November 12, 2020

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey has welcomed a draft determination from the NSW Electoral Commission’s Boundary Review that Gunnedah Shire remain in the state seat of Tamworth.

The report, released on Monday, identified Gunnedah as a growth shire, with the population expected to increase before 2029.

Cr Chaffey said the draft report was great news for Gunnedah.

“In July, there was unanimous support from Gunnedah Shire Councillors to make a submission to the review arguing for Gunnedah to stay in the state seat of Tamworth,” he said.

“Council had been made aware that the NSW Electoral Commission had received a number of proposals that would see Gunnedah Shire moved from the Tamworth electorate into the Barwon electorate.

“While it was disappointing to see politically motivated submissions pursuing the redistribution of Gunnedah, I am reassured that a pragmatic result has been achieved. This is a common sense decision that reflects the needs of local residents.

“There are solid arguments for Gunnedah remaining in the Tamworth electorate. Our nearest largest medical centre is in Tamworth, our air services connections to Brisbane and Sydney are via the Tamworth Airport, and our police services fall under the Oxley District Command which is based in Tamworth.

“Gunnedah Shire is a member of Namoi Unlimited – the joint organisation of councils working together in partnership across the Namoi region, and four out of five of those members are in the Tamworth electorate. Namoi Unlimited helps councils to collaborate, plan, set priorities and deliver important projects in regional NSW.

“It just makes sense for Gunnedah to remain in the Tamworth electorate. We are really pleased to see that this week’s report recognises that.

“It’s also good to see Gunnedah recognised as an area of growth, a forecast that supports our own expectations for the future.”

To read the Report of the Electoral Districts Redistribution Panel on the draft determination of the names and boundaries of electoral districts of New South Wales, visit elections.nsw.gov.au/redistribution

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 11, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council will usher in the festive season with the inaugural lighting of a Community Christmas Tree next Saturday, November 21.

The tree will be installed in Brock’s Court and the lighting ceremony will be held during the Two Rivers Arts Council (TRAC) Christmas Markets at 7:30pm.

Earlier this year Gunnedah residents were asked to vote for their preferred colour scheme. The new tree will be adorned with the chosen green, red and gold decorations.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree fosters a sense of community spirit.

“The installation of a community Christmas tree is part of Gunnedah Shire Council’s Invigorate Gunnedah COVID-19 recovery package, targeted at bringing vibrancy to our CBD,” Cr Chaffey said.

“A big, bright Christmas tree in the CBD brings cheer to the community and will act as a beacon for those visiting Gunnedah during the holiday season.

“I encourage those attending the markets next Saturday to come and observe the tree lighting up for the very first time, marking the beginning of an annual tradition.”

The TRAC Christmas Markets will be held on Saturday, November 21 from 3pm to 8pm at Wolseley Park. The tree lighting will commence at 7:30pm within Brock’s Court.

TRAC have a COVIDSafe plan in place for the markets and those gathering for the tree lighting should observe social distancing. 

Caption: An artist impression of the new Gunnedah community Christmas tree.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 9, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is calling on local industry representatives to provide input for a proposed Intermodal Freight Terminal in Gunnedah.

Council has received funding from the $44 million Australian Government Interface Improvement Program to conduct a pre-feasibility study into a potential terminal at Gunnedah.

The pre-feasibility study will be conducted over the coming months and will assess a proposal to develop an intermodal freight terminal in Gunnedah that could maximise the long-term benefit of Inland Rail and enhance the region’s connection to the national freight rail network.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said the Gunnedah Shire is well positioned to benefit from opportunities generated by the Inland Rail.

“Inland Rail will help link producers to markets and create new opportunities for regional communities,” Cr Chaffey said.

“Gunnedah Shire Council has been working with the support of business case advisors appointed through the Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program to assess the feasibility of a Gunnedah Intermodal Freight Terminal.

“We believe the project will have significant benefits for our supply chain as well as value adding opportunities for a range of industries and producers.

“Council is assisting with the consultation phase of the study and we are eager for local businesses to participate as stakeholders in the planning process.”

Those interested in participating can contact Council’s Economic Development team on (02) 6740 2100 or council@infogunnedah.com.au.

For further information on Inland Rail and the Interface Improvement Program visit inlandrail.gov.au.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 19, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council is encouraging students currently considering their tertiary study options to submit an application for the 2021 Gunnedah Community Scholarship Fund.

The fund is open to all local students under 25 wanting to further their training and education at university, TAFE, or an accredited training organisation.

A scholarship can help with expenses like:

• Purchasing textbooks,
• Relocation and other travel costs,
• Living expenses, and
• Contribution towards tuition fees.

This year applications have been extended so students have time to wait for their HSC results and UAC offer before applying for a scholarship.

Please visit https://gsc2380.wufoo.com/forms/m94azoc0w8src6/ for more information and to apply.

Applications close 5pm, Tuesday 12 January 2021.

November 5, 2020

NAIDOC Week 2020 is just around the corner, with celebrations planned from November 8 to November 15.

The NAIDOC theme for 2020 is ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’, highlighting the ancient history of First Nations people, who have inhabited and cared for the continent for over 65,000 years.

Gunnedah Shire Council recognises the rich history of our First Nations people, which dates back thousands of generations and are celebrating NAIDOC 2020 with a variety of activities for the community.

There is a NAIDOC Week colouring competition, with copies available for collection at the Cultural Precinct and Gunnedah Shire Library. There are many prizes to be won and entries will be on exhibition at the Gunnedah Visitor Information Centre for the month of November.

The NAIDOC week program also features an opportunity to discover indigenous creative practices, with a weaving workshop with Renee Horne and Carol Brydon from 10–2pm on Saturday 14 November, 2020.  

Kamilaroi artist Renee Horne said she was pleased to be hosting a weaving workshop with Aunty Carol Brydon as part of NAIDOC celebrations.

“She has spent over 40 years working in her craft and we are excited to share these skills with family, friends and community,” Ms Horne said.

Anthony Jack Conlan will also be hosting landscape painting workshop on 10-2pm on Sunday 15 November, 2020 and is looking forward to sharing his practices with the Gunnedah community.

 “I am excited to share symbolic representations of our aboriginal culture and celebrate our beautiful landscape as part of NAIDOC 2020,” Mr Conlan said.

The week will conclude with a free screening of the documentary In My Blood It Runs at The Civic from 4.30pm Sunday 15 November, 2020.

To reserve a place for the workshops visit www.thecivic.com.au.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 3, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has welcomed the NSW Government’s $100 million Regional Job Creation fund and is urging local businesses to take a closer look at whether their project could be eligible.

The NSW Government has said the Regional Job Creation Fund has been set up for businesses to establish or expand in regional NSW.

Up to $10 million in co-funding is being offered to activate or bring forward regional projects in engine, enabling or emerging engine industries. Examples of eligible projects could include the:

• replacement, upgrade or adaptation of plant and equipment at an existing regional NSW business
• establishment of an additional production line for an existing regional NSW business
• onshoring of activity currently done overseas to a regional NSW location
• development of new regional tourism experiences and visitor attractions
• relocation of a business operation from out of state to regional NSW.

The Regional Job Creation Fund’s focus is to co-fund projects creating at least five sustainable regional jobs.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the fund offered opportunities for existing and new businesses.

“The Regional Job Creation Fund could be a significant boost for any business on the brink of expansion, establishment or change,” Cr Chaffey said.

“With all that the Gunnedah Shire has to offer, the future is bright with confidence high. I am sure our business community will welcome the opportunity to grow and employee more local people, so I urge businesses who think they might be eligible to take a good look at this unique funding program.”

                                         
More information is available on the NSW Government link: https://www.investregional.nsw.gov.au/investment-support/regional-job-creation-fund/
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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 3, 2020

It’s less than 60 days until Christmas, which is still plenty of time to make your festive dollars ‘count in your home town.

Gunnedah Shire Council is a supporter of the Gunnedah Spirit of Christmas Shop Local promotion aimed at encouraging local spending in a year when our businesses need it most.

Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey said last year’s campaign to boost local spending and keep the money local through Gunny Money gift cards had been a community success story, and Gunny Money was also a great gift idea for 2020.

“The Gunnedah Spirit of Christmas Shop Local promotion is a wonderful initiative by the Gunnedah and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry supported by Gunnedah Shire Council,” Cr Chaffey said.

“There are fantastic prizes, including a car, and the promotion is an innovative way to bring the community together for a Christmas celebration when we can’t have the Christmas Fair.

“Last year, the relaunch of Gunny Money in time for Christmas proved an overwhelming success. Since the program began, more than $290,000 has been loaded on to the gift cards. About $55,000 has been spent locally through card redemptions in the past year. It has been a fantastic boost to our local retailers.

“The best thing we can do this year to support our local people and businesses is to keep our spending local, and Gunny Money is a great way to do that. A Gunny Money gift card can be redeemed at 100 business and services from care for your pets to the movies and cafes.

“When you are shopping for your friends and loved ones, consider what Gunnedah has to offer first. Keeping the spending in town makes for a Christmas to celebrate for all of us.”

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 2, 2020

Tis’ the season for celebration and Gunnedah Shire Council is kick-starting the festive season with the launch of the annual Christmas Light Competition.

Locals can help spread the Christmas cheer by decking homes and shopfronts with lights and decorations for a chance to win Gunny Money gift vouchers.

This year’s entrants can also have their home or business featured on an interactive map, helping residents plan their tour of the Shire’s brightened streets.

Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Cr Jamie Chaffey said the annual event was a well-loved tradition that brings the community together.

“The competition shines a spotlight on our residents and businesses that put in a tremendous effort decorating each year,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This year, our Christmas experience may be a little different to what we’re used to, but special traditions like decorating together and driving around town to see the lights are always a hit with the whole family.

“Whether you have a small display or have been waiting for an excuse to go all out, this is a great way to foster community spirit. Be sure to pop an entry in for a chance to win.”

Christmas lights and displays will be judged in six categories, including:

• Best Decorated House - $200 Gunny Money Gift Card,
• Best Nativity Scene - $50 Gunny Money Gift Card,
• Best Christmas Theme in a Village - $150 Gunny Money Gift Card,
• Santa Street – Commemorative Plaque and $200 Gunny Money Gift Card,
• Judges Choice Award - $50 Gunny Money Gift Card,
• Best Dressed Shopfront Window - $100 Gunny Money Gift Card.

Entry forms are available here and hard copies can be collected from the Gunnedah Shire Council office, Gunnedah Shire Library or the Gunnedah Visitor Information Centre.

Entries close 5pm Friday, December 4 2020. Judging will take place on December 7, with a presentation for winners held on Wednesday, December 16.

Caption: The Gunnedah Christmas spirit is on full display with an outstanding entry from the 2018 competition.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

November 2, 2020

Request for Tender: Gunnedah Shire Waste, Recycling and Garden Organics Collection Services

Gunnedah Shire Council is seeking Tenders from suitably qualified and insured companies to undertake Waste, Recycling and Garden Organics Collection and Transport services for Gunnedah Shire.

The successful Tenderer’s responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the collection, transport and disposal of Garbage, Recyclables and Garden Organics from the kerbside, to the nominated Landfill or Material Recovery Facility. Additionally, the Contractor shall perform the collection of Garbage and Recyclables from two (2) outlying rural Waste Transfer Stations and Recyclables from two (2) outlying rural Landfills, and haulage to a nominated Facility.

Tender and contract documents can be obtained by registering on the e-tendering portal at www.tenderlink.com/gunnedah to download the documents free of charge.

Tender enquiries should be via the online forum accessed on the portal.

Tenders close at 10:00am Tuesday 8 December 2020 via the Tenderlink portal.

October 23, 2020

Reconciliation Action Plan

Gunnedah Shire Council has voted to continue its Reconciliation journey with the development of a new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) consistent with Reconciliation Australia’s Innovate RAP at the October Council meeting.

A RAP Working Group will be formed to progress the plan and membership will include representatives from the local Aboriginal community.  Work on the plan is expected to start in February 2021.  

The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) program was launched by Reconciliation Australia to provide a framework for organisations to support the national reconciliation movement and develop actions and outcomes that contribute to “closing the gap” through the key areas of relationships, respect and opportunity.

The Innovate RAP is designed to support councils to develop specific programs and initiatives that promote reconciliation and build cultural responsiveness.  Council is anticipating its new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) will be launched to coincide with the National Aboriginal Islander Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week in July 2021.

Great Christmas news for local economy

Gunnedah Shire Council will support this year’s Gunnedah Spirit of Christmas Shop Local Campaign as part of its commitment to building resilience in the local economy during difficult economic times.

Councillors voted this week to allocate $12,000 from the existing Economic Development Budget and Invigorate Gunnedah to support the campaign.

The Gunnedah Spirit of Christmas Shop Local Campaign has replaced the Spirit of Christmas Fair this year due to COVID-19 considerations.

Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the sponsorship recognised both the importance of supporting Shire business and the success of past Christmas Fairs in boosting local spending.

“As part of our Invigorate Gunnedah program, we are aiming to bring vibrancy back into the CBD and to increase local spending. The Gunnedah and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Spirit of Christmas Fair has proven to be successful in both areas in past years,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This is a significant investment on behalf of Council, but the estimated benefits to the retail sector are a minimum of $400,000 and could be as high as $1 million.

“Based on past Christmas campaigns, it’s expected there will be a sales increase of between 2% and 5% across the economy. A boost to the retail sector is good for the wider economy and our whole community.

“Gunnedah is a great place to do your Christmas shopping, and this campaign will help spread the news.”

Representatives approved for Skills and Training Working Group

Three business representatives have been approved to join Gunnedah’s new Skills and Training Working Group.

The working group has been formed to support Gunnedah Shire by ensuring a skilled workforce and local educational opportunities by supporting; students/learners, job seekers, industry and training providers for a strong local economy now and into the future.

Following a call for expressions of interest, Whitehaven Coal, Aztech Earthmoving Repairs and Many Engineering will join representatives from Gunnedah Shire Council, the Gunnedah and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Gunnedah TAFE NSW on the working group.

Caption: Locals enjoying the 2019 Christmas Fair festivities.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.