Meat Masterclass series continues across the region
Meat Masterclass series continues across the region
Building on the success of community-led workshops in Wentworth and Hatfield, Wentworth Shire Council is expanding on the popular Meat Masterclass series with two new free, full-day events this October. The series will visit Pooncarie on Saturday 11 October and hold a partnered regional session in Euston on Saturday 25 October.
Led by mobile butcher Andrew Gould (A.G. Home Butchery) and chef Evan Algate (Souvlaki Inn and Pavilions Bistro), the hands-on program covers butchery and smoking essentials. Participants will see demonstrations on breaking down sides of beef, sheep, and pork, receive sausage-making guidance, and learn practical tips for smoking brisket, with a focus on flavour, technique, and equipment set-up. The day includes meat tastings, and family activities with The Outback Mobile Resource Unit (OMRU) will be available from 10am-2pm at the Pooncarie session.
Event Details
Pooncarie Workshop
- Date: Saturday, 11 October 2025, 9:30am – 5:30pm
- Location: Pooncarie Town Hall
- Catering: Provided by the Wentworth Branch of the ICPA.
- View Poster
- Register: https://events.humanitix.com/meat-masterclass-butchering-and-smoking-workshop-pooncarie
Euston Workshop
- Date: Saturday, 25 October 2025, 9:30am – 5:30pm
- Location: Euston Club, Euston (Balranald Shire)
- Catering: Provided by the Euston Club.
- View Poster
- Register: https://events.humanitix.com/meat-masterclass-butchering-and-smoking-workshop-euston
Mayor of Wentworth Shire, Cr Daniel Linklater said, “Council is focused on practical skills and local connections. Following the community workshops in Wentworth and Hatfield, Council is pleased to take the practical masterclasses to Pooncarie and to collaborate with our neighbours in Euston. This program builds local skills and confidence, whether you process your own livestock or want to master weekend smoking, while connecting people with valuable services and with each other.”
These workshops are a collaboration between Wentworth Shire Council, Pooncarie and District Development Association (P.A.D.D.A), Western Landcare NSW, and the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) and are proudly supported by funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
For participant enquiries, please contact Dennis McLaughlan at dennis.mclaughlan@wentworth.nsw.gov.au
Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) Partnerships
Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) Partnerships
Wentworth Shire Council invites local businesses to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to help enhance the visitor experience for the upcoming Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO) on Log Bridge Road, Wentworth.
Download the EOI form: https://mildura.com/lights/foso-partnerships
Hard copy forms: Wentworth Visitor Information Centre or Council Administration Office, 61 Darling Street, Wentworth.
Closing: 5pm, Thursday 9 October 2025.
Submission: Email completed EOIs to lights@mildura.vic.gov.au
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.
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.
Final Stage Completed at Buronga Riverfront Precinct
Final Stage Completed at Buronga Riverfront Precinct
Wentworth Shire Council has officially completed the Buronga Riverfront upgrade, with the opening of a new, accessible public toilet block marking the final stage of the project.
The Buronga Riverfront precinct has been transformed into a major recreational hub on the banks of the Murray River, providing families and visitors with high-quality facilities and attractions.
Mayor, Cr Daniel Linklater, said the project delivers on Council’s vision for a vibrant and inclusive community space.
“This is a proud moment for our community. Families have embraced the pump tracks and nature play area, and with these new facilities, they can enjoy this beautiful location for even longer.”
General Manager, Mr Ken Ross, said the project highlights Council’s investment in spaces that enhance daily life and visitor experience.
“The Buronga Riverfront has quickly become part of everyday life for local families and community groups, while also attracting visitors. It is a space where people can gather, exercise, relax and connect with the river.”
New Facilities Now Open
The completed precinct now includes:
- A modern amenities block with accessible and family-friendly facilities
- Dual sealed, all-weather pump tracks
- A rejuvenated nature-based playground, restored following flood impacts
- Undercover seating and picnic tables
- Landscaped lawns and pathways along the Murray River
Location
The Buronga Riverfront precinct is located on the northern bank of the Murray River, adjacent to the George Chaffey Bridge. Access is via the Sturt Highway (A20), with links to regional bus services and shared pedestrian/cycle paths connecting Gol Gol, Buronga and Mildura.
Council encourages both residents and visitors to make the most of this new community destination.
Wentworth Sewer Rehabilitation: Additional Sewer Asset Relining
Wentworth Sewer Rehabilitation: Additional Sewer Asset Relining
Wentworth Shire Council wishes to advise residents of Wentworth that Contractor Insituform is continuing sewer relining works within the western portion of the township.
The project has already repaired more than 3.5km of sewer mains, and Council has committed to an additional 1km of relining to further strengthen this essential 1950s underground asset.
Works are scheduled for completion by late September 2025. Works are not expected to take place on weekends, with operating hours restricted to 7am–5pm.
Brief roadwork diversions may be required on some streets and laneways to enable access. Access to certain backyards may also be necessary where sewer mains are located on private property. The Contractor will liaise directly with affected residents and business owners prior to entering private property.
Council apologises for any inconvenience and appreciates the community’s patience while these important works are completed.
For further information, please contact the Wentworth Shire Council Office on (03) 5027 5027.
New Junction Island Viewing Platform Under Construction
Wentworth Shire Council advises residents, businesses and visitors that construction of a new viewing platform is underway at the western end of Junction Island, Wentworth.
Works commenced on Monday 18 August 2025 and are scheduled for completion by late October 2025.
During construction, the existing viewing platform and the far western end of the walkway will not be accessible. At certain critical stages, the full walkway and bridge from the Two Rivers Ski Reserve car park on Ski Reserve Road may also be closed. These closures will be kept to a minimum and clearly signposted in advance.
To support safe public access during works, Council has agreed the following arrangements with the contractor:
- The island will be closed completely between 7am-9am and 3pm-5pm on weekdays.
- At all other times, including weekends and public holidays, the island will be open up to the location shown on the map below.
- If the island needs to be closed outside the times above, the contractor will provide at least 24 hours’ notice.
Council apologises for any inconvenience and appreciates the community’s patience and understanding throughout the delivery of this important project. Council looks forward to welcoming residents, businesses and visitors to the new viewing platform upon completion.
Wentworth Shire Council – Countback Election Outcome
Wentworth Shire Council – Countback Election Outcome
Wentworth Shire Council advises that the countback election to fill a casual vacancy, held at 10am on Tuesday 12 August, has been finalised.
The vacancy occurred following the passing of Councillor Timothy Elstone. As determined at Council’s first meeting after the 14 September 2024 ordinary election, vacancies are to be filled via the countback process.
The NSW Electoral Commission has confirmed that Brian Beaumont has been elected as Councillor for Wentworth Shire Council.
Council congratulates Councillor Beaumont on his election and looks forward to working with him in serving the Wentworth Shire community.
The written Declaration of Councillor can be viewed below and is on display in Councils Main Office, 61 Darling Street, Wentworth.