It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster season so far, as far as the weather is concerned.
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We’ve had a few hot days already, but they’re normally followed by windstorms and milder conditions.
We’ve been lucky not to have a string of extremely hot days in a row, but that does not mean they won’t be coming as summer continues.
We’re encouraging locals and holiday makers to take it easy this weekend, with temperatures of 40ºC or above predicted for both Saturday and Sunday.
It will drop again by Monday, back to 33ºC and possible showers - but that usually means greater humidity.
Even when the mercury has a lower reading, the risk of sun damage is still high.
The Bureau of Meteorology’s seven-day forecast yesterday was predicting an extreme UV index every day for the next week.
It is also predicting high fire danger ratings to be in place tomorrow and Sunday.
On best behaviour
Deniliquin Police have praised the behaviour of local and visiting New Year’s Eve revellers in the region.
Chief Inspector Michael Fuller said both police and the community had a good New Year’s Eve.
“Police congratulate everyone who had an event at a venue, licensed premises or a gathering at home to bring in the New Year, with no significant incidents reported across the district,” he reported.
While the festive season is now behind us, and the statewide Operation Christmas/New Year double demerits' operation has concluded, Chief Insp Fuller said it’s not a time to become complacent.
He is urging people to keep up property protection measures, and to be safe on the roads and waterways.
Storm passed, risk still current
We may have escaped any significant damage from the strong weather after Christmas, but we’ve been acutely reminded that the risk continues long after the winds have died down.
A large branch was downed in the Waring Gardens during heavy gusts over the weekend.
Just days earlier, people were seen enjoying the gardens and the lovely weather from the grass underneath.
And this branch has fallen despite work taking place in the gardens before Christmas to tidy up dead branches of at risk trees.
While this is the time of year we’re scrambling for shade, it’s a reminder to always look up before setting up your picnic blanket, tent or other items and be aware of your surroundings.
More fish for local waterways
In the same week, 30,000 yellowbelly fingerlings have been released into the Edward River system at Deniliquin, just over 4000 have also been released at Moulamein.
These 4,126 golden perch fingerlings have been purchased thanks to the Moulamein Men’s Shed battery drive and fundraising
They were released hot on the heels of a 10,000 Murray cod fingerlings release just days earlier.
The yellowbelly were released into the Edward River at Moulamein and the Billabong Creek.
Moulamein’s Ian ‘China’ Gibson praised the group on their efforts.
“This is a great effort from our Moulamein Men’s Shed and every fisherman and woman thanks them,” he said.
“Batteries can still be dropped off at the Men’s Shed in town for next year’s re-stocking, or ring Noel on 0447 541 200 for pickup.”
Run off the festive cheer
Parkrun will be back in action again this Saturday, and every Saturday this year, giving locals and even visitors an opportunity to keep active.
The McLean Beach Parkrun departs from McLean Beach, and the entrance to the Beach to Beach walk.
Those interested are asked to arrive at 7.30am.
It is free to attend, but newcomers are asked to register at www.parkrun.com.au.
Your registration number is scanned at any Parkrun event you attend, so you can keep track of your efforts and goals.
Parkrun participants traverse the Beach to Beach walk, and you can go as fast or as slow as you like. Volunteers and spectators are also welcome.
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash and should be limited to one per person while completing the course.
Baby Bounce
The Edward River Library at Deniliquin reopens after the Christmas break on Monday, and its staff are wasting no time getting back into the swing of things.
On Tuesday, its free Baby Bounce will resume. It is designed for you and your little ones to enjoy together.
This service is perfect for babies and children not yet attending primary school.
Parents, grandparents, carers, and their babies are all welcome to join in these sessions.
Baby Bounce lasts 20-30 minutes and is a wonderful way to introduce your baby, and reintroduce yourself, to the joy of nursery rhymes and songs.
Each session is filled with singing, clapping, musical instruments, rhymes, and plenty of fun, making it a special time for bonding and learning with your baby.
The Edward River Library is located at 55 Napier St, Deniliquin.
While there, ask about the school holiday activities too.
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