I'd like to say thankyou to everyone who came along and supported us in this fund raising event.

It was a huge success with about 60 people visiting the Hall throughout the morning for a cuppa and to view the artworks on display.

As a result $1000 was raised for the Cancer Council. 

The raffle winners were June Russo, who won the painting by Avanka Jacopec and Dorothy Roddy drew the print by Sheldene Visage.

Karleen Reilly and Andy Washington guessed the lucky cup numbers and very generously donated their winnings back.

Thank you also to the members of the art society who contributed to the event by exhibiting their artworks, cooking, helping to set up and assisting with serving and cleaning up.

It was a fantastic group effort.

Jeanette Washington

President

Leeton Art Society

THE Local Land Services (LLS) is currently at a crossroads.

The upcoming state budget will be a real sign on whether the organisation can survive or collapse under the combined weight of diminished resources and increased workload.

LLS has struggled to meet the substantial expectations of government since its very inception.

It has operated in an environment where job cuts and restricted resourcing has hindered any desire or ability to complete the tasks set by government. 

I really feel for the employees of LLS - all good people doing their best in trying and difficult circumstances.

Yet even current and former board members are speaking out against these cuts.

Front line staff numbers have been slashed while more and more money goes on corporate services. 

Given the additional responsibilities placed on LLS through the biodiversity and biosecurity reforms – a significant boost to funding is needed. 

This budget must deliver real funding - not simply be a cynical exercise in restoring funding previously cut by this government.

LLS is already starting from a weak financial position.

Minister Blair inherited LLS as a junior minister - he is now the second most senior National Party MP in NSW.

This budget is a real test for the Minister and whether he can deliver the funds needed by LLS to carry out its ever increasing role.

Mick Veitch 

Opposition spokesman for Primary Industries, Lands and Western NSW

THE 2017 edition of the Department of Primary Industries’ (DPI) weed control in winter crops guide is available to assist farmers to control weeds and boost production.

The guide outlines the best management techniques that farmers can use for successful weed control to increase productivity and profitability. It outlines the recommended timing for applying herbicide and application rates in the chemical control tables covering winter cereals, pulses and oilseeds.

Annual weeds typically compete most with cereals and broadleaf crops when the crops are in their earlier growth stages, so it is important to try to control weeds within six weeks after sowing to minimise losses.

Download the guide at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/broadacre-crops/guides/publications/weed-control-winter-crops.  

Greg Brooke

DPI development officer and author