Locals urged to shape the future of our rivers

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Locals urged to shape the future of our rivers

After more than a decade of Basin Plan implementation, water management in the Basin has reached a critical point of reflection, and the conversation about its future is well underway.

In February, the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) released the 2026 Basin Plan Review Discussion Paper, outlining progress to date and exploring the key issues, challenges and opportunities for the decade ahead.
Since then, hundreds of conversations have taken place in towns and communities across the Basin, and the consultation period is now at its halfway mark.

People who live and work in the Basin bring deep local knowledge and lived experience that is essential to this Review. These insights help build a clearer picture of what matters on the ground across communities, industries and environments.
With more than 2.4 million people living in the Basin, the MDBA is keen to hear from as many voices as possible to ensure a broad and balanced range of perspectives.

You don’t need to be an expert to take part. You can simply share what’s important to you, your family or your community. If there’s one issue you care about, you can focus on that. Even a few sentences can help inform the Review.

Consultation on the Discussion Paper remains open until 5:00 pm (AEST) on 1 May 2026.

The MDBA will publish a ‘what we heard’ report summarising the insights shared, which will help inform the Basin Plan Review Report to be provided to the Australian Government later this year.

Stay informed with the latest updates on the Basin Plan Review via www.mdba.gov.au. Access the discussion paper and make a submission at www.getinvolved.mdba.gov.au/2026basinplanreview

R2026/24 – FOSO Support Officer (Casual)

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Daylight savings ends, Sunday 5 April, 3am

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A reminder to all residents that Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, 5 April 2026. While most digital devices will update automatically, remember to manually wind back any analogue clocks, car displays, and kitchen appliances before you head to bed on Saturday night.

When: Sunday 5 April 2026.

The change: At 3:00 am, clocks move back one hour to 2:00 am.

The benefit: You’ll gain an extra hour of sleep and enjoy more natural light in the mornings as we move into the cooler months.

For more information on time zones and daylight saving in NSW, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/about-nsw/daylight-saving

Explore the Region This April School Holidays

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Explore the Region This April School Holidays

Wentworth Shire Council is excited to welcome families and visitors to the region for the upcoming NSW Autumn school holidays, running from Saturday 11 April to Sunday 26 April 2026. With a packed programme of library activities, world-class natural attractions, and the upcoming Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) set to open on Friday 24 April, there has never been a better time to escape to Wentworth.

Whether you are sliding down the iconic Perry Sandhills, standing at the majestic junction of the Murray and Darling Rivers, or stepping back in time at the Old Wentworth Gaol, the Shire offers an unforgettable autumn getaway. We encourage visitors to stay a few extra nights to enjoy our local hospitality, support our small businesses, and experience the unique charm of our historic towns.

“Autumn is a spectacular time to experience the Wentworth Shire,” said Wentworth Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Linklater. “I invite everyone to take a drive and discover the unique sights and delights of our region. From our excellent library programmes to our iconic natural landmarks, there is so much to see. I encourage you to book a cosy stay, enjoy our local cafes, and make some wonderful family memories right here in our backyard.”

FOSO Opening Update

The highly anticipated opening of the Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) has been rescheduled to Friday 24 April 2026. This follows a record-breaking 250mm deluge across the Wentworth and Mildura regions, which caused significant ground damage and boggy conditions at the site near the Perry Sandhills and Thegoa Lagoon.

While the delay is disappointing, prioritising a world-class guest experience remains Council’s focus. Although the FOSO opening is delayed, the complementary Trail of Lights experience in Mildura remains open over the Easter period. Tickets for the revised FOSO dates are available at mildura.com/tickets.

Library Holiday Programme

To complement your outdoor adventures, Wentworth Shire Libraries will host a variety of engaging holiday activities, including movie afternoons, creative craft sessions, and active movement programmes for younger children. For a full list of library activities and other community happenings, please visit the official Events page: experiencewentworth.com.au/EventPages.aspx

Bookings and Enquiries

To ensure your place in our library holiday programmes or for further information on the region, please contact the team:

Read the full media release below:

Media ~ Wentworth Shire Council Invites Families to Explore the Region This April School HolidaysDownload

Draft Complaints Management Policy

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Draft Access to Information Policy

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Draft Privacy Policy

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School Holiday Fun at Wentworth Shire Libraries!

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Get ready for an action-packed April school holiday period! From Saturday 11 April to Sunday 26 April 2026, Wentworth and Midway Libraries are hosting a variety of free activities designed to spark creativity, movement, and fun for all ages.

Whether you’re a movie buff, a board game champion, or a budding artist, we have something for everyone. Check out our full line-up below and mark your calendars!

Holiday Operating Hours

Please note that our libraries will be CLOSED for the following public holidays:

  • Easter: Friday 3 April (Good Friday) to Monday 6 April (Easter Monday).
  • ANZAC Day: Saturday 25 April and Monday 27 April (Observed).

Normal operating hours will resume on Tuesday 7 April and Tuesday 28 April respectively.

Bookings and Enquiries

Many of our sessions have limited capacity. To secure your place or for more information, please contact the library team:

Free Safe Towing & Weighing Workshops: May 2026

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Free Safe Towing & Weighing Workshops: May 2026

Wentworth Shire Council is inviting residents to a series of free Safe Towing Workshops and professional weighing sessions this May. Supported by the NSW Government, this initiative helps ensure that those towing trailers, caravans, boats, or horse floats are operating safely and legally.

With towing enforcement currently high for travellers heading to Queensland, these sessions offer timely expert guidance to ensure your rig is compliant before your next journey.

Why Attend?

Incorrect loading and non-compliance can result in significant fines, demerit points, and the potential voiding of insurance cover. Participants will receive:

  • Professional Weighing: Services valued at $350, provided for free.
  • Expert Guidance: Practical knowledge on brake controllers, load equalisers, and safety chain configurations.
  • Maintenance Tips: Essential “must-dos” for vehicle configuration and load distribution.

Read the full media release below:

Media Release – Free Safe Towing & Weighing Workshops this MayDownload

Register Now

Registrations are essential and close at 10:00am on Friday, 1 May 2026. Places are limited, so early booking is highly encouraged.

REGISTER

Project Update: Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) Opening Delayed

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Project Update: Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) Opening Delayed

FOSO Site, Log Bridge Road, Wentworth – 2 March 2026

The opening of the Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) has been rescheduled to Friday 24 April 2026 following severe weather across the Wentworth and Mildura region.

Initially set to open for the 2026 Easter long weekend, the site has been heavily impacted by record rainfall in late February and early March. A deluge of approximately 250mm has resulted in boggy conditions and ground surface damage adjacent to the Perry Sandhills.

While the weather has impacted the construction programme, Bruce Munro’s Studio and supporting team are continuing to progress the installation of the 80 columns of light and complex fibre optic systems.

Key Information for Visitors

  • New Opening Date: Friday 24 April 2026.
  • Ticket Holders: Current ticket holders affected by the delay have been contacted.
  • Enquiries: All ticketing changes and refund enquiries are being processed by the Mildura Visitor Information Centre on (03) 5018 8380.
  • Easter Period: The Trail of Lights in Mildura remains open over the Easter period as a complementary experience.

Wentworth Shire Council and Mildura Rural City Council appreciate your patience as we work to ensure the long-term integrity of this world-class attraction. Read the full media release below.

Joint Media Release – FOSO Project Update – Friday 6 March 2026Download
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