirley continues as the organisation’s secretary.
Cr Medcalf is looking forward to the months ahead.
“It’s an exciting time,” he said.
“The State Government is telling us there’s buckets of money for regional Australia. The NSW Budget is coming up soon and they indicated to us that regional Australia would be very happy with it.”
Water and inland rail were also high on the agenda, for Mr Medcalf and Centroc.
“The inland rail announcement is a game-changer for the central west,” he explained.
Finding out about Firefighters
• Local residents were able to meet their local firefighters and learn more about fire prevention at the Condo Fire Station Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) annual Open Day at Renown Park last Saturday. A range of free activities were on offer, including firefighting trucks, a barbecue and fire safety presentations. Firefighters were also be able to provide advice on installing or replacing smoke alarms, and preparing a home fire escape plan. ABOVE: Kade Haworth (sitting) had a great time learning more about the Condo Fire Station with Mark Phillips and Michael Fyfe. MB/Photograph by Kathy Parnaby.
Converging on Condo
• Charles Gauci (Cowra High School), Neryle Smurthwaite (Canowindra High School), Michael Sloan (Kelso High School), David Lloyd (Orange High School), Melanie Meers (Anson Street School); second row: : Ann Caro (Lithgow High School), Michelle Barrett (Molong Central School), and Sandra Parker (Parkes High School); front row: Jeff Ward (Principal, Condobolin High School), Kate Wootten (Canobolas Hight School), and John Browett (Blayney High School) took part in the Central West Principal’s Council that was held in Condobolin last week. MB
Principals from across the Central West converged on Condobolin last week.
The Central West Principals’ Council met in the town last Thursday and Friday to undertake new learning opportunities and share information.
“This is an annual event which occurs early in each term where the Principals’ from the High Schools and Central Schools from Lithgow, Kandos, Grenfell, Condobolin and everywhere in between meet to discuss the latest trends and reforms in education, undertake professional learning, share best practice in leadership and management and most importantly network and showcase the excellent work schools are doing in rural and remote education and within their communities,” Condobolin High School Principal Jeff Ward explained.
“The two days were shared between the Wiradjuri Centre and the High School with a network dinner on the Thursday evening. A highlight for most Principals was the boomerang throwing led by local Aboriginal Elder Dick Richards.
“The Principals’ enjoyed his instruction and passion for throwing the boomerang with many of the Principals taking turns to throw with mixed success.”
Mr Ward added the two days was a major success with many of the Principals enjoying the town’s hospitality.
“For those Principals who had been to the Wiradjuri Centre they were amazed at its beauty and grandeur, they also passed comment on how good the High School is looking,” he said.
Mr Ward wanted to thank the Year 11 hospitality class for providing the excellent lunches and morning/afternoon tea’s and the staff for assisting in getting the school ready for the event.
The Principals also discussed the upcoming State Conference to be held in Sydney where over 500 Principals from NSW Department of Education schools will be in attendance.
The next Central West meeting will be hosted by Parkes High School.