Burren Junction Progress Association member and farmer Steve Gardiner is calling on Walgett Shire Council to improve the management and maintenance of the town’s well-known bore baths, warning that their condition is affecting tourism, local businesses and community wellbeing.

“Not looking after the bore is hurting our community and tourism,” Mr Gardiner said.

Burren has been described as the ‘home of the bore baths’, which play a vital role in attracting tourists to the region.

For travellers following the popular Great Artesian Drive, the Burren bore baths and campground are marked as one of the places to stop along the way. The Great Artesian Drive is a road-trip route linking artesian bathing spots across North West NSW.

The naturally heated, mineral-rich waters offer travellers a relaxing soak after a day on the road, while the peaceful rural setting and open skies make it an inviting place to stop, unwind or have a chat with other visitors.

Locals also enjoy the benefits of the bore baths after a hard day at work or for a social catch-up.

They are located three kilometres from town, just off the Kamilaroy Highway.

It might not be quite as exciting as the Burren Junction Art Show, but there's certainly been something worth celebrating in town this week!

After years of waiting, the pedestrian crossing outside Burren Junction Public School has finally received some much-needed attention!

And this wasn't just a quick coat of white paint. The crossing has been renewed using thermoplastic road markings, a process where specially prepared white strips are laid onto the road and heated to bond them to the surface, providing a more durable and longer-lasting finish.

What a pleasant surprise to discover that the work crew consisted of three lovely women who were travelling home to Narrabri after working in Lightning Ridge.

Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, has warned that the ongoing fuel crisis could severely compromise access to essential health and community services in rural and remote communities unless a temporary fuel subsidy is introduced.

Mr Butler’s office has been contacted by numerous organisations that provide transport for rural and remote patients to attend health and specialist appointments, as well as organisations delivering health services directly into people’s homes.

“These services are a lifeline for people who have no other means of transport,” Mr Butler said. “Any disruption caused by increased fuel prices would have serious consequences for health and wellbeing outcomes in our communities.”

Rising concern about the impact of the fuel crisis on local tourism has prompted the Member for Barwon, Roy Butler, to urge city residents to continue with their plans to visit regional NSW over the Easter holiday.  

Local tourism operators are reporting a bump in Easter cancellations against a backdrop of lower overall bookings in March this year compared to the same time last year. 

“It’s a tough time for many people who work in tourism,” said Mr Butler.  

“Caravan parks in Broken Hill are reporting a drop in revenue of more than 25%, with management and staff discussing reduced hours. 

“Fewer shifts are available for motel workers around Narrabri too.