Have your say: Help shape the future of transport in the Far West

Have your say: Help shape the future of transport in the Far West

Transport in the Far West is entering an important new phase. Transport for New South Wales is developing a Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) for the Far West, to be finalised in early 2026.

Before drafting the Plan, feedback is being sought from communities across the region. Whether it is daily travel, access to essential services, freight movements or connectivity to neighbouring towns — community experience is vital.

Why input matters

  • Ensures the Plan reflects real needs, challenges and opportunities in the region
  • Helps guide where infrastructure and transport services should be prioritised
  • Provides the region with a voice in shaping future transport investments

How to contribute

  1. Visit the Have Your Say – Far West portal to drop a pin on the interactive map, comment on issues, or make a formal submission.
  2. To be involved in engagement activities (such as local workshops or briefings), email: engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au.
  3. Subscribe on the portal to receive updates as the Plan progresses.

Key dates and process

  • Currently: Open for submissions and community input
  • Next phases: Reviewing submissions, drafting the Plan, public exhibition, and reporting back on what was heard

Residents, businesses, community groups and service providers across Wentworth Shire and the wider Far West are encouraged to contribute. This is an important opportunity to help ensure transport networks support connectivity, economic growth and community wellbeing.


Wentworth Shire celebrates six new Australian Citizens

Wentworth Shire has welcomed six new Australian Citizens as part of Australian Citizenship Day celebrations, with a formal ceremony held on Wednesday 17 September 2025 in the Wentworth Conference Room overlooking the Darling River.

The new Citizens are Ms Megan Jackson (United Kingdom), Ms Antonia Antonova (Bulgaria), Mr Hsi-Jung Chen (Taiwan), Mr Abraham Cronje (South Africa), Mrs Mercedita Kemp (Philippines), and Mrs Thi Thuy Diem Sheehan (Vietnam).

To mark the occasion, each conferee was presented with a native Australian plant from Wentworth Shire Council and a 2025 Australian Citizenship Commemorative Coin.

Wentworth Shire Council Mayor Daniel Linklater said, “Australian Citizenship Day is an opportunity for all Australians, whether by birth or by choice, to reflect on and celebrate what’s great about being Australian. To welcome these six individuals as Australian Citizens in Wentworth Shire is a great honour. On behalf of Council and our community, we wish them every success in their future endeavours.”

Australian Citizenship Day provides an occasion for individuals, schools and community organisations to reflect on the contributions of all citizens, new and old, to their local communities.

For more information about Australian Citizenship Day, Australian citizenship (including eligibility criteria and application process), and our shared values, visit www.citizenship.gov.au.



New $1.2 Million Compactor Prepares Buronga Landfill for Future Expansion

New $1.2 Million Compactor Prepares Buronga Landfill for Future Expansion

Wentworth Shire Council has invested $1.2 million in a new state-of-the-art landfill compactor for the Buronga Landfill, ensuring the facility is well positioned to meet the demands of its planned long-term expansion.

The new machine, a Bomag BC 773 RB-5, has been purpose-built for landfill operations. Equipped with advanced engineering and GPS-enabled technology, the compactor will increase waste management efficiency, extend the life of landfill cells and provide accurate reporting to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

Key features of the Bomag BC 773 RB-5 include:

  • An articulated and oscillating design to maintain four-wheel ground contact for maximum compaction.
  • Offset polygonal steel wheels with 55 cast-iron teeth each, delivering optimal crushing and compacting.
  • Scrapers and wire cutters to prevent waste build-up and entanglements.
  • A Cummins X-15 turbo diesel engine with hydrostatic drive, offering proven performance, fuel efficiency and reduced wear.
  • Operator safety features including rollover protection (ROPS) and a positive-pressure cabin.
  • Trimble GPS system to monitor compaction rates and landfill cell design, supporting accurate EPA reporting and compliance with filling plans.

Council’s investment in the Bomag compactor ensures the Buronga Landfill is equipped with the right technology to manage future demand, minimise operating costs and deliver long-term environmental and financial benefits for the community.


Applications now open: 2026 National Youth Parliament

The Australian House of Representatives and Y Australia are inviting young Australians aged 16–17 to take part in the 2026 National Youth Parliament – a free program designed to develop leadership, policy, and civic engagement skills.

One young person will be selected from every federal electorate across the country, with all flights, transport, accommodation, food, and activities fully covered.

Applications close Thursday 21 November 2025. To be eligible, students should currently be aged 15–16 years.

Learn more and apply: https://nyp.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au/

Unsealed Road Condition Update

Road conditions have changed following recent wet weather. Some roads are accessible under caution, while others remain closed.

For the latest information, please check the Road Condition Report on Council’s website before travelling:
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/infrastructure/engineering-services/roads-and-traffic/road-safety/

Construction is officially underway on Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO)

Wentworth Shire Council is thrilled to announce that construction is officially underway on Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO).

A spectacular immersive art installation by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, the project will complete Munro’s vision for dual immersive art installations, Trail of Lights+FOSO in our region.

Mildura-based commercial builders Jointly have been appointed head contractor and will begin preparing the Log Bridge Road site this month. The artist’s UK-based studio team is scheduled to arrive in February 2026 to complete the installation.
Set to open in April 2026, FOSO is a unique experience that will feature 80 columns of light created from cylindrical arrays of fibre optic cables. This stunning visual display will be synchronised with an original orchestral score from renowned British composer Nainita Desai.

Wentworth Shire Council is delivering the project in a significant cross-border collaboration with Mildura Rural City Council. Wentworth Shire Council is leading the project’s delivery and operational ownership, with Mildura Rural City Council providing valued strategic and technical support.

Wentworth Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Linklater said, “the start of construction is a proud moment for the Shire.
Wentworth Shire is incredibly proud to lead this landmark project, which demonstrates what can be achieved through a strong and cooperative partnership with our neighbours at Mildura Rural City Council.”

“This is collaboration in action. FOSO will offer a spectacular visual and aural experience set against our iconic Perry Sandhills, creating a complementary experience to the contemplative journey of Trail of Lights. Together, these two installations create an unmissable multi-day attraction that will encourage longer stays and amplify the economic benefits for the entire region.”

Mildura Mayor, Cr Helen Healy, celebrated the project’s commencement and the partnership between Councils.
“We are delighted to support Wentworth Shire Council on this visionary project,” Cr Healy said. “By combining our strengths, we are helping to build a cultural tourism offering that is exceptional and will draw visitors from across the country and the globe, benefiting our entire regional economy.”

FOSO is supported by funding from the New South Wales Government.

Expressions of interest are currently open for local wineries, accommodation providers, tour operators, transportation services, and hospitality businesses to partner with FOSO to elevate the visitor experience. For further details, visit https://mildura.com/lights/foso-partnerships/

Tickets for FOSO, including combination passes for Trail of Lights, are expected to go on sale in the coming months.


Butchery & Smoking Workshops Registration

* Note - Registrations through this form are not guaranteed. A confirmation message will be sent if deemed eligible. *

Be Harvest Ready: Free Workshops in October

Council plans to host free workshops in October to support primary producers with the complex requirements for moving agricultural vehicles, implements and machinery on public roads.

The sessions aim to improve vehicle and operator safety and provide practical resources.

Refresh your knowledge to travel safely and legally when towing agricultural vehicles or using combinations and trucks on the road.

Please register your interest in attending a 'Harvest Ready Workshop'.

Want to learn more about Road Safety?

If you wish to discuss any matters regarding Road Safety, please contact Barnaby Bates, Community Road Safety Officer on (03) 5027 5027 or barnaby.bates@wentworth.nsw.gov.au

Visit the Road Safety section on the Council website: Road Safety

Have your say: Buronga Riverfront public toilet

Have your say: Buronga Riverfront public toilet
Wentworth Shire Council is seeking feedback on the newly installed public toilet at the Buronga Riverfront. Your input will help Council apply for future grant funding and guide any improvements.

The short survey asks about how often you use the facility, which features matter most to you — such as accessibility, safety, cleanliness, lighting and amenities — your overall satisfaction, and any suggestions for improvement.

Complete the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LZ9LVQM

Thank you for helping Council improve local facilities.

Dareton: school zone safety works near Coomealla High School

Dareton: school zone safety works near Coomealla High School

Transport for NSW will relocate school zone signs and paint new line markings around Silver City Highway and Tallawalla Road, Dareton, from Monday 8 September to Friday 12 September 2025, weather permitting. Working hours are 9.30am-2.30pm, Monday to Friday (no weekend work planned).

The works include new static and flashing school zone signs and posts, plus fresh line marking, including “dragon’s teeth” to help alert drivers to slow down. These improvements aim to enhance visibility of the school speed zone and improve safety for students and pedestrians.

Temporary traffic changes will be in place during work hours, including lane closures and reduced speed limits. Please slow down, follow traffic control directions and drive to conditions. Traffic control will assist pedestrians through the work area if required.

For updates, use the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701.
Project enquiries: 1800 577 441 or Info.parkland@ventia.com.au