The NSW Government is aiming to deliver more value for older people by increasing the number and geographic spread of businesses offering discounts to Seniors Card members.

The Government is committed to assisting older people with the cost of living and supporting them to stay active, healthy and socially connected.

Members can get discounts of 10, 15, 25 and even 50 per cent off selected goods and services just by presenting their card.

The business recruitment campaign will run until mid-December and all NSW businesses are encouraged to join.

For more information go to www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au

Community grants are now being offered for projects to reduce drowning and improve water safety in NSW.

The Water Safety Fund Community Grants Program provides $4.5 million over three years to not-for-profit and community groups with experience delivering water safety initiatives.

According to Royal Life Saving Society Australia, 96 people drowned in NSW waterways in 2015-16, the majority at beaches, followed by rivers, creeks and streams – tragic statistics.

The aim of the fund is to reduce drowning in NSW by supporting projects that increase water safety in high risk locations, population groups and activities and include rock fishing, safety in the surf or alcohol and drug use around the water.

Grants from $50,000 to $250,000 are available for projects starting in 2017, such as targeted education campaigns, signage and safety aids, and research.

Applications close on 2 December and successful applicants will be notified early next year.  To apply or for more information, go to: www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au

New legislation will see a more modern and streamlined approach to the management of Crown Lands following its historic passing in parliament last week.

The new Act will consolidate eight existing pieces of legislation in a new, streamlined approach that will involve far greater engagement with the community.

For the first time in the history of the Crown land legislation, consulting with local communities will be mandatory prior to any major decision that significantly changes the public’s use and enjoyment of Crown land.

This legislation will empower local government to make decisions in the best interests of their local communities.

Importantly, the Bill enshrines in legislation – for the first time in history – the importance of Crown land to Aboriginal people, while protecting important Aboriginal Land Rights and Native Title interests.

The NSW Government will work closely with stakeholders and the community during implementation of the new Bill, ahead of its anticipated commencement in 2018.

The annual blitz on carp will be held again this weekend at Sofala, with entries open from 7.30am Saturday morning to the left of the Sofala Bridge.

The Department of Primary Industry (DPI) support groups like the Sofala Central Acclimatisation Society (CAS) in removing pest species from our waterways, and restocking with natives and habitat.

You can enter for a gold coin donation (with all proceeds going back to restocking the river with native species) with lots of prizes available on the day.  An excellent day out with the family with onsite catering, raffles and lots more.

For more information go to Sofala Branch CAS Fishing on Facebook or contact the Sofala CAS on 0414758558