Category: NSW News

Jaylah Boney is one of the rising stars of Australian netball—a fierce competitor, a proud Indigenous woman, and a natural leader. At just 18, the Central Coast Heart Premier League player has already represented her nation and state. Hailing from Brewarrina, a small town west of Dubbo, Jaylah brings the strength of her culture to everything she does, on and off the court. “I’m a proud Ngemba Barkandji girl, so that’s all my mob, from out past Dubbo,” she says with quiet confidence. “It means everything to me—not just in sport, but in everything I do. I’m proud of who I am.”

Jaylah’s journey in netball began with family. Inspired by her mum, aunty and cousin, who all played at Cardiff Netball Club in Newcastle, Jaylah picked up a bib and hasn’t looked back since. “I used to watch my mum play every week—being surrounded by family made me want to be a part of it too,” she says. Today, she competes at the elite level in the Netball NSW Premier League for Central Coast Heart and is steadily making her mark on the national stage. In 2024, she represented NSW at the inaugural First Nations Netball Tournament and was selected for the Black Swans team that competed at the Pan Pacific Championships. In 2024, Jaylah was named captain of the Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas, leading her side to a bronze medal at the tournament. “Being captain was really special. I’d say I’m humble, relentless and someone who leads by example. Whether on or off the court, I try to lift up my teammates and stay connected to my culture through everything I do.” Jaylah balances her athletic ambitions with her role working in administration at an Indigenous medical centre. She draws strength from her culture daily—not just through work, but through dance. “Dance is a way we pass down our stories,” she explains. “I started performing at school, then with family, and now we get invited to perform at events. It just grew.”

Jaylah credits netball for shaping her as a person. “It’s made me who I am today,” she reflects. “My attitude’s changed a lot. It never used to be the best, but netball’s taught me resilience, how to bounce back, how to be a better version of myself. I’m really grateful for that.” Her path hasn’t always been easy. Before the First Nations Tournament, she considered stepping away from the sport. But the opportunity to play for her culture reignited her purpose. “That pathway kept me in the game. It meant everything.” As NAIDOC Week 2025 honours The Next Generation – Strength, Vision, Legacy, Jaylah embodies the theme wholeheartedly. “We need to stand up, pass on our culture—not just to others, but to each other. As the next generation, we’ve got to keep doing what we’re doing, and do it together.”

Ten outstanding athletes have been selected to represent their state as members of the Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas – to compete at the 2025 First Nations Netball Tournament.

Returning for the second year, the Netball NSW Waradas will showcase a formidable blend of experience and emerging talent, with eight players backing up from the 2024 tournament. Two exciting debutants-Lily-Louise Walker (Wayilwan & Wiradjuri) and Phoebe Hickson (Dunghutti/Wurundjeri)-will join the squad and bring fresh energy and ambition to the court.

Coach Colleen Mitchell, a proud Worimi woman, is thrilled with the calibre and cohesion of this year’s team.

“This netball group is strong, skilful and fiercely proud. The returning athletes have grown in confidence and leadership, and our two new players fit in seamlessly. I’m so excited to see what we can achieve together-we’re not just representing our culture, we will build on it with every pass, every game,” Mitchell said.

In the shooting circle, Dharawal goal shooter Charlotte Ryan will team up with Wiradjuri’s Jayda Grant (GA/WA) and Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi’s Mia Evans (GA/WA) to provide firepower up front.

Midcourt will be patrolled by Acacia Elers (WD/WA) Worimi/Awabakal, Ellie Stacey (WA/C) Wonnarua, Tahlia Robertson (C/WD) Whadjuk, and Lily-Louise Walker (C/WA) Wayilwan/Wiradjuri, providing speed, skill and composure through the middle.

In defence, Jaylah Boney (GK/GD) Ngemba/Barkandji, Alirah Watton (GD/GK) Gamilaroi, and Phoebe Hickson (GK/GD) Dunghutti/Wurundjeri will stand tall and strong to repel opposition attacks.

All ten athletes are proud graduates of the Netball NSW First Nations Emerging Talent Program-an emerging development initiative designed to support athletes from metropolitan, regional and First Nations communities. Through the program, players receive individual on court technical and tactical netball skills, while also building vital off-court foundations in areas such as women’s health, nutrition and high performance behaviours.

Now in its second year, the First Nations National Netball Tournament has grown into a five-day celebration of Indigenous excellence in netball, bringing together the most talented First Nations players from across the country in a full round-robin competition format.

Mardi Aplin, General Manager – Performance & Pathways at Netball NSW, said the tournament’s growth highlights its importance to the future of the sport.

“Launched in 2024, the tournament marked a historic milestone in Australian netball, offering a national platform to showcase Indigenous talent and accelerate the development of future stars. We’re proud to continue our commitment to this important program.”

That commitment is already yielding results. Following standout performances in 2024, three NSW athletes-Acacia Elers, Jayda Grant and Jaylah Boney-were selected for the national Black Swans team and went on to compete at the 2024 Pan Pacific Tournament.

Netball NSW will also send two talented First Nations umpires-Mark Munnich (A Badge) Yawuru/Gunggandji/Yued from Northern Suburbs Netball Association and Mackenzie Knox (B Badge) a proud Kamilaroi from Narrabri Netball Association -as part of its First Nations development pathway, supporting growth and representation both on and off the court.

As part of the overall cost of sending the team to the event, a $20,000 investment from Netball NSW partner FDC will ensure that every Netball NSW athlete is fully funded to compete. The funding covers costs associated with travel, accommodation, playing kit, and high-performance support.

The 2025 First Nations National Netball Tournament will take place from 20-24 August at Jubilee Park Stadium in Frankston, Victoria.

2025 Netball NSW First Nations Team – the Waradas

Jaylah Boney, Ngemba/Barkandji, Newcastle Netball Association
Acacia Elers, Worimi, Awabakal, Newcastle Netball Association
Mia Evans, Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi, Illawarra District Netball Association
Jayda Grant, Wiradjuri, Wyong District Netball Association
Phoebe Hickson, Dunghutti/Werunjeri, Penrith District Netball Association
Tahlia Robertson, Whadjuk, Sutherland Shire Netball Association
Charlotte Ryan, Dharawal, Randwick Netball Association
Ellie Stacey, Wonnarua, Newcastle Netball Association
Lily-Louise Walker, Wayilwan & Wiradjuri, Newcastle Netball Association
Alirah Watton, Gamilaroi, Dubbo Netball Association

Coach – Colleen Mitchell, Worimi, Ku-Ring-Gai Netball Association
Assistant Coach – Kellyann Huggins, Gomeroi, Maitland Netball Association.

Umpire – Mark Munnich, Yawuru/Gunggandji/Yued, Northern Suburbs Netball Association
Umpire – Mackenzie Knox, Kamilaroi, Narrabri Netball Association

TAFE NSW Tamworth is embracing NAIDOC Week 2025 with a dual investment in culture and skills, as the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to rebuilding TAFE NSW delivers both infrastructure upgrades and the long-awaited return of Aboriginal language training to the region.

After more than five years, the Certificate I in Aboriginal Languages for Everyday Use will be offered at TAFE NSW Tamworth, Quirindi, and Gunnedah, reconnecting local Aboriginal communities with language, identity, and intergenerational learning.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting Aboriginal communities to reawaken and claim languages. Language means everything to communities who have kept their languages alive despite significant barriers, and this inclusion helps ensure they are preserved for the future.

At the same time, the Tamworth campus has undergone an $850,000 upgrade, including an expansion of the welding fabrication bays and significant toilet renovations to improve student amenities and inclusivity in trades training.

The welding upgrade, valued at around $350,000, will accommodate more students in high-demand trades, while the $500,000 toilet upgrade delivers code-compliant and inclusive facilities, including female amenities in a previously male-dominated training area.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to rebuild TAFE NSW as a high-quality, inclusive and community-focused public education provider – right across regional NSW.

“This is Rebuilding TAFE in action. Upgrading infrastructure, restoring vital training, and making campuses more inclusive for every student.

“Through the new TAFE NSW Charter, we’re ensuring TAFE NSW remains a strong, publicly owned provider that meets the needs of its communities.

“Whether it’s expanding access to trade skills or reviving Aboriginal language training, we’re delivering on our commitment to make TAFE NSW a place where culture, opportunity and community come together.

The announcements reflect the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, with the return of Aboriginal language training helping preserve and celebrate cultural identity, while the campus upgrades support inclusive, future-focused learning environments for all students.”

Premier Chris Minns and NSW Government Ministers will head to the Tweed in the state’s Northern Rivers for the Minns Labor Government’s next Community Cabinet.

Community Cabinet provides valuable insights into the diverse needs and opportunities for the different regions across NSW and connects communities with the state’s decision-makers.

The Premier and Ministers will engage with community members and organisations and host a community forum on Wednesday 30 July.

The community forum will include an opportunity for community members to ask questions to the NSW Premier and Cabinet Ministers and raise matters of importance in the Tweed region.

This will be the Minns Labor Government’s third Community Cabinet of 2025 and eighth since forming Government, as they continue work to build a better New South Wales informed by local voices.

Community Cabinets have also been held on the South Coast and the Central Coast as well as in Broken Hill, Orange, Riverstone, East Hills and Penrith.

Community Q&A Forum

The Premier, will be joined by NSW Ministers for a Community Q&A, giving members of the community an opportunity to directly engage with the NSW Government about local matters of importance.

WHERE: Twin Towns Clubs and Resorts, Level 5, 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

WHEN: 12:00pm-1:15pm, Wednesday 30 July 2025.

NOTE: Registration is required to attend this event.

Members of the community can register by visiting nsw.gov.au/communitycabinet or phoning, 02 9228 5188.

Media can register by emailing bess.graham@premier.nsw.gov.au

Registration is free and closes on Monday 28 July. Pre-registration is required as places are limited.

NSW Premier, Chris Minns said:

“The North Coast, including Tweed Heads have faced a difficult few years, from historic floods, to Cyclone Alfred as well as the threat of fire ants along the Queensland boarder – it is not an exaggeration to say this part of our state is home to some of the most resilient communities in our country.

“Community Cabinets are vital in our work to ensure we deliver solutions informed by local voices, I’m looking forward to hearing firsthand about the opportunities and challenges that are front of mind on the ground.

“I’ve made multiple visits to the region over the past two years, but coming for Community Cabinet is special because it’s not about one or two major issues of the day: it’s about hearing everything.

“Flood preparedness and recovery is high on our radar, and we want to know how that’s tracking, but we also want to ensure we have a deep understanding of all issues that and opportunities that affect the region.”

Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said:

“I’m pleased to be bringing Community Cabinet to the Tweed to continue strengthening the connection between the government and our passionate residents.

“This event is a chance for the Tweed community to meet with government leaders and help them better understand the challenges, benefits and way of life up here in Tweed.

“Our residents and businesses experience unique circumstances, particularly as a border community, and it’s important for government decisions to reflect and respect those experiences.

“I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to meet with the Premier and Ministers and share their perspectives, ensuring their priorities are heard and recognised.”

The NSW Government is encouraging nominations for the 2025 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, which recognise the achievements of talented and inspirational women in councils across NSW.

The 18th annual Awards will be presented on Thursday, 23 October during a ceremony at NSW Parliament House, co-hosted by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.

The Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of women working and serving in local government, along with successful council programs aimed at supporting female participation.

Nominations are now open for awards covering both metropolitan and rural/regional areas:

• Alternative Pathways Award – a female staff member who is breaking down gender stereotypes
• Champion of Change Award – a general manager or senior manager who has excelled in supporting and encouraging women’s participation at their council
• Elected Representative Award – a female councillor who has advanced the position of female elected representatives
• Employment Diversity Award –a council with a successful program that increases female representation in senior leadership or elected representative roles
• Woman of Distinction Award – a woman who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, integrity and initiative, or who has a positive influence on others
• Young Achiever’s Award – an outstanding female staff member (including trainees and apprentices) aged 25 and under
• Councillor Lilliane Brady OAM Award – winner determined by the Minister for Local Government, to recognise and honour the dedication and tireless work of a female council staff member or elected representative (nominations not required)

Nominations close on Tuesday 19 August and can be made on the Office of Local Government website: https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/our-minister/ministers-awards-for-women-in-local-government/

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:

“One of the great joys of being Minister is visiting councils across NSW, meeting the many talented women dedicated to making their local community a better place to live and work. 

“These awards highlight their outstanding achievements, as well as showcase the innovative council programs that support the participation of women in local government.

“I encourage everyone working alongside talented and inspirational women to make a nomination and give them the recognition they deserve.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women make exceptional contributions to councils across NSW and these awards are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those achievements.

“Having worked and served in local government I know there are many wonderful women who contribute to their local community through their involvement in councils.

“It’s important to highlight women’s accomplishments and support female participation in councils to inspire the next generation of local government leaders.”

Safer, more reliable journeys are on the way for motorists who use the Central Coast Highway, with main construction works starting to upgrade the Central Coast Highway-Tumbi Road intersection.

The Albanese and Minns Labor governments are joining forces to deliver a $65.5 million upgrade that will significantly improve journeys for Central Coast motorists and the 26,000 vehicles using this stretch daily.

The transformation will slash travel times, improve safety, and boost the local economy with 125 construction jobs supported throughout the build.

This major investment will be split among the two governments, with the Albanese Government contributing $52.4 million, and the New South Wales Government investing $13.1 million.

Work has officially begun to replace the existing roundabout with modern traffic lights and expand the highway to two lanes in each direction, to the project boundary. This upgrade will address the notorious bottleneck and improve traffic flow and safety on the Central Coast Highway between Wamberal and Bateau Bay.

Key project features

The comprehensive upgrade includes:

• Traffic lights replacing the roundabout
• Highway widening to two lanes each way north of the intersection
• Two right-turn lanes from Tumbi Road onto the highway
• A right turn lane onto Tumbi Road from the Central Coast Highway southbound
• Extended left-turn capacity into Tumbi Road
• Upgraded footpaths and cycling infrastructure
• Relocated bus stops for better passenger access, with two existing northbound bus stops moved to a common location north of the intersection

Timeline and consultation

Following extensive community consultation in 2021-2022 and preparatory works in 2023, Daracon Pty Ltd was awarded the construction contract in March 2025. The project is expected to be completed in 2027, weather permitting.

More information can be accessed here.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Endless queues down Tumbi Road will soon be a thing of the past as the Australian Government and the NSW Government work together to upgrade the Tumbi Road intersection.

“This upgrade will make the intersection safer, reduce delays and improve traffic flow. Traffic lights will also give NSW traffic controllers the ability to make changes to the timing and sequencing of lights to maintain traffic flow even in the busiest holiday periods.”

Federal Member for Dobell Emma McBride:

“The Tumbi Road roundabout is a known bottleneck and I’m delighted to see work start to address this long-standing issue.

“Replacing the roundabout with traffic lights will help better manage traffic flows, reducing congestion and cutting travel times.

NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison:

“It’s fantastic to see work start to upgrade the Tumbi Road intersection, which is one of the most congested on the Central Coast Highway.

“This upgrade will improve journey times and reliability for the 26,000 motorists who use this section of road every day.

“This day has been a long time coming and I’m delighted to be part of a Labor government that is delivering for the people of the Central Coast.”

NSW Minister for the Central Coast David Harris:

“This upgrade will benefit all local road users, whether they are driving, walking, riding or using public transport.

“This work will make journeys safer and quicker, which is good news for residents, local businesses and transport operators.

“It’s good news for the local economy too, with the project to create about 125 jobs throughout the construction phase.”

State Member for The Entrance David Mehan:

“This is a critical upgrade for communities across the Central Coast because the Central Coast Highway is a key regional link.

“It is absolutely fantastic see this work getting underway.

“All road users can look forward to reduced congestion and more reliable journeys.”

The 2025 HART Junior State Titles has officially concluded after three massive days of competition , marking the biggest event in the history of junior netball in New South Wales. 

With a record-breaking 240 teams from every corner of the state, this year’s Titles saw more than 2,500 young athletes descend on the courts at Baulkham Hills and Penrith, cementing the event as the largest junior netball tournament ever held in NSW. 

“This is the biggest weekend on our junior netball calendar, and this year, it’s bigger than ever,” said Stacy Harding, Netball NSW General Manager of Competitions.

“We’re incredibly proud to have brought together so many communities from across the state in one place to celebrate the sport.” 

The HART Junior State Titles is the pinnacle event for netballers aged 12–14, uniting players, coaches, umpires, and officials for a showcase of talent, teamwork and state pride. 

2206 games were played nearly 50,000 goals scored, and with over 6,000 spectators across both venues, all contributing to an unforgettable celebration of grassroots sport. 

“While the Junior State Titles are about recognising the top-performing teams in the state, they’re just as much about creating a love for netball that lasts a lifetime,” said Trish Crews, Executive General Manager of Community at Netball NSW.

“The memories made here will stay with these players well beyond the final whistle.” 

Baulkham Hills Shire Netball Association hosted the 12U, 13U and 14U Championship and Division 2 teams, along with the 14U Male Championship. Penrith District Netball Association welcomed Division 3 and 4 teams in the 12U, 13U and 14U categories. 

Teams who finished top of Division 1 in their age group have now earned the prestigious title of 2025 State Champions. 

Netball NSW would like to sincerely thank every player, coach, umpire, volunteer, supporter and staff member who contributed to making this year’s event such a resounding success. 

A special acknowledgment goes to the dedicated volunteers at both host Associations, Baulkham Hills and Penrith, Naming Rights Partner HART Sport, and the Baulkham Hills and Penrith Councils for their continued support of this milestone event. 

Below is an overview of the winners and runners up in each Division. For full results please visit the PlayHQ Page and use the navigation menu at the top to select Divisions. 

14U Division 1 

Champions: Randwick Netball Association 
Runners up: Sutherland Shire Netball Association 

14U Division 2 

Winners: Hawkesbury City Netball Association 
Runners up: Wagga Wagga Netball Association 
 

14U Division 3 

Winners: Kurri Kurri Netball Association 
Runners up: Ballina Netball Association 

14U Division 4 

Winners: Wollondilly Netball Association 
Runners up: Woolgoolga District Netball Association 

13U Division 1 

Winners: Manly Warringah Netball Association 
Runners up: Bankstown City Netball Association  

13U Division 2 

Winners: Hills District Netball Association 
Runners up: Bankstown City Netball Association 

13U Division 3 

Winners: Queanbeyan Netball Association 
Runners up: Tamworth Netball Association 

13U Division 4 

Winners: Inverell Netball Association 
Runners up: Singleton Netball Association 

12U Division 1 

Champions: Lakeside Netball Association 
Runners up: Penrith District Netball Association 

12U Division 2 

Winners: Bankstown Netball Association 

Runners up: Hills District Netball Association 

12U Division 3 

Winners: Kiama Netball Association 
Runners up: Singleton Netball Association 

12U Division 4 

Winners: West Wyalong Netball Association  
Runners up: Musswellbrook Netball Association 

14U Male State Champions 

Winners: Ku-ring-gai Netball Association 
Runners up: Inner West Netball Association 

The NSW Government has given the green light for Central Coast Council to undertake temporary protective works to shore up properties at The Entrance North from the threat of coastal erosion.

On Friday 4 July, Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin signed off on coastal protection works to be undertaken by property landowners, under section 68 of the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act.

This followed Council submitting a proposed scope of works for The Entrance North on 13 June 2025 which was the necessary precondition for Minister Saffin to be able to authorise the protection works.

Minister Saffin authorised the works following consultation with relevant state agencies, and having previously signed a Reconstruction Area Order to erosion impacted properties in The Entrance North and at Wamberal in May following extensive consultation with Central Coast Council.

Under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act 2022, the Order enables ministerial powers to allow Central Coast Council to undertake temporary emergency coastal erosion protection works, bypassing the lengthy development application process.

The NSW Government is currently awaiting Council’s scope of works for Wamberal.

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“I am pleased the NSW Government is able to help Central Coast Council and landowners move quickly to do what’s necessary to make their homes safer.

“We now eagerly await Council’s scope of works for Wamberal.

“While it is pleasing to see these temporary measures progressed, properly dealing with coastal erosion requires Council to develop its Coastal Management Programs (CMPs).

“CMPs identify coastal management issues, and the actions required to address these issues in a strategic and integrated way and we very much look forward to seeing Council’s new CMP.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“The NSW Government is supporting Central Coast Council to protect communities in The Entrance North and Wamberal from coastal erosion.

“I am pleased to approve Council’s request and enable the people of The Entrance North to do what needs to be done to make their homes safe.

“I thank the Council through Mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna and local residents for their collaborative work with the NSW Government that enabled me to sign off this critical order. It is the first time such an order has been put in place to enable emergency coastal erosion works.”

“These works represent a necessary interim measure to mitigate immediate risk to properties and infrastructure, and to maintain the safety of the public, while Coastal Management Programs and permanent works continue to be developed.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said:

“Last week’s weather event again highlighted that action is needed to help stem the tide of coastal erosion at The Entrance North and Wamberal.

“It’s great to see the NSW Government is enabling the necessary works to take place under the inaugural use of the Reconstruction Area Order.”

Another leg in the race to establish southeast NSW as a premier mountain bike hub is complete with Mogo Trails officially open to the public.

This 125-kilometre trail network now winds through the scenic bushland of Mogo, stretching behind Batehaven and out towards Mount Wandera.

Mogo Trails is funded by $5 million from the Australian and NSW Government’s Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund and $3 million in additional NSW Government funding. The trails were developed in collaboration with the landowner, Forestry Corporation of NSW.

Led by Eurobodalla Shire Council the project includes 72-purpose built trails for all skill levels, from beginner green trails to advanced double black runs for thrill-seekers.

Combined with existing trail networks in Narooma and Eden, the opening of Mogo Trails brings the region’s total offering to an impressive 250 kilometres of world-class mountain biking

The regional trail network is expected to draw around 60,000 visitors annually, with local tourism and hospitality businesses already seeing the financial benefits.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“It’s great to see the Mogo Trails open to support local jobs and attract more visitors to experience what this amazing region has to offer.

“Through our joint investment, the Australian and NSW Governments have partnered to help ensure long-term recovery for Mogo that sees the community thrive after the devastating impact of Black Summer.

“With hundreds of kilometres available for beginners to advanced riders, this project puts some of the best South Coast landscapes on display for travellers and locals, helping to strengthen communities.

“I really encourage people to try and visit Mogo and experience some of the world-

class trails and facilities, and I’d like to congratulate everyone involved with this project – this is an achievement that they can be incredibly proud of.”

Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips:

“What started out as the vision of a group of avid mountain bike enthusiasts is now a reality and we have a truly epic facility that will be enjoyed by locals as well as visitors to our area.”

“Riding the trails through our stunning forests offers a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors, and for the community to come together – no matter their mountain biking ability.”

“I love mountain bike riding, and I’ve already had an opportunity to get dusty and test my skills on the thrilling ‘Wild Wombat’ and ‘Cosmic Thunder’ trails.”

“Mogo was absolutely devastated by the Black Summer Bushfires, and this marks another milestone in the town’s social and economic recovery.”

“I’m so proud to have supported such a wonderful attraction that will be a huge boost for local businesses and the Eurobodalla economy with events like the inaugural Sea Otter Australia extravaganza happening in October.”

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:

“Mogo Trails represent more than just a new place to ride – they’re a significant step forward in unlocking the region’s full tourism potential, helping to create new business opportunities and supporting long-term economic growth.”

“This network will help put Mogo on the map as a destination for riders of all ages and abilities across Australia.

“With networks linking Mogo, Narooma and Eden, something truly unique has been created – a mountain biking experience that spans coastal, bush, state forest and mountain terrain, all in one region.”

“With the school holidays starting, now’s the perfect time for families to visit the trails, helping kids get out and about in nature, stay active, and take a break from their screens.”

Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast Ryan Park:

“The Mogo trails are another jewel in the crown of NSW’s South East, adding a world-class mountain biking network that showcases our region’s beautiful natural landscapes.”

“It’s fantastic to see the network already unlocking new opportunities for local tourism and hospitality businesses, with thousands of visitors expected to hit the trails every year.

“While it’s a huge new drawcard for visitors to the South Coast, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for locals to make the most of purpose-built mountain bike trails in their own backyard.”

“I want to congratulate everyone involved for their hard work in bringing 125km of new mountain bike trails to life – and encourage riders of all abilities to come try it out for themselves.”

Dr Michael Holland Member for Bega:

“The NSW South Coast in the electorate of Bega is the State’s premier mountain biking destination. With a further 125 kilometres of adventure mountain biking trails, Mogo Trails links the network of mountain bike venues from Batemans Bay to Eden.

“The Mogo Trails is perfectly linked with services, hospitality, accommodation, and experience providers. It provides interaction between people, our beautiful natural environment, and our local economy.

It is wonderful to witness the rejuvenation and recovery of our communities following the 2019-2020 bushfire disaster being delivered in collaboration with the Commonwealth and NSW Governments, the Mogo Village Business Chamber and Eurobodalla Shire Council.”

Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher

“This project is a game-changer – not just for Mogo, but for our whole region. We set out to create an international-calibre trail network and we’ve absolutely delivered.

“The local response has been huge. We’ve had riders here since the early stages, and now with the full network open, the energy and excitement in town is next level.”

“We’re already seeing the benefits roll in for local businesses – cafés are buzzing, accommodation’s full, and Mogo’s village is alive with visitors. This is what regional regeneration looks like.”

The Minns Labor Government has appointed Janet Schorer as its inaugural SafeWork NSW Commissioner to further strengthen its efforts to protect workers.

Ms Schorer brings more than 27 years’ experience from key public sector agencies including the Department of Premier and Cabinet and Department of Family and Community Services.  

Commencing her career as a registered nurse, she has been able to apply her passion for the wellbeing of vulnerable communities throughout her work history. More recently she served as the Chief Delivery Officer for TAFE NSW where she delivered exceptional learner experiences as part of its Strategic Plan 2022-25.

With SafeWork NSW becoming a standalone regulator on July 1, the incoming Commissioner will address policy, compliance, best practices and meaningful engagement with workers, unions, businesses and the Family and Injured Workers Support and Advisory Group (FISWAG) to make for a stronger and more robust organisation.

SafeWork NSW is the state’s work health and safety regulator with more than 750 staff, providing a vital role in protecting the health and safety of workers in NSW by engaging with businesses, workers and the NSW community to prevent work-related fatalities and serious injuries.

A National Fellow of the Institute of Public Administration Australia, Ms Schorer was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2019. She is also Vice President of the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) NSW.  

Among her many key responsibilities will be a focus on preventing and managing silica and other dust related diseases associated with tunnelling projects in NSW.

The Minns Labor Government has introduced several measures to keep workers safe from dust related diseases.

They include establishing a new Expert Taskforce to oversee and help address silica related health risks for workers in tunnelling projects.

While on January 1, 2025, the Minns Labor government led the ban on the importation of engineered stone products to protect the future health and safety of workers.

The national import ban covers engineered stone benchtops, slabs and panels with silica content of more than one percent.

The appointment follows the NSW Government’s 2025-26 Budget announcement to strengthen the state’s work health and safety regulator with a major $127.7 million investment over the next four years to address psychosocial hazards and compliance and enforcement of safe work practices.

The targeted reform is part of a broader $344 million Workplace Mental Health package, strengthening mental health support and injury prevention strategies in NSW workplaces.

Ms Schorer’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process. She will take up her role as Commissioner from Monday, 14 July 2025.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“The establishment of SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator and the appointment of a new Commissioner reflects the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to preventing workplace deaths, injuries and illnesses.  

“The new structure will ensure SafeWork NSW will become a strong, robust and fit-for-purpose regulator capable of effectively securing safer and healthier workplaces in NSW.

“I would like to congratulate Janet Schorer on her appointment and also thank Dr Petrina Casey for her efforts while serving in the role as Acting SafeWork NSW Commissioner.”

SafeWork NSW Commissioner Janet Schorer said:

“I am honoured to be joining SafeWork NSW as we take our first step towards reshaping the agency into the strong and robust regulator needed to make workplaces secure, safe and healthy.

“Community engagement is paramount to supporting decision-making and I look forward to working with workers, representatives from employer organisations, unions, support groups and people with lived experiences to ensure people are going to the safest possible workplaces.

“The safety and wellbeing of every worker in NSW is of upmost importance and with my career focused on driving reform to improve lives particularly for vulnerable groups, I look forward to continuing SafeWork NSW’s work to strengthen its systems and practices.”