September 9, 2020

Two sporting bodies are among the initiatives included in funding following Gunnedah Shire Council’s call for new community resilience projects late last year.

Gunnedah Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Rob Hooke said Gunnedah Shire Council had worked with the Federal Government to deliver great results through the federal Drought Communities Program.

“Gunnedah Shire Council was able to progress through a number of projects to the Federal Government for consideration,” Cr Hooke said.

“Among those that were successful were the Gunnedah Motorcycle Club and Black n Blue Boxing Gym.

“The Gunnedah Motorcycle Club runs a very popular and successful sporting arena at Balcary Park. This $150,000 Drought Communities Program grant will allow significant upgrades, including to water retention, the junior training shed and tower, and other upgrades.

“The Black n Blue Boxing Gym has been approved for a $30,000 grant to improve their facilities. This is another great sporting option in our Shire, and this funding will help cater for growth into the future.

“Council is very proud of the role we have been able to play in helping our local bodies apply for this funding which will not only assist the groups involved and their members, but many others through the employment of local contractors.”

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Photo caption: David Syphers from the Black n Blue Boxing Gym with Gunnedah Deputy Mayor Cr Rob Hooke.

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

8 September, 2020

Following the successful launch of Gunnedah Shire Council’s new local purchasing and procurement platform VendorPanel, there are four new preferred supplier opportunities now open for applications.

VendorPanel gives businesses direct access to Council tenders and allows Council staff to use geolocation to search for local services to work with.

There are currently opportunities to join Council’s preferred supplier panels for the following services:

• Trade qualified and licenced builders and carpenters,
• Air conditioning services,
• Plumbing maintenance and repair services, and
• Plant and equipment hire services.

Once established, the panels will be consulted for future opportunities over a two year period, with the opportunity to extend for a further year.

General Manager Eric Groth said Council was looking to engage more local suppliers.

“This isn’t just about major contracts, a lot of small businesses will benefit too. Council regularly needs a range of services and supplies.

“I encourage businesses with current contracts and those interested in providing goods and services to the local government sector to join VendorPanel. It’s an easy to navigate, efficient tender process.”

Further information and panel specifications can be obtained by registering for the VendorPanel portal at www.vendorpanel.com.au/marketplace.

Tender submissions close 5:00pm Wednesday September 30, 2020.

Anyone who requires assistance accessing Vendorpanel can contact Council at vendorpanel@gunnedah.nsw.gov.au.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

September 1 , 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has welcomed an announcement by the NSW Government it will contribute $14 million towards a saleyards precinct upgrade that will position Gunnedah as a national leader in the protein industry.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the announcement today by Deputy Premier John Barilaro that the NSW Government would partner with Gunnedah Shire Council to make the Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan a reality was powerful news for the Shire’s economic future.

“Gunnedah Shire Council has already shown its confidence in this significant project by setting aside up to $3.55 million for the Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan Project,” Cr Chaffey said.

“I am really pleased the NSW Government has also recognised the importance of this initiative that will mean we are poised to not only expand our already successful beef base, but can lead the way in the saleyard arena.

“From its beginnings in 1919, the Gunnedah Regional Saleyards has grown to become the fourth largest selling centre of cattle in New South Wales, and the eighth largest in Australia. About 120,000 head of cattle are sold each year, with sales in excess of $100 million per annum. With this announcement, we are poised to become a national leader in the protein industry.

“The way forward for this precinct has been designed following extensive industry and community consultation and will make us a powerhouse among beef-selling facilities across regional NSW and beyond, and cement our role in the protein supply chain.

“This investment is about more than the saleyards or even the beef industry, it is a clear vote of confidence in the future of our region and our economy.”
The $17.5 million Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan includes:

• A state of the art Office, Cafe and Education Centre
• Construction of major structures to place under roof an entire hectare of primary work areas and cattle holding yards
• Major biosecurity improvements including a Drive-Through Truck Wash facility capable of taking road trains
• Major upgrade of the additional 4 bay truck wash facility
• Installation of technology infrastructure and high speed internet capability to allow smart technology applications and stream of on-line content
• Fenced containment of the site and major security upgrades
• Sealing of internal roads, lighting upgrades
• Upgrades of all loading ramp facilities
• Surface and gate renewal programs
• Public access gantry and other access improvements
• Making the site completely self-sufficient through the installation of up to 1 megawatt of solar panels and major stormwater harvesting and reuse facilities.

You can take a look at the Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan here.

Caption: NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson and Gunnedah Mayor Jamie Chaffey at the Gunnedah Regional Saleyards.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

August 31, 2020

It’s almost spring, and Gunnedah Shire Council is asking people to celebrate with their own creation for a new exhibition.

Artists and budding artists, schools, community groups, hobbyists and just about anyone who would like to create something with a Spring into September theme is asked to get busy on their contribution.

Gunnedah Shire Council Cultural Precinct Team Leader Lauren Mackley said the broad but beautiful theme could encompass everything from birds and bees enjoying the nectar or paintings of blossoms to abstract weavings or sculptures representing the joys of spring.

“This year, we have finally had some rain and it is wonderful to be enjoying a landscape that is coming alive to the spring,” Ms Mackley said.

“Whatever it is you like to create, Spring into September is the opportunity to share your work. This exhibition is open to everyone, whatever your age or your choice of art or craft.

“We would like this to be a true celebration of the Spring, and a great representation of our community.”
Artworks for the Spring into September exhibition must be delivered ready to hang to the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery in Chandos Street by 5pm on Friday, September 18.

There are also colouring-in sheets designed especially for particular age groups on the theme.

Click here for the entry form.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

28 August, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Councillors have voted to allocate up to an additional $1.5 million to help fund the $17.55 million Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan Project as part of the Council’s commitment to investing in the local economy.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the decision could take Council’s contribution to the project to up to $3.55 million.

“The State Government has advised Council that to give this project the best chance of securing State funding for the remainder of the cost, we need to contribute extra on top of the funds already committed from existing reserves,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This decision is in line with Gunnedah Shire Council’s dedicated efforts to supporting our community and investing in business and industry in this Shire. We are continuing to find innovative ways to help existing businesses to thrive, and to attract new businesses.

“The Gunnedah Regional Saleyards are already among the country's top 10 cattle-selling centres, with more than $100 million worth of cattle sold each year. We really hope this important project can progress to help develop our role as a protein hub.

"It is a significant step in building the resilience of our economy.

“As well as our support for small businesses through the successful Business Partner Program, Council is working hard to attract investors across a range of industries to build a stronger base of employment and give people even more compelling reasons to move to Gunnedah.”

The Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan Project includes a number of infrastructure projects including removal of the sheepyards, relocation of the carpark and canteen as part of a multi-use building on the same side of the highway as the saleyards, yard expansion and technology improvements.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

August 27, 2020

The 50m Gunnedah Memorial Swimming Pool is undergoing final repair works and testing to be open in time for the hot weather.

Gunnedah Shire Council General Manager Eric Groth said it was expected the pool would open in October.

“Over the next month, people might notice the pool is being drained at contractors are at work,” Mr Groth said.

“This is part of the planned schedule of works put together by the contractor in consultation with Council to ensure the pool has been repaired and thoroughly tested.

“Our first priority is the safety of our community and residents so Council will, of course, be monitoring the latest safety advice and guidelines from NSW Health with regard to COVID-19.”

It is expected the 50m pool will open on the long weekend on October 3. This would be an extension to the swimming season, which usually begins in November.

Mr Groth said there would be a number of changes this season, including operation of the canteen by Council staff instead of an external lease arrangement. Daily opening hours will also be reduced by an hour to help cover the costs of an extended swimming season.

“A review of numbers of people using the pool in the past years few years has shown a significant drop in patronage in the final two hours of the day,” he said.

“Closing an hour earlier will mean cost savings and in summer, the pool will still be open between 5.30am and 7pm Monday to Saturday, and 9am to 6pm on Sundays. This is in line with the Narrabri and Tamworth public swimming pools.

“While having problems with the pool so early on has been disappointing, we are looking forward to an extended season this year following a resolution of those problems.”

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

August 21, 2020

Three new community projects are among the initiatives included in funding following Gunnedah Shire Council’s call for new community resilience projects late last year.

Gunnedah Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Rob Hooke said Gunnedah Shire Council had worked with the Federal Government to deliver great results through the federal Drought Communities Program.

“The community came to us with some important projects we were able to progress through to the Federal Government for consideration,” Cr Hooke said.

“Among those that were successful were the Kelvin Community Hall, Gunnedah Conservatorium and the Gunnedah Junior Rugby Club.

“The Kelvin Community Hall will now be able to enjoy a better water supply and have a more reliable supply on hand for emergency services. The improved water supply will also mean native trees can be planted around the hall.

“Gunnedah Conservatorium proposed two really interesting projects called Create Gunnedah Hear Me and Create Gunnedah See Me. One will nurture songwriting, production and performance among our young people, and the other project will work towards a cabaret show for adult performers.

“Another great result is funding to upgrade the Gunnedah Junior Rugby Club canteen. I know this will be a popular project among our young rugby players and their families.

“All of these projects are initiatives that have far-reaching benefits for the community, and include employment or use of local businesses.”

Photo Caption:(From left to right) Kelvin residents Sue Cox and Brett Waters, Gunnedah Shire Council Deputy Mayor Cr Rob Hooke, and residents Michael Roberts, Denise Roberts and Ingrid Allen-Thomas.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

August 20, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council have been involved in a number of discussions with DMMS ahead of the society’s lease and funding agreements, renewal – including a recent meeting with the Mayor, General Manager, Staff and members of the society. 

The Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society is a valued organisation in Gunnedah and beyond, and is the recipient of one of the most significant financial contributions awarded to an arts organisation in the Gunnedah Shire. 

It is generally Council's policy not to comment on contractual arrangements, but due to the media interest surrounding this matter solicited by DMMS, Gunnedah Shire Council would like to clarify that funding for the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society has not been significantly reduced. It will remain at the same level, excluding CPI increases.

It is part of any local government body's responsibility to make financial decisions that deliver value for money for its community, and as such Council regularly reviews its budgetary decisions to ensure there is a strong return on investment on behalf of the community. The community benefit study which will be undertaken, is part of the review process.

Community groups who receive benefits such as - in the case of the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society - a nominal rent, must demonstrate satisfactory performance and utilisation of premises.  The society has been offered a further two-year renewal option providing all requirements are met.

This is a decision made during uncertain economic times where Council's budget must stretch to aiding businesses and community organisations struggling from the impacts of drought and COVID-19. There are a large number of beneficial community organisations who also need the support of Council and we need to be assured there is ‘enough to go around.’

We would like to offer a number of clarifications below

·         The Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society lease was due for renewal, hence the reason for the review of the lease.

·         Councillors believe the society may be concerned Council is reacting to derogatory comments towards the community and its members made by the Society’s president on national radio on June 21^st 2020. This is not the case. 

·         We have reviewed the society’s financial position and believe this will not significantly impact them given the sizeable amount of funding they receive from a number of sources including a Federal Government Contribution and contribution from local organisations.

Gunnedah Shire Council remains a proud supporter of the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society and Poetry Awards, contributing substantial funds towards its ongoing operation, and hopes to remain in strong partnership with the society into the future.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

August 18, 2020

This week is traditionally AgQuip week, and while COVID-19 has put the event on hold for a year, Gunnedah can still celebrate the field days that bring so many people to our Shire.

Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Economic Development Charlotte Hoddle said there were inventive ways people could mark the occasion without actually going to the event.

“AgQuip has been a huge part of the Gunnedah calendar for 45 years,” Ms Hoddle said.

“While we might not be able to enjoy the full AgQuip experience, we can still bring a little of the atmosphere to Gunnedah in 2020. We are challenging people to kick up a bit of dust in their AgQuip boots and take a selfie with their AgQuip hat.

“They can enjoy the traditional treat of a steak sandwich at one of our cafes or restaurants and, if they are feeling especially nostalgic for AgQuip, visit one of the farm machinery businesses in the Shire.

“If people post their AgQuip 2020 selfies on social media with the hashtag #AgQuip2020, we can have our own virtual AgQuip.

“These are among the biggest field days in the world and are really important to the region’s economy. This is one way to keep our spirits up and let the world know Gunnedah is still open for business.”

Some AgQuip challenges:

• Post selfies with your AgQuip hat, boots and weird bits of machinery
• Seek out the best steak sandwich you can find
• Buy those new boots and that new hat in Gunnedah instead of out at AgQuip
• Get some dust on those new boots!
• Check out the biggest piece of machinery you can find at one of the dealers in Gunnedah Shire and get a selfie with a giant wheel
• Go to the pub for dinner and Zoom call your mates who would usually be here for AgQuip
• Daub yourself in dust and watch rodeo videos
• Buy yourself or your mate a Gunny Money voucher and build your own showbag from goodies and lollies in town and in the villages
• Be inspired for a new DIY project strolling the aisles of local retailers
• Swap past AgQuip yarns with friends at the pub or a café.

And remember to post your #AgQuip2020 adventures on social media!

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Caption: We might not be able to go to AgQuip in person this year, but we can still get that Gunnedah superhero spirit happening.

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.

17 August, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has announced a new round of the Business Partner Program targeted at street beautification and activation.

The additional round is part of the second phase of Council’s Community Resilience Business Recovery Package - Invigorate Gunnedah.

Invigorate Gunnedah saw a boosted allocation of $200,000 towards the Business Partner Program and the addition of the new round, supporting local businesses wanting to improve the appearance of their premises to apply for grants of up to $1,000 for signage and façade upgrades.

Projects eligible under the new round of the Business Partner Program include:

• Installation of new or improved business signage; and
• Painting or upgrades to the façade.

Business Partner Program Advisory Group chair Cr Ann Luke said the increased contribution to the Business Partner Program will allow more businesses to access the program during difficult times.

“Since its inception the Business Partner Program has delivered nearly $300,000 in funding to almost 100 local businesses. The boost to the program through Invigorate Gunnedah will help more businesses adapt and innovate, ensuring they are on the front foot when this pandemic passes,” Cr Luke said.

“Vibrant shop fronts will encourage more people to stop and spend locally. The grants also have flow on economic benefits for local tradespeople completing the upgrades and their suppliers as well.

“In such an uncertain year, programs such as this allow for us to focus on the positive things and plan for the future. I encourage all businesses with commercial facades or signage to consider if there is a project they could use this grant for.”

Applications are now open and will close on September 30, 2020. For more information and to apply online visit https://gunnedah.smartygrants.com.au/BPP2021SF.

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Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.