Charge Ahead: Wentworth Shire Council launches new public EV chargers

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Wentworth Shire Council is pleased to announce the installation of six (6) new electric vehicle (EV) chargers, set to be operational for public use from August.

The chargers are located at three community sites: the Midway Community Centre in Buronga, the Wentworth Visitor Centre, and the Wentworth Riverfront. Each charger offers fast 22kW AC charging and supports all major EV models delivering reliable, convenient, and accessible charging options in the heart of the Shire.

Powered by EV network leader Chargefox, the chargers incorporate smart software that enables real-time monitoring, multiple payment options, and user-friendly features through the Chargefox app – ensuring a seamless experience for all EV drivers.

Wentworth Shire Council Mayor, Cr Daniel Linklater, welcomed the initiative, stating: “This is a positive step forward in improving local infrastructure and embracing a cleaner, more sustainable future. The new chargers will be a valuable addition to our Shire for both visitors and locals, helping support tourism while providing essential services to our community.”

Council’s General Manager, Ken Ross, said the new EV infrastructure reflects Council’s commitment to regional development. “We are proud to be delivering modern and practical infrastructure that not only meets the needs of our growing population but also enhances the liveability of our towns and villages. These chargers will improve convenience for residents and increase appeal for travellers driving electric vehicles.”

This project has been supported by the New South Wales Government through the EV Destination Charging Grant – Round 2. Under the program, the NSW Government provided $9,360.00 for each charging location, contributing to the total cost across the three sites.

To locate a charger or learn more, visit the Chargefox website at www.chargefox.com or search directly in Google Maps.

New signage marks entrance to Village of Wentworth

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New signage marks entrance to Village of Wentworth

Council has officially unveiled the new Village of Wentworth entrance signage – a vibrant and striking welcome to all who visit our region.

The design incorporates original paintings and illustrations by local artist Marg Whyte, brought together digitally by Saunders Design. The existing NSW-shaped frame has been repurposed and freshly painted to highlight the message “Where the outback greets the rivers” – depicted through the imagery of an emu meeting pelicans.

Council thanks everyone who joined the unveiling. Approximately 40 local residents attended, including Deputy Mayor Peter Crisp, Councillor Sue Nichols, Mayor Daniel Linklater, General Manager for Wentworth Shire Council Mr Ken Ross and representatives of Saunders Design.

Council congratulates all involved for bringing this new signage to life.

Passing of Councillor Tim Elstone

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Green Waste Disposal Vouchers

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Council’s Financial Assistance Program is open for FY25/26

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Applications for the first round of funding for the 2025/26 financial year are now open.

Community groups, school groups, charitable and not-for-profit organisations within our Shire should consider their funding requests for the 2025/26 financial year.

To be considered at the 20 August Ordinary Council Meeting, applications must be submitted to Council by 5pm, Thursday 24 July.

For further information or to apply for financial assistance, visit https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/community/community-grants/

Event Funding Program 2025 now open

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Planning an event in Wentworth Shire? The Event Funding Program for 2025/2026 is now open.

Council is looking to support events that bring our community together and showcase our wonderful region.

Funding is available for major events (up to $30,000) and minor events (up to $5,000).

For further details, including the Event Funding Policy, Program Guidelines, and how to apply, visit the Wentworth Shire Council website: https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/event-funding-program

Building Confidence to Save a Life

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Building Confidence to Save a Life
Recently, residents from Pooncarie, Ellerslie, Wentworth and Fort Courage took part in free CPR and AED training sessions, gaining hands-on skills in emergency response protocols, CPR for both adults and infants, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

These practical, face-to-face sessions were led by Brenton Chatterton, Intensive Care Paramedic from Mildura First Aid Services.

Wentworth Shire Council sincerely thanks Brenton for delivering these vital sessions, and acknowledges the support of the Pooncarie and District Development Association (P.A.D.D.A).

Students from Palinyewah Primary School also took part and will be awarded participation certificates for learning lifesaving skills on the day.

These sessions were proudly organised by Wentworth Shire Council and funded through Spontaneous Volunteers, a NSW Government program.

Wentworth Services Expo 2025: Linking Our Community with Service Providers

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Wentworth Shire Council is pleased to announce the upcoming Wentworth Services Expo, to be held at the Midway Community Centre (3 Midway Drive, Buronga) on Thursday 17 July 2025, from 12pm to 2pm for the general community.

This important event is designed to foster connection, collaboration and resilience by bringing together residents, community service providers and emergency services personnel in a shared space of learning and engagement.

What to Expect

This year’s Expo features a dynamic program of activities for both professionals and community members:

Morning Networking Session (Private session for WSIG and emergency services)
A focused opportunity for Wentworth Shire Interagency Group (WSIG) members and emergency services personnel to connect and collaborate, strengthening local partnerships that support our community.

Community Event: 12pm–2pm
All residents are invited to attend the main Expo event from 12pm to 2pm, featuring:

  • Free Community Lunch – Enjoy a complimentary catered lunch while connecting with others in a relaxed setting.
  • Interactive Displays – Engage with local service providers offering health, wellbeing, education, family support, and emergency services.
  • Entertainment – Delight in performances from Listo Trapeze Co. and test your reflexes with Laser Force.
  • Event Programme – A printed schedule will be available on arrival, outlining the day’s activities.

Why You Should Attend

For WSIG Members & Emergency Services
The morning networking session offers a valuable opportunity to share knowledge, strengthen networks and enhance emergency readiness in the region.

For Community Members
The afternoon session is your chance to connect with essential local services, enjoy a free lunch, and experience family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re looking for information, support or simply a fun and informative outing, the Expo delivers something for everyone.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 17 July 2025

Community Event Time: 12pm–2pm

Location: Midway Community Centre, 3 Midway Drive, Buronga, NSW

Reserve Your Free Entry

To assist with catering and planning, please reserve your free ticket via Humanitix.

RESERVE FREE ENTRY

Buronga Effluent Disposal Station – Smart Fill Unit Upgrades

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The Buronga Effluent Disposal Station will not be operational from 7am Monday 23 June until 5pm Monday 30 June 2025.

The station will be fitted with a “Smart Fill Unit”, to be consistent with the system installed over 12 months ago at the Wentworth Effluent Disposal Station.

During the initial trial period the station will require a $1.00 “tap and go” charge to activate the pump for each boat sewage pumpout. This discounted charge is applicable for the initial trial period of July only. Rates as set out in Wentworth Shire Council’s Operational Plan will apply after the trial.

Wentworth Shire Council thanks the Buronga boating community for their patience during this important upgrade.

Privacy Awareness Week NSW 2025

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Privacy Awareness Week is a global campaign that involves both public sector agencies and citizens and aims to improve understanding and awareness of NSW privacy legislation, and to raise awareness of a person’s privacy rights and agency obligations.

Privacy Awareness Week NSW takes place from 16 – 22 June 2025 and this year’s theme is Privacy – it’s everyone’s business and focuses on privacy being a shared responsibility where everyone has an important role to play. By working together, the protection and security of personal information can be maintained.

Wentworth Shire Council is a proud Champion of Privacy Awareness Week NSW 2025 and is committed to protecting the privacy of NSW citizens.

In NSW, your privacy is protected by the:

  • Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (PPIP Act) which outlines how NSW public sector agencies, including government agencies, local councils, State-Owned Corporations and universities, manage and protect personal information
  • Health Records Information Privacy Act 2002 (HRIP Act) which promotes fair and responsible handling of health information. The HRIP Act applies to an organisation in NSW that is a health service provider or that collects, holds or uses health information. This includes both public and private sector organisations.

This Privacy Awareness Week, consider these privacy protection measures to help you be more privacy-conscious:

  • Protecting your privacy starts with being cautious about what you share. Think twice before posting personal details on social media or other platforms. Only connect and share with people you know.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts. This helps prevent unauthorised access to your personal information. Regularly update your passwords to enhance security and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
  • Be cautious of phishing scams and unsolicited requests for personal information. Verify the source before providing any details.
  • Shred unwanted papers that show your personal information.
  • Report any data breaches or suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. Stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your information.

As a member of the public, you have a right to have your personal information protected. If you are concerned about a breach of your privacy by Wentworth Shire Council, you can request us to conduct an internal privacy review. Learn more here Wentworth Shire Council Privacy Management Plan.

The Information and Privacy Commission (IPC) can also help you understand privacy laws in NSW and give you information on how to protect your personal information and assert your rights. Learn more by visiting the Privacy Awareness Week webpage www.ipc.nsw.gov.au/PAWNSW2025