G’DAY folks,
Here we are nearly at the end of January, another year under way, and already things are starting to pick up pace after the festive season. I hope that everybody had a chance to get some down time, although I know that for some people working on the land, running their own businesses, working in health, policing or the emergency services finding that time can be hard.
This year is shaping up to be a big one, with a Federal Election looming, it will be interesting to see what promises are made by both sides that will affect regional NSW and affect what happens in parliament this year.
Bus services survey
GIVEN the vast distances separating towns in Barwon, public transport plays a vital role in the lives of my constituents. Many people in Western NSW rely on buses to get them where they want to go. NSW Trainlink is proposing changes to the timetables and routes, based on passenger feedback, but they want more public input.
They are asking people to take part in a survey at https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/trainlink-coach-network-review
I would urge anybody who relies on public transport to take part in the survey. The plan is to introduce the changes in 2026.
Perilya Mine fire
LAST week we heard news of a fire in the Perilya Mine at Broken Hill. Fortunately, workers who had been underground at the time were evacuated from the mine safely, but there were concerns about the cloud of gas and smoke over the city. An Emergency Operations Centre was set up in response, the mine has a sub plan, as part of the New South Wales State Emergency Management Plan, to detail the arrangements and response to an emergency.
It is yet to be confirmed, but the cause of the fire is thought to have been a polyurethane foam, often referred to as a “grout”, used in the mine. The fire occurred in a disused section of the mine that was in the process of being remediated and there was a chemical reaction with the foam.
The Emergency Operations Centre has been stood down with the mine and the Resource Regulator back in control. The latest news I have, is that the fire is extinguished, but there are still smouldering timbers. However, Perilya has not yet returned to full operations. It is concerning that miners are either using their leave entitlements or if they have exhausted their leave, or are a casual or contracted employee, are not being paid.Power outage inquiry
THE power outages in the far west of NSW last year dominated the headlines for a time and left a lot of households and business in the region out of pocket. The inquiry that I requested be held into the outages is kicking off, so I would urge people to make a submission, so that we can hear from all affected members of the community. The inquiry will cover a range of relevant issues relating to the outages, including how they happened and how effective were the measures taken by electricity providers in response to the loss of power. The inquiry will make recommendations on preparation and mitigation strategies that may help safeguard the Far West NSW in the future.
To make a submission go to https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/lodge-a-submission.aspx?pk=3084
Seniors local achievement awards
NOMINATIONS are still open for the Seniors Local Achievement Awards. If you know someone in your community who has gone above and beyond, making a significant contribution, helping with inclusiveness and diversity, providing inspiration for others, I encourage you to nominate them for some well-deserved recognition. The awards will be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival running from March 11 to March 24.
To download the nomination form go to https://www.roybutler.com.au/seniors_local_achievement_awards_2025_news
You can return it to- barwon@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Or by post to one of my electorate offices: Broken Hill Office,
1/142 Argent Street, Broken Hill, NSW, 2880.
Alternatively, pop into the closest electorate office to grab a form and return it in person.
Roy Butler
Member for Barwon
