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DR. BRONWYN BANCROFT AWARDED THE INAUGURAL NSW ABORIGINAL CREATIVE FELLOWSHIP

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DR. BRONWYN BANCROFT AWARDED THE INAUGURAL NSW ABORIGINAL CREATIVE FELLOWSHIP

DR. BRONWYN BANCROFT AWARDED THE INAUGURAL NSW ABORIGINAL CREATIVE FELLOWSHIP

Bundjalung artist Dr. Bronwyn Bancroft will be the inaugural recipient of the NSW Aboriginal Creative Fellowship.
A new opportunity for Aboriginal artists to undertake a research project delving into the subjects and materials of the State Library of NSW’s collection.

The Fellowship will support Dr. Bancroft with $30,000 to create a new cultural work for both researchers and the general public.

“Congratulations to Dr. Bronwyn Bancroft who will bring to light a complex Australian story. Telling these stories guarantees that an important part of NSW’s Aboriginal history is recorded, and brought into the future for generations to come,” Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the Arts Don Harwin said.

State Library of NSW’s Manager of Indigenous Engagement Damien Webb said Dr. Bancroft will work with staff at the Library to access and transform collection material into a new body of work, which highlights Bundjalung stories, histories and culture.
“The State Library of NSW welcomes this exciting opportunity to have our collections re-examined and framed by renowned First Nations artist Dr. Bronwyn Bancroft, whose work brings complex and contested histories to light and, and through this Fellowship will continue to challenge, delight and inform people throughout NSW, Australia and the world,” Mr Webb said.

“The Country Cries for Truth – My love of family and Country drives my passion to record and to document the takeover of our Country viewed through my lens as a Mother, Bundjalung Artist and Writer. The awarding of this fellowship is an absolute honour and I am humbled to be the recipient,” Dr Bancroft said.

Dr. Bancroft will be supported through $30,000 in funding to conduct research and engage with the State Library collections, delving into subjects and materials from the Library’s Indigenous Collections.

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Casino Couple Almost Bin $95,000 Winning Keno Ticket

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Casino Couple Almost Bin $95,000

From Trash to Treasure: Casino Couple Almost Bin $95,000 Winning Keno Ticket

 Jeff Gibbs

A Casino couple has been revealed as the region’s latest Keno winners, almost throwing away a $95,000 jackpot ticket before realizing their life-changing fortune.

The lucky couple, who purchased the Keno Mega Millions 8 Spot ticket at Casino RSM Club, confessed they had no idea they’d won the $95,026.60 prize in draw 302 on Monday, 10 February 2025.

Incredibly, it was the wife’s first time playing Keno and the husband’s first time in years.

“We Almost Threw It Out!”

Speaking about the surreal experience, the winning husband shared how close they came to losing their prize.
“We didn’t even know at first! My wife and I went for lunch on Monday and played a few games but left before checking our ticket,” he said.
“A few days later, we saw a post saying the club was looking for their 8 Spot winner from Monday.

“Lucky we still had the ticket! I was surprised to see it still sitting on the bench and not in the bin.”

The husband admitted their decision to play was spontaneous.
“Funnily enough, I hadn’t played in years, and my wife had never played, but we said, ‘bugger it, let’s give it a go.’ It’s still surreal.”

The couple plans to use their winnings to pay off their house and buy a caravan for future holidays.

Record Wins for Keno Players in 2024

The Casino couple’s win adds to a long list of Keno success stories across the eastern states. In FY24, Keno players celebrated more than 78.5 million wins worth over $1.16 billion.

During this period, 18 new millionaires and multi-millionaires were crowned, collectively taking home over $46.7 million. Among them was a Shelly Beach dad who walked away with $5.92 million.

In NSW and the ACT, players racked up more than 40.3 million wins, totaling over $588.5 million.

Play Smart and Check Your Tickets

This heartwarming story is a reminder for Keno players to always check their tickets. You never know when a spontaneous decision could turn into a life-changing moment—just ask this Casino couple, whose quick game turned into a $95,000 stroke of luck.

The winning ticket was purchased at Casino RSM Club, 162 Canterbury Road, Casino.

For more information on Keno results and prizes, visit your local Keno outlet or check online

 

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Official Opening Of Clarence Preschool Celebrates A Bright Future For Local Families

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Official Opening of Clarence Community Preschool

Official Opening Of Clarence Preschool Celebrates A Bright Future For Local Families

 

Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has welcomed the official opening of the new Clarence Community Preschool in Grafton, marking a significant milestone for early childhood education in the region.

Officially opened on 5 February, the preschool, located at 166 Turf Street, will provide daily care for up to 20 children and create permanent and part-time employment for at least six staff members. The brand-new community preschool is located in a purposely renovated premise and is the first time in many years that a newly renovated community preschool has opened in the Clarence Valley.

“This is a fantastic day for Grafton families,” Mr Williamson said.

“The new Clarence Community Preschool will not only provide high-quality early learning opportunities for local children but also support local families and create jobs for our community.”

The development of the preschool was made possible through a $431,000 investment from the former NSW Nationals in Government’s Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program, with additional contributions from Clarence Family Day Care, which purchased the property in 2018.

Manager of Clarence Childhood Services Association, Cristie Harris, expressed her excitement about the preschool’s opening and its benefits for the local community.

“This preschool is going to be such a positive addition for Grafton families,” Ms Harris said.

“It provides more opportunities for children to learn and grow in a safe, nurturing environment, while also enabling parents to return to work or study.”

Ms Harris also highlighted the efforts that went into creating a welcoming and sustainable environment at the preschool.

“We’ve worked with local architects and tradespeople to transform the space. New ramps have improved accessibility, and we’ve included playing equipment, solar panels, and a veggie garden to foster a sustainable and enriching experience for the children,” Ms Harris said.

“Obtaining this grant through the Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program was a privilege, allowing us to bring a much-needed new preschool to the Grafton community. This program, previously available to support community organisations in establishing new preschools, made it possible for us to turn this vision into reality.”

Mr Williamson commended Ms Harris and the team at Clarence Childhood Services Association for their vision and hard work.

“This preschool will give children the best start to their educational journey, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in their learning and social development,” Mr Williamson said.

“It’s a credit to Cristie and her team, who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life.”

The preschool’s design aims to maintain a home-like environment to ensure children feel comfortable and welcomed.

“The opening of Clarence Community Preschool is not just about providing places for children but investing in the future of our region,” Mr Williamson concluded.

“I congratulate everyone involved in making this vision a reality.”

 

For more local news, click here.

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NSW Government Unveils Bold New TAFE NSW Charter to Address Critical Skills Needs

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TAFE NSW Charter

NSW Government Unveils Bold New TAFE NSW Charter to Address Critical Skills Needs

 

By Robert Heyward

The NSW Government has officially launched the new TAFE NSW Charter, reaffirming its commitment to equipping the state with the skilled workforce essential for future growth. This Charter is a cornerstone recommendation from the independent review of the NSW vocational education and training (VET) sector.

A Commitment to Excellence in Vocational Education

The TAFE NSW Charter clearly outlines what the people of NSW can expect from TAFE as the state’s premier vocational training provider. Launched alongside the start of Semester 1, 2025, this pivotal moment coincides with the rollout of TAFE NSW’s new operating model, designed to strengthen ties with local industries and communities.

Key Highlights of the New Operating Model

  • Industry-Driven Education: Introduction of specialised teaching faculties that foster stronger connections with local industries.
  • Community-Centric Approach: Enhanced collaboration with communities to meet local skills demands effectively.
  • Innovative Training: Emphasis on flexibility and responsiveness in delivering training aligned with industry needs.

TAFE NSW: A Public Asset and Industry Leader

The Charter positions TAFE NSW as a vital public institution, community hub, and leader in educational quality and innovation within the broader VET sector. Combined with the new operating model, it reinforces TAFE NSW’s role in supporting industries and communities across the state.

Announcement Highlights

The Charter was launched at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, where the NSW Government is investing $33 million to upgrade facilities, including new learning spaces for health services students.

Statements from Key Leaders

Steve Whan, Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education:

“A skilled workforce is the backbone of our economy, and TAFE NSW is central to delivering the critical skills training needed for strong industries and thriving NSW communities.

The TAFE NSW Charter is a commitment that TAFE NSW will deliver world-class education and training focused on critical skills needs for NSW, now and into the future.”

Chloe Read, Acting Managing Director of TAFE NSW:

“The TAFE NSW Charter is more than a statement of purpose—it’s a commitment to the diverse range of students, industries, and communities we support. It secures TAFE NSW’s place at the heart of the VET sector, providing high-quality training that prepares individuals for career success and strengthens our local economies.

Student Perspective

Sophie D’Arcy, a Diploma of Nursing student at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, shared:

“Having a strong and sustainable organisation like TAFE NSW underpinning the VET sector means we can access the vital training needed to pursue our dream professions. My journey as a nurse through the Diploma of Nursing at TAFE NSW Kingscliff has been empowering, and I’m confident my training will equip me with the skills needed to succeed in my future career.”

The launch of the TAFE NSW Charter marks a transformative step toward building a skilled, resilient workforce ready to meet the evolving demands of NSW’s industries and communities.

 

For more local news, click here.

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NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

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Regional Health Deployment Program

NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

 

By Jeff Gibbs

A highly successful regional, rural, and remote health deployment program is set for expansion over the next three years, with NSW Health recruiting nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals for short-term placements across the state.

Launched in May 2023, the NSW Health Deployment Program was designed to address critical workforce needs by creating a pipeline of skilled health professionals for short-term roles ranging from two to 13 weeks. These placements offer a unique opportunity for healthcare workers to travel and work in regional, rural, and remote parts of NSW—with travel and accommodation costs fully covered.

The program’s success has seen 90 staff complete hundreds of deployments in priority areas such as nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech pathology, and physiotherapy. NSW Health will now expand the program, increasing the team to around 400 health professionals to provide even greater support to regional communities.

Career and Lifestyle Opportunities

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park praised the program as a critical solution to one of the state’s biggest challenges—recruiting and retaining healthcare staff in rural and remote areas.

“Recruitment and retention of healthcare staff in rural, regional, and remote hospitals is one of the biggest issues we face,” Minister Park said.

“This innovative program is not only attracting health workers to regional communities but also strengthening these areas by maintaining essential health services. I’ve heard stories of many professionals who found the experience so rewarding that they chose to stay, providing lasting benefits for patients and the community.”

Luke Sloane, NSW Health Deputy Secretary for Rural and Regional Health, called the program a fantastic career and lifestyle opportunity for health professionals seeking new experiences.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally,” Mr. Sloane said. “Many participants form lifelong friendships in the close-knit communities that welcome them with open arms.”

A First-Hand Perspective

Speech Pathologist Saffron Foy, who took part in the program, said it was a valuable experience that allowed her to expand her skills and embrace a new lifestyle.

“I joined the NSW Health Deployment Program because I wanted a change, and I loved the experience of working in unique and supportive rural communities,” Ms. Foy said.

“At first it was a little nerve-wracking, but the teams I was deployed to were so welcoming and inclusive that my nerves quickly disappeared. I highly recommend giving it a go—it’s a chance to experience something new, improve your skills, and enjoy a different lifestyle.”

Ongoing Recruitment and Expansion

NSW Health is currently recruiting healthcare workers from more than 20 professions for short-term positions in hospitals and health facilities across the state.

The Minns Labor Government has introduced a series of measures to bolster the state’s health workforce, including:

  • Safe Staffing Levels initiative in emergency departments
  • Permanent funding for 1,112 full-time nurses and midwives
  • Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in over a decade for nurses and health workers
  • $200.1 million investment in key worker accommodation
  • Deployment of 500 additional paramedics to regional, rural, and remote communities
  • Increased subsidies for regional health workers

Healthcare workers interested in short-term placements can register their interest via the NSW Health website.

 

For more local news, click here.

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National Lunchbox Week 2025: Celebrating Nutritious, Stress-Free Lunches for Kids

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National Lunchbox Week 2025

National Lunchbox Week 2025: Celebrating Nutritious, Stress-Free Lunches for Kids

 

By Jeff Gibbs

National Lunchbox Week 2025 (9–15 February) is encouraging families, schools, early childhood settings, and communities across Australia to embrace a practical and pressure-free approach to packing lunchboxes. The week-long campaign highlights the importance of nourishing, convenient, and budget-friendly lunches that fuel children’s learning and development.

From simple sandwiches to creative meals, every lunchbox reflects the unique preferences, culture, time, and resources of each family.

“Providing children with a nutritious lunchbox is about finding what works best for each family,” said Leanne Elliston, Senior Dietitian and CEO of Nutrition Australia ACT. “Most importantly, lunchbox packing isn’t about perfection.”

Practical Tips for Families

National Lunchbox Week aims to empower families with easy, budget-friendly ideas that reduce the stress of lunchbox preparation while ensuring kids get the nutrients they need to stay focused throughout the day.

“Packing a lunchbox can feel daunting when you’re balancing time constraints, tight budgets, and children’s individual needs and preferences,” said Ms. Elliston. “Our goal is to help families feel confident that they’re doing their best with practical and achievable solutions.”

Nutrition Australia’s resources and tips offer guidance on how to create simple yet nutritious lunchboxes, making busy mornings easier for families.

A Shared Responsibility

Schools, early childhood education settings, and teachers play a crucial role in promoting positive lunchtime experiences and supporting children’s relationship with food.

“Supportive, judgment-free conversations around food help children develop a lasting appreciation for meals and promote their overall wellbeing,” Ms. Elliston said. “Together, we can create an environment where children feel encouraged and confident about their food choices.”

How to Get Involved

Celebrate National Lunchbox Week by sharing your practical, easy, and budget-friendly lunchbox ideas to inspire others. Visit the National Lunchbox Week website for recipes and tips to help make lunchboxes nourishing and satisfying for every child.

At the heart of the campaign is collaboration—families, schools, and health advocates working together toward the shared goal of ensuring children enjoy meals that support their growth and learning.

“Let’s honour the love and care that goes into every lunchbox and empower one another to make lunchtime a positive experience for all children,” Ms. Elliston said.

 

For more local news, click here.

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