December 18, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council’s Annual Report for 2019-20 has been released, documenting a year of strength despite the considerable challenges of drought and COVID-19.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the Annual Report showed a year the Gunnedah community could be proud of.
“Our community has survived through what seemed like a never-ending drought, only to be hit by COVID-19,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Gunnedah has once again shown its true resilience in a year with considerable highlights.

“We know it’s been tough, but people have shown themselves to be innovative both in business and in their community roles. Gunnedah Shire Council has been proud to partner with industry and with the community to facilitate projects that will benefit Gunnedah for many years to come.

“We are looking at an era that is among the most significant, in terms of development, in the Shire’s history.

“In the 12 month period, Council’s contribution of drought funding of $6.3 million with State and Federal funding opportunities realised a total of $47 million worth of projects. This represents an almost 650% return on investment.

“When you include recurrent grants and the promised new $53 million hospital and the $62 million Second Road Over Rail Bridge, this figure is more than $190.5 million over this term of Council. That’s a lot of money going into Gunnedah Shire to support our community and build and diversify our economy.

“Our people and our businesses are working hard to be resilient, and this will serve Gunnedah well as we move towards a strong future.”

Council has undertaken a number of initiatives to support the community during the drought and COVID-19, including leveraging a Council $1.4 million investment to gain Federal support of $1 million and State support of $1 million, creating a pool of funding of at least $3.4 for a Community Resilience Program.

Gunnedah Shire Council's Community Resilience Program won the local government category of the NSW Resilient Australia Awards which is open to 128 Councils.

Cr Chaffey said the report showed Council was in a sound financial position, not only meeting, but surpassing the standards set by the Office of Local Government.

“This is an outstanding result in any year,” he said. “Considering the hurdles of the 2019-20 financial year and the issues our community has been going through, it is a remarkable achievement.”

In partnership with the State and Federal governments, Gunnedah Shire Council has seen the following major projects underway or funded during the 2019-20 year:
• Gunnedah Second Road over Rail Bridge
• The Gunnedah to Curlewis pipeline
• Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground
• Bloomfield Street reconstruction
• Gunnedah Koala Park and Education Centre
• Rainbow Serpent Water Feature
• Gunnedah Showground Community Infrastructure Upgrade
• Gunnedah Showground Equine Precinct Upgrade
• Saleyards Master Plan
• Cultural Precinct Master Plan
• Grain Valley Road Upgrade
• Clifton Road Reconstruction
• Mystery Road Upgrade
• South Street Cycleway

Fast facts from Gunnedah Shire Council’s Annual Report for 2019-20:
• Population – 12,681
• A $4 million increase in the total value of development applications approved on the previous financial year
• $18,042,000 was spent on transport and communication, roads, bridges, parking areas and footpaths
• $5,617,000 was spent on recreation and culture, library, cultural precinct, parks and gardens
• Ratepayers paid $18,770,000 in rates and annual charges
• 284 resolutions were endorsed by Council
• There were 47,795 hits on Council’s corporate website
• 26 businesses were allocated Business Partner Program funding worth a total of $50,450
• 12,629 people visited the Civic Theatre where there were 539 movie screenings

Read the full Annual Report here.

Caption: Gunnedah Shire staff and councillors on the road over rail bridge.

ENDS

Media contact: (02) 6740 2100.

December 17, 2020

Following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions in NSW, Gunnedah’s Civic Cinema has increased capacity allowing more cinema-goers to catch new releases.

The cinema can now host up to 100 patrons at each screening, helping facilitate more group bookings. The easing of restrictions has also improved capacity at the Gunnedah Cultural Precinct’s other venues.

The news comes as Council voted at the December Ordinary Council Meeting to limit the number of screenings following reduced attendance in the wake of COVID-19.

Gunnedah Shire Council Director of Corporate and Community Services Colin Formann said that following COVID-19, locals had been reluctant to return to the cinema.

“We’ve experienced a 47% reduction in patronage after reopening in September, but we are hoping the increased capacity will see more locals confident to return to the movies,” Mr Formann said.

“It’s an important time to support our local cinema, so I encourage the community to escape the summer heat at the Civic over the holidays.”

Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said the increased capacity has come just in time for school holidays.

“We are excited to welcome more people back to the Civic. It’s a much-loved community asset for people of all ages enjoy,” Ms Mackley said.

“There are some great new releases coming out over the holiday period. Robert De Niro will keep the whole family entertained in The War With Grandpa, while Misbehaviour appeals to older fans of feel-good British cinema.

“Combat Wombat is a charming kid’s movie with an Australian twist, and for more Aussie festive spirit check out A Christmas Gift From Bob.

“Following the launch of the refreshed Cultural Precinct website, online ticket sales are now available. We are also excited to offer birthday party packages for up to 30 people.

“Visitors to the cinema will be required to use digital QR codes to check in, and the Cultural Precinct has a COVIDSafe plan in place.”

For online bookings and further information about Cultural Precinct facilities, visit www.thecivic.com.au.

ENDS

Media contact: Communications Team (02) 6740 2100.

December 17, 2020

Funding secured for Local Housing Strategy

Gunnedah Shire Council has endorsed a plan to fund the development of a Local Housing Strategy, with $73,180.80 allocated to the project from proceeds of the sale of a Council owned property.

The wide ranging strategy will identify key priorities, objectives and initiatives for the delivery of affordable housing within the Gunnedah Shire.

Gunnedah Shire Council Director of Planning and Environmental Services Andrew Johns said that with funding secured, Council will now be able to progress to the development phase of the strategy.

“In developing this strategy, Council will consider factors including demographics, local land use opportunities, housing supply and demand and how this may change over time,” Mr Johns said.

“The strategy will identify areas of cultural, environmental, heritage or local character significance, and outline actions to address issues of housing affordability.”

The remaining funds from the sale of the property at 61 Lincoln Street, Gunnedah, have been reserved to use for implementing initiatives that arise from the development of the strategy.

New members join Skills and Training Working Group

Gunnedah Shire Council’s newly formed Skills and Training Working Group has welcomed the addition of four community representatives.

One representative from Gunnedah High School, Winanga-Li Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Gunnedah Community College and Ooranga Family Mobile Resource Unit will now be added to the group.

They will join Council representatives Mayor Jamie Chaffey, Deputy Rob Hooke and Cr Colleen Fuller and seven other community representatives from Gunnedah TAFE, the Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce and local businesses.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor and Working Group Chair Cr Jamie Chaffey welcomed the new members and said they will assist Council in reaching more of the community.

“The Skills and Training Working Group aims to connect the initiatives of education providers, local industry and government with the needs of the community,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Growing a skilled and sustainable workforce is one of our key priorities for the New Year. We want as many people as possible to develop their skills and seek out opportunities right here in Gunnedah.”

The Skills and Training Working Group will meet monthly and appoint additional members as required.

Plans progress for new Recreational Vehicle Park

The Development Application for a proposed Recreational Vehicle Park was approved at last night’s Council meeting, paving the way for a new accommodation option close to the CBD.

The Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) plans to establish the new park at 107-109 Chandos Street, forming part of a network of low-cost commercial RV parks across Australia.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said the new park will promote Gunnedah to the CMCA’s large member base as a favoured destination.

 “The park supports Gunnedah Shire Council’s destination plan by providing infrastructure and services that grow the tourism sector and improve the accommodation base of the Shire,” Cr Chaffey said.

“I look forward to having more visitors staying in town where they can enjoy our fantastic local shops and restaurants.”

As part of the proceedings, Council will now submit a proposal to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment for a Gateway Determination permitting the park to be used by caravans, in addition to stand alone motor homes.

Submissions open following presentation of Financial Statements

The December Ordinary Council Meeting included the presentation of the audited Financial Statements and the Auditor’s reports for last financial year.

Copies of the full statements can be viewed here or at the Gunnedah Shire Council Administration Building in Elgin Street.

Anyone wishing to make a written submission to Council regarding the Audited Financial Statements of the Auditor’s report should do so before submissions close on December 23, 2020.

ENDS

Media contact: Communications team (02) 6740 2100.

17 December, 2020

Twelve businesses and organisations have been approved for funding under the latest round of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Business Partner Program focussing on larger projects.

Round two of the 2020-21 Business Partner Program aimed to further projects that will grow the economy and create more local employment opportunities.

Business Partner Program Advisory Group chair Cr Ann Luke said Council had endorsed a total allocation of $127,550 for the 12 projects.

“Gunnedah Shire Council has boosted the Business Partner Program this year to support and encourage business initiatives during a difficult economic time,” Cr Luke said.

“The aim of the program is to encourage business expansion and assist new businesses and economic activity. This round in particular looked at larger projects that delivered real benefits to the Shire and its economy.

“There were a number of applications that demonstrated a clear economic or employment benefit to our Shire and Council is really pleased to be able to support these projects.”

The successful applicants for round two of the 2020-21 Business Partner Program are:
• Gunnedah Maize Mill - $50,000 towards the outgoing weighbridge, approach and exit roadworks
• Gunnedah Building Products Pty Ltd – GBP Cranes - $50,000 towards new premises and yard, kerbing and guttering at the corners of Borthistle and Martin roads
• Parview Hotel - $7000 towards outdoor area improvements
• Courthouse Hotel - $7000 towards outdoor area improvements
• North Western Courier Pty Ltd - $4950 towards Gunnedah Times establishment
• Gunnedah Workshop Enterprises Ltd - $2000 towards rebranding and web design
• Custom Cutting Studio - $1500 towards the purchase of a forklift
• PJ Plumbing & Civil Construction Pty Ltd - $1500 towards bobcat skid steer
• Blue Denim - $1000 towards shopfront works
• Local Appliance Rentals Gunnedah - $1000 towards improving store frontage
• Goodness & Gracious - $800 towards business expansion
• Gunnedah Locksmiths - $800 towards business improvements

Unsuccessful applicants will receive feedback from Gunnedah Shire Council.

The Business Partner Program has assisted many businesses and organisations over the years to get established and to grow. This year, as part of the Community Resilience COVID-19 Business Recovery Package Invigorate Gunnedah, the available funds through the Business Partner Program has been boosted to $200,000.

Caption: A recipient of an earlier round of the Business Partner Program – Kelly Mason of Spindle and Co.

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Media and communications team contact: (02) 6740 2100.

17 December, 2020

Gunnedah Shire has once again wowed the Christmas light judges with a display guaranteed to put the community in a festive mood.

Gunnedah has a new Santa Street this year, with Silversmith Place taking the coveted title for the best neighbourhood effort from last year’s winner Kamilaroi Road.

The Christmas Lights Competition winners for 2020 are:
• Best Decorated House – 5 Sanders Place, Gunnedah
• Best Nativity Scene – 11 Thomson Place, Gunnedah
• Best Christmas Theme in a Village – 98 Furphy Road, Curlewis
• Santa Street – Silversmith Place, Gunnedah
• Judges’ Choice Award – Oaktree Retirement Village
• Best Dressed Shopfront Window – Mari-Ann Florist, Gunnedah.

These winners have been presented with Gunny Money Gift Cards.

Curlewis Progress Association also awarded a second place in Curlewis to 13 Pullaming Street and a third to 23 Poole Street.

Gunnedah Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke said people’s efforts in decorating their homes and businesses added to the spirit of Christmas in the community.

“Gunnedah has a great tradition of colourful Christmas lights,” Cr Hooke said.

“It’s wonderful to see that even in this difficult year, people have really embraced the festive season and created displays that bring a smile to the faces of children and adults. It’s a big effort, but it really does add to the joy of Christmas-time.

“Congratulations to not only the winners, but to everyone who wants to share their love of the season with a tree in the window or a wreath on the door.”

This year, Gunnedah Shire Council has also co-ordinated a Christmas lights map. To take a look before you take the family for a drive, visit Council’s Facebook page or go to https://www.google.com.au/maps/d/edit?mid=1TkIGHieJwrjGzly4spaPxOHe_tw4vZPE&usp=sharing

Caption: Some of the winners in the Gunnedah Shire Christmas Lights competition at the presentation.

December 16, 2020

Gunnedah’s town centre will be an even safer place with the addition of 24 high definition closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras.

The completion of the Western Central Business District CCTV Safety Enhancement Project sees a further 24 cameras installed at various locations from the Elgin Street to Chandos Street roundabouts, ensuring the main street has full coverage.

Chair of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Crime Prevention Working Group Councillor Colleen Fuller said Council had secured a $32,910 grant as part of the fourth round of the $10 million NSW Community Safety Fund, which supports innovative crime prevention projects across the State. Council provided an additional $15,000 towards the project.

“We are committed to supporting not only the safety of our community and our visitors, but to the security of our local business owners,” Councillor Fuller said.
“We want our town centre to be a hub where people can gather together safely no matter what time of the day or night it is and go to community events and support local retail outlets.

“Our quality of life and the liveability of our community is part of what makes Gunnedah such a great place to be.”

The project was identified after Council’s Crime Prevention Working Group undertook a walking review of the closed circuit television (CCTV) network in the Gunnedah CBD. The review was conducted to revisit the current locations of cameras and determine future approaches to maintaining and expanding the network.

The CCTV network will allow real-time monitoring of high-traffic areas and will help police keep a closer eye on the CBD, which will in turn support them in their efforts to secure successful prosecutions, sending a clear message to perpetrators that if they do the wrong thing, they will be caught and they will face the consequences.

Gunnedah Police Station’s Inspector Michael Wurth said he commended the work done by the Gunnedah Shire Council, in particular members of the Crime Prevention Working Group, for ensuring the initiative came to fruition.

“CCTV is one of a number of investigative tools that are available to police to prevent, disrupt and respond to incidents of crime,” Inspector Wurth said.

“I also encourage the owners of all businesses, along with residences of houses that have CCTV at home, to register their CCTV online at: https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/online_services/register_my_business_cctv_details

“The online site has further information regarding security of information including your details and what consent is required from you before NSW Police Force can use any imagery.”

The Council CCTV network in the town centre now includes 62 cameras between Gunnedah Services and Bowling Club and Livvi’s Place in Conadilly Street.

Caption: Chair of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Crime Prevention Working Group Councillor Colleen Fuller and Gunnedah Inspector Michael Wurth in Gunnedah’s CBD where 52 council cameras are now in place.

ENDS

Media contact: (02) 6740 2100.

16 December, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is planning for the economic future of Gunnedah Shire, and is seeking input from the community.

Council has commissioned consultants SC Lennon & Associations to prepare the Gunnedah Shire Economic Development Strategy 2021-25.

People who would like to help shape this new vision and framework for economic development can now fill in a survey – and go into the draw to win a $100 Gunny Money Gift Card.

The Gunnedah Shire Economic Development Strategy 2021-25 will focus on the things Council can do to help stimulate, attract and maintain business activity, investment and employment in the Shire. It will guide the economic development roles and functions of Council.

It will also provide Council with a blueprint to focus its support and promotion of economic development for the next four years.

The survey takes no more than five minutes to complete and is available at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/gunnedaheconomicdevelopment

Council’s Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said more than 50 people attended focus group workshops about the strategy last week, and about 50 people dropped in to a pop-up stall in Conadilly Street.

“We encourage as many people as possible to have a say in the development of our Shire,” Ms Hoddle said.

“Everyone has an interest in keeping our economy strong, whether it be from an employment perspective, a business perspective or they would like to ensure there is a variety of job opportunities for their children when they finish school.

“It’s easy to have your say and make sure it is heard by taking this quick survey.”

The survey closes on Friday, January 29, 2021.

ENDS

Media and communications team contact: (02) 6740 2100.

December 11, 2020

People interested in employment or supply opportunities for the new Inland Rail have been invited to an information session in Gunnedah.

Contractors for Phase 1 Narrabri North to North Star, Trans4m Rail (a joint venture between John Holland and SEE Civil) will host a Meet the Contractor information session for people to learn more about how to get involved with the project.

Information session details:

• Date: Monday, December 14 from 11:00am to 12:30pm
• Location: TAFE NSW, Gunnedah Campus.

The project team is looking to fill a number of roles from the region, including local construction, operation, communication and maintenance roles, including: project/site engineers, OHS advisors, community engagement officers, office administrators, document controller, labourers, machine operators, surveyors, concretors and steelfixers.

The team will also source local plant, equipment, materials and people to support rail works, roadworks, earthworks, bridge and drainage construction.

To register your interest in attending the session, please email inlandrail@artc.com.au

ENDS

December 10, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council’s administration building, GoCo and the Gunnedah Library will close for the Christmas break at 12pm on Wednesday, December 23, and will re-open on Monday, January 11.

The Gunnedah Memorial Pool will open every day except for Christmas Day, and the Gunnedah Waste Facility will open each day except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, with an early closure of 12pm on December 23.

There will be alterations to the recycling collection schedule in Gunnedah, Curlewis and Carroll over the holiday period, see here for further details. Residents are encouraged to download the Recycle Coach App to receive updates about their collection.

The Gunnedah Saleyards will cease operations following the sale on Tuesday, December 15 and will reopen for the sale on Tuesday, January 5.

A full list of opening hours for Council facilities over the Christmas-New Year break can be found here.

Gunnedah Shire Council wishes everyone a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year break.

For urgent assistance over the Christmas closure, please phone the after hours service on (02) 6740 2100.

ENDS

Media and communications team contact: (02) 6740 2100.

26 November, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is asking local businesses and the community to help renew the strategy paving the way for future growth and investment in the Shire.

The Gunnedah Shire Economic Development Strategy 2021-2025 will guide the economic development roles and functions of Council. It will also provide Council with a blueprint to focus its support and promotion of economic development for the next four years.

Sasha Lennon of consultancy firm SC Lennon & Associates, engaged by Council to prepare the strategy, will be in Gunnedah to meet with local business and community stakeholders, from December 1-3, 2020.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey said community input was a vital part of the strategy’s development.

“It is critical that Gunnedah Shire Council know and understand our community’s views on the road ahead for growth and investment,” Cr Chaffey said.

“There will be multiple opportunities for residents, businesses and groups to contribute their thoughts on the Shire’s needs and priorities.

“Community involvement in the preparation of the strategy will ensure the consultants are well-informed to deliver a strategy with vision and a practical plan of action. Our strong economy is something we have all built together, and we will work together to ensure we remain resilient.”

The new strategy will be based on detailed economic research and analysis, as well as engagement with businesses, key agencies and the community, to envision a future Gunnedah Shire economy that is diverse, strong and sustainable.

Council’s Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said initial consultations were an important early step in the strategy development process and there would be a number of ways both residents and businesses could contribute their ideas.

“The community will have the opportunity to contribute their ideas at a Main Street Pop-up, outside the newsagency on the morning of Wednesday, December 2, and a number of focus group sessions are planned, at a variety of times to suit different schedules,” Ms Hoddle said.

Sessions to provide input into the strategy:

Tuesday, December 1:
• Lunch session – 12.30pm to 2pm at the Council Training Room, 63 Elgin Street
• Drinks and nibbles session – 5.30pm to 7pm at Gunnedah Hotel

Wednesday, December 2:
• Drinks and nibbles session – 5.30pm-7pm at the Courthouse Hotel

Thursday, December 3:
• Breakfast and coffee session – 7.30am to 9am at the Verdict Café.

Limited spots are available due to COVID-19 Safety requirements. Please book your place through https://augsc.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/3910

Caption: Businesses and the community are being invited to have their say ahead of drafting of the Gunnedah Shire Economic Development Strategy 2021-2025.

ENDS

Media and communications team contact: (02) 6740 2100.