Pop-up testing clinics were set up as news bulletins became increasingly saturated with reports of exposure sites across the Riverina, with a traveller's pit-stop in Gundagai the first of many scares to follow.

Towards the end of the month, Greater Sydney was thrown into a snap lockdown while mask-wearing and COVID safety measures were reinstated across the Murrumbidgee Local Health District in an effort to suppress the virus, while the majority of residents remained unvaccinated.

While mapping a COVID recovery plan, Riverina MP Michael McCormack lost the Nationals' leadership and consequently his role as Deputy Prime Minister, succeeded by New England MP Barnaby Joyce.

His removal came as Queensland Senator Matt Canavan reportedly moved a spill motion in the party room meeting to declare the leadership position vacant.

Mr McCormack first won the leadership back in February 2018 in the wake of Mr Joyce's resignation amid an extramarital affair scandal and sexual harassment allegations.

While he said the outcome was disappointing, he would continue to serve the needs of those within the Riverina.

While doors closed for the popular MP, others opened as the short-lived Masters building welcomed its newest occupant, Spotlight.

The DIY store's relocation from the Homebase Centre to a bigger facility meant that the brand could offer its full range of homeware, craft supplies and fabrics, rather than directing locals online for items they could not carry.

The June 9 grand opening saw many residents brave the cold to snap up a deal, with lines stretching out the door and into the car park.

But it wasn't the only business embracing significant change, with the owner of the William Farrer Hotel handing over the reigns to Harvest Hotels.

David Barnhill first bought the business in January 2001 and began his journey operating one of the city's most iconic pubs.

Although having bid farewell, Mr Barnhill remains a familiar face throughout town, allowing new owners Fraser Haughton and Chris Cornforth to introduce themselves.

The story of Darian Convery captured the hearts of the community, with many rallying together to support the young police officer following his cancer diagnosis.

With his immunosuppressant medication costing $12,500 a month, a GoFundMe page managed to raise more than $195,000 by the end of the year to help lessen the financial burden.

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