This funding will realise projects that the community needs and wants making them even more vibrant places to live and work. Although council will submit all applications to the fund, community groups are strongly encouraged to identify proposals that meet local aspirations and ensure local council are aware of their interest in accessing this funding.

Community members are encouraged to visit nsw.gov.au/strongercountrycommunities for more information or contact MidWestern Regional Council on (02) 6378 2850.

Local Land Services (LLS) is ready to assist landowners understand and utilise the new opportunities under the Land Management and Biodiversity Conservation Act. The NSW Government has funded the LLS to deliver this new service to landholders through a range of services and workshops to make this as simple as possible for landholders.

The new approach aims to deliver triple bottom line outcomes for landholders by assisting with long term planning solutions, support, advice, new products, tools and more flexible land use options. Over the coming weeks the LLS will host a series of information sessions focusing on the new framework and its benefits to landholders.

For more information, dates and locations, visit lls.nsw.gov.au/sustainable-land-management

A reminder that refunds and replacements are still available for Samsung washing machines following the 2015 mandatory recall, with only 86 percent of affected machines currently accounted for.

I urge families and businesses to check the make and model of Samsung top loading washing machines to ensure it is not a recalled appliance.

Consumers can check the model name and number on their back of their machine and if you are uncertain as to whether your machine is included, you can contact Samsung on 1800 239 655 or visit samsung.com.au/washingmachinerecall for more details.