Wentworth Shire Council joins communities across Australia in observing A National Day of Mourning on Thursday 22 January to honour the victims of the Bondi terrorist attack.
Council will fly flags at half-mast as a mark of respect and remembrance for those who lost their lives, for their families and for all who have been deeply affected by this senseless act of violence.
The day will be marked under the theme Light Will Win — a time for reflection, remembrance and coming together.
Council encourages residents to take a moment on 22 January to reflect, remember and reach out to others who may be struggling.
If you wish to observe the day, you might choose to:
Mayor Linklater encourages residents to observe the day in a way that feels meaningful to them, whether through reflection, spending time with loved ones or offering kindness to others in our community.
“This day is an opportunity for quiet reflection and for standing together with care, respect and compassion, particularly with those who are grieving. It is also a reminder of the strength found in unity and the importance of supporting one another during times of sorrow. On behalf of Wentworth Shire Council, I extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected.”
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/26-011-Bondi-Beach-Day-of-Mourning-Social-Tiles-1x1-1.jpg10801080Marketing & Communications Officerhttps://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/wsc-logo-180.pngMarketing & Communications Officer2026-01-20 15:45:402026-01-20 15:45:41Wentworth Shire Marks National Day of Mourning
Wentworth Shire Council has announced the official details for the Wentworth Flood Rally (70 Years On), a three-day celebration to commemorate seventy years since the historic 1956 Murray–Darling Flood. The event will include an attempt to break the Australian record for the largest assembly of Ferguson TEA20 (“Little Grey Fergie”) tractors.
The rally, to be held over the King’s Birthday Long Weekend from Friday 5 June to Sunday 7 June 2026, will honour the extraordinary resilience of the Wentworth community, who famously used the Little Grey Fergies around the clock to build levee banks and protect the town during the biggest flood in recorded history.
The Wentworth Flood Rally is expected to attract more than 3,000 visitors from most states and over 250 registered vintage vehicles dated pre-1956.
Roll in Tractor Trek, Friday 5 June 2026
Participants of the Flood rally will trek from Red Cliffs to Wentworth, marking the beginning of the weekend program.
70km Tractor Trek, Saturday 6 June 2026
A 70km trek through Wentworth and the surrounding region will celebrate the spirit of the 1956 flood response, showcasing an impressive convoy of vintage machinery travelling through areas where flood waters once marked the district.
Australian Record Attempt, Street Parade, Historic Displays and Market, Sunday 7 June 2026 A standout moment of the commemorative celebrations will take place on Sunday 7 June, when enthusiasts will unite for an Australian record attempt to gather the largest assembly of Ferguson TEA20 tractors. Owners of Little Grey Fergies and other eligible machinery are invited to register for this historic occasion.
The day will include a major street parade featuring vintage vehicles, machinery displays and living history presentations. Personal stories and interviews will reflect on the 1956 flood and the community’s resilience. The parade will conclude in Darling Street, where the record attempt will be held.
Local markets at the wharf precinct, along with shopping and dining options across the township, will offer visitors a vibrant showcase of regional produce, culture and tourism.
Wentworth Shire Council Mayor Daniel Linklater said, “The Wentworth Flood Rally is more than tractors – it is a living monument to the Wentworth community and Australian ingenuity. We are calling on every Little Grey Fergie and other vintage machinery owners to join us for the 70km Trek and help make history. Come and celebrate the saving of the Wentworth township during the iconic 1956 flood and bring its story back to life.”
How to Get Involved
Vintage Vehicle Owners
Registrations for the Australian Record Attempt and the 70km Trek are now open
Visit www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/flood-rally for further details and registration forms. Register your tractor by emailing tractor@wentworth.nsw.gov.au
Stallholders
Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are open for food vendors, local producers and specialised trade stalls. EOI submissions will close Friday 1 May 2026. Apply to events@wentworth.nsw.gov.au
General Attendees
With limited accommodation available in Wentworth, visitors are encouraged to make bookings early. Full event details, local attractions and accommodation links are available at experiencewentworth.com.au
Council invites the community to take part in the weekend’s program of festivities and discover more of Wentworth and Surrounds. Visitors will also be able to experience the region’s newest attraction, Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO).
Opening in April 2026, this immersive installation by artist Bruce Munro will feature eighty illuminated columns synchronised to an original orchestral score by British composer Nainita Desai. Together with Trail of Lights, FOSO will offer a distinctive multi-day cultural experience that enriches the wider visitor journey.
About the Wentworth Flood Rally (70 Years On)
The Wentworth Flood Rally marks seventy years since the 1956 Murray–Darling Flood, when the Wentworth community united to save their town by building levee banks with the help of Ferguson TEA20 tractors. The rally honours this legacy and showcases the enduring spirit of the region through a major regional tourism event supported by Wentworth Shire Council.
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if someone shows signs of heatstroke, including:
Nausea
Confusion or unconsciousness
Lack of sweating
High body temperatures (above 40°C)
Heatstroke is a medical emergency – act quickly.
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/notice-heatwave-stay-safe.jpg10241024Webmasterhttps://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/wsc-logo-180.pngWebmaster2026-01-07 13:58:062026-01-07 13:58:06How to stay safe during a heatwave
A new, combined Trail of Lights (TOL) and Fibre Optic Symphony Orchestra (FOSO) ticketing model is officially live following valuable community and visitor feedback.
The new ticket model aims to provide a balance between affordability and the long-term viability of these world-class experiences by internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro.
Mildura Rural City Council Councillor for Events and Tourism Rebecca Crossling said feedback from the community, visitors and staff had been vital in finalising the fresh ticketing approach.
“With FOSO tickets now available ahead of a 2026 launch, the time was right to revisit our ticketing model, ensuring residents and visitors were in the best position to visit both installations in an affordable and sustainable way,” Cr Crossling said.
“It was always our intention to revisit ticket options as the launch of FOSO drew closer, and we believe we have landed on a position that provides the best opportunity for financial sustainability, while driving higher visitation to these world-class attractions.
“Our locals’ prices also mean tickets are more accessible to residents, empowering them to promote TOL and FOSO to their visiting families and friends, amplifying reach and building community ownership of the experience.
“And with FOSO open in time for Easter – it’s also a great gift idea for visiting relatives and friends!”
New Ticketing Options Tickets for both installations are now available, with options designed to encourage visitation across both attractions:
Local Residents:
Adults $25, Children $12.50, Concession $17.50
Family of two adults and two children: $60 per installation, or $90 for a combination ticket
General Admission:
Adults $35, Children $15, Concession $22, Family $85
Combination tickets for TOL and FOSO available
“What’s really exciting about the new model for residents is our reduced family tickets, with two adults and two children now able to visit either installation for $60 separately, or $90 when purchasing a combination ticket for both installations,” Cr Crossling said.
Wentworth Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Linklater said, “FOSO is more than an attraction; it is a unique cultural experience that highlights the beauty of Wentworth Shire and invites visitors to explore our region. Early ticketing provides an opportunity for families and friends to plan a visit and experience both FOSO and Trail of Lights during the Easter period.
“These installations are opportunities to showcase our region, increase visitation and length of stay, and encourage visitors to spend widely across our region,” Cr Linklater said.
Since opening in April 2025, thousands of people have visited Trail of Lights, while also enjoying the revamped Rio Vista Park, featuring Jessica Rabbit Café and the TOL Bar.
Local and general admission tickets and combination packages, and gift vouchers for TOL and FOSO are available now by visiting www.mildura.com/lights/tickets
About Trail of Lights Created by internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro, Trail of Lights is an enchanting fusion of art and nature, integrating 12,500 firefly lights and 22 Gone Fishing sculptures with the natural beauty of the island and the river. It is a quiet and contemplative experience, immersed within the art, one removed from the rush and stress of our daily lives, and has attracted more than 12,000 visitors since opening in April 2025.
Fibre Optic Symphony Orchestra – A Major New Attraction in Wentworth FOSO will open in April 2026 between Perry Sandhills and Thegoa Lagoon, Wentworth, providing an immersive artistic experience that combines quintessential Australian landscapes with cutting-edge fibre optic installations. An original orchestral score composed by internationally acclaimed British composer Nainita Desai accompanies the installation, creating a fully immersive visitor experience.
Planning Your Visit With construction works for FOSO progressing and Bruce Munro’s team scheduled to return in February 2026 for the next stage of development, both Councils encourage visitors to plan their visits early. The joint approach highlights the Mildura-Wentworth region as a key destination for artistic and cultural experiences.
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/FB-Fibre-Optic-Symphonic-Orchestra-FOSO-Ticketing.jpg17541754Marketing & Communications Officerhttps://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/wsc-logo-180.pngMarketing & Communications Officer2025-12-23 11:04:362026-01-29 11:26:53New Trail of Lights ticketing model launched ahead of the FOSO opening
To protect the health and safety of staff and the community, Council waste transfer stations will close on days when temperatures exceed 40 Celsius. The Buronga Landfill remains open per normal operating hours.
Please check Council’s website and Facebook page for updates before visiting a transfer station during extreme weather conditions.
Council is completing 10km of formation and drainage works at the southern end of Nob Road. These upgrades are vital for building up low-lying areas to prevent water ponding and to reduce closures during the wet season. 🌧️
The project is 50/50 funded by the Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund (RERRF) and Roads to Recovery programs.
A further 4.8km of re-sheeting is scheduled for completion this financial year.
Please drive carefully around heavy machinery and follow traffic directions. Thank you for your patience as these works improve our shire’s road network.
The Natural Resources Access Regulator is increasing early intervention efforts to prevent water law breaches in the lower Murray as permanent crop production expands. Growers are being encouraged to plan ahead for dry conditions, with monitoring expected to focus on unlawful water use over the next year.
Motorists are encouraged to take extra care on our regional roads during the busy summer harvest period.
With more heavy vehicles and farm machinery travelling between properties and grain receival sites, drivers may encounter large, slow-moving vehicles more often than usual. The Be Truck Aware campaign, supported by Transport for NSW, GrainCorp, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and state farming networks, is a reminder for all road users to stay patient, stay alert and make safe decisions on the road.
Key safety reminders this harvest season: • Be mindful of increased truck movements and larger blind spots • Allow extra travel time and avoid risky overtaking • Always wear your seatbelt • Manage fatigue before starting your journey • Slow down, look and listen at level crossings
Variable message signs are in place across the region to reinforce these important safety messages and to support safer travel for all road users.
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/115734-2.jpg10801080Marketing & Communications Officerhttps://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/wsc-logo-180.pngMarketing & Communications Officer2025-11-21 12:18:122025-11-21 12:18:13Motorists are encouraged to take extra care on our regional roads during the busy summer harvest period.
Notice for new Planning Applications The period between 20 December and 10 January (inclusive) is excluded from the calculation of required public notification days as per Schedule 1, Part 1, Division 3 section 16 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
All new development applications received by Council from 24 November 2025 will have their public notification fall within 20 December 2025. Any planning applications whose public notification days fall within 20 December 2025 and 10 January 2026 cannot be determined in 2025, and will be determined after 10 January 2026.
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Notice-for-new-Planning-Applications.jpg17541754Marketing & Communications Officerhttps://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/wsc-logo-180.pngMarketing & Communications Officer2025-11-20 10:41:512025-11-20 10:41:51Notice for new Planning Applications
Wentworth Shire Council has introduced a major initiative to strengthen public participation and promote transparency with the launch of its new online community engagement platform, Engage Wentworth & Surrounds.
Powered by the Social Pinpoint technology widely used across Australia, this dedicated digital hub will become the central place for residents to share ideas, provide feedback on Council projects, and remain informed about local planning and key strategic directions. The initiative reinforces the Civic Leadership objectives identified in the Wentworth Shire Community Strategic Plan 2026–2036, particularly the community’s call for better communication and engagement, and broader consultation.
Wentworth Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Daniel Linklater, said “The platform will play a vital role in building trust and strengthening decision-making across the Shire. Our Community Strategic Plan is clear: our success relies on strong, ethical and inclusive civic leadership. Engage Wentworth & Surrounds is the tool that makes this possible. It ensures every resident, wherever they live across the Shire can genuinely participate in decisions that affect their lives.”
The Engage Wentworth & Surrounds platform supports the delivery of Council’s long-term planning documents, including the Community Strategic Plan 2026–2036 by strengthening leadership that is open, transparent and inclusive; the Economic Development Strategy 2025–2035 by supporting sustainable and well-planned growth that is respectful of stakeholders; the Community Engagement Strategy by providing inclusive, innovative and accessible methods of communication that reach all groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities in remote areas; and the Resourcing Strategy by enabling informed decision-making and responsible resource allocation, consistent with the principles of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework.
Accessible at engage.wentworth.nsw.gov.au, the platform offers a range of opportunities for residents to get involved, including interactive mapping tools for location-specific comments and project feedback, surveys and polls for structured consultation across a broad range of topics, and discussion forums that encourage community ideas and collaboration on strategic planning matters.
The platform allows users to follow projects relevant to where they live or subjects they care most about, helping them stay informed throughout the decision-making process.
Council is committed to ensuring that community input meaningfully influences outcomes wherever possible. All residents, businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to register at engage.wentworth.nsw.gov.au and take part in shaping the future of Wentworth Shire.
https://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/FB-Engage-TEMPLATE4.jpg17541754Marketing & Communications Officerhttps://www.wentworth.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/wsc-logo-180.pngMarketing & Communications Officer2025-11-13 14:00:002025-11-12 12:43:29Launch of Engage Wentworth & Surrounds Community Engagement Platform
