News archive
This is an archive containing every news story ever posted on the BDT website. If you’re looking for a specific article, try the search box at the top right hand side of this page. Otherwise you can just browse the archive by selecting a year and month below.
February, 2011
Message getting through
Originally published: Monday, 28th February, 2011
Police thank responsible drivers
Greening our perspectives
Originally published: Monday, 28th February, 2011
The city's Greens candidate for the NSW election said she wanted to change perceptions about the party.
Party HQ for young racers
Originally published: Monday, 28th February, 2011
Young racegoers will be able to party in an airconditioned marquee this year.
Roof an engineering feat
Originally published: Monday, 28th February, 2011
The depth of Broken Hill's engineering expertise was on show again recently when a team of 15 men and three cranes undertook the massive exercise of roofing a new structure at Kanandah Road.
Thieves ransack home of terminally-ill woman
Originally published: Monday, 28th February, 2011
Police want the public to help them catch those responsible for ransacking a terminally-ill woman's home while she was in hospital, stealing a large amount of cash and her last will and testament.
Dave eyes Council seat
Originally published: Monday, 28th February, 2011
As pre-polling in the City Council by-election gets underway today, Independent candidate Dave Gallagher looks back on his campaign as an eye-opener.
Signs are good
Originally published: Saturday, 26th February, 2011
By Gina Wilson
Rex Airlines wants to add four more flights to its Broken Hill network.
The city’s Sydney and Adelaide routes both had a big jump in passenger numbers last year, with as many as 14 per cent more people flying.
While across the Regional Express Airlines (Rex) network passenger numbers fell by 1.4 per cent, the Broken Hill to Sydney leg rose 10 per cent to about 14,000.
The big jump was on the city to Adelaide leg with about 2,000 more people flying, bringing that route’s total seat sales to 17,000.
Rex, the sole commercial airline servicing the city, said it hoped to increase its early-week Adelaide flights to three but admitted that could be some time away.
“The next logical steps are increasing the Monday and Tuesday services from two return services to three return services which makes for three return services Monday to Friday,” the airline said.
“When demand increases to make this economically viable it will be considered as part of the ongoing network reviews.
“The average (occupancy) ... was below 63 per cent which does not warrant additional capacity ... (but) we as an airline are motivated to fly more.”
General manager for Rex’s network strategy Warrick Lodge said more mining activity boosted the city’s passenger numbers with Rex adding some ad hoc flights to serve passengers attending several large local conferences.
All in all 3,000 extra passengers flew through the city in the six months.
Mr Lodge said its network-wide passenger numbers were affected by increased airport charges at two regional airports, Burnie and Mt Gambier, which brought capacity down.
“The vast majority of our services went up including Broken Hill,” Mr Lodge said.
“It is showing strong signs and that’s positive for Broken Hill.”
While Mr Lodge admitted the figures were being compared to 2009’s global-financial-crisis-induced depressed level, he said there was growth occurring.
“We went through a period of (depression) during the GFC and with the pilot shortage ... but now we’re back on track and seeing some good signs of growth,” he said.
“We hope that we can continue to grow Broken Hill well into the future.”
Rex, which flies to 35 destinations in five states, said Broken Hill made up less than five per cent of its total passenger numbers.
The company posted a $12.2 million before tax profit, down 5.4 per cent, amid a five per cent jump in fuel costs and a 3.8 per cent increase in other costs.
In its half-yearly financial report for the six months to December 31, released this week, Rex showed a 1.4 per cent overall drop in passenger numbers.
Dash gathers pace
Originally published: Saturday, 26th February, 2011
It’s not quite the race that stops a nation but you could say that the YMCA Living Desert Dash is the event that gets Broken Hill moving.
A small army of participants will set out this year for a day of running, jogging or walking from the Living Desert to Picton Oval on Sunday, March 27.
The event attracts entrants from all walks of life for serious competition, or just a lot of fun.
There will be a festive atmosphere at the finish line at Picton Oval with food and stalls, activities and exhibitions.
“Who knows, with the whole community behind it and in future years we can begin to attract some of the big name runners while at the same time developing the festival atmosphere,” committee member Steve Burton said.
“It is, after all, a fun-run and it’s fun, not fame, that motivates most of the entrants.”
Mr Burton also said registrations for the annual event have been strong and the arrangements were going well.
From this year on, anyone who takes part will become inaugural members of the “Living Desert Dash Legends Register”.
“Over the years and with further events, this list will of course thin out. The only way to stay on the ‘Legends Register’ is to be there each and every year.
“In years to come these ‘Living Desert Legends’ will be specifically recognised via a distinctive award system,” Mr Burton said.
Participants can choose to start at 8am for a 10km run or walk, or 8:30am for a 5km run or walk. There is also a short walk for children.
People can pick up entry forms from the YMCA.
We've got you in our sights
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
A new state-wide police operation has drink-drivers in its sights.
Bid to avert industrial action
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
The Barrier Industrial Council will meet with the Far West Local Health Network this afternoon in a last ditch attempt to avoid industrial action at the Broken Hill Base Hospital.
Student driven to succeed
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
Recently the BDT gave our readers a first-hand account of what it was like to start a new school year through the eyes of Sacred Heart Year 4 student, Millie.
'Deadly' disease warning
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
Locals travelling to southern parts of NSW and into Victoria are being warned to take precautions following the detection of a fatal mosquito borne disease.
Spruced up Jube ready for another big season
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
By John Casey
Goats got your goat?
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
This means cleaner water into the river system.
Townsfolk need books not water
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
The "Tibooburra Book Exchange and Yacht Club" needs your help to boost the township's stock of books.
Sheep thieves at work
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
Two station properties in the district have been robbed of sheep and valuable machinery.
Proud club in danger
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
For local softball legend Cheryl Meuret, this season's grand final could be her last due to dwindling numbers of new players.
Tigers to meet Excelsiorin softball Grand Final
Originally published: Friday, 25th February, 2011
Tigers have defeated Penguins 12-5 to move into the Grand Final tonight at the Jubilee Oval.
China eyes cobalt
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
Chinese companies are interested in cobalt deposits near the city, according to an Australian company that is about to test the size of its resource.
Crean invited to inspect the lakes
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
The Federal Government's Minister for Regional Australia, Simon Crean, has been invited to visit the city and the Menindee Lakes.
Painter lives for art
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
The Broken Hill Art Precinct in Duff Street is presenting its first ever solo exhibition by an Aboriginal artist tomorrow.
Sarah has nose for the news
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
Sixteen-year-old Sarah Ridley is a young girl in a hurry.
Local police staying home
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
No police from Broken Hill or the Barrier Local Area Command have been called on to help in the aftermath of the earthquake in Christchurch.
Wage deal victory
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
'This is an historic victory for members and patients'
- Brett Holmes
Busy scammers have phones running hot
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
More locals are coming forward with complaints about a telephone con trick.
Voting goes online
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
Hopefully one day we'll all do it over the internet
Tennis turmoil as kids abandon game
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
First it was cricket now junior tennis in Broken Hill is in "dire straits", according to the Broken Hill Tennis Association.
Lines new league chief
Originally published: Thursday, 24th February, 2011
The BH Football League has a new chairman after former secretary Richard Lines was elected to the position on Tuesday night.
Girls can can entertain you
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
The city will be taken to Gay Paree this weekend when talented local dancer and producer Andrew Bevan presents a Tribute to Moulin Rouge.
10 times over the limit
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
Broken Hill police have condemned the behaviour of a 20-year-old provisional licence holder who rolled his car in Bonanza Street early yesterday morning.
'Battler' decision soon
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
The city should know within two weeks which "battler" will receive free entry to the soon-to-be-transformed War Veterans' Retirement Village.
Health check measures up
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
A local pharmacist has welcomed the NSW coalition's $10 million "Community Health Check" plan.
Push for tax break
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
The Broken Hill Community Foundation is building momentum toward its ultimate goal of raising a $2 million capital fund by continuing its push to be registered as a deductible gift recipient.
Old TV program a hit
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
City Council's free television recycling program has been extended due to public demand and Council now has another container to pack full of old screens.
Merit in shared facilities idea
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
'We should belooking at a shared facility transport corridor and a shared facility port on the eastern sideof the Spencer Gulf.'
- Nick Sheard
Woman hangs up on con
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
A local woman received a suspicious call this week and immediately recognised it as a con trick.
On your bike: new season starts
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
Cyclists with the local Mountain Bike Club are starting the new season with a team social race at the Broken Hill Golf and Country Club this weekend.
Murray house swims to victory
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
Railwaytown Public School held its swimming carnival yesterday and a good day was had by all.
The Silver City Archers
Originally published: Wednesday, 23rd February, 2011
On Sunday 20th February the Silver City Archers held a 2 arrow Safari shoot with both arrows counted resulting in a possible total of 800 points.
Lost father inspires teen to help others
Originally published: Tuesday, 22nd February, 2011
One brave young woman is helping others by joining the World's Greatest Shave.
City won't star in Great Gatsby
Originally published: Tuesday, 22nd February, 2011
Broken Hill might be number four on the list of films where the destination is the star, but it's not quite right for Baz Luhrmann's Great Gatsby.
South tries change for size
Originally published: Tuesday, 22nd February, 2011
"Watch this space" he said yesterday.
Cathy drawn to art education role
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
By Caitlin Keenan
Foundation donation in honour of parents
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
The Lynch family has become the fourth 'Gold Friend' of the Broken Hill Community Foundation after giving a donation in memory of their parents, Mick and Eileen.
New entrance less confusing
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
Visitors to the city's famous Sculpture Symposium will no longer need to collect a key to enter thanks to the construction of a new road.
Healthy outlook
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
The prognosis for health services in Broken Hill is improving, according to the Chief Executive of the recently-formed Far West Local Health Network.
Teen 'knifed by relative'
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
A teenager received multiple stitches in her left arm after she was allegedly knifed during a domestic incident on Friday.
Scholarship opens many doors: winner
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
By John Casey
Consols’ contribution
Originally published: Monday, 21st February, 2011
History will long link the Consols Mine with its Assayer/Sub-manager and then General Manager George 'Smith'.
Ethan trumpets band
Originally published: Saturday, 19th February, 2011
Nineteen-year-old Ethan Mercer is the youngest member of the BIU Band and that is something he wants to change.
Listing the lakes
Originally published: Saturday, 19th February, 2011
Listing the Menindee Lakes as an internationally significant wetland could save it from the threat of closure, DRAG said.
Netball season arrives
Originally published: Saturday, 19th February, 2011
Locals keen to play netball are invited to a registration day being held tomorrow.
Major event boost
Originally published: Friday, 18th February, 2011
The patron of a resources symposium to be held in the city soon hopes it will become a regular event bringing thousands more people to the city.
Cotton demand driving Tandou jobs
Originally published: Thursday, 17th February, 2011
But with cotton fetching record prices and an abundance of cheap water Tandou is now looking for people, including a gin shift supervisor, a workshop mechanic and an agronomist.
Program teaching the game of life
Originally published: Thursday, 17th February, 2011
"The players really played good basketball," Mr Curtis told the BDT.
Novice drivers set to qualify quicker
Originally published: Wednesday, 16th February, 2011
The State Government is changing the learner driver logbook system to cut the hours needed to qualify to 100.
Victims 'dudded'
Originally published: Wednesday, 16th February, 2011
Under National Disaster Relief Arrangements, eligible recipients in Queensland and Victoria can be given up to $25,000 but the limit is $15,000 in NSW.
Break-in arrest
Originally published: Tuesday, 15th February, 2011
A suspected burglar crawled under a police vehicle in the early hours of yesterday morning in an alleged attempt to evade capture.
Police had stopped and spoken to the 39-year-old man after seeing him walking near the corner of Cobalt and Chloride streets and carrying a back pack about 3am.
He allegedly became aggressive and a struggle ensued between him and the officers, the police said.
After a short of time he broke free and crawled underneath the police vehicle, they said.
The officers tried to drag him out, they said, but eventually resorted to giving him a burst of pepper spray.
He emerged from under the vehicle and ran off but was caught a short distance away, police said.
Another short struggle ensued before he was handcuffed and locked in the back of the police vehicle.
When police searched the man and his backpack they allegedly found a small amount of cannabis, some cash and other items believed to be from break and enter offences committed in Broken Hill.
A number of knives, a razor blade, a pair of scissors, electrical equipment and a quantity of jewellery and documentation was also allegedly found.
Police said they believed these were also the proceeds from recent burglaries.
He has been charged with a large number of offences and will soon face the Local Court.
A recent increase in break-ins and stealing from cars in the city prompted police to last week issue a warning to residents to secure their homes and property.
LAC Crime Manager Detective Inspector Mick Stoltenberg said it appeared the intruders were after cash and urged residents to report any suspicious behaviour or people.
Police were forced to issue a second warning on Sunday after another four homes were targeted over the weekend.
Miles comes into focus
Originally published: Tuesday, 15th February, 2011
Up and coming local cameraman Miles Clothier believes he can play an important role as part of the Film Broken Hill Advisory Group.
Love still in the air for this pair
Originally published: Monday, 14th February, 2011
"I've never received a Valentine's card even!" said Mrs Bacich, who was finally rewarded for her patience with a gift of red roses from her husband this year.
Nurses to vote on offer
Originally published: Monday, 14th February, 2011
The additional jobs are being offered by the government alongside a 9.7 per cent incremental pay rise for nurses due to be introduced over the next two years.
Rasp set to ramp up
Originally published: Sunday, 13th February, 2011
The mining company was this month given the go-ahead by the State Government for a major expansion at Rasp, which has remained dormant for over two years following a global collapse in metal prices.
Potosi mine gets go-ahead
Originally published: Saturday, 12th February, 2011
The announcement comes two months after Perilya was granted development approval from City Council to reopen the mine, which is expected to employ about 100 people.
St Anne's dispute deepens
Originally published: Friday, 11th February, 2011
"Everyone who wanted a job basically got a job," Mr Carter said.
Every picture tells a story in Marie Hart's new show
Originally published: Friday, 11th February, 2011
Ms Hart, daughter of late Pro Hart, said her interest in bushrangers was sparked by, of all people, Mick Jagger.
Country hospitals promised more
Originally published: Friday, 11th February, 2011
She is expected to abandon a plan drawn up by Kevin Rudd to take back a third of the states' GST in exchange for the commonwealth becoming the dominant funder of hospitals.
Ford honours go to local apprentice
Originally published: Friday, 11th February, 2011
That includes the Northern Territory and South Australia as part of the nationally-recognised Ford Apprentice Program.
Thieves abroad, police warn
Originally published: Friday, 11th February, 2011
Police said a number of items were stolen from the car yard after thieves forced their way in through a door.
Aged Care questions remain
Originally published: Thursday, 10th February, 2011
The local hospital has not addressed public concerns about aged care patients after a sick, elderly woman spent all night in the emergency department.
Spirited start to election campaign
Originally published: Thursday, 10th February, 2011
Broken Hill voters are in for an entertaining ride in the lead up to the March 26 NSW state election judging by this week's narrative in the Murray-Darling electorate.
Motorists fail to heed warning
Originally published: Thursday, 10th February, 2011
At least six drivers were booked for speeding in school zones yesterday, despite warnings from police this week to drive carefully.
Candidates for the South
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
Independent candidates for next month's City Council by-election, Dave Gallagher and Larry Angell, have both vowed to represent the South if they are elected.
Bush kids in safe hands away from home
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
Allison House has welcomed a new group of bush students and supervisors.
New school in a new town
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
Millie reports from Year 3
No room in the ward for elderly patient
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
by Gina Wilson
Local MP launches campaign in Deniliquin
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
by Gina Wilson
Outback lifestyle suits new recruits
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
After being understaffed for months, local police ranks have been given another boost with the arrival of another two officers this week.
Local lads picked for NSW footy squad
Originally published: Wednesday, 9th February, 2011
Two Broken Hill boys are one step away from playing in the nation's premiere tournament for aspiring AFL footballers - the NAB Under-18 National Championships.
Not just soaked, but extra cold
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
Close to 80mm of rain was dropped on the city over the weekend, bringing to an end the dreaded humidity and creating a new record for the coldest February day the city has ever felt.
A couple of old mates on a serious mission
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
By Stefan Delatovic
First day a happy one for new nurses
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
The Broken Hill Health Service has received a booster shot with the graduation of a group of Registered Nurses.
'Grotto' site up for grabs
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
The old 'Otto's Grotto' site has been put on the market, much to the surprise and disappointment of its biggest fan.
Drinks spiked not only in big cities
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
Local partygoers are being urged to protect themselves from drink spiking in pubs and clubs.
Car break-ins prompt warning
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
Locals are being reminded again to lock their vehicles at all times, following a spate of thefts from cars.
Taekwondo classes for young and old
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
Outback International Taekwondo has two new lead instructors who are ready to teach you the martial art.
South Darts Association
Originally published: Tuesday, 8th February, 2011
Results round 2, 3-2. 180 Stacey Dunlop. With 7 regos R. Greeney, D. Graham 6 B. Baron, 5 G. Stevens, L. Wood, B. McKay, G. Rawle, K. Bloomfield, R. O'Donnell, S. Edgecombe, M. Sultana, 4 J. McAvaney, P. Bottrell, M. Hetherton, C. Bottrell, D. Mallon, C. Wyatt, K. Roberg, D. Sibson, G. Long, B. Grose, M. Rayner, A. Edgecombe.
Big day for students and parents
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
It's back to school time - and time for parents to help prepare their kids for the year ahead.
Getting ready to dance
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
Silver City Dance Academy is a new dance school opening next week with the offer of quality tuition by trained local dance teachers.
Tony and Doffy call it a day
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
Tony and Doffy White are making their last outback trip after 16 years of offering skin treatment to isolated patients.
Edwards headed to the Fringe
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
Local artist Deirdre Edwards is heading off to the Adelaide Fringe Festival to exhibit her work.
Award deadline approaches
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
Nominations are closing soon for the HESTA Australian Nursing Awards.
Neville's knock
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
Neville Gasmier, the Country Labor candidate for the NSW election, has been out doorknocking in the city and says he will continue to consult with the public over matters raised with him.
Preserving the land
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
Money is now available to help station owners in the far west improve their properties and preserve the natural landscape.
Kickett comeback
Originally published: Monday, 7th February, 2011
After battling through two years of injury and disappointment, Thomas Kickett's charge towards an AFL career is back on track.
Still an ore-some lode
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
The Rasp Mine was proof there was a lot of mining still to do in Broken Hill, Professor Ian Plimer said yesterday.
Feeling the squeeze
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
Fresh fruit and vegetable prices are rising and local traders are feeling the squeeze.
Batten down the hatches
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
Former Broken Hill residents caught up in the Cyclone Yasi drama are understandably anxious about the level of destruction they will have to confront.
Local doctor marches toward own practice
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
Local doctor marches toward own practice
Council shapes up to local kebab shop
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
City Council will proceed with legal action against the Late Night Kebab shop.
"Wanted" man hands himself to police
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
A man wanted for assaulting a taxi driver has handed himself in to police.
Tender presentation welcomed
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
Today's presentation from the groups vying for the city's green waste services would allow councillors to be fully informed, according to Councillor Bob Algate.
Locals to train with Giants
Originally published: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011
Junior footballers will have the opportunity to take their game to the next level in the coming weeks as the Under 16 Greater Western Sydney Giants squad begins training.
Mining boom
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
Rasp operation to generate $2 billion plus over 16 years
It's hot but relief coming
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
Broken Hill has been sweating out a four-day heatwave but relief is on the way with temperatures set to ease tomorrow.
Rasp to shape city's future: local leaders
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
The Rasp mine could be the tool that shapes the city's immediate future, according to civic leaders.
Don't deal with water tank seller: Fair Trading
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
Following on from a report in the BDT last month, the NSW Department of Fair Trading has issued a warning about a company offering water tanks for sale.
Simple steps to stay cool, safe
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
With this week a scorcher, the health service has offered a few simple precautions to keep cool and stay safe.
Preparing for back to school
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
It's almost back to school time, and time for parents to help prepare their kids for the year ahead.
Walker ready for breakthrough season
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
By Peter Argent
Swim teacher accreditation course coming up
Originally published: Wednesday, 2nd February, 2011
A course for locals who would like to teach children how to swim is being held here by the Royal Life Saving Society.
Smoke and mirrors
Originally published: Tuesday, 1st February, 2011
Councillors often do not have enough information to make informed f inancial decisions, according to Clr Bob Algate.
Reduced to rubble
Originally published: Tuesday, 1st February, 2011
Demolition of the old buildings at the Regional Aquatic Centre has started with the toilet block, the entrance and the canteen the first to be knocked down.
What will we do with this old building?
Originally published: Tuesday, 1st February, 2011
The public is being asked for its ideas about the future of the old public toilets in Sturt Park.
Medals, finals and more
Originally published: Tuesday, 1st February, 2011
The Broken Hill Swimming Club sent its biggest team in years to the SA State Long Course Swimming Championships held in Adelaide last week.
Emus help local kids to fly
Originally published: Tuesday, 1st February, 2011
The Broken Hill Outback Emus are inviting junior sportsmen and women to apply for the club's Special Projects Program.