Top three reads in this week’s Manjimup-Bridgetown Times

In thbis week’s Manjimup-Bridgetown Times the Manjimup Returned Services League sub-branch has been rocked after president Rex Brown stood down following racist comments about Aboriginal culture, the divisive ‘jab-for-cash’ incentive program has been scrapped after the Manjimup council voted against it last week and Bridgetown gears up for the annual Blues at Bridgetown music fest. Vet resigns over comments The South West army veteran who sparked public outrage after a racist tirade against Aboriginal culture has voluntarily resigned as the Manjimup RSL sub-branch president. The Manjimup-Bridgetown Times on Friday revealed the unprovoked comments Rex Brown, pictured main, had made at a public forum earlier in the week, which included not liking “much of Indigenous culture” — including smoke ceremonies, traditional dances and the Aboriginal flag. Pay-for-jab bid blunted A contentious policy that would have seen Manjimup Shire workers paid up to $500 in ratepayers’ money if they were vaccinated has been swiftly rejected by councillors. The plan, which was unanimously rejected at an ordinary council meeting on Thursday, would have seen staff given between $300 and $500 if they received the COVID-19 jab by February and could have cost up to $60,000. Waifs divide to concur Hype is steadily building for one of the Lower South West’s favourite music festivals, with a number of big name acts being announced in the lead up. The 29th annual Blues at Bridgetown festival, which runs over three days, will see an impressive line-up of artists rock the town from November 12 to 14.