Wondering where the drought is up to?

This chart from the NSW Dept. of Primary Industries and dated 21st January 2019 may help you appreciate where things are currently at.…

https://edis.dpi.nsw.gov.au/

Central West Scholarship recipient: Krystal Dallinger — **Central West Scholarship recipient:** Krystal Dallinger

Applications Open for Local Youth Scholarships
Financial help and mentoring are available for local disadvantaged young people to realise their academic or sporting dreams through the Grow A Star’s Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation youth scholarships.

A total of 25, $2,000 scholarships are available for young people aged between 15 and 18 from the NSW Central West, Upper Hunter and mid-North Coast regions who live in, or are eligible for, community housing.

Grow A Star spokesperson Martin Kennedy said the scholarships are to help with educational or sporting equipment and fees. In addition to funding, recipients get mentoring support from the Grow A Star coordinator to help them to set and stay focused on their goals.

He said many talented kids in community housing miss out on realising their potential or dreams because their parents simply can’t afford lessons, training or equipment.

To apply or find out more visit www.compasshousing.org/community-programs/grow-star

Evocities Call for Dedicated Minister for Regional NSW
Evocities Chair Cr Kevin Mack has called on the NSW government to appoint a standalone

Minister for Regional NSW and increase investment towards regional relocation campaigns.

“With a state election just months away, population policy is shaping up to be a critical issue as

congestion and cost of living issues cripple our capital cities,” explained Cr Mack.

“For eight years Evocities has been promoting regional city living and providing support for

people relocating. We know what’s worked and where the barriers are.”

The state government has been asked to commit $500,000 annually over the next four years to

build on the success of Evocities. Cr Mack believes the entire state would benefit from the

creation of a regional NSW portfolio and standalone ministry.

“If we’re serious about enabling population and economic growth in regional NSW we need a

dedicated minister to drive decentralisation.”

Since its launch in 2010, the seven Evocities have been in contact with 3620 relocated households. The campaign encourages people to live, work and invest in an Evocity by showcasing the many lifestyle and employment benefits of Evocity living.

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